TREASURY - Eglwys Bresbyteraidd Cymru
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MAY 2021
TREASURY
the
MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF WALES
Golftyn’s 100 leads the Revd W I Cynwil
Williams
way back to church
BA, BD., Cardiff
It is with sadness that we
record the death of Revd
Mrs Phyllis Lewis (third from left) with Revd Jonathan Hodgins and some of the congregation. Cynwil Williams in Rhyl on 1st
May. Aged 84, he was a native
100 year old Mrs Phyllis Lewis they are outside face coverings simple black cross for Good of Cwrt y Cadno, and held
was in the forefront in will be worn, and those Friday to remember the pastorates at Heol Dŵr
supporting her minister, Revd attending are invited to bring crucifixion and some brightly Carmarthen, Capel Mawr,
Jonathan Hodgins in restarting folding chairs (some spares flowered crosses for the Denbigh and Crwys Road,
services once again in Golftyn. will be available). Revd Paul Resurrection and new hope on Cardiff where he is
The congregation had not met Kirby, the minister advices that Easter Day. At present the remembered as a
for over a year when the group people wrap up and perhaps Tyddyn Street church’s plan is conscientious pastor. He was
of regulars returned for an bring a hot drink in a flask to to return to services in the ordained in 1962 and served as
evening service on 2nd May. All keep warm! building at Whitsun, but with Moderator of the General
present, apart from the minister Visitors are welcome. the services available on zoom Assembly in 1998. It was during
and his three sons, have Contact Dr Paul Kirby as well, making provision for as his tenure at Crwys Road that
received both doses of the Tel/Text: 07552 230672 many as possible. the chapel moved to its present
Covid vaccine, and there was Email: kirby74@btinternet.com location in Richmond Road.
much delight in meeting for live
Mount Pleasant, Affectionate and erudite,
worship and hearing Brian Tyddyn Street United Ebbw Vale Cynwil was a popular preacher
Cotgreave playing the pipe
organ once again. Church, Mold The Church was reopened on
throughout Wales. An avid
reader of all types of literature,
Easter Services this year at 4th April. It was so good to see he frequently went about with a
Bethesda, Burry Green Tyddyn Street Church,Mold the doors opened wide, with book in his pocket or in the
From Sunday 9th May were again held on zoom. For Graham Hendy on the steps small Gladstone-style bag he
children’s activities will resume Easter Day celebration there welcoming everyone and carried with him to meetings.
during the services following was a special morning service reminding them to comply with Amongst his better known
the lifting of Covid restrictions. led by the Minister, Revd Dr the covid regulations. Sadly his writings in Welsh are his
All other regulations will be Kathryn Price, with communion companion on the door, Peter biography of the former
maintained, including the shared on zoom in the homes Watkins, was unable to be Archbishop of Wales and later
wearing of face coverings, of members and friends; and, present that morning. We have of Canterbury, The Right Revd
social distancing, good air flow on Good Friday, the Minister been blessed with fine weather Dr Rowan Williams (2006) and
and a one-way system. led with a series of meditations. every week since the Church his memoir of the Welsh poet
Also, from this date and if At and around the church has reopened, and we have and editor, Gwilym R Jones
weather permits, the church building, the Spring Garden is been delighted at the level of (2001). In 1992 Gwasg
plans to hold services outdoors in flower and some related attendance, whilst for those Pantycelyn published his 222
to provide greater protection Easter decoration of the unable to be present the page Welsh language
from the virus. The Chapel App standing arches in the garden services have been broadcast commentary on Ezekiel.
will be used to inform attendees was provided by a group of on Zoom. Hopes are that as the He is survived by his wife,
in advance if the service is to church members, including situation continues to improve Carol and three daughters to
be indoors or outside Helen Bravey, Jill Denholm and the fellowship will be able to whom we extend our sympathy.
depending on the weather. If Frida Jones. They were the meet more freely.
THE MODERATOR’S TRIBUTE TO
Award.
HRH Prince Philip
He once said “If you can get
young people to succeed in any
area of activity that sensation of
success will spread over into a
Duke of Edinburgh
lot of others”.
Prince Philip also took a keen
interest in industry, visiting
factories and becoming patron
of the Industrial Society, now
known as the Work Foundation.
I once witnessed him visiting a
factory where in typical form he
by Revd Marcus Robinson illusion that the ships had been paid this tribute to the longest- wandered off the red carpet and
hit. The ruse worked and a serving royal consort in British went to chat to some of the
senior officer described him as history – “He is someone who workers hiding round the back
At the end of a long life it is ‘courageous and resourceful, a doesn’t take easily to of the machinery. He was
always good to look back to the man who thought quickly.’ compliments, but he has quite genuinely interested in people
beginning. Prince Philip of The wartime years had given simply been my strength and and wanted the best for them.
