Wye Christmas? The Magazine of The South Wye Hereford and South Wye Rural Parishes December 2020 - St Martin's & St Peter's!
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Wye Christmas?
The Magazine of
The South Wye Hereford
and South Wye
Rural Parishes
December 2020
Price 50p
Hello and Welcome Hello - I hope that you are all safe and well, I am having a lot of conversations at the moment which run something like “Have you decided what you are doing at Christmas?”, “Who are you going to see?” It’s becoming clear that lots of people are planning to be at home, alone or with their household on Christmas day, in order to keep themselves or people that they love safe. Missing family and friends on the day is inevitably going to be very sad - but on the bright side, there will be no-one to make you eat sprouts if you don’t want to, and if my Christmas dinner consists of Pringles and Quality Street that’s nobody’s business but my own. Keeping in touch, ‘phoning, texting and calling round for a chat on the doorstep with neighbours and friends will be even more important - please let me know about anyone that you are worried about. Not all of the changes forced on us this year will be for the worse. There seems to be a real move away from crazy consumerism (partly because so many of the shops have been closed, I know) and a renewed focus on relationship, which I hope will continue. In our Wye Christmas? Advent course we have been asking why - why angels, shepherds, kings? Why Bethlehem? and why a baby? These are important questions and through scripture, preaching, family activities and conversation we have explored lots answers. But all of those responses - the answer to every one of those questions - can be brought down to just two words. For Me. The Christ was born as a baby in Bethlehem, was hailed by angels and worshipped by shepherds and wise men, for me. He came to be God’s love in the world, God’s Word for the world, for every one of us - for you and for me. That miracle cannot be diminished by a virus or restrictions. That gift cannot be left behind the shed by an errant delivery driver. However you spend the Christmas holiday, I pray that you will know the Christmas miracle, and be able to celebrate that Christ came to earth for you. With every blessing, Anne
Contents
Hello and Welcome 1
A Message from the Bishop of Hereford 3
News from the Diocese of Hereford 4
South Wye Hereford - online resources 5
South Wye Rural: St Andrews and St David’s 6
What am I reading next Sunday? 7
South Wye Hereford Wye Christmas? 8
South Wye Hereford - St Peter’s Bullinghope 9
South Wye Hereford - Christmas Events and Services 10
South Wye Hereford - St Martin’s, Ross Road 11
From the Missioners - Never a Dull Moment 12-14
Coffee Time 15,16
Scout Post 17
For Our Prayers 18
Acts of Kindness 19-22
God in the Sciences 23
Reducing Waste this Christmas 24
Christmas Book Reviews 25,26
Hereford Cathedral 27, 28
Advertising 29-36, 38
Meet the Team 37
Copy for the January edition of ASPIRATION should be sent to the Team Office by
the 17th December to: aspiration@stmartinshereford.org.uk
The magazine will be published on December 19th
2
Letter from Bishop Richard
Most human beings have a natural sense of justice. We don’t think it right that
people can commit crime and get away with it. It was important at the end of
WWII that those guilty of war crimes were seen to be punished. The Nuremberg
trials did not accept excuses that they were only obeying orders. It was essential
that those accused accepted personal responsibility and its consequences.
In the story of the Garden of Eden in the first book of the Bible, one of the
characteristics of sin was evading responsibility. Adam blamed Eve, Eve blamed
the serpent, and then they ran and hid when God showed up. The story is a
powerful one. It identifies a defining human characteristic. When we are bang to
rights, we all tend to try to excuse and blame someone else for our misdoings.
Advent is for Christians a season where we seek to reflect on our own
responsibility and accountability before God. For many people, being
accountable in this way sits uncomfortably with popular myths about what God is
really like. We are comfortable with a cosmic grandfather or Father Christmas
type figure, whom we expect to keep the good times rolling. However, we get
cross if he doesn’t do his job properly and things like COVID happen, or heaven
forfend, he expects something of us.
Religion can be terribly abused if people’s distorted view of God leads them to
think they can do his job of judgement for him. ISIS is a case in point. However,
faith can be a powerful corrective if we recognise our accountability. Christians
sum it up in the creed that says, “one day he will return to judge the living and the
dead”. To have our inner secrets exposed in this way would be a frightening
thing. But it’s this bad news that led Christians to describe the message of Jesus
as such very good news. There is judgement, but with Jesus there is also
forgiveness. Advent anticipates the former, but prepares us for Christmas when
we rejoice in the gift that sets us free is judgement, but
with Jesus there is also forgiveness. Advent anticipates
the former, but prepares us for Christmas when we
rejoice in the gift that sets us free.
Blessings
+Richard
3
News from the Diocese of Hereford
Revd Fiona Gibson is to become the next Archdeacon of Ludlow. This is the first
time the Diocese of Hereford has appointed a woman to a senior position and
marks a significant step forward for the Church of England in this rural Diocese.
Revd Fiona is currently Vicar of the Benefice of Cople, Moggerhanger and
Willington in the Diocese of St Albans.
The Bishop of Hereford, the Rt Revd Richard Jackson welcomed the appointment
and said: “I am thrilled that Fiona will be joining us as Archdeacon of Ludlow.
“This is a key appointment to our diocesan leadership team and the first woman
to be appointed to the position of Archdeacon in Hereford Diocese. She brings a
wealth of experience and enthusiasm, proven expertise in education and
demonstrable fruitfulness in mission. She will share with me the in the oversight
and missional leadership of our diocesan family as we proclaim Christ and grow
new disciples. I very much look forward to working with her and Derek, our
Archdeacon of Hereford to support our clergy, lay leaders and parishes across
the Diocese.”
In her current role, Revd Fiona oversees three rural parishes, but started out
working in education, qualifying as a teacher before beginning training for
ordination just over 13 years ago.
Speaking of her appointment, Revd Fiona said: “I’m excited to take up the role of
Archdeacon of Ludlow alongside Bishop Richard and the diocesan team. I’m
looking forward to getting to know the people of South Shropshire and being part
of what God is doing in the Diocese as we look to the future.”
“My vision is to lead and accompany parishes as they seek to grow new disciples
in their contexts, working with colleagues in shaping the diocesan vision for the
coming years.”
The new Archdeacon will be focused on mission, education, and clergy wellbeing.
As a being member of Bishop’s Staff she will have a particular emphasis on
supporting parishes in the Ludlow Archdeaconry. She is a keen advocate for
women’s ministry and hopes to encourage more women into leadership roles in
the Church. We hold Fiona and Dave and their children in our prayers as they
prepare to move and for us as we prepare to welcome them to our diocese.
4
Hereford South Wye
South Wye Online Services and Resources
Through the Week
8:00am and 8:00pm daily Morning and Night Prayer on St Martin’s Facebook.
These services use the Common Worship service and the order of service can
be found on the Church of England website churchofengland.org/prayer-and-
worship/join-us-service-daily-prayer or by downloading the Time to Pray app to
your ‘phone. If you would be happier using a book, please get in touch with the
office and we can lend you one to try.
Thursday
My Perspective: a weekly reflection from one of the team.
Join in on St Martin’s Facebook any time from 10am Thursday.
Sunday
In December all of our Sunday services will continue online. A service of Holy
Communion will go onto our Facebook pages and Youtube Channel at 10am
each Sunday and will also be available
Telephone service: To listen to an audio version of the Sunday service, call
01432 806066 from lunchtime on Sunday – the service will be available for the
whole week. This will cost you the same per minute as a local ‘phone call. There
is a message and then some silence before the service starts – don’t panic, if
you have heard the message then the service will start before long.
My Perspective
A series of talks and discussion starters
on Thursdays. Each week one of the
team gives a short reflection on
something to do with our faith and how
we live it.
Join us on the St Martin’s Facebook page
Facebook at 10am every Thursday. If you
can't make 10am you can watch later.
5
St Andrew’s, Dinedor
We plan to hold a ‘Carol themed’ service on Sunday December 13th at 6pm,
combining poems and readings with Carol music. The service will adhere to
Covid guidance and it would help if those planning to attend could let Bill
(870582) or Tim (870645) know beforehand. We would anticipate the capacity of
the church to be restricted to approximately twenty-five people. We would hope
that children attending would be able to accompany with their own musical
instruments.
We look forward to seeing everyone then.
Wishing a safe and
peaceful Christmas to
all the parishioners of
Little Dewchurch
and Dinedor
6
What am I reading next Sunday?
Date 6th December 13th December
‘Sunday’ Advent 2 - Angels Advent 3 - A Baby
Colour Purple Purple
Gospel Luke 1:26-33. Matthew 1:18-25
Date 20th December 24th December
‘Sunday’ Advent 4 - Shepherds Christmas Eve
Colour Purple Gold/White
Old Testament Isaiah 52:7-10
Psalm Psalm 98
New Testament Hebrews 1:1-4
Gospel Luke 2:8-18 John 1:1-14
Date 25th December 27th December
‘Sunday’ Christmas Day Christmas 1
Colour Gold/White White
Old Testament Isaiah 62:6-end Isaiah 61:10-62:3
Psalm Psalm 97 Psalm 148
New Testament Titus 3:4-7 Galatians 4:4-7
Gospel Luke 2:8-20 Luke 2:15-21
Sunday Readings:
Remember that in South Wye we are not following the lectionary this month.
These are the readings for the Wye Christmas course that we are using until
Epiphany as well as the full readings for the First Mass of Christmas, Christmas
Day and Christmas 1. Check with the Minister leading the service for the
readings for other services during the season.
7
Hereford South Wye
Wye Christmas?
A journey through South Wye in Advent
Although we aren’t able to meet many times in December,
there are still lots of ways to connect with the Advent Journey
and the Christmas Story. As well as the Wye Christmas
booklets, services and reflections that you can engage with at
home, there are also things you can do if you are out and about.
Mary and Joseph (and the Donkey) are on their way
to St Martin's church to be honoured guests at the
Christmas Day service. Unfortunately, South Wye has
a much more complicated road layout than Bethlehem
and they are a bit lost. We are posting photographs on
Facebook every day of them on their travels and
asking you to guess where they are. Keep your eyes
peeled. Their donkey does yet have a name - if you’d
like to choose a suitable moniker let us know - I’m afraid that Donkey Ho Tee has
gone! The winning name will be drawn at St Martin’s on-line Draw on the 16th.
Our wonderful crafters have been busy making tree
decorations as gifts for the community. They are pinned up
around the parishes on fences and hedges - if you find one,
take it home for your tree as a gift!
At St Martin’s there is another of Jo’s lovely
trails. Follow the stars to find 7 nativity
characters spread around the churchyard—
take a photo of the characters for facebook to
win a prize!
8
St Peter’s Bullinghope, Hereford South Wye,
Christmas Communion - Christmas Eve at 6pm
If you intend to join us for this service, please contact the office so that we
can plan safe seating arrangements (01432 353717)
All Sunday services will be online at 10am on the St Peter’s Facebook Page
With every
good wish for
the blessing of a
peaceful and
safe Christmas
to our
congregation
and community
On behalf of the PCC a big thank you to everyone who contributed a lump sum
payment when services resumed in July, to cover what would have been their
usual weekly donations during the first lockdown By the time you read this we
shall have emerged from a second lockdown but with restrictions still in place
and services will not therefore resume until Christmas Eve. In common with most
churches by the end of the year services will not have been held at St Peter’s for
almost half of the year. On behalf of the PCC may I ask that you repeat your
generosity of earlier in the year, by increasing your donations over the Christmas
period.
With very best wishes to you all for a safe and happy Christmas
Richard Barnes
Treasurer
9Advent and Christmas Events and Services
in South Wye, Hereford
Online
Wye Christmas
Perspectives
Thursday 10th, 17th, 31st at 10am
on St Martin’s Facebook page
reflections on the weekly themes - Why a Baby? Why Shepherds? And Why
Kings?
Services
Sunday Services
Sunday 5th, 13th, 20th and 27th,
Holy Communion at 10am
on St Martin’s and St Peter’s Facebook Pages and our Youtube channel
Virtual Nativity Service
Christmas Eve at 4pm
on St Martin’s and St Peter’s Facebook Pages and our Youtube channel
On Site
St Peter’s, Bullinghope
Christmas Eve 6pm - Christmas Communion
please book with the office for this service
St Martin’s, Ross Road
Christmas Eve 8pm - First Communion of Christmas
Christmas Day 10am - Family Communion
Both of these services will be livestreamed on Facebook Live
please book with the office for these services
10St Martin’s, South Wye
St Martin’s
Grand Christmas Draw
Winners to be drawn by our very
own Christmas Elf!
Watch the draw live on the St
Martin’s Facebook Page on the
16th December
Ticket stubs and money
back to the office
or to Gillian Farlow please
by the 14th
St Martin’s Food Share
Every Monday at 10am at St Martin’s Church and at 11am at the Scout Hut we
have surplus food which has given to us to share with our community. Tell your
neighbours and come along with a bag – and a mask! The list usually includes
bread, veg, packets and tins.
David
Christmas Blessings
and Good Wishes
for a Safe and Peaceful
Christmas and New Year
From Everyone at St Martin’s
11From the Missioners - Never a Dull Moment
Later this week, we’ll be exiting our second round of lockdown restrictions and
heading into Tier Two. I wonder how this time around has been for you? Have the
more relaxed guidelines on outdoor exercise made things easier for you, or were
you bored at home? I have to admit that I have been bored at times. I’ve really
missed going to the gym and eating out (eating out is why I need to go to the
gym), but on the whole I’ve managed to keep myself fairly busy. Thinking about
this, it struck me that, in usual times, I see and speak to most of you on a fairly
regular basis, filling you in about the project and its progress. I’m aware, however,
that the pandemic has reduced the opportunities for this, and so I thought I’d let
you know what we’ve been up to.
One of the most significant decisions we’ve made in
seeking to reach out to families during the pandemic, is
to create ‘Club Superstars’. Club Superstars is a
monthly club which families can sign up to and receive
a free pack, containing Bible stories, simple crafts and
colouring. Our first delivery, in October, featured
‘Pumpkin Week’ and involved delivering 35 bags.
Remembrance themed bags went
out in November to 41 individual children. The
response we’ve had has been so encouraging.
We asked families to share pictures of their makes
with us and we’ve been delighted to receive a
stream of images, which you can see on our FB
page.
Another new initiative which has taken off in the past month is David’s food
share, where he redistributes the food that supermarkets and restaurants might
otherwise dispose of. I, for one, have been really grateful to receive bread on an
almost weekly basis. I know that other families have been equally blessed, and
it’s been an amazing opportunity for David and his helpers to make connections
12From the Missioners - Never a Dull Moment - cont.
within the community and share the love of Jesus with our neighbours. As I write,
he’s just distributed for the fourth time; today alone he served 75 people.
The most exciting, and stressful, thing that we’ve been involved in over the past
weeks has been the preparation of our Advent course, Wye Christmas? By now
you should have your copy. I hope you like it and find it useful in your
preparations for Christmas. I am so proud of it. It was such a work of blood,
sweat and tears (and lots of prayer); I think it’s brilliant. As part of the course, we
also put together 50 craft bags and 25 DIY advent ring kits for families, meaning
that the office temporarily resembled a production line. I hope the families enjoy
making the four Christmas decorations in the pack; I’m so excited for the photos
to start coming in.
Included in the craft bags that we distributed were 15 for After School Club at St
Martin’s School, which we restarted in September. I have to admit that we were
worried about the logistics of returning after Covid; however, the school have
been incredibly helpful in assisting us to keep the group Covid-safe, and the
children have responded amazingly well. This term we have learned a lot about
Paul and his journeys. My favourite session was the one where Paul escaped
from the people that wanted to hurt him by being lowered out of a window in a
basket. David created the most amazing craft which involved raising and lowering
a little Paul in his basket using string and drinking straws. We have developed
great relationships with the children who attend and have recently been able to
support children through bereavement and other difficult circumstances. As part
of the advent packs, all children were given a Bible storybook about the nativity.
Please pray that God will move through his spirit to assure them of his love and
care for them.
In other school-related news, chaplaincy has also
recommenced at The Hereford Academy.
Numbers are significantly reduced due to the
difficulties of meeting in a Covid-safe way.
However, the students who do to attend tell me
that they find much benefit from meeting. As a
result of the pandemic, my role as chaplain has
13been subject to change, now being more focused on listening and pastoral work
than previously. Having said that, we have entered into the season of advent with
gusto and spent last week making an advent ring to decorate the classroom.
Please pray for all the students and staff at THA, particularly those whose lives
have been affected by Covid.
Silver Threads came out of the first lockdown into a cycle
of lunch meetings at Die Koffie Pot. If you ever want a
good laugh, ask me how I once almost got thrown out… of
a retirement group meeting. And I know what you’re
thinking, but it wasn’t because I looked too young. It was
lovely to meet together again but sadly didn’t last long
before the restaurants closed again. We have decided,
now, not to meet until after Christmas. We would love to
share festive fun together but our priority must be to keep
our members safe. That doesn’t mean, however, we are
not thinking of them. Even as I write there is a project afoot
to bring them some Christmas cheer.
Finally, I have been involved in the relaunch of Meals at St Martin’s. Ably
co-ordinated by Michael, our esteemed leader, we are now organised into two
bubbles who take it in turns to cook and serve hot meals on a weekly basis. All
meals are now provided in takeaway form. Although this is different and it is sad
to lose the fellowship of table hospitality, we do still have some opportunity to
chat with and support those who attend. With the Covid shutdown of many other
free hot meal providers within the city, our provision is so necessary and very
much appreciated.
At the end of our third year at St. Martins,
David and I would like to thank you for your
continued love, friendship and support. We are
so grateful and really couldn’t do any of it
without you.
Merry Christmas!
Love from
Jo and David
14Coffee Time
Doodle Box
15Across Down
1 Rely (Psalm 62:7) (6) 1 Money owing (Deut 15:3) (4)
4 ‘He stretches out the heavens like 2 Conciliatory (Titus 3:2) (9)
a — , and spreads them out like a 3 ‘Do this, whenever you — it, in
tent to live in’ (Isaiah 40:22) (6) remembrance of me’ (1 Cor 11:25) (5)
7 What the dove carried the olive 4 A group assisting in the governance
leaf in, when it returned to Noah’s ark of the Roman Catholic Church (5)
(Genesis 8:11) (4) 5 One of the gifts Joseph’s brothers
8 Annoy (1 Samuel 1:6) (8) took with them on their second
9 Judah’s last king, who ended his journey to Egypt (Genesis 43:11) (4)
days as a blind prisoner in Babylon 6 ‘Reach out your hand and — —
(Jeremiah 52:11) (8) into my side. Stop doubting and
13 ‘They all — and were believe’ (John 20:27) (3,2)
satisfied’ (Luke 9:17) (3) 10 Be outstandingly good (2 Cor 8:7)(5)
16 Eliphaz the Temanite was one; so 11 ‘What — — that you are mindful of
was Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar him, the son of man that you care for
the Naamathite (Job 2:11; 16:2) (4,9) him?’ (Psalm 8:4) (2,3)
17 National Association of 12 Horse’s feet (Judges 5:22) (5)
Evangelicals (of the USA) (1,1,1) 13 Notice (Deuteronomy 17:4) (9)
19 Popular song for New Year’s Eve, Auld 14 Comes between 2 Chronicles and
— — (4,4) Nehemiah (4)
24 Able dock (anag.) (8) 15 One of Israel’s northern towns
25 The number of stones David conquered by Ben-Hadad (1 Kings 15:2(4)
chose for his confrontation with 18 Narnia’s Lion (5)
Goliath (1 Samuel 17:40) (4) 20 One of the two rivers in which
26 Elgar’s best-known ‘Variations’ (6) Naaman would have preferred to
27 Soak (Isaiah 16:9) (6) wash (2 Kings 5:12) (5)
21 Avarice—one of the evils that
come from inside people (Mark 7:22) (5)
22 Knight Grand Cross of St Michael
and St George (1,1,1,1)
23 Jacob’s first wife (Gen 29:2)(4)
Last Month’s Solution
16Hereford City Scouts
Christmas Post 2020
IMPORTANT UPDATE
To the Supporters of Hereford City Christmas Scout Post,
It is with great regret that we write this to inform you of the cancellation of
Scout Post service this year, due to the current 4 week lockdown, and the
need to keep both you, our customers and our leaders, young people
and helpers safe, there is no way of safely accepting, sorting and
handling the 30,000 plus cards.
We know this will be a disappointment to you, as it will be to us, but we
hope you understand.
We thank you for your support in previous years and look forward to
welcoming you all back for Scout Post 2021 (Watch this space for details
next November).
In the meantime, from all the Scout Post Teams, we wish you a Merry
Christmas, Happy New Year, and above all,
STAY SAFE!
Hereford City Christmas Scout Post Committee
17For our Prayers
Sasha and Robert marrying this month
Those who are ill or in need of your prayers, including:
Glenys H Gaynor C Ann W Carol Marcia R Oliver Chrissie
Hana Joe D Nick D Brenda B Immie B Lee Roger
Seren W Dot G Emma Bob Harry Viv Tom M
Helen Andrea Marie Barbara W
Those who have died and those who mourn their loss:
David P John David Paul Rick Mary
A Prayer for all those affected by Coronavirus
Keep us, good Lord, under the shadow of your mercy.
Sustain and support the anxious, be with those who care for the sick,
and lift up all who are brought low;
that we may find comfort knowing that nothing can separate us from your love
in Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.
Wye Christmas Prayer
Lord Jesus, light of the world,
born in David’s city of Bethlehem,
born like him to be a king:
be born in our hearts at Christmas,
be King of our lives today. Amen.
The Diocesan Follow! Prayer
God who in Jesus calls us - open hearts and minds to your invitation.
God of the pilgrim way - be our companion day by day.
God of the still, small voice - teach us to pray.
Grant that in our calling, our following, our pilgrimage
we may see your kingdom of truth and peace -
and delight to bring others to your love.
We make this prayer through Jesus, the Lord. Amen
18Acts of Kindness
Since September 2015, People in
Motion have been actively involved in
sending aid throughout Europe for
distribution to refugees travelling in
search of a safer life. We have
provided many large vans full of
clothing, tents, blankets and food
which have been loaded onto shipping containers bound for Syria and Greece.
We have sent many volunteers over to the camps in France and Greece to help
distribute donations and provide shelter for people there. People in Motion are
teaming up with Choose Love and their partners to address the current urgent
need.
f you can’t travel or don’t have items to donate, you can still buy nappies and
basic wash bags for refugees and displaced people from the Choose Love store
– just go to www.choose.love.
19Every six seconds
somebody in the UK
contacts Samaritans for
help. Whether it’s by
phone, email or letter,
Samaritan volunteers are available to support anyone struggling to cope, 24
hours a day, 365 days a year.
Most people go through difficult times, and contacting someone who won’t judge
about what’s troubling you, no matter how large or small the issue feels, can
really help. Suicide is not inevitable, it is preventable. and we know that suicidal
thoughts are often temporary and can be interrupted, so finding our contact
details could make all the difference. Samaritans Herefordshire Branch want to
raise awareness of the 24/7 emotional support available, to as many people as
possible in our local area during this especially difficult time.
Phone free on 116 123 Email jo@samaritans.org.
Write to
Freepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK
Chris, PO Box 9090
Stirling FK8 2SA
In May 2020 Samaritans also launched a free Self-Help app to encourage
people to be kind to themselves and look after their emotional wellbeing. The
app aims to provide a means of accessing support for people who may struggle
to use Samaritans’ listening service, or find it difficult to express how they are
feeling when talking to someone. Visit selfhelp.samaritans.org to try out or
download the new web-based app and find out more.
If you might be able to lend a hand in Herefordshire by displaying posters or
contact cards please get in touch with
Herefordshire Samaritans Outreach
44a Berrington Street, Hereford, HR4 0BJ
Email: outreach.director@herefordshire-samaritans.org
For more information about Samaritans, including other ways to help, please go
to www.Samaritans.org
2021
Acts of Kindness
We welcome all gifts of food or donations of money. We are short of tinned meat,
rice (tinned and dry), tinned custard, tinned spaghetti, toothpaste (adult)
and men's toiletries (we currently have plenty of baked beans, pasta, tomatoes
and soup). During the Covid crisis donations CANNOT be brought to our
premises at 41 Monkmoor Street.
We have a temporary food donation point at CLC on Edgar Road. (Christian
Life Centre, 133 Edgar Street, Hereford HR4 9JR) https://www.clch.cc/. We will
be open on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 10 to 12. There are donation
points in nearly all the supermarkets in Hereford: Co-op, Waitrose, Sainsburys,
Morrisons, Lidl, Asda and Tesco at Bewell St. and Belmont. Large donations from
businesses or associations can be accepted but it would help if you phone in
advance to make arrangements.
Donations of money can be in cash or by cheque made out to "Hereford Food
Bank" or you can visit our Facebook page to make an online donation.
Alternatively you could set up a payment directly to our CAF Bank account - the
sort code is 40-52-40 and the account number is 00030491 If you are a UK
taxpayer, your donations can be gift aided, please complete a gift aid form and all
future gifts will be included in your declaration. Cheques and gift aid forms can
be posted to The Hereford Food Bank, 41, Monkmoor Street, Hereford, HR1
2DX. (Our Charity Ref.No. is 1170826)
Do you know that you can support us by shopping at Amazon Smile? There is no
cost to you but we receive 0.5% of the purchase price.
Select Hereford Food Bank on Amazon Smile or visit
https://smile.amazon.co.uk/ch/1170826-0
22God in the Sciences - Follow the Star
Dr Ruth M Bancewicz, is Church Engagement Director at The Faraday Institute
for Science and Religion in Cambridge.
Jesus’ welcoming committee included Eastern scholars who learned about His
birth through their study of astrology. I can’t help thinking that the arrival of these
people at Bethlehem is a link between a very early form of science (albeit mixed
in with their own form of religion) and Christian faith. What better way to discover
God than to explore the world and follow the evidence wherever it leads? But
what exactly was the star of Bethlehem? Scientists have investigated this
question over the centuries, coming up with a variety of answers.
First, there is the idea of a supernova: the massively bright explosion caused by a
dying star. On rare occasions a supernova can be seen from Earth with the naked
eye, remaining visible for several months. We now know that Herod the Great
died around 4BC, so the actual date of Jesus’ birth must be a little earlier. The
supernovae that might match this timing were one in the Andromeda galaxy
between March 8BC and September 7BC, and another in the constellation of
Capricorn in the Spring of 5BC.
Next, comes a planetary conjunction. The alignment most commonly associated
with the star of Bethlehem was between Jupiter and Saturn in the constellation of
Pisces in 7BC, but not everyone is sure whether this would be extraordinary
enough to be the ‘star’ mentioned in the Bible.
Finally, the bright astronomical object that drew the Magi could have been a
comet. This idea came from Sir Colin Humphreys, Professor of Materials Science
at Cambridge University, and Oxford astronomer WG Waddington, who found that
a comet was recorded by Chinese astronomers between March and May, 5BC.
Humphreys then speculated that the ‘no room at the inn’ scenario came about
because Jesus was born during Passover, and the Magi visited Jesus in May or
June.
People interpret the biblical account of Jesus’ birth in all sorts of ways, but there’s
very little argument from serious historians that Jesus of Nazareth actually
existed. Whatever the true explanation for the ‘star of Bethlehem’ may be, there’s
plenty of evidence that an astronomical event could have happened at the time of
His birth. I think it makes perfect sense that if God was going to enter His own
creation and take on the form of one of His own creatures, it should be marked by
a very significant physical event!
23Herefordshire Council have some advice
about reducing waste this Christmas
Christmas trees
To dispose of a real tree, book a slot and take it to one of our household recycling
centres where it will be composted with garden waste.
Handy tip - wrap the tree in an old bed sheet to stop the needles falling in the car.
Keep hold of the sheet as you drop the tree into the garden waste container.
Polystyrene packaging
The polystyrene type found protecting new electrical
items or the small polystyrene chips often found in boxes sent through the post,
should not be placed in your recycling as it cannot be recycled at recycling
centre EnviroSort. Please put polystyrene in your normal black bin or rubbish
sack.
Handy tip - try to reuse it - it makes great drainage material for your patio pots.
Wrapping paper and cardboard boxes
In the UK, we bin around 300,000 tonnes of Christmas packaging each year.
Disposing of your wrapping paper
• Make sure you remove ribbons and bows from paper before recycling. Don't
worry about removing the sticky tape
• We can only recycle certain types of wrapping paper - good quality paper that
is bright white on the non-printed side
We cannot recycle metallic paper that cannot easily be ripped, as this often
contains plastic
Handy tip - if the paper tears easily, we can recycle it.
Disposing of your cardboard boxes
Please break them up and put inside your green recycling bin or clear sacks. For
very large boxes either take them to a household recycling centre or break them
down to the same size as your recycling bin, flatten and leave next to your
recycling bin on collection day
Christmas cards
• Create Christmas decorations ready for next year
• Cut out the picture on the front and turn into a gift card for next year
Recycle them - put them in your green recycling bin or sacks
24Christmas Book Reviews
Comfort and Joy – Nine Lessons and Carols for Christmas - By John
Kiddie, CHP (80p single copy; pack of 10, £7; pack of 50, £30) Churches all
over the country will be marking Advent and Christmas in both new and familiar
ways this year. ‘Comfort and Joy’, the Church of England's 2020 Christmas
campaign, will help enrich your Christmas. It features daily reflections for the
Christmas season from Kate Bottley, Jonathan Bryan, Bob Chilcot, Martha
Collison, Stephen Cottrell, Guli Francis-Dehqani, Chine McDonald, Sally Phillips
and Justin Welby. Beginning on Christmas Day and ending on 2nd January, each
day explores a Bible reading and a familiar carol, encouraging us to consider
Christmas in these extraordinary times, and inviting us to hear again the
message of the angels - good news of God's unfailing love for a world that is
weary and hurting. For more about ‘Comfort and Joy’, online services, and the
free app featuring audio versions of all the featured carols, go to:
www.churchofengland.org/ComfortAndJoy
Free at Last - By Asia Bibi, Authentic, £9.99 Here is the remarkable story of
the woman who refused to renounce her faith and unwittingly became the global
symbol of the fight against religious extremism. After drinking water from the
same glass as a Muslim woman, Asia Bibi, a Christian, was sentenced to hang by
the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in 2010 on charges of blasphemy. Bibi's case
polarised all of Pakistan and mobilised international support from across the
globe, including politicians, journalists, and countless organisations. For nine long
years, Bibi awaited death in prison until she was formally acquitted in January
2019. Now a political exile, Bibi is reunited with her family in the West, but she
will never be allowed to return to her homeland.
The Newborn King - By Sarah J Dodd and Raffaella Ligi, Lion Children £5.99
This is an engaging retelling of the first Christmas, with bright and appealing
pictures that bring the wonderful scenes to life for younger children. A new king is
born! His name is Jesus. See the gladness of Mary, the joy of the shepherds, and
the journey of the Wise Men.
With Love from God to You - By Vicki Howie, Bible Society, £2 This children’s
story booklet offers a fresh retelling of the nativity story focusing on God’s heart
for all He has made. Created in partnership with HOPE Together.
25The Extra Special Baby – the story of the Christmas Promise - By Antonia
Woodward, Lion Children, £6.99 This beautifully illustrated Christmas picture
book shares the joy of Christmas with young children. It tells how: ‘A long time
ago, a long way away, some very clever men discovered a very exciting
promise… the baby that was so extra special that life on earth would change
forever…’
99 Stories from the Bible - By Juliet David and Elina Ellis, Candle Books, £9.99
Here is an excellent way to introduce young children to the great Bible stories.
Each story is told across a double page spread and there is a mixture of full-
page art and spot illustrations throughout the book. The stories cover: At the
Beginning, Samuel Listens, Esther, A Blind Man Sees, and Jesus Walks on the
Lake, right through to One Day Jesus Will Return.
37 Kings and a Budgerigar - By Richard Littledale, Authentic, £7.99 For
many of us, putting out a crib set is one of our treasured Christmas traditions. But
what do these scenes really tell us about the original Christmas story? Richard
Littledale, a regular contributor to Daily Service and Sunday Worship on BBC
Radio 4, shares reflections, Bible readings and prayers for each day of Advent,
based on his own personal collection of nativity sets from around the world. Just
like unexpectedly finding a figure of a budgerigar in one of his nativity sets, this
accessible devotional will surprise you anew as you see the familiar nativity story
with fresh eyes.
It Begins in Bethlehem – a Nativity Rhyme for Christmastime - By Bob
Hartman, Bible Society, £2 These entertaining rhymes will make it easy for you
to share the message of Christmas with children in your family, church and
community.
The Sleepy Shepherd - a magical Christmas tale for children - By Stephen
Cottrell, SPCK, £5.24 The Sleepy Shepherd is so dozy that he completely
misses the visit of the angels and the chance to greet the Christ-child in
Bethlehem. But one crucial night, years later, he makes an important decision –
to be a real shepherd to a man whose friends have all fallen asleep. Children will
enjoy this heart-warming, timeless story.
26Hereford Cathedral
December Opening Hours 2020
Owing to recording and events taking place in the cathedral, there will be times
during December when the cathedral itself will be closed to the public, however
the Café, Shop and the Mappa Mundi & Chained Library Exhibition will still be
accessible via the Lady Arbour Garden entrance. Please find below the details
of our visitor opening times throughout December. The cathedral will reopen at
5pm in the evenings to allow congregation to join us for Evensong or Evening
Prayer. Please note that these dates and times may change so we would always
advise double checking on the day of your visit.
Date Cathedral Shop Café Exhibition
Tuesday 1 December 10 - 3 Closed Closed Closed
Wednesday 2 December 10 - 3 Closed Closed Closed
Thursday 3 December 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3
Friday 4 December 2–3 10 – 3 10 – 3 10 – 3
Saturday 5 December 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3
Sunday 6 December Open for Worship Closed Closed Closed
Monday 7 December 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3
Tuesday 8 December 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3
Wednesday 9 December 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3
Thursday 10 December 10 – 3 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3
Friday 11 December 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3
Saturday 12 December 12 – 3 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3
Sunday 13 December Open for Worship Closed Closed Closed
Monday 14 December 10 - 2 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3
Tuesday 15 December 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3
Wednesday 16 December 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3
Thursday 17 December 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3
Friday 18 December 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3
Saturday 19 December 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3
Sunday 20 December Open for Worship Closed Closed Closed
Monday 21 December 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3
Tuesday 22 December 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3
Wednesday 23 December 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3
Thursday 24 December 10 – 3 10 – 3 10 – 3 Closed
Friday 25 December Open for Worship Closed Closed Closed
27Date Cathedral Shop Café Exhibition
Saturday 26 December 10 - 3 Closed Closed Closed
Sunday 27 December Open for Worship Closed Closed Closed
Monday 28 December (Bank Holiday)10 - 3 Closed Closed Closed
Tuesday 29 December 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3
Wednesday 30 December 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3
Thursday 31 December 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3 10 - 3
In order to respect social distancing guidelines, which limit the seating in the
cathedral to 195 people, there is very limited seating capacity for Christmas
services this year. Tickets are required for the following services:
Christmas Eve 5.30 pm Choral Evensong sung by the cathedral choir
Christmas Day 8 am Holy Communion (said)
10 am Cathedral Eucharist sung by the cathedral choir
12 noon Choral Matins sung by the cathedral choir
3.30 pm Evening Prayer (said)
Resources for Worship
We really enjoy welcoming all of those who visit us at the cathedral, especially
those who are new to our congregation. Whilst worship at the cathedral looks
different at the moment, our desire to provide a warm welcome still remains and
we have created a list of resources that you may find helpful when worshipping
at home.
Webcasts – we have a huge amount of webcasts of services on our website
Daily Reflections – each day we will share a reflection or prayer from our
clergy
Weekly pew sheet – our weekly pew sheet will continue in a slightly altered
format
Sermons – previous sermons are available to read here
Evening Hour - a guide to worship at home for Evening Hour
Music for Reflection - a selection of hymns from HCVC
If you use social media please follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to
stay in touch. If you know of someone locally who requires pastoral support but
does not have computer or internet access, please contact the Cathedral Office
(01432 374 200) who will be able to advise.
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Marrying in church is personal, meaningful, spiritual
and beautiful - just as you want it to be.
Talk to us to find out how we can help you
At the Team Office
01432 353717
and visit the Church of England site
yourchurchwedding.org
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To advertise in this magazine,
please contact the Team Office
01432 353717
Or email
aspiration@stmartinshereford.org.uk
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36Meet The Team
Clergy
Anne Dowdeswell
Team Rector. Hereford South Wye
(St Martin’s and St Peter’s) 07864 938898
Penny Littlewood
Associate Minister. Hereford South Wye
(St Martin’s and St Peter’s)
Contact through the office please - 01432 353717
Intergenerational Missioners (Job Share)
David Bland
07563 382872
David.bland@hereford.anglican.org Jo Child
07563 382923
Joanne.child@hereford.anglican.org
Team Office Staff
Team Administrator Administrative Assistant
Christine Cook Sharron Brown
TEAM OFFICE (at St Martin’s Church)
89 Ross Road, Hereford HR2 7RJ office@stmartinshereford.org.uk
OPENING HOURS Mon - Fri 8.30 am - 12.30 pm
Call in to see us on a weekday morning or phone us on 01432 353717
Websites:
www.stmartinshereford.org.uk www.stdavidslittledewchurch.org.uk
Or find us on Facebook
St Martin's Church, Ross Rd, Hereford @stpetersbullinghope
3738
May the joy of the angels,
the eagerness of the shepherds,
the perseverance of the wise men,
the obedience of Joseph and Mary,
and the peace of the Christ-child
be yours this Christmas;
39You can also read
