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P LY M P T O N P I L G R I M—–––—––– www.plymptonchurch.co.uk ––––––––

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Plympton St Mary Contacts

PARISH STAFFRev. Roger Beck 27 Pinewood Close, Plympton 336393Rev. Mark Brimicombe 4 David Close, Plympton 338454

Rev. Ian Provost 8 Larkhall Rise, Plymouth 319528

READERSMr. Bob Harrison 22 Almond Drive, Plympton 335795Mrs Margaret Provost 8 Larkhall Rise, Plymouth 319528

CHURCH WARDENSMr Kenneth Kingwell 11 Rashleigh Avenue 335702Mr Peter Leigh 8 Longmeadow Close 339221

SEXTON & CHURCH ARCHIVISTMr Bob Dyer 27 Braddons Hill 215823

CAPTAIN OF BELLSMrs Mary Nicholls 16 Longmeadow Close 200053

DIRECTOR OF MUSICMrs Mila Collier 4 Beattie Road, mob: 07800976716 St Budeaux PL5 1HU 216289

ST MARY’S INFANT SCHOOLMr Peter Hayes, Market Road 337912Headteacher

PARISH SAFEGUARDING REPRESENTATIVEDavid J. Farley FarleyDjUK@aol.com 342706 1 Courtland CrescentCHILDREN’S ADVOCATEMrs Sarah Duckworth duckworth11@hotmail.co.uk 337239

MOTHERS UNIONContact to be updated

WEEKLY NOTICESMr Keith Escott k.escott@blueyonder.co.uk

PARISH OFFICE Open 9 am to 12noon (Mon-Fri) 348525E-mail stmarysplympton@gmail.com

PUBLICITY & MEDIARodger Ruse 510190

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February 2015

Dear Friends,

I may be wrong but I get the impression from some people that they think that theChristian Church exists only in the Western world. They are surprised to learn thatthe Church exists in places like Israel, Palestine, Egypt, Syria and Iraq and manyother countries.

The Church in Iraq is considered to be one of the oldest continuous Christianchurches in the world. It is believed that Christianity was brought to the region bytwo of Christ’s apostles, Thomas and Thaddaeus. This would have been in the 1stcentury AD. What a tragedy it is that the Church in Iraq is now in danger of beingcompletely wiped out through the rapid advance across Iraq of that brutal,extremist group Islamic State.

Hundreds of thousands of people including Christians and Yazidis (members ofanother ancient religion), have been forced to flee their homes and homeland, toavoid forced conversion to Islam or being forced to pay the humiliating tax.Mention must also be made of Shia Muslims, many of whom have beenslaughtered by the more fundamentalist Sunni Muslims who make up the ISfighters.

The nightmare gets worse for those who have lost everything. According to manyreports, including from the UN, IS have established slave markets where abductedYazidi and Christian women and children have been sold for $10 to other IS fightersencouraging new recruits to the Islamic State. In Arabic this is known as ‘malakyumin’ – war booty. Needless to say rape is used as a weapon against both womenand girls.

In the face of such evil we can feel overwhelmed and helpless. There are two thingswe can do. We can pray for those who are suffering. Scripture reminds us to“Remember those who are in prison, as though you were in prison with them;those who are suffering, as though you yourselves are suffering” (Hebrews 13.3).As part of the Christian family, we have a responsibility to support our Christianbrothers and sisters. Practically we can do this by donating to such charities asOpen Doors (opendoorsuk.org) or the Barnabas Fund (barnabasfund.org), which isthe one my wife and I support.

The Parish Church ofST MARY THE BLESSED VIRGIN

PLYMPTON ST MARYServing Christ in the heart of

Plympton and beyond

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Such charities are doing a tremendous job in providing people with the basic essen-tials of life, but above all they give hope and reassurance that the worldwide churchhasn’t forgotten them. As St Paul writes, “If one part suffers, all the parts suffer withit; and if one part is honoured, all members share a common joy” (1 Cor. 12.26).

As part of our Lenten discipline this year (Ash Wednesday is 18th Feb.) we can showour support to our fellow Christians by remembering them daily in prayer. St Paulencourages us to “Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert andbe persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.”

Praying for God’s blessing on you.

Ian Provost

VICAR’S NOTEBOOKThe Blessed Sacrament is reserved in church for the Communion of the Sick andhousebound. The Sacrament of Anointing may also be celebrated and the clergy cantalk to you about this. Ron and Cherrie Nicholls (515771) try to keep track of thosewho are unwell and let the clergy know. If you are off sick yourself or miss someonefrom church for a while do let them know.

STUDY DAYOn Saturday 28th February Professor David Catchpole will lead a study day on theGospel according to St John. It will begin at 10.00am and finish around 3.00pm. It ispossible to book a pasty for lunch or bring your own. There is no charge for the daybut donations are invited to cover expenses. By the time you read this there will bea list in church to sign. Those who have been before will need no encouragement –those who have not don’t know what they are missing. We are extremely fortunatein Professor Catchpole giving us his time and expertise in this way for the fourth yearrunning.

HOLY BAPTISM IN 2015All baptisms this year will take place in the morning – usually on the first and thirdSundays of the month. In view of this there will be a slight change in the time to11.45am. This is to allow more time for coffee and conversation and baptism partieswill be encouraged to arrive from 11.30am.

STATIONS OF THE CROSSThis has been a feature of our keeping of Lent for some years now. It is on all Fridaysof Lent at 12 noon and lasts about half an hour. It is followed by a light lunch (soupand a roll) and a donation is invited to the work of Christian Aid. You can, of course,

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come to Stations without staying to lunch. Both, however, allow you to completethe prayer, fasting and almsgiving of Lent in one go!

LENTEN READING – some brief suggestions…….‘THE LITTLE BOOK OF LENT’ compiled by Canon Arthur Howells (Collins £4.99). Ananthology of readings for each day of Lent, followed by a scripture passage(references only) and a prayer. From a different author each day, some very wellknown – Desmond Tutu, Tom Wright, Timothy Ratcliffe – others less so. Muchspiritual wisdom and unbeatable Lenten value at £4.99! (166pp).‘THE LENT FACTOR’ written by Graham James, Bishop of Norwich (Bloomsbury(9.99). Described as “40 companions for the 40 days of Lent”. This time pottedbiographies of those who have influenced Bishop Graham. A fascinating and wideranging set, again, some familiar and some not. Charles Causley and Bernard Walkindicate that the Bishop is a Cornishman and these and other names like WHVanstone and Geoffrey Studdert Kennedy have meant I’ve been unable to resistdipping into the book – even over Christmas!Finally, two small books by Rowan Williams both based on talks given in Holy Weekin Canterbury Cathedral when he was Archbishop. First,‘MEETING GOD IN MARK’ (SPCK £8.99). This serves as a short but excellentintroduction to the Gospel that the Church is reading on Sundays for much of thisyear. It includes a reading guide which will take you through the whole Gospel dailyduring Lent.Second, ‘BEING CHRISTIAN’ (SPCK £7.99). Just four chapters on the basics of theChristian life – Baptism, Bible, Eucharist and Prayer, followed by questions forreflection/discussion if you are reading with a group. The presentation is simple butbased on a deep knowledge of the Christian tradition. Highly recommended.All the above may be ordered through the bookstall on which there will be samples.Revd Roger Beck

ANNUAL PROGRAMME OF EVENTSChurch wardens, and other PCC leaders will always welcome the offer of help tosupport, or organise, the important events throughout the year. These are not allfund-raising events!The annual rotas with names of volunteers, is now being compiled and there are, orwill be, some gaps! Even minor help, such as supporting the work by making tea, isalways welcome.Please see a Church Warden if you are willing to help support church groups.Phil Smith

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Church of England Devon MagazineFebruary 2015Good News from the Diocese of Exeter

Bishop Nick returned to the Plymouth Lifeboat Station ashis new appointment was announced. He was chaplain tothe RNLI in Plymouth for 12 years. Photo: Nicky Davies

New appointmentsThe next Bishop of Plymouth is to be the Rt Revd Nick McKinnel. Currently the Bishop ofCrediton in Devon, he will be ‘translated’ across back to Plymouth, where he spent 18years in ministry as Rector of the Minster Church of St Andrews. The process to fill thevacancy in Crediton has begun and in the meantime Bishop Nick will work across bothareas.The Bishop of Exeter has announced the appointment of two new archdeacons for Totnesand Barnstaple. The new archdeacon for Totnes will be Revd Douglas Dettmer, currentlyRector of the Netherexe parishes and chair of the House of Clergy for the Diocese. Thenew archdeacon for Barnstaple will be the Revd Dr Mark Butchers, currently vicar ofWolvercote, near Oxford and area dean of the Oxford deanery. He was Rector of NorthTawton, Bondleigh and Sampford Courtenay with Honeychurch for seven years up to1999.Find the full story at www.exeter.anglican.org

Be a ‘Pilgrim’ during LentThe Bishop of Exeter the Rt Revd Robert Atwell is recommending that parishes aroundthe Diocese use the Pilgrim Course: The Eucharist as a study course for Lent. The course,co-authored by Bishop Robert, is written to help people explore what it means to be adisciple of Christ – and the Bishop is calling on parishes to use The Eucharist – one of fourbooks in the ‘Grow’ stage of Pilgrim – in preparation for Easter. Across six sessions, TheEucharist reveals the reasons why Holy Communion is celebrated as a memorial ofChrist’s saving passion and stands at the very heart of Christian worship.Bishop Robert says, “The disciples on the road to Emmaus knew the risen Lord in thebreaking of bread. This Lent as we prepare to celebrate Holy Week and Easter, this courseoffers us a unique opportunity to discover the Eucharist, which is at the heart of allChristian worship.”

Pilgrim Course: The Eucharist is available from www.pilgrimcourse.org*Order the book from www.tinyurl.com/pilgrimbook* Sample session available at: www.tinyurl.com/pilgrimsample* Audio/video resources: www.tinyurl.com/pilgrimmedia

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The Christian Resources Exhibition returns to Westpoint, Exeter this month (10 - 11February) featuring everything from computers to communion wine, printers topuppets, stained glass to sound systems. “We are delighted to be back in the SouthWest,” said event manager Bill Allen, who comes from Torquay. The show will featuremore than 100 exhibitors and 30 carefully-targeted seminars on many aspects of churchmission and maintenance. “It’s a must-visit event for anyone who cares about theirlocal church, from bishops to parish magazine editors, youth leaders to treasurers,” saidBill.But CRE South West isn’t just about holy hardware and cost-effective heating. Stand upfor Jesus is a special, one-day workshop to be held on Tue 10 February for ordainedministers to learn humour techniques for speaking engagements.“Jesus was a master communicator and story teller,” explains Bentley Browning, whowill lead the course. “Indeed, many suggest his allusion to a camel going through theeye of a needle would have been construed as a quip by those listening.” If you want totake part contact CRE at the email address below. There is no cost but numbers arelimited.The Bishop of Crediton, soon to be new Bishop of Plymouth, the Rt Revd Nick McKinnelis opening the show and says, “I am glad that the exhibition is returning to Exeter. Thelast time I was at CRE I discovered the wealth of opportunities and ideas available forChristian ministry. It’s well worth a visit as you will come away feeling encouraged andwