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st giles’ churchchurch news 2008
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, will lead celebrations in Exeter on Saturday 27th June 2009 to mark the occasion in 909 AD when the Diocese of Wessex established a new and separate diocese which is now Devon and Cornwall. The celebrations will centre around the Cathedral with keynote speakers talking about issues of faith and life today; there will be activities for children including stalls, clowns, mime artists and performers; there will be a Songs of Praise on the Cathedral Green, a concert and a firework display. The Dean of Exeter has arranged a competition to write a hymn for the occasion in the categories: under 13, under 21 and the rest, to be submitted to the Deanery by the end of February 2009. The submission should be one with words to an existing tune or new words to a new tune. The Bishop of Exeter hopes that members from all churches in the diocese will take part in a pilgrimage to Exeter on that day. Further details will be provided when available but it would be great if someone from the Five Alive Mission Community could win the hymn competition, and there is not much time to do it!
INDUCTION OF REV ALASTAIR McCOLLUM
St John The Baptist Church in Yarcombe was privileged to be the venue for the Institution and Induction of the Revd. Alastair McCollum as Vicar of the Five Alive Mission Community consisting of Kilmington, Whitford with Shute, Stockland, Dalwood and Yarcombe. Members of the church communities from all five parishes together with Clergy and Readers from the Diocese, invited guests from Alastair’s previous benefice and members of his family, Chairs of the local Parish Councils and Chairman of East Devon District council, Paul Diviani, filled the church to capacity for a service which was led by the Right Reverend Michael Langrish, Bishop of Exeter.
The combined choir of 40 choristers led by Crucifer Lin Box led the procession into the church followed by clergy members. The Churchwardens with their staves of office then preceded the Bishop to his seat in front of the Chancel.
The patrons presented Alastair to Bishop Michael requesting that he be admitted as Vicar of the Five Alive Mission Community. Anna Podbery presented water as a symbol of Baptism. The bowl was then taken to the Bishop who passed through the congregation sprinkling water from sprigs of rosemary.
Dalwood Churchwarden, Peter Major, read the lesson from 1 Peter Chapter 5 and. Emily David from Stockland School presented a bible to Alastair after which Rev.Anne Mills read the Gospel reading from Matthew before Bishop Michael gave his sermon. The choir accompanied by benefice choirmaster, Margaret Hurford, with Rachel Burrough singing the soprano solo sang Bob Chilcott’s anthem ‘Be Thou My Vision’.
After the ritual of taking the oaths of Allegiance to the Queen and of Canonical Obedience, the Churchwardens led Alastair with Penny the Archdeacon of Exeter to the door of the church and to the bell tower, where he tolled the bell and back to the reading desk, as proof of actual possession of the Five Alive Mission Community.
Dawn Franklin presented oil of healing requesting that Alastair be among the people as a person of reconciliation and forgiveness and healing.
Brian Gardner as chair of the Mission Community presented a framed map of the benefice asking support and interceding for the members of the whole community.
Members of the Community and Church then each greeted Alastair personally with a few words of welcome and then joined together to pronounce a combined welcome.
Anne Marsh and Margaret Edye took the Paten and Chalice, with bread and wine to the altar and Bishop Michael asked that everyone offered each other a sign of the Peace.
Yarcombe Lay Reader, Joan Ewins, said the prayers and a collection, which will be sent to the Bishop’s discretionary fund, was taken in the final hymn. After the dismissal the Churchwardens led the procession to the door of the church, Ruby Cooke, organist for Yarcombe, played the music for the hymns and the processional and recessional music. The sidesmen and bellringing team was made up of members from each of the 5 churches.
Refreshments provided by all 5 parishes had been laid out in the Jubilee Hall and everyone was invited to partake of the sumptuous feast. Tea and Coffee was available and there was an opportunity for everybody to get to know one another and enjoy themselves.
On behalf of Yarcombe we thank everyone for all their hard work, and co-operation. The members of the other parishes who assisted in the necessary duties during the service, the choir members for the time given to practice and Rachel for overcoming her nerves and singing so beautifully.and our organists Ruby Cooke and Margaret Hurford. We mention especially, Joan Lovegrove, who had to bear a lot of the responsibility of organisation and her unfailing cheerfulness when problems arose. Joan Ewins for the seating arrangements in the church and Margaret Hoare for organising the sidesmen.
All the Parishes for providing the mountains of food and the Yarcombe ladies who helped with the preparation and clearing up of the refreshments. Pam Foxwell and Sue Coomb who manned the dishwasher, George Pidgeon and Peter Nicholls, for overseeing the car parking, John Salter and Keith Freeman who had been trying to fix the central heating at all times of day (and night), Brian Smith for providing extra crockery and seating and the beautiful candles to light the way and to he and Mary for allowing the choir to robe in their house. Lesley Pidgeon for the floral decorations in the hall and Barbara Salter and Helen Matthews for extra arrangements in the church.
Another special mention for Anne and Jon Stockwell who allowed the clergy to robe in the Old Vicarage, and to park in their drive.
Thanks to everybody who kindly and encouragingly mentioned how well it had gone, and those who offered to help. All went the extra mile and it is a privilege to live in such a caring community.
The combined choir of 40 choristers led by Crucifer Lin Box led the procession into the church followed by clergy members. The Churchwardens with their staves of office then preceded the Bishop to his seat in front of the Chancel.
The patrons presented Alastair to Bishop Michael requesting that he be admitted as Vicar of the Five Alive Mission Community. Anna Podbery presented water as a symbol of Baptism. The bowl was then taken to the Bishop who passed through the congregation sprinkling water from sprigs of rosemary.
Dalwood Churchwarden, Peter Major, read the lesson from 1 Peter Chapter 5 and. Emily David from Stockland School presented a bible to Alastair after which Rev.Anne Mills read the Gospel reading from Matthew before Bishop Michael gave his sermon. The choir accompanied by benefice choirmaster, Margaret Hurford, with Rachel Burrough singing the soprano solo sang Bob Chilcott’s anthem ‘Be Thou My Vision’.
After the ritual of taking the oaths of Allegiance to the Queen and of Canonical Obedience, the Churchwardens led Alastair with Penny the Archdeacon of Exeter to the door of the church and to the bell tower, where he tolled the bell and back to the reading desk, as proof of actual possession of the Five Alive Mission Community.
Dawn Franklin presented oil of healing requesting that Alastair be among the people as a person of reconciliation and forgiveness and healing.
Brian Gardner as chair of the Mission Community presented a framed map of the benefice asking support and interceding for the members of the whole community.
Members of the Community and Church then each greeted Alastair personally with a few words of welcome and then joined together to pronounce a combined welcome.
Anne Marsh and Margaret Edye took the Paten and Chalice, with bread and wine to the altar and Bishop Michael asked that everyone offered each other a sign of the Peace.
Yarcombe Lay Reader, Joan Ewins, said the prayers and a collection, which will be sent to the Bishop’s discretionary fund, was taken in the final hymn. After the dismissal the Churchwardens led the procession to the door of the church, Ruby Cooke, organist for Yarcombe, played the music for the hymns and the processional and recessional music. The sidesmen and bellringing team was made up of members from each of the 5 churches.
Refreshments provided by all 5 parishes had been laid out in the Jubilee Hall and everyone was invited to partake of the sumptuous feast. Tea and Coffee was available and there was an opportunity for everybody to get to know one another and enjoy themselves.
On behalf of Yarcombe we thank everyone for all their hard work, and co-
Another special mention for Anne and Jon Stockwell who allowed the clergy to robe in the Old Vicarage, and to park in their drive.
Thanks to everybody who kindly and encouragingly mentioned how well it had gone, and those who offered to help. All went the extra mile and it is a privilege to live in such a caring community.
Carol Singers will again tour the village in mid-December and the knock on the door will not be for a collection but to invite you to listen or to join in a carol to celebrate the coming of Christmas. The start time on Wednesday 17 December will be 6.30 pm at Kilmington Common, taking in Hillcrest, The Crescent, George Lane, Newtons Orchard, Silver Street, Silver Lea, Fanny’s Ground, The Hill, Wellmead, the New Inn, Balfour/Salisbury Terraces and the Baptist Church. On Friday 19 December the start will again be at 6.30 pm by Whitford Road cottages, progressing to the Village Green and Brooklands where a small group that will have been singing at Koppers will join in to tour Meadow Bank, Eastleigh Close, Jubilee Green, Brookside Close, Whitehayes Close, The Orchard and the Old Inn. Both tours are planned to finish by 8.30 pm and everyone is invited to join one or both tours. Bright clothing suitable for the weather should be worn and torches/lanterns will help. Carol sheets will be provided. Any queries to Brian Lavender on 01297 34922.
The Church will again be decorated with poinsettias kindly loaned by residents, and they should be left clearly labelled in the Church on 19th or 20th December; the flower arrangers are asked to assemble at 2.00 pm on the afternoon of Saturday 20th December to prepare the greenery so that they can be positioned in time for the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols on Sunday 21st December. A special Memorial Christmas Tree will again be placed in the Lady Chapel so that stars recording the names of absent family and friends can be hung on the tree; the stars will be delivered to all houses in the Village and can be left at Hurfords Stores if more convenient. A £1 donation to Church Funds would be appreciated. It would be a great help if the poinsettias could be collected by their owners on or after Monday 29th December.
Lighting and sound by Robert Penzer with decorations by Coral Dunmow, Elaine Penzer, Chick Bradford and Caroline Lavender transformed the Kilmington Village Hall into a super setting for Ian McKenzie to entertain the audience on his guitars and dobro on 8 November. Following Hurricane cocktails, 112 guests sat down, many wearing “shades” and dressed imaginatively for the occasion, to enjoy a simple but delicious main course, the ham being carved by Chris Bolton, Michael Collier, David Vickers and John Watts. Ian then gave the historic background to the development of the Blues, performing various songs which brought lively audience participation. After Mississippi mud pie, Ian then illustrated the fact that “The Blues is fun, not sad!” At the conclusion of the second half of his performance there was generous applause in appreciation of his expertise on the various instruments and for his informative and entertaining performance. Compere Brian Lavender thanked him and the 19 chefs who prepared and served the food, Colin and Coral Dunmow for serving the Hurricanes, Mary and Di Seward with Michael Marsh for conducting the raffle, Gerry Ware for preparing the programme and the many involved in setting up the Hall. A special thanks to Caroline for her inspiration and organisation which made the evening such an outstanding success. £935 was raised for Church Funds during the evening. Thanks to everyone who supported the evening and joining in with such enthusiasm.
Brian Lavender
Ian Mckenzie enjoying his supper Jay Dawe with Helen Shaw in disguise
Several farmers with their families and visitors were among the large congregation that attended the Family Harvest Festival Service on Sunday 12th October, conducted by the Rev’d Anne Mills. Harvest produce adorned the Church on a lovely sunny day and two large harvest loaves baked and donated by Hussey’s, the Bridport Baker, added to the occasion. The lessons were read by farmers Ben Trott and Mark Burrough and Anna Cope stood in for Margaret Hurford with the Music Group playing some of the traditional harvest hymns. Gill Heighway, Oliver Bond and Ben Leahy helped The Rev’d Anne Mills with her very relevant presentation about the good fruit and the bad which kept everyone interested.
Over 80 sat down to lunch in the Village Hall afterwards prepared and served by Mary Seward and her many helpers, following which Ivor Hyde entertained everyone with his talk about the melodian and accordion and he played several tunes. Liz Stonex kindly judged the competition for the heaviest marrows sown at the Rogation Service last April, and Ben Leahy won the top prize with Tom Hodder not far behind him. All five children that competed received prizes for caring for their plants throughout the summer. The proceeds of the raffle of harvest produce conducted by Michael Marsh and Liz Stonex were added to the profit from the lunch and the Church collection with the result that it was possible to send £350 plus the profit from lunch to St Anne’ Hospital in Tanzania. This was another very successful and enjoyable occasion organised by St Giles’ Church.
Over 80 sat down to lunch in the Village Hall afterwards prepared and served by Mary Seward and her many helpers, following which Ivor Hyde entertained everyone with his talk about the melodian and accordion and he played several tunes. Liz Stonex kindly judged the competition for the heaviest marrows sown at the Rogation Service last April, and Ben Leahy won the top prize with Tom Hodder not far behind him. All five children that competed received prizes for caring for their plants throughout the summer. The proceeds of the raffle of harvest produce conducted by Michael Marsh and Liz Stonex were added to the profit from the lunch and the Church collection with the result that it was possible to send £350 plus the profit from lunch to St Anne’ Hospital in Tanzania. This was another very successful and enjoyable occasion organised by St Giles’ Church.
The Royal British Legion Remembrance Sunday Service in Kilmington this year will be held in the Baptist Chapel at 9.45 am on Sunday 9th November. The Service will be conducted by the Rev’d Darrell Holmes and the Address given by the Rev’d Lincoln Jones, Chaplain to the Kilmington Branch. A short Service and ceremony will be held at the War Memorial at 10.55 am where the names of those Kilmington residents killed in the two World Wars will be read out. Following the “two minutes silence”, a wreath will be laid by Gp Capt Brian Lavender, Chairman of the Kilmington Branch. Everyone is invited to refreshments in the Baptist Chapel afterwards. That evening, a Quiz Night will be held in the New Inn conducted by Clive Garner, the proceeds from which will be donated to the Poppy Appeal.
Tuesday 11th November is the 90th Anniversary of Armistice Day and this will be marked by the firing of two maroons from the Playing Fields at 11.00 and 11.02 am. While the children at Kilmington Primary School will observe the silence from their playground, everyone is invited to attend and to come into the Pavilion afterwards for refreshments.
Tuesday 11th November is the 90th Anniversary of Armistice Day and this will be marked by the firing of two maroons from the Playing Fields at 11.00 and 11.02 am. While the children at Kilmington Primary School will observe the silence from their playground, everyone is invited to attend and to come into the Pavilion afterwards for refreshments.
Each year since the initiative started in Manchester during 2004, encouraged by the Archbishop of Canterbury, thousands of lapsed church goers have been attracted back by personal invitations. Some 38 Church of England Dioceses, including Exeter and the Honiton Deanery, backed the initiative and the Head of Mission for the Baptist Union encouraged more than 2,000 chapels to take part. Whether we were successful in attracting many in the Five Alive Mission Community Churches I am not sure but a telling remark made by a participating Vicar in Hampshire is worth repeating: “It is so easy for people who don’t come to church to imagine that they’ll be unwelcome intruders if they attended a Service. In fact, nothing would be further from the truth. We will aim to make them feel really at home. Sometimes people lose touch with church because of family commitments or personal circumstances and then feel that it would be hypocritical of them to come back again. Our job is to persuade them that they are very welcome.”
Let us hope that a concerted effort is made next year to arrange something special in our churches by sending out personal invitations to attend so that we can find out what would attract them to come regularly and participate in communal worship. Meanwhile, I can speak particularly for St Giles’ Church, that anyone and everyone is welcome to attend any of our Services and activities. If you would like a lift or company, please contact any member of the regular congregation, the Churchwardens or myself on 01297 34922.
Let us hope that a concerted effort is made next year to arrange something special in our churches by sending out personal invitations to attend so that we can find out what would attract them to come regularly and participate in communal worship. Meanwhile, I can speak particularly for St Giles’ Church, that anyone and everyone is welcome to attend any of our Services and activities. If you would like a lift or company, please contact any member of the regular congregation, the Churchwardens or myself on 01297 34922.
Once again the Baptist Church took the initiative, led by Pastor Darrell Holmes, in procuring good quality reusable green bags for distribution to most households in Kilmington, with compliments from its Churches. Teams from the Baptist and St Giles’ Churches met at the Chapel on Saturday 4 October to label and prepare them, and six joint teams of 3-
Joan Lovegrove and husband Roger were up early on Saturday 13 September making final preparations for the events which she had organised to raise funds for the Devon Historic Churches Trust, half of which are returned to benefit the participants own church or chapel. St Giles’ Church, manned by a team of volunteers, was open all day serving refreshments. Arthur Trott appeared early too, and set off on his sponsored bicycle ride visiting nine churches/chapels in the area, including all those in the Mission Community. Brian Lavender led a team of walkers, including the Rev’d Anne Mills, to St Michael’s Church, Shute where Dawn Franklin and Betty Harris had kindly prepared refreshments; after a prayer they set off to the Baptist Chapel in Kilmington through Shute Woods and the Armada Beacon, picking up more sponsorship in the New Inn (including a refreshing drink) before having lunch in St Giles’ Church where they were joined later by Arthur Trott after his gruelling ride. While the sponsored children’s bike ride failed to materialise, about £500 was raised thanks to the hard work of Joan, the participants and helpers. Let us hope that next year we can expand our efforts for this worthy cause
Supporters see the walkers off Departing Shute Church
All Kilmington residents and friends are invited to support our farmers (and gardeners) to join in a Family Harvest Festival Service in St Giles’ Church on Sunday 12th October at 11.00 am and/or for the Harvest Lunch in the Village Hall at 12.15 pm. The Service will be taken by the Rev’d Anne Mills, the Lessons read by farmers and the music group will accompany some of the well known harvest hymns in a Church well decorated with flowers and harvest produce; residents are asked to leave these at the rear of the Church early on the Saturday morning, together with the marrows sown at the Rogation Service which should be clearly marked for judging purposes later in the Village Hall.
Following the Service, lunch will be served by Mary Seward and her helpers at 12.15 pm, tickets for which will be on sale at Hurfords Stores at £5.50, children free. After lunch, entertainment will be provided by the very talented Ivor Hyde on the melodeon and accordion following which there will be the judging of the marrow competition and the sale of produce. Please bring family and friends to join in this happy annual event to celebrate the harvest safely gathered in. Let’s hope that we get a bit more sunshine by then to swell the grain and ripen the fruit.
Following the Service, lunch will be served by Mary Seward and her helpers at 12.15 pm, tickets for which will be on sale at Hurfords Stores at £5.50, children free. After lunch, entertainment will be provided by the very talented Ivor Hyde on the melodeon and accordion following which there will be the judging of the marrow competition and the sale of produce. Please bring family and friends to join in this happy annual event to celebrate the harvest safely gathered in. Let’s hope that we get a bit more sunshine by then to swell the grain and ripen the fruit.
A sung Evensong in the old tradition, conducted by the Rev’d Anne Mills, was used to celebrate the Patronal Festival of St Giles on Sunday 7 September. The Lessons were read by Brian Lavender and Roger Lovegrove and the Choir sang the anthem “These are they that follow the Lamb” by John Goss. Canon Ray Hubble, who was for many years an RAF Chaplain, was welcomed as the visiting Preacher with his wife Margery.
He gave a very erudite and interesting Address explaining that, although the life of St Giles was steeped in history and legend, his adoption as Patron Saint by the early members of the Parish Church still had relevance today. He referred to the first Lesson from Chapter 13 of St Paul’s Epistle to the Romans emphasising the rule “Love your neighbour as yourself” and the requirement for more morality in the world today. He also pointed out that St Paul said “salvation is nearer now than we first believed” and went on to talk about the CERN physics experiment in Switzerland due to start on the following Wednesday. He explained how science and religion were often complementary and he looked forward to the results of the experiments which could tell us how God managed to fashion the universe and our creation. Ray and his wife thoroughly enjoyed talking to members of the congregation over refreshments afterwards. As I write this after the first day of the CERN experiment, at least we have not disappeared into a black hole or been destroyed in a big bang!
He gave a very erudite and interesting Address explaining that, although the life of St Giles was steeped in history and legend, his adoption as Patron Saint by the early members of the Parish Church still had relevance today. He referred to the first Lesson from Chapter 13 of St Paul’s Epistle to the Romans emphasising the rule “Love your neighbour as yourself” and the requirement for more morality in the world today. He also pointed out that St Paul said “salvation is nearer now than we first believed” and went on to talk about the CERN physics experiment in Switzerland due to start on the following Wednesday. He explained how science and religion were often complementary and he looked forward to the results of the experiments which could tell us how God managed to fashion the universe and our creation. Ray and his wife thoroughly enjoyed talking to members of the congregation over refreshments afterwards. As I write this after the first day of the CERN experiment, at least we have not disappeared into a black hole or been destroyed in a big bang!
Instead of the themed night usually held in January to raise funds for St Giles’ Church, Ian McKenzie has kindly agreed to entertain us with Blues music in the Kilmington Village Hall on Saturday 8th November at 7.00 pm. Although Ian was a Senior Police Officer in London and a University Lecturer, he is a veteran Blues man and composer with experience of live performances over five decades in the UK and United States. Now living in Exmouth, he performs regularly in the South West (live and on radio), and is very talented on his various guitars and the dobro. The evening will start with complimentary Hurricane Cocktails (well known and appreciated in New Orleans) accompanied with Corn Chips and a Cajun Dip. The main supper course will be Southern Baked Ham with scalloped potatoes and sweetcorn, followed by Mississippi Mud Pie and Coffee/Tea. Ian’s performance will be in two parts – after the main course and after coffee. Put your “shades” on and bring your own wine and drinks. Tickets will be on sale at £10 from Hurfords Stores from 1st October. The event will be widely advertised in the Press, so book early. Table reservations can be made with Brian or Caroline Lavender on 01297 34922.
The Preacher at the St Giles’ Church Patronal Festival Evensong on Sunday 7th September at 6.30 pm will be The Rev’d Canon Ray Hubble. A few years after Ordination, he became an RAF Chaplain in 1964 serving on RAF Stations in the UK, Singapore, El Adam in Libya, and at Wildenrath in Germany. He was promoted to Group Captain in 1983 and was appointed Principal of the RAF Chaplains’ School at Amport House. During his time as Resident Chaplain at St Clement Danes (the Central Church of the Royal Air Force) he was appointed Honorary Chaplain to HM The Queen. After retirement from the RAF he became Vicar of Odium Parish, Rural Dean of Odium and then Canon of Winchester Cathedral before retiring to Lymington in 1995 where, as most retired Priests, he is kept extremely busy. Everyone is invited to the Service which will be taken by the Rev’d Anne Mills after which refreshments will be served.
In spite of having to move the stalls into the Village Hall because of strong winds and uncertain weather, the Fete on Saturday 19th July proved to be both enjoyable and very successful raising some £1,170 for Church Funds. Thanks to everyone who supported the event and particularly those that manned the stalls, provided the refreshments, ran the Draw and helped with the organisation.
Joan Lovegrove, Mary Tyler, Brian Lavender, Jenny Johnston & June Burdett added a bit of colour!
The Devon Historic Churches Trust, which helps fund urgent repairs to all places of worship, has declared that Saturday 13th September 2008 will be Devon Historic Churches Day and an occasion where funds are raised for our favourite Churches or Chapels. It is hoped that participants will take the opportunity to obtain sponsorship to visit as many Churches or Chapels in the local area as possible, either by bicycle, on foot, by horse, by pony and trap or any other form of transport. Sponsorship could also be obtained for manning the places of worship from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm to welcome visitors and provide refreshments. Fund raising events of any sort on that day would also be applicable. Proceeds will be divided equally between the Church or Chapel of the participant’s choice and the Devon Historic Churches Trust. It is hoped that all Churches/Chapels within the Five Parishes will participate on that day.
St Giles’ Church will be open from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm on that Saturday and morning coffee, afternoon tea, light snacks and soft drinks will be available. A sponsored walk to St Michaels Church, Shute is being arranged as is a sponsored bike ride for children. Arthur Trott has already agreed to do a sponsored bike ride and many other participants are anticipated. Please contact the undersigned for sponsorship forms and any other queries. Everyone is welcome to join in the fun to help raise funds for a very worthwhile cause.
St Giles’ Church will be open from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm on that Saturday and morning coffee, afternoon tea, light snacks and soft drinks will be available. A sponsored walk to St Michaels Church, Shute is being arranged as is a sponsored bike ride for children. Arthur Trott has already agreed to do a sponsored bike ride and many other participants are anticipated. Please contact the undersigned for sponsorship forms and any other queries. Everyone is welcome to join in the fun to help raise funds for a very worthwhile cause.
Members of the Parochial Church Council held a special meeting on 18th June with the Rural Dean, the Rev’d Prependary Sue Roberts, to discuss the appointment of a second Churchwarden to replace Bob Farley whose resignation was announced last month. It was agreed unanimously by those present that Ann Marsh, who had been proposed and seconded, should be put forward for election as Church Warden. At a Vestry Meeting open to all Kilmington residents in St Giles’ Church on 22nd June, it was agreed that Ann Marsh should serve as Churchwarden until April 2009.
The Rev’d Anne Mills with Michael and Ann Marsh will be at the Parish Church gate (or under the porch if wet) on Saturday 30th August from 9.30 am to 4.00 pm to receive monetary donations in support of the Church. The Church Warden will be writing to all households in Kilmington to thank them for the magnificent efforts last year and to ask for generous support, particularly when we are without a Vicar. Contributions can of course be handed to the Church Wardens or to Michael Marsh at any time.
This year the Ven Penny Driver, Archdeacon responsible for our Deanary, came to Kilmington on 21st May for her ‘yearly Visitations’. Strictly speaking, the Archdeacon holds her “Court”. There is act of worship, during which the Archdeacon presents her “Charge” in the form of an address to the congregation. Churchwardens are formally admitted to their office, as are Rural Deans and, where applicable, the appointment of a Lay Chair of the Deanery Synod will be acknowledged.. It was a formal occasion with a full church - Wardens from so many parishes and many others present - but it turned out to be a lively event with her preaching and engendering a degree of enthusiasm for our year ahead.
Kilmington’s John Speller sadly died on the 8th May at the age of 84 having had a remarkable career. Born in Calcutta where his father was in the Civil Service, he was educated at Norwood and Exeter Schools. Commissioned into the Dorset Regiment he was quickly posted to the Parachute Regiment in 1943 and was one of the Pathfinders dropped at Arnhem. At the end of the war he served with both the Devon and Dorset Regiments and when they amalgamated, before joining the 5th Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment. He served in Korea, Hong Kong, Germany, Malta and Borneo, before retiring in 1970. His distinguished service resulted in the award of 10 General and Service Medals and Decorations. During the next 23 years he worked in the Health Service. He had many interests e.g. sailing with the Royal Dart Yacht Club, Friends of Exeter Cathedral, the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Parish Clerk at St Mary at Hill Church in London. He had the distinction of being made a Freeman of the City of London in 1985 in view of his valuable work. He was also created a Commander in the Order of St John of Jerusalem and was a dedicated Freemason. John was a proud Devonian and served on many Committees in Exeter including the Royal British Legion. A Service of Thanksgiving for his life was held in Exeter Cathedral on 20 May attended by his widow Joan, other family members and many friends.
Bob Farley, one of St Giles’ Church Wardens for the last two years, resigned in late May for personal reasons. Bob has done an excellent job leading the new porch/toilets project and other fabric enhancements in addition to the numerous and demanding Church Warden duties. Members of the KPCC and all Kilmington residents send their thanks to Bob and their best wishes to him and his wife Jan. The procedures for the election of a new Church Warden are in progress.
Readers may be interested to know that the rather protracted procedures for the selection of a new Vicar for the Five Alive Mission Community are progressing. The Archdeacon of Exeter, the Venerable Penny Driver, held a meeting in the Kilmington Village Hall on 28 April attended by representatives of all five churches in the Benefice and by various other church officials; a profile for the prospective candidate was agreed, and advertisements in the Church Times and the Diocesan and Church of England web site would be placed on 9 and 16 May. Closing date for applications would be 13 June, short list completed by 23 June, pre-
A Songs of Praise Service led by David House with musicians from Colyton Grammar School will be held in the Vicarage garden on Sunday 15th June. This should be a very enjoyable event and all Village residents are invited to attend with family and friends. Refreshments will be served afterwards but, in the event of inclement weather, the Service will be held in St Giles’ Church.
The visit to Hillfield Friary, near Cerne Abbas, which was led by the Rev’d Nigel Freathy, was reported in the April edition of Post-script. There will be an Open Day there on Saturday 21 st June starting at 10.00 am to raise funds for the work of the Franciscan monks. Refreshments will be available throughout the day as well the opportunity to enjoy the extensive gardens and walks.
St Giles' Church is seeking children to participate in the very popular Family Services at 10.00 am on the second Sunday of the month, which are very informal and last only 45 minutes. While all children are always welcome, those in the age group 5-12 years are particularly sought so that their choral, musical, reading and acting talents can be developed while basic Christian values are encouraged. Interested parents are asked to contact the churchwarden (01297 32741) or Rachel Burrough (01297 631734). They can be assued that participating children are supervised at all times by CRB checked adults and that there is no commitment to attend every Family Service.
The Venerable Penny Drive, Archdeacon of Exeter, will preach at the Family Communion Service in St Giles' Church at 9.30 am on Sunday 18th May. She has kindly agreed to help out in the Five Alive Mission Community during the Vacancy. Everyone is invited to attend and meet her over coffee in the Church after the Service.
For the first time in years, it was raining as the Palm Sunday procession formed up on Kilmington Common, but 12 year old Trixie from the Donkey Sanctuary came sporting a nice new coat having already led one procession in Colyton. The Rev'd Darrell Holmes, the new Baptist Minister, welcomed everyone and after a reading, prayer and hymn, Trixie led the procession which stopped at the usual places to sing and read while Palm Crosses were handed out to those who came to watch. The Rev'd Nigel Freathy welcomed everyone to the Service in St Giles' Church including Trixie who by this time had arrived without hesitation at the altar steps with her handlers. The 120+ congregation joined in a rousing Service with a fine anthem by the Choir and a stimulating address by the Baptist Minister, before enjoying refreshments in the Village Hall.
Those that attended the illustrated talk entitled "Easter in Jerusalem" by Brian Lavender on the Tuesday appeared to be interested, and he is willing to give it at any of the other churches in the Benefice during Holy Week next year. The Maundy Thursday Holy Communion was well attended and, after the symbolic foot washing by the Vicar and the Rev'd Anne Mills, the altar was stripped and the congregation departed in silence.
Early on Easter Sunday morning,14 people assembled at the Shute Armada Beacon for a short informal Service entitled "A Reflection on the Empty Tomb"; the Blessing was given by the Rev'd Darrell Holmes. Nearly 200 people came to the Family Service later that morning in St Giles' Church which was a joyous occasion with the Church beautifully decorated, arum lilies in memory of loved ones, the Easter Candle lit, the Music Group playing, the children reading extremely well and the Choir in good voice for "The Easter Song of Praise" by Richard Shephard. However, the highlight was the Baptism by the Vicar of Harriet, daughter of Lisa and Mark Jones, who was well supported by Godparents and Grandparents including of course John & Pat Martell and the rest of the congregation. About 120 remained to take their Easter Communion, while the children departed excitedly for the Easter Egg hunt in the Village Hall, after which everyone enjoyed refreshments. Holy Week was another memorable one in Kilmington!
The Season of Planting will be celebrated with a family Rogation Service in a barn at Coryton Farm on Sunday 27th April at 3.00 pm, by kind permission of Reg and May Dare. Coryton farm is a big enterprise with large milking and beef herds, sheep and arable land. One of the Dare family will answer questions about it during the course of the Service. Boots and warm clothing should be worn if the weather is inclement. The Rev'd Anne Mills will conduct the Service and the Music Group will lead the singing. Children will be issued with marrow seeds to plant in the pots provided, and the largest produced will win the prizes at the Harvest Festival lunch in the Village Hall on Sunday 12th October. Please come and support our farmers at what should be a most interesting event with farm animals in close proximity and refreshments served afterwards. Plenty of car parking will be available close to the barn but, en route, drivers are asked to pick up those wanting lifts from the Village Hall Car Park.
The St Giles' Church AGM will be held in the Village Hall on Monday 7th April at 7.00 pm. Parish residents are reminded that they are eligible to vote in the election of Church Wardens at the start of the meeting, but only those on the Church Electoral Roll have voting powers during the rest of the meeting. Please come and support us while we await the appointment of a new Vicar.
39 members of the Five Alive Mission Community, led by the Rev'd Nigel Freathy, visited Hillfield Friary on Friday 7th March. The Friary is home to the Brothers of the Society of St Francis which is a religious Order working in England and Ireland within the Anglican Communion. The Order of St Francis is, of course, a world-wide organisation, particularly strong in the Roman Catholic Faith, which was founded by St Francis of Assisi in 1209. Francis gave up all his possessions and lived as a hermit preaching simply and cheerfully while caring for the poor and sick. St Clare of Assisi founded the Order of Franciscan Nuns known as the Poor Clares in 1215. The Order flourished and spread to England in 1224 establishing itself in Canterbury, London and Oxford and then to most principal towns in the country. During Henry VIII's Dissolution of the Monastries, the Franciscans were persecuted, some killed and most of the 1,700 members joined Protestant churches in order to survive.
Brother Samuel, son of Kilmington's Joyce Double, met the party and showed us around the facilities which have been created out of old farm buildings. He briefed us on the work carried out by the Brothers in running courses and summer camps for children etc, and on the Hillfield Project to care for their 19 acres under a conservation programme aiming to involve people of different Faiths so that it would be a centre of understanding and cooperation. We attended Mid-day Prayer and Holy Communion in the Barn Chapel before a picnic lunch. After lunch, Brother Samuel told us about life as a Franciscan and what motivated him to join the Order. We then reflected on "The Canticle of the Creatures" which was written by St Francis, the essence of which is in the hymn "All Creatures of our God and King", written by William Henry Draper in the late 1800's. All agreed that it was a most interesting and inspiring visit and we journeyed home impressed with the work of the Franciscan Brothers.
Members with Brother Samuel in the Chapel
Annette Freathy led the Mothering Sunday Family Service in St Giles' Church on 2nd March, organising some talented participation from the children. Alex and Lauren Kerslake played a difficult cornet/clarinet duet named "Mothers Delight" beautifully, and some of the readings by the youngsters were extremely well done. Michael Marsh gave a Presentation on "Mothers" which produced interesting responses from adults as well as children, following which all the children assembled to hand out beautiful posies to all the mothers and ladies in the congregation, with some spare to pass on to neighbours. Following the Service some 70 people sat down to a Mothering Sunday lunch prepared by Mary Seward and her team, during which a challenging quiz featuring Kilmington house names, prepared by Peter Huscroft, was completed. Thanks to all that organised and supported these enjoyable events.
Lent lunches will be held in the Village Hall on Wednesdays , at 12:30pm , in aid of the Shelter Box appeal .The first on Ash Wednesday ,6th February , and the last on 19th March .
Church News 2008
All items submitted by Brian Lavender (unless otherwise marked)