WELLOW CHURCH AND PARISH NEWS
JULY 2001
Churchwardens: Mrs. J. H. Mannings, Mr. J. R. Wyld
ANNE & JOACHIM
| Thursday 26th July is the Feast Day of St Anne
and St Joachim, the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Whenever I go to Jerusalem, one of the special places I try not to miss is the Church of St Anne. It's easy to include in a visit to the city because of its proximity to the beginning of the Via Dolorosa - The Way of Sorrows - that always features in a pilgrimage itinerary. Also, next door to the Church is the archeological site of Bethesda, the pool where Jesus healed the crippled man (John 5.1-13). The Church is the finest surviving example of Crusader architecture in Israel, having been spared by the Mamelukes. Their commander, Saladin, converted the Church into an Islamic seminary. Today the Church is run by the Roman Catholic order of the White Fathers. The beautiful simplicity of the building is unforgettable. There are no lights, no glass windows, no paintings or any plasterwork. Light enters the Church through stone latticework in what would normally be windows. The most unusual characteristic about the Church is its acoustics. On one of my visits there was a group of Korean Christians who sang one of their hymns - the magnificent resonating sounds remain in my memory to this day! A Church existed on the site by the 5th Century, dedicated to St Mary; it was destroyed and replaced by others. In the 12th Century, the Crusaders built the present Church over the place, which was the home of Anne and Joachim, according to Christian Tradition. It is the traditional birthplace of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the home where she was brought up. Perhaps we relate Mary so much to Nazareth - to the simple country life - that we forget that she was born and educated in the city. Any historical analysis of St Anne or St Joachim is fruitless; neither is there any mention of them is scripture. However, there is a long and well-documented tradition of pious devotion to St Anne beginning from the 6th Century in the East and the 8th Century in Rome. By the late Middle Ages devotion to her had spread to most of Europe. The apocryphal account "The Protogospel of James" in the 2nd Century tells of the birth and early life of St Mary. The story copies details of the birth and childhood of Samuel so much, (even his mother's name, Hannah, being the same of Anne), as to leave the scholar believing that the whole work is simply an imitation written for satisfying popular curiosity and piety. Yet legends can contain symbolism and deep inner meaning just as much as stories written with an historical structure and basis. St Anne's childlessness echoes themes in the Old Testament where the gift of a child born to a woman beyond the age of childbearing is seen especially as a gift from God. Important figures such as Isaac, Jacob, Joseph and Samson are all portrayed in their birth narratives as gifts of God born in unusual circumstances, from mothers who were regarded as being unable to bear children. Salvation is seen as being dependent on mankind being utterly abandoned to the will of God. Any self-sufficiency would be seen as resulting in catastrophe. The seeming impossibility of birth is continued on, of course, in the birth of Jesus himself - a birth impossible to human biology but perfectly in keeping with the loving purposes of God. The figures of Anne and Joachim remind us of this need of mankind to trust God - even in the face of impossible circumstances. Our destiny lies within the life and love of God. I invite you at this time to examine your lives, as I examine mine, to see where we "abandon ourselves" into the love of God and trust in his ways for our future, our destiny. If the future of a whole society, such as the Israel of the Old Testament, can act in this way, should we not see ourselves as being within the same possibility of life and fulfilment? Hugh Bonsey |
For details of Church Services in Wellow CLICK HERE
For details of Church Services in Peasedown St. John CLICK HERE
Church News
St. Julian's Church became alive on the 14th, 15th, 16th 17th, of June when the flower and patronal festival was held. The week preceding and on Tuesday 12th June the annual spring cleaning took place organised by Elizabeth Irving and Jenny Matthews. We were so pleased to welcome the younger ones, some only recently residents of the village. The polisher decided it was tired and wouldn't work so down on their knees they got polishing away in between the pews, and indeed some men included, we do thank them and all who came to clean, mow the grass in the field, tidy up the paths, etc. Everyone who entered the church for a few days after said what a lovely smell of polish.
On Thursday 14th June the ladies from the Farmborough Floral Art Group arrived and a few men as well, the church then became a hive of activity as they arranged their beautiful floral arrangements, the amount of detail put into every one of them was amazing. They were greatly admired by all who attended. A very special vote of thanks to them all, the flowers were provided and paid for by their group and all their time was voluntary.
Thank you to those who attended the Thursday evening preview and made donations. Also to the Mellow Wellow group and supporting artistes for the fantastic concert on Friday 15th June, and to the Freshford Gallery Minstrels for the marvellous performance of Village Music of the 19th Century. There is obviously a lot of talent in and around our villages. Our thanks are due also to all those who helped in anyway with refreshments for the rotas during the days and at the evening events and to all who cooked and provided the fare, it was all delicious.
Thank you also to Gordon Hewlett for the wonderful historic display, if you want to know anything about days of yore Gordon is the one to ask he does lots of research and has helped many people trace their ancestors. The Bellringers did a stalwart job as usual, so our thanks to all of them. Unfortunately a part sheared off during the ringing and hit the clock so the clock will be out of action for a time, it was fortunate no one was injured. But it means a lot more work for the ringers on top of what they have already done.
It was lovely to have the Bishop of Bath and Wells and his wife at our morning service accompanied by the adult choir of the cathedral whose singing was a joy to behold. It was a shame there were a few empty seats right at the front though. He gave a meaningful sermon and raised a laugh when a baby in the congregation started to cry and he said that's obviously my cue to stop preaching. Both the Bishop and his wife joined us at the back of the church for lunch so it gave a few of us who stayed time to have a chat to them both, they were both extremely easy to talk to.
On Sunday evening we welcomed all the seven parishes for Deanery Evensong, Camerton, Dunkerton, Foxcote with Shoscombe, Peasedown St. John and Wellow and now included Timsbury and Priston. The Archdeacon of Bath commissioned the new group ministry who will be known as "The Seven Lamps Group Ministry". The church was almost full for this service and seven candles were taken to the front of the church by one representative of each parish and placed together to shine as one light. The Archdeacon stressed we must all help one another and try to be good neighbours.
Our thanks again to all the sides-persons at the two services and a very special vote of thanks to Hugh our Rector and his wife Heather for all their help.
Last but not least thank you to all who opened their gardens and raised some extra cash also to the scouts for erecting the tents. We will let you know the amount raised when all the bills have been sorted and paid.
Many thanks to Jenny Nixon and Libby Kerr whose idea it was to hold a flower festival and did the arranging of most of it. On behalf of everyone connected with the church thank you to everyone who has helped in anyway. You have all been marvellous and most generous. All monies will go to our heating appeal.
Churchwardens
The Church Clock and Bells
Some of you may have noticed the church clock is silent. In a week or so it should be marking the hours again. On Patronal Sunday, when the bells were ringing for service, the large tenor clapper broke in two, the heavy loose end landing on the levers and wires that operate the clock chimes, bending several; the repair of these is not too difficult. The clapper requires specialist repair and will possibly be sent to Mears and Stainbank's Whitechapel Foundry, which supplied the bell to mark Queen Victoria's coronation in 1838, (perhaps the guarantee is still in force), that will take time and money. In the meantime ringing will be possible on five bells and with a little luck no one will notice.
Towerkeepers
The Gardens of Wellow
A baker's Dozen of Gardens were generously opened for Sunday 17th June. With luscious teas, the event raised £395.85! Very Very many thanks.
Libby Kerr
Church Spring Cleaning
Despite the alteration in the times originally announced for the spring clean volunteers of all ages including newcomers to the village, came to polish sweep, dust and garden with a very good result making it a fitting background for the floral display. Many - many thanks to all concerned. However we do very urgently need volunteers to come forward on a regular routine to dust and sweep every six weeks to maintain this beautiful church. This only takes and hour or so and present small team would much appreciate help.
Please telephone Elizabeth Irving 835358 or Jennifer Mathews 832874
Wellow Parish Council held a meeting on Monday 18th June in the Village Hall.
The village has entered the competition for "Village of the year".... so please help to keep it tidy and attractive as possible.
A Parishioner has complained that cars are being parked onto the pavement, causing obstruction and damaging the edges. Repeated offenders will have their numbers taken and reported to the police. The school will also be informed.
The Parish Council has been asked to support Combe Hay in their opposition to planning application at Folly Down. This could also increase traffic through Wellow.
Quotes received to repair equipment on the playing field are very high, so alternatives are being looked at. Sorry children.
Next Meeting will be on July 16th at 8 o'clock in the Village Hall. No meeting in August.
Proposed Sustrans Cycle Route
You may be aware that there is a proposal to develop the Sustrans National Cycle Route between Frome and Bath which would pass through Wellow. We have arranged for a speaker from Sustrans to give a short talk about the National Cycle Route, and the route through the village in particular, before the next Parish Council Meeting. If you would be interested to hear this, please come along at 7.30pm on July 16th.
Erica Smith
Courses and Conferences in the Diocese
Enneagram Course
The Thorn Trust are offering another Enneagram Course and the Old Deanery, Friday-Sunday, 9-11 November 2001. The Course Tutor is Revd. Margi Walker, aided by other members of the the Thorn Trust. The cost is £35 (including two course books). The Enneagram is one way of looking at human personality. It suggests the there are different personality types based upon different energies and motivations. It offers explanations as to why we behave the way we do and it points to specific directions for individual growth. It can be an important tool for helping to understand relationships with family friends and co-workers If you would like to know more details. Contact Margi Walker 017149 672224
Fair International Trade
Following on in the campaign for international trade rules, The World Development Movement is now focussing on the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS), and the profound impact this will have on some of the world's poorest countries. For further information contact El Rhodes, Campaigns, World Development Movement, 25 Beehive Place, London SW9 7QR. E-mail Mel@wdm.org.uk
Charity Quiz Evening (Thursday 5th July)
Just a reminder that the next Charity Quiz Evening will be held in The Fox & Badger at 8pm on 5th July 2001. This month's chosen charity will be the "Off the Record" so please try to get together a team and come and enjoy a convivial evening, for a worthwhile cause, on your doorstep for £1.50 per head.
The money raised from last months quiz night entry money was £65 and this has gone to the "Bristol Area Kidney Patients Association". A further sum of £41 was raised from a raffle on the night and went to the "Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust". The choice of charity that will receive all entry money taken on the night is made by the winners of the previous month's quiz. So, remember if your team, of up to six members, win the July quiz you choose the charity recipients for next month's quiz. Please come, just turn up with your team and enjoy yourselves and test those "little grey cells" in the process!
From the Past Wallow's Mayor.
The Bath Herald reports, 8th April 1914, that for a period of some fifty years at the end of the previous century, certain persons would travel from Bath mainly in the haymaking season and one be mayor for a day. He would wear a, "Mayoral cloak and other insignia to denote his high office, and ride a white horse".
Mr George Cole, in 1914, remembered the gatherings were known as the 101st Club; at the end of the day there would be, "much fun and merriment, dancing and music", he himself contributed many songs and patter. On occasions supper would be provided by a farmer and at others they would gather at the George Inn. Any stranger noticed by the Recorder was entitled to be enrolled on payment for a quantity of beer. He concluded, "Each member had a special name, one rejoicing in the name of King Ceteway, a reminiscence of the Zulu War; there was much fun and enjoyment in those days".
Thanks to Dot Stone for the original news cutting
Gordon Hewlett
Wellow and District Horticultural Society ANNUAL FLOWER SHOW & COUNTRY FAIR SATURDAY 21st JULY 1.30pm.
Please make a note of this years earlier date which is an event for the whole village.
Invite your family and friends to what is one of the main highlights in the Wellow year. By now you will have received your schedule and you can also pick up extra ones from the village shop or any committee member. Take a look and decide what you will enter from the wide variety of sections available in this new schedule. Everyone make an effort and contribute at least one entry, that's what makes the fair a success and creates a great community spirit. There will also be a fantastic afternoon of family entertainment as usual, plus a wide variety of stalls and plenty to eat and drink.
HELP IS NEEDED...an hour or two will be greatly appreciated so please come forward and contact Show secretary Shirley Betts, Dawnrise, Westend Wellow Tel: 833683 or any committee member.
JUNIOR GARDENING CLUB will be held as usual on the 3rd Sunday of the month which will be on 15th July. Contact Lisa Davies Tel; 309007.
Mari Batholomew
Wellow Womens' Institute
The next meeting will be on Thursday 12th July at 7.30pm in the Village Hall. Our speaker will be the popular Mr. D. Everitt who will talk about "Plants in the Home" the competition will be for the best specimen of a pot plant. The W.I. will be doing the 'Teas" at the Flower Show on Saturday 21st July all offers of help from cake making to cleaning up will be appreciated.
Pam Brigden
Thursday 23rd August "guitar recital"
A special Evening in St. Julian's Church by David Russell, 7.30. £12.00 to include wine and canapes - in aid of St. Julian's Heating Fund. David Russell is a delightful person, an international guitarist and a cousin of Charles Kerr. He has generously agreed to give us this evening before he goes to Sussex to hold a series of master classe4s. tickets will be available at the Parlour Shop and also from: Charles and Libby
Charles and Libby Kerr on 01225 833589.
The Parlour Shop
We face something of a staffing crisis in the next couple of months. We have to say good-bye to Anne Wilson, who from the first has been a key worker - and a supremely quick, cheerful and efficient one - in the shop on Friday mornings. We thank her and wish the family every happiness in their new home in Wales. This will leave one big gap: several other stalwarts, too, have commitments which will keep them away from the shop for several weeks over the summer. As we discovered last year, we just can't afford to pay an assistant to cover all the time normally filled by volunteers. We don't want to have to cut our opening hours.
Any solutions? It would help enormously, for instance, if some ex-volunteers could come in again on a temporary basis. And if there is anyone who has been havering about joining our lively group of volunteers, now would be the perfect time to take the plunge. Just mention it in the shop and you'll be welcomed with open arms. You supported the Parlour wonderfully to help it through last year's financial difficulties. Please, if you possibly can, rally round again!
Marian Osborne
The Far Eastern Evening
On April 28th raised £300 and £100 has been given to each of the Macmillan Trust, Dorothy House and the hall. Many thanks to Erica and Martyn.
Les Venton
Wellow on the Web
Wellow now has its own website which has been designed, published and is maintained regularly by Richard Holland. The site URL address, for those who have access to the Internet, is www.cromwellow.freeserve.co.uk
The aim of the site is to provide residents and visitors to Wellow with a comprehensive source of reference on the Local facilities and services, groups, clubs, societies, businesses, news and just about any other area of interest that serves our Community.
Do please visit the site, and if you wish to publish new articles or alter any of its current content please let me know. You can drop, leave a note or visit me at Wellhope Knowe, Station Road, Wellow or I can be contacted either by telephone/fax on 01225 833348 or e-mail to Richard@cromwellow.freeserve.co.uk
I would really appreciate feedback on this facility and would welcome input from anyone that feels able to contribute to its ongoing success or update me on any errors
Another Wellow Website
I have recently built a website of archive photographs divided into their various categories. These are the picture, which at one time, were held by the History Club and which are now held by Gordon Hewlett. They give you some glimpse of the village as it was in the days of thatch; when the railway formed an important artery and when the villagers were employed on the land, in black smithing and in growing watercress. It can be reached directly on http://www.wellowarchive.co.uk or alternatively (with slower download) through the 'points of interest' in http://www.cromwellow.freeserve.co.uk . (I shall be interested in hearing from Mac users to see if I have cleared up my compatibility problems!)
Martin Horton
Best Kept Village Competition.
Well, here we are again, we didn't do so well last year, yet we were as good as our previous higher placing! Anyway, may I again encourage you all to keep your frontages tidy for the judging within the next two months.
Andy Elvin
Parish Newsletter
Mari Bartholomew has kindly offered to do the August newsletter. Please can you let her have all copy by the 20th of July, either delivered to her house - The Hollies, Mill Lane, or delivered to the Parlour Shop or email her on mari@kombucha.org.uk.
Thank you very much.
Jill Tremellen 833506 email julians.well@virgin.net