Greece was born on the 10th of Prince Philip immense maritime stay all these years. And I, and The same behaviour was often
June 1921 on the island of experience and an enjoyment of his whole family, and this and exhibited during his military
Corfu. His father was Prince service with the Royal Navy. In many other countries, owe him visits. He served as Captain
Andrew of Greece and his 1946 the Prince proposed to the a debt greater than he would General of the Royal Marines
mother was Princess Alice, the 20year old Princess Elizabeth ever claim or we shall ever for many years and often
eldest child of Prince Louis of and they were eventually know.” insisted on visiting the troops for
Battenberg and sister of Earl married in Westminster Abbey in A remarkable tribute, and as a chat rather than attending the
Mountbatten of Burma. After a November 1947. He was we consider their 73 years of formal occasions.
coup d’etat in 1922, his father created Duke of Edinburgh by married life we also reflect on Here in Wales he had
was banished from Greece and King George VI and here in the Queen’s personal grief and contributed to the community by
the baby Philip’s first voyage on Wales he also became the Earl pray that our Lord grants her several spontaneous visits, such
a Royal Navy vessel was in a of Meirioneth. strength and comfort at this as in the aftermath of Aberfan,
crib made from an orange box By 1950 time. when he joined with our nation
as the family were assisted to the Prince Her Majesty always knew how in marking our losses. He had
safety in Italy. Eventually he had attained saddened Prince Philip had also served as Chancellor of the
came to live with his the rank of been to leave his naval career University of Wales across four
Mountbatten relatives in Lieutenant to be her faithful consort and on decades.
England before being sent in Commander the occasion of his 90th birthday These reflections are but a
1933 to a school in southern and was granted him the most senior flavour of his vast contribution
Germany run by educational given his rank in the Royal Navy – usually and as we remember this
pioneer Kurt Hahn, who due to own reserved for the sovereign – the remarkable man we give thanks
the Nazi threat moved the command title of ‘Lord High Admiral’. for all he achieved and pray for
school to Gordonstoun in based in The Duke of Edinburgh’s life strength and vision to continue
Scotland. Malta where offers a remarkable example of his spirit of service to all in our
he and Marcus Robinson steadfast Christian service. A
Prince Philip’s early life also community.
saw many challenges befall his Princess very private person in many
family and he developed a very Elizabeth could lead the life of a ways, he was known for being “Rest eternal grant unto him O
self-reliant spirit that gave him service family far from the extremely forthright. He once Lord, and may light perpetual
great resilience for his future requirements of royal duty. said in an interview “I’ve just shine upon him”.
life. Due to the King’s ill health the done what I think was my best.
At a time when war was royal couple were recalled and I can’t suddenly change my The above is an extract from
looming, Prince Philip decided sent on a royal tour on his whole way of doing things, I some of the reflections prepared
on a military career that would behalf. When sadly in February can’t change my interests or the by the Reverend Marcus Wyn
set the tone for a life dedicated 1952 King George VI died their way I react to things. That’s just Robinson, Moderator of the
to the service of his country. lives were instantly transformed my style.” General Assembly and Chaplain
Due to the family’s seafaring as the Princess became Queen With that in mind I must try Royal Navy for a ‘Celebration’
tradition he became a cadet at and Prince Philip, the Prince not to eulogise for too long service broadcast on Radio
the Britannia Royal Naval Consort. because Prince Philip was Wales on Sunday 11th April
College in Dartmouth, where he It is difficult to imagine the notoriously intolerant of long 2021.
graduated top of his year. It was impact of this great change on sermons. He reportedly once
during a royal visit to Dartmouth the young couple’s life. At first it said, ‘the mind cannot absorb THE NAVAL PRAYER
that the young Princess seems that Prince Philip was what the backside cannot ‘O eternal Lord God, who alone
Elizabeth first cast eyes on him, not sure what was expected of endure’! spreadest out the heavens and
and the seeds of what became him as Prince Consort but he In deference to his point of rulest the raging of the sea; who
a long and happy marriage were soon developed the role in a view I will seek to summarise hast compassed the waters with
sown. way that served our nation and his immense contribution to bounds until day and night
He went on to distinguish the wider world with distinction. public life. He had completed come to an end: be pleased to
himself in action, becoming the Most of all the Duke of over 22,000 solo engagements receive into thy almighty and
Navy’s youngest First Edinburgh knew that his priority and delivered over 5,000 most gracious protection the
Lieutenant. During the Sicily was to be a constant and speeches. One of Prince persons of us thy servants and
landings whilst coming under dependable support for the Philip’s main concerns was the the Fleet in which we serve.
attack from planes Prince Philip Queen throughout the long welfare of young people, and in Preserve us from the dangers of
devised a plan to put them off years of her reign. During the 1956 that interest sparked the the sea and of the air and from
target by creating a wooden raft celebration of their golden launch of his phenomenally the violence of the enemy; that
with explosives on creating the wedding anniversary the Queen successful Duke of Edinburgh’s
continued on next page
2 the TREASURY – MAY 2021
Open Letter from Christian Leaders
to the Prime Minister concerning
Vaccine Passport Proposals
To: potential introduction into our create a surveillance state in and dangerous plan, not now
The Prime Minister society of so-called “vaccine which the government uses and not ever.
passports” which have also technology to control certain
Boris Johnson
been referred to as “COVID- aspects of citizens’ lives. As Yours sincerely,
status certificates” and “freedom such, this constitutes one of the
April 2021 • Rev Dr Jamie Franklin,
passes”. We are wholly most dangerous policy
opposed to this suggestion and proposals ever to be made in Curate, St George in the
Dear Prime Minister:
wish to make three points about the history of British politics. Meadows, Nottingham,
As Christian leaders across a
the potential consideration of Finally, as Christian leaders England
range of denominations, we
continue to pray at this time for
any scheme of this type. we wish to state that we • Rev David Johnston, Minister
Firstly, to make vaccination envisage no circumstances in Emeritus, Presbyterian
your government “and all in high
the basis of whether someone is which we could close our doors Church in Ireland, Ireland
positions, so that we may lead a
allowed entry to a venue, or to those who do not have a • Rev Dr William JU Philip,
quiet and peaceable life in all
participation in an activity, vaccine passport, negative test
godliness and dignity” Minister, The Tron Church
makes no logical sense in terms certificate, or any other “proof of
(1 Timothy 2:2).
of protecting others. If the health”. For the Church of Jesus
Glasgow, Scotland
However, we write to you • And 1530 others
vaccines are highly effective in Christ to shut out those deemed
concerning an area of the most
preventing significant disease, by the state to be social
serious concern, namely the (This letter is now closed for
as seems to be the evidence undesirables would be
from trial results to date, then anathema to us and a denial of signatures and the final of list of
those who have been the truth of the Gospel. The signatories is available at
continued from page 2 vaccinepassportletter.word
vaccinated have already message we preach is given by
we may be a safeguard into press.com
received protection; there is no God for all people and consists
our most gracious Sovereign If you would like to pursue this
benefit to them of other people in nothing other than the free
Lady, Queen Elizabeth, and matter, please consider writing
being vaccinated. Further, since gift of grace offered in Christ
her dominions, and a security to your MP to give your view on
vaccines do not prevent Jesus, with the universal call to
for such as pass on the seas vaccine passports, particularly
infection per se even a repentance and faith in him. To
upon their lawful occasions; with reference to their usage in
vaccinated person could in deny people entry to hear this
that the inhabitants of our churches and Christian
theory carry and potentially pass life-giving message and to
Island and Commonwealth organisations.
on the virus, so to decide receive this life-giving ministry
may in peace and quietness
someone’s “safe non-spreader” would be a fundamental
serve thee our God; and that
status on the basis of proof of betrayal of Christ and the
we may return in safety to THE PRESBYTERIAN
their immunity to disease is Gospel. Sincere Christian
enjoy the blessings of the land CHURCH
spurious. churches and organisations
with the fruits of our labours
Secondly, the introduction of could not do this, and as
and with a thankful
vaccine passports would Christian leaders we would be
People come from
remembrance of thy mercies
constitute an unethical form of compelled to resist any such Act near and far
to praise and glorify thy holy
coercion and violation of the of Parliament vigorously. Ready to worship God, a star
Name; through Jesus Christ
principle of informed consent. We draw your attention to the Every waking day is precious
our Lord. Amen’
People may have various recent Judicial Review Sunday especially, more
The Last Verse of the hymn reasons for being unable or overturning the Scottish religious
“Eternal Father, strong to unwilling to receive vaccines Government’s ban on public Best of all we meet a friend
save…” is always traditionally currently available including, for worship, which demonstrates Young and old they all attend
sung at the end of every some Christians, serious issues that such disproportionate Time to bend a knee and pray
service conducted at sea. of conscience related to the prevention of the right to Every pew is used today
ethics of vaccine manufacture or worship is a clear infringement Rejoicing at this time of year
“O Trinity of love and power, testing. We risk creating a two- under Article 9 of the European
Our brethren shield in It’s time to celebrate and
tier society, a medical apartheid Convention of Human Rights. cheer
danger’s hour; in which an underclass of We cannot see how any attempt
From rock and tempest, fire Not think of “bunnies”
people who decline vaccination to prevent people gathering for everywhere.
and foe, are excluded from significant worship on the basis of either
Protect them wheresoe’er areas of public life. There is also testing or non-vaccination would
they go: Comfort comes within the
a legitimate fear that this not similarly be ruled to be a walls
Thus evermore shall rise to scheme would be the thin end breach. We agree with those
Thee His voice is clear as he calls
of the wedge leading to a members of Parliament who Unknown to some he is
Glad hymns of praise from permanent state of affairs in have already voiced opposition
land and sea.” everywhere
which COVID vaccine status to this proposal: that it would be Religion is there to help us
Extracted from an address could be expanded to divisive, discriminatory and prepare
delivered on Radio Wales by encompass other forms of destructive to introduce any Comfort comes to one and all
Revd Marcus Wyn Robinson, medical treatment and perhaps such mandatory health Hymns and prayers and love
RN on Sunday 11th April two even other criteria beyond that. certification into British society. to all.
days after the death of Prince This scheme has the potential to We call on the government to
Philip. bring about the end of liberal assert strongly and clearly that it Delma Thomas, Llanidloes
democracy as we know it and to will not contemplate this illiberal
the TREASURY – MAY 2021 3
PART TWO work. Fanny Jones possessed
plenty of will-power in
In the meantime, before John
Jones messenger came to
Fanny, any word or glance,
A love story undertaking the task, and also
plenty of ability for it to work out
successfully. She feared in case
every movement of his would
have a deep impression on
Fanny, and caused a turbulence
with a earthly circumstances should
have an effect on John Jones’s
spirituality, since she was totally
in her heart; it was not
surprising then, when the
message came from him, that
she received it with a ready
difference convinced that he was specially
set apart for the work. As
Welsh people we are under a
great debt to this woman, and
acceptance. Some sweet power Celebrating a wonderful Welsh woman we can never put a price on her
had made her tender to the
situation – some power or – wife of a Prince of Preachers service nor measure the work
she did in being an instrument
influence she couldn’t explain. to give ‘the People’s Preacher’
Having consented to the FANNY JONES TALSARN (1805-77) to the people ... In her self
proposal in this way, they spoke denial, Wales heard a message
in a friendly way for a while, and Virtuous Wife of Valiant Preacher from Heaven - her efforts
having the consent of her father, facilitated the way for Wales to
they agreed to marry, and the Extracts from Cofiant Mrs Fanny Jones, Gweddw y Diweddar be drenched by the irresistible
agreement was sealed in an Barch. J. Jones, Talysarn by O. Llew. Owain of Talysarn. eloquence of the ‘hero from
afternoon in April between 4 and Translated by Marian G. Clifford (née Edwards) Talysarn’.
5 o’clock. Her endeavour was a means
The custom at that time was for John Jones to have leisure
very different from the situation wedding arrangements - others said it was her father who to produce his great thoughts;
today. After completing the everything was done openly did it, but whoever is correct - it her efforts allowed him to travel
agreement mentioned, John with nothing stealthy in the doesn’t make much difference throughout Wales to declare the
Jones went, exactly as the preparations. which - the work was done. message with such strength. He
custom was then, to the Her life began with great acknowledged this often while
fellowship to announce his Wife & Mother responsibility - we connect on his journeys, and he spoke
purpose (even though the girl Fanny Jones with these of how much of a comfort Fanny
Now we see Fanny Jones
he loved was present) and revolutionary things, since she was to him, and how she was
starting on the most important
asked for the prayers of their was the direct cause of them - such a blessing to him in his
part of her life - a period when
fellow Christians for them. He the responsibility of building a inner being. “Fanny,” he said, “is
she had to put into it much
believed that the situation was house and a shop. She built a great help to me in going on
wisdom, foresight, diligence,
too important to embark on them near to the Talysarn through the journey of my life.”
effort and thrift; and her life, her
without Divine strength and quarries and by the chapel. He was altogether wholly to
connexions, etc, asked for an
guidance, and he implored them For a year after the wedding, thank his wife for this quietness
abundant degree of the features
earnestly, as members of the John Jones still went to the from earthly care. She accepted
named. She wasn’t yet fully
Church of God, to take their quarry, and he preached on the pains and burdens of life so
eighteen, but she undertook the
cause often to the ‘throne of work-nights and on the that he could enjoy ‘the
responsibility, and the success
God’. Sabbaths, and his wife didn’t quietness of the mountain of the
of her life depended on her
The Saturday following this complain at being alone, but Lord’; and, to draw from the
strength with the help of the
announcement in the Seiat, took care to let him spend his Divine thoughts, his soul drank
virtues noted. She understood
John Jones went to Caernarfon time reading and studying. from the great inexhaustible
her husband’s position and also
to buy a license; but to his great Having begun their lives fountain which is everlasting in
her obligations in the
shock he couldn’t get it, since together, Fanny Jones its springing and its continuing.
circumstances. She believed,
his intended wife was too persuaded her husband to give O glorious wife!
like one of the English authors
young – she hadn’t yet reached up his work at the quarry, not Although John Jones became
that true love is ‘having self-
her eighteenth birthday. He was only because of the dangers, very popular, his earnings were
sacrifice for another object’
thrown into a bit of a quandary, but so that he would be enabled very small, and although his
(Theodore Watts-Dunton). ...
as he was en route to Ynys Môn to spend all his time preparing labour was endless and his calls
She must have pondered
(Anglesey), but he suddenly for the Ministry in seeking to were frequent and many, he
greatly on the cost before
thought of a plan to get himself save sinners. She succeeded in was not much ‘nearer the shore’
coming to the decision since it
out of the difficulty, and that was getting him out of the quarry in a financial sense, since his
was such an important step, and
to write a note to the Parish and committing all his time to income was shamefully weak.
that she had a great part in
Clerk to announce the banns the Ministry, and this was a Since they had increasing family
making John Jones the
the following Sunday, and he cause of rejoicing for her pressures, ... it was necessary
‘Preacher of the People’ in
persuaded a friend from throughout all her life. She had for [Fanny] to double her efforts,
Wales. She drew on all her
Llanllyfni to take the note to the been an instrument for her and she did that rather than
resources to put her
Clerk. The banns were husband to consecrate his hinder, nor at all prevent, her
understanding into action.
announced the following whole life to the cause of his husband going on. She thought
One of the first things she felt
Sunday, and that unknown to Saviour. highly of him, and that his
was that John Jones wouldn’t
Fanny Edwards. She came to By her endeavour with the success and his service to his
have peace and quiet to study
know of it through some friends shop, and it was a very great country and the Lord depended
and compose while continuing
who happened to be in church effort, she succeeded in much on her effort. Also, she
to work in the quarry, and she
at the time. According to the supporting John Jones and the possessed very high views of
resolved to get him from there
Parish register, they were family, and she gave him every the talent of her husband - she
quickly. She proceeded after
married on Wednesday, 14 May opportunity to prepare for his believed that he was a special
marrying to build a shop in
1823, not in 1824, as it seems great mission. She took all the gift from above and that her
Talysarn, in a place convenient
that some have said. The Clerk responsibility for the business, responsibility was to ease the
to the quarry. Some at that time
noticed that there was sincerity so that John Jones didn’t have way so that his talent had every
said that the owner of the quarry
and honesty to be seen in the to worry or bother at all with the
built the shop for them, while continued on next page
4 the TREASURY – MAY 2021
News PRAY FOR
from
supposed to be home for half
term but we have requested
the school to make
SCHOOLS
arrangements for her to stay
India
there during half term because
if she comes home she will
have to spend all her time in
quarantine and we won’t be
Three Quarters of an Hour
able to see much of her. We
Dick Eastman, through his book
are waiting for a response from
The Hour that Changes the
the school.
The following message was accommodation I have been World has helped many people
There have been new cases
received by Mount Pleasant entrusted with supervising the to deepen their devotional life by
of covid in different parts of
church a few days before work and I haven’t had much outlining a pattern for prayer and
India. In Tamil Nadu where
Easter. Sadly events in India time to be by myself. We have intercession (by dividing an hour
Sang Sang is, schools have
have worsened, but those who decided to send Kima to a new into 12 x 5 minute periods of
been shut again, but as exams
remember John Colney’s school in Aizawl which is run prayer, praise, thanksgiving and
are getting near only students
ministry in Ebbw Vale will by the Mizoram Synod. The intercession.)
taking exams will continue to
appreciate this news of him entrance test will take place on During the past few months,
have classes.
and his family. Saturday, so I took Hmingtei we’ve been given two
Please uphold Sang Sang in
‘Thank you for your thoughts and our children to Aizawl opportunities to make a
your prayers.
and prayers. God has been yesterday evening. I have difference in the life of Wales’
Our Government has
good to us and we are thankful returned to Bilkhawthlir by schools and pupils by joining in
permitted churches to have
for His presence. Since myself today as I have a prayer, not for an hour, but for
two evening services a week,
returning back to our pastorate wedding to take tomorrow. I three quarters of an hour as part
plus morning and afternoon
after my mother’s funeral, will be joining them in Aizawl of the Prayers for Schools
services. We aren’t allowed to
which took place on 7th. March, after the service. Please pray movement
sing in services yet. Although
the day after she passed away, for Kima. https://www.prayforschools.org/
the restrictions in Mizoram are
we have been busy in our Sang Sang is in Hebron As schools open their doors with
relaxed a bit, we are
ministry. As we are also school in Ooty as their exams pupils, teachers and staff
concerned about the safety of
constructing our are getting near. She is returning after lockdown, the
the members of our Church.
need for every school to be a
prayed for school has become
continued from page 4 most commonly the Psalms. and assistance of his faithful more evident.
facility to be revealed. She Her exceptional acumen and wife – one who rejoiced in his The three quarters of an hour
admired his honesty and keenness of mind - and here success, one who had prayer group is held over Zoom,
conscientiousness, and his was one of the strongest confidence concerning his with people who carry out
pure and unsullied character; features of her character – was future, one who did everything Christian work in schools, and
and since her belief in her an advantage to her, in view of possible for him toward his those who wish to support
husband was so deep, she her unselfish nature, and were lifting of fallen humanity, and of schools, joining together in
gave him her sympathy in the the basis of her right and pure gathering the lost sheep of prayer. A Welsh language break-
hardships of life, and she purposes. If it had happened Christ. If it hadn’t been for the out room is available for those
assisted him in chasing away that her husband had failed on effort of Fanny Jones, wishing to pray in Welsh. In our
every weariness by reminding the national stage, he would doubtless John Jones would last meeting on April 14 prayer
him of parts of the Scriptures – have gone against the wishes have failed, since he could topics were suggested by a
never have provided for his North Wales secondary school
family with the small earnings head teacher, a person very
he had from preaching, and aware of the worries and
Wales would have lost the difficulties being faced after
most important message in the lockdown. We were able to pray
world. They had twelve for the mental health of pupils
children and his earnings were and teachers, for the
too little to be able to keep the assessment system that will
family but for the industry and replace GCSE and A level
thrift of Fanny Jones. If it had exams, for the new Wales
happened that she had been curriculum, the Senedd elections
different from what she was – and the appointment of a new
wasteful, thoughtless and lazy, Education Minister. We also
John Jones would have had to prayed for pupils and staff to be
set apart his time for temporal given a new energy in the task of
needs; but she was otherwise, learning and teaching.
and Wales should – not only The next three quarters of an
Dyffryn Nantlle – raise her up hour of prayer for our schools will
as a woman worthy to be be held on June 23rd, 12.30 –
remembered. 1.15p.m. If you would like to
take part, go to
(to be concluded) https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/pr
Extracts from Cofiant Mrs ay-for-schools-wales-prayer-
Fanny Jones, Gweddw y zoom-tickets-150917758077
Diweddar Barch. J. Jones, Let’s make every one of our local
Talysarn by O. Llew. Owain primary and secondary schools,
of Talysarn. Translated by a prayed for school!
Marian G. Clifford (née Catrin Roberts
Edwards).
the TREASURY – MAY 2021 5
Providence
WILMER ROAD PRESBYTERY
When I was fourteen, our family Soon after receiving this call to
moved to Birkenhead because the ministry, I shared the fact
my father had gained with the Church Secretary, Tom
promotion. Wilmer Road Gordon, a gracious, kind man
“it’s oft perplexing ways are ordered right” Presbyterian Church, was only a who was thrilled with my news,
five-minute walk away and my and promised to encourage me.
– (David Charles) parents became church The news was shared with the
members there, and at sixteen I, church who supported my
along with my brother, were candidature, then this was
friendly minister. After his wife baptised by sprinkling. It was relayed to the Lancashire and
died, he married a member, providential that the Interim Cheshire Presbytery. Events
Miss Rees who related Moderator of our church was the moved surprisingly quickly. I
interesting stories to us in our Revd David Edwards, Liverpool was impressed by the care and
small week-night children’s from the Foreign Missions arrangements made for my call
meetings. I was impressed office. His missionary to be tested. Presbytery
when she read weekly a chapter experience in India, warm expected me to preach first in
describing Mary Jones and her personality and interesting my home church, then in
obtaining a Bible from Thomas preaching attracted me as no weeknight services in six other
Charles, Bala. The Sunday other preacher had done. He churches within the Presbytery
School Superintendent was Mr was different. His faith was when a minister would be
Harris but usually teachers infectious and his passion for present. I remember vividly
talked about everything in class, the Gospel impressive. Later he preaching to a large Wednesday
except the Bible. Sport was our lay dying in a Liverpool hospital evening congregation on Amos
by D Eryl Davies favourite subject as boys! As a and asked for the Hallelujah in Hoylake when the Revd
twelve-year-old, I played the Chorus and Worthy is the Lamb Percy Payne was the minister.
organ when no one else was to be played. That impressed He and the congregation
The word ‘providence’ is available but I was never us; he was not a mere encouraged me greatly as did
theologically rich and biblical in impressed by the preaching. ‘professional’ but a genuine other churches like Moreton and
its teaching though the word is One member was a farmer and lover of the Lord Jesus. Both others in Liverpool such as St
rarely used today. People refer Columba’s and Garston.
instead to ‘chance’, I learned a great deal from the
‘coincidence’ and ‘fate’; some responses of ministers and
superstitiously touching wood or members in those churches.
even engaging in fortune telling. Receiving these church reports
All our lives, including on my preaching, Presbytery
international affairs, are agreed I should proceed to the
governed not by impersonal fate Candidates Board in
but by our Creator God who Shrewsbury to be recognised
sustains and directs all that formally as a ministerial
happens. In his wise control of candidate. Presbytery wisely
all things, God respects our free recognised my lack of Bible
agency and never encourages knowledge and arranged for a
sin. The former Sandycroft Presbyterian Church, Flintshire local Welsh minister (Revd
In these articles, I reflect on Aneurin Edwards) to coach me
my life in the light of the Lord’s Cambridge graduate, Mr John and I knew we were not in Bible knowledge. Presbytery’s
gracious providence in relation Llewelyn, who preached at yet Christians though searching. provision was providential and a
to the Presbyterian Church of regular intervals. A charming God was at work in his major help to me.
Wales, a denomination which man, he was a notoriously long providence.
has influenced my life and and boring preacher. There Within months, unexpectedly I Revd Dr Eryl Davies lives in
ministry. were happy moments like felt a strange and direct call to retirement in Cardiff after a
parties or a visit by the Sunday the Christian ministry. It was an lifetime of Christian ministry
SANDYCROFT School to a Liverpool overwhelming conviction I could pastoring churches in Maesteg
My brother John and I Pantomime! not ignore. Working in industry, and Bangor, serving after that
experienced a happy home life; As children, we regarded my plan had been to return to as Principal of ETCW,
our parents were poor but they school days as an interruption! the police and play soccer. Bridgend.
loved us dearly. My father There were more exciting things
worked on the Railway so we to do like accompanying our
lived in Sandycroft, near father on his train journeys,
Queensferry, which was within waving a flag on the platforms
cycling distance of Chester or helping the milk man with his
Station where he was based. In horse and cart in delivering milk.
the village there was a parish My favourite days were
church, a church school, then delivering bread and cakes with
the small Presbyterian and my Uncle in his Co-op van then
Methodist chapels. Before driving the van, too, from the
marrying, my parents were age of nine in quiet streets as
Welsh Baptist and he collected payment from
Congregationalist but they sent customers. I enjoyed spreading
us to the Presbyterian Sunday jam and cream on the huge
School and the main services, swiss rolls in the Co-op bakery
despite a small Welsh Baptist near Mancot then trimming the
cause nearby in Mancot. edges before eating the scraps!
The Rev J. W. Phillips was a Life was exciting!
6 the TREASURY – MAY 2021
ONE
having the minister for lunch this meant the end of the the five wonderful words ‘let the
MORE
week?’ was a common question opportunity to train little people children go first’).
in our church. (A question in the art of service. A family ‘But hold on’ you say, ‘I
commonly followed by some with children has plenty of remember some ministers, and
wag replying ‘not us, we’re chances to talk about serving, they were real rotters’. True.
having beef!’). Quite often our but maybe not many chances to Some were terrible house
THING
family would be the ones actually serve. Hosting the guests. One came late to our
offering hospitality which was minister means tidying up for house and laughed when my
good news for me because it visitors; waiting your turn to mother declared that the meat
meant there would be pudding. share your story, and in so was burnt; another stayed for
Nowadays, it the weekend and left his
seems, a rare underpants on the bedpost.
occurrence! So what Some were dreadful at making
by Reverend killed off the visiting conversation, others talked the
minster saying for hind legs of the proverbial
Jonathan Hodgins lunch? donkey. I remember one
I suppose the minister coming back for supper
Clergymen in fiction tend to be
chief culprit is the with his wife and not leaving till
blundering buffoons. For
end of the evening midnight. But even these -
example, Wodehouse’s Revd
service. No Sunday especially these, taught
Stinker Pinker ‘constitutionally
night service means valuable lessons. We learnt
incapable of walking through the
there’s no reason patience. We learnt to love the
great Gobi desert without
for the minister to unlovely. We learnt to put up
knocking something over’, or
stay on for a long with those who were difficult.
grotesque characters like
after the Aside from anything else we
Blackadder’s Bishop of Bath
Benediction. A learnt that even the worst, most
and Wells who drowns babies in
coffee and biscuit in tedious things in life eventually
the christening font and then
the vestry and a come to an end; that even the
eats them later in the vestry,
discrete cheque most tiresome afternoon would
and the downright dodgy Father
from the treasurer is eventually end with those sweet
Ted Crilly, who swore blind that
all that’s required. words, ‘well it’s been a lovely
the collection was ‘just resting in
Even in churches afternoon, but we’d better get
his account’!
where there is an ready for evening service.’
In this respect the Bishop of
evening service, most A page of Mrs Keefe's Visitors Book at Yew So hospitality can be a chore
Digne is the rarest of fictional Tree Cottage, Old Walls.
minister’s will choose but as churches stop offering to
characters, a priest who actually
to go home for the host the visiting minister, maybe
lives up to his calling. You will
afternoon and come back in the doing learning to listen to we have lost an opportunity to
know him from Les Miserables.
evening. It’s possible also, that someone else. It means prove week by week that in
Woken in the middle of the night
those most acquainted with the squashing in around the table to showing hospitality to strangers
by the police at the door, he is
idea of offering hospitality are make room for a guest. And some people have entertained
informed that Jean Valjean, a
those who are oldest in the (when I was a child) it meant angels without knowing it!
recently paroled criminal, has
congregation and therefore living with that heart stopping
stolen the church silver from the
perhaps incapable of doing moment when seconds were Revd Jonathan Hodgins lives in
Bishop’s house. Rather than say
what they once did. offered to the visitor first. (I Mancot. He cares for four
‘J’accuse’, the Bishop rebukes
So what have we lost? judged many a minister by churches in Flintshire and
Valjean—
Well, we no longer need to whether or not he said those Chester.
worry about uncomfortable
But my friend, you left so early
DEC Coronavirus Appeal extended to
afternoons struggling to make
Surely something slipped your conversation with an odd-bod,
mind. lay or ecclesiastical. Ministers include India is endorsed by the
[at which point the bishop gives
Valjean two candlesticks.]
don’t have to worry about eating
food they don’t like (I once left
Presbyterian Church of Wales
You forgot I gave these also. broccoli on the side of my plate Life & Witness Board
Would you leave the best and my host said she would wait
behind? until I had finished it!). Children In India, a second wave of coronavirus is having a devastating
of those offering hospitality need impact. India’s health system is struggling to cope, hospitals are
Once the police have gone he not worry about ‘being on their overrun and oxygen supplies are falling short of demand.
urges Valjean to make the most best behaviour’ and church You can make a difference today by donating to the Disasters
of his gift of grace urging him to secretaries have one less rota Emergency Committee’s Coronavirus Appeal.
become an honest man. It is service to worry about. DEC charities will help by supporting India’s health system by
deeply moving and used But there is undoubtedly a setting up temporary Covid hospitals, providing ambulance and
memorably and to great effect in loss. medical supplies; putting measures in place to slow the spread of
the evangelism tool, Christianity The end of offering hospitality Covid 19 e.g by providing masks, water, soap and hand sanitiser;
Explored. to the visiting minister means and they will ensure that the most fragile families have enough
But the Bishop of Digne is we have lost the opportunity to food and clean water so that children don’t become
unusual for another reason; he exercise the gift of hospitality. A malnourished.
is a clergyman who offers good visiting minister will be, by If you can make a donation, please visit www.dec.org.uk or call
hospitality rather than receiving definition, easily pleased. If he 0370 60 60 900. Each and every single donation will make a
it. A conversation after church is worth his salt he will be difference, and will be greatly appreciated.
recently reminded me of the one friendly and thankful, an ideal
time commonplace offer of person on whom to practice Thank you, Casia Wiliam
hospitality to the visiting hospitality. External Relations Manager for the DEC in Wales
minister. The end of offering hospitality 07973612966
When I was a child ‘Who’s to the visiting minister has also cwiliam@dec.org.uk
the TREASURY – MAY 2021 7
suffered in any way through the Once there, the fun continued
FROM Coronavirus. Some have come
specially; some have seen the
prayer net in passing and
stopped to participate - precious
as Mr Morgan took a class of
older boys, including at that
time, Donald Lewis and Gethin
John, while Audrey Williams
THE CHURCHES prayers said for those we have
lost.
We hope others will take time
to add many more ribbons to
(celebrating 60 years as an
elder), now grown up, led the
older girls. Averil Grove had a
class of little ones and the
the memorial over the next ladies were taught by whichever
couple of weeks. minister had come for the day to
Easter reminded us of how take the morning and evening
good can come out of disaster. services. As a teenager Eileen
As Marjorie Corbett said, “There remembers being enthralled by
has already been goodness the Bible teaching of Revd
shown in the way people have Professor Rheinallt Nantlais
shared with others and cared Williams from Aberystwyth—she
for others during this pandemic. wished he could have come
We pray that even more of that every week and remembers
will happen throughout the with some surprise, that she
world and people will be able to told him so!
put real values to the top of their
list: care, love and compassion.”
THE PRESBYTERIAN
OLD WALLS, GOWER CHURCH OF WALES
TRINITY, LLANIDLOES experienced in this last year Glamorgan/London
and said a prayer for all who One of the elders and chapel Presbytery
Ribbons of Remembrance had suffered. She emphasised magazine editor, Eileen Hutin
Ministerial Assistant
March 23rd 2021 saw the first that it was important not only to was asked recently about her
anniversary of the first lockdown remember those who had died, memories of Sunday School in
for Covid-19. But how to mark but also the much wider group the 1930’s.
this significant and sombre We invite anyone interested
of people who have been
milestone in a meaningful way a affected by loss as a result of in supporting Christian and
year on when in many ways it this pandemic: loss of loved Church work to apply for the
seems like a lifetime ago? So ones, loss of jobs, loss of post of Ministerial Assistant to
much has changed in our daily status, and so much more. She serve the Presbyterian
routines and way of living. reminded us that it was also Churches within London.
The local Cŷtun here in important that we remember To start: 1 Sept 2021
Llanidloes and the nearby area those who have died in the Hours: 35 hours per week
thought it would be a good idea front-line care of others. Term: 2 years, with the first
if we could have some way of After a moment of silence and 6 months being a probationary
remembering all those who then a prayer, the Mayor of period.
have died as each of us in the Llanidloes, Mrs Janet Crisp, Salary: PCW Scale 23-27
town will have been aware of was asked to tie the first ribbon. £23,950 - £26,056 pro rata with
someone who had died or been The first few ribbons placed an opportunity to join the PCW
affected by Covid. As a way of there included a prayer from the pension scheme.
being able to personally recall, Llanidloes Quaker Meeting Additional offer: A flat
recollect and honour those which holds its services in provided, and a travel
people, it was decided we Trinity: ‘Did your father take you?’, allowance within London.
should have ribbons that we she was asked. ‘Oh yes!’ replied
We “hold in the light” all those Candidates should be proficient
could tie to a special Eileen. And it seems that along
who have died during the in Welsh, or committed to
commemorative “prayer net” with Eileen, her Dad, Will
pandemic and all their families learning the language (spoken
situated on the rails of the Morgan took almost everyone
who have been bereaved. We and written).
Eglwys Bresbyteraidd in China else as well! The late Muriel
St. Bilingual posters with also pray for everyone else who This Post is subject to an
have been affected in any way Crocker (who later taught at
reflections are part of the net. Tasker’s School in enhanced DBS check and two
A select, but ecumenically during this difficult time, satisfactory references.
including those who continue to Haverfordwest and attended
representative group, gathered Ebenezer in the time of Revd
together at 11am on the 23rd - suffer from long-covid. For further details, please
Arwyn Thomas), was heard to
face masks donned and Even within a couple of days, say that judging by the number contact Hedd Morgan, Cardiff
keeping the obligatory social those first ribbons have been of children on board, his car Office, on 029 2062 7465
distance - to inaugurate this joined by many more added by must have had expanding E: hedd@ebcpcw.cymru
“memorial” for want of a better people of all ages, taking the sides. Eileen says there was no
word. opportunity to pause and reflect health and safety involved, but Closing Date: 4.00pm on
Miss Marjorie Corbett, the and remember a family member a great deal of fun was had on Friday 7th June 2021
Chair of CYTUN, spoke of the or friend or one of the the way!
losses so many had thousands worldwide who have
THE TREASURY incorporating Glad Tidings • English publication of the Presbyterian Church of Wales. Published monthly – Price 50p. Vol. XLVII No. 5
Editor: Revd IAIN B HODGINS, 1a CHESTNUT GROVE, HAWARDEN CH5 3HD MAY 2021
e-mail: iain.hodgins@ebcpcw.cymru IS S N 1476-4695
Unless otherwise stated the views expressed are those of the individual contributor and are not necessarily the view of the General Assembly or the Editor.
03
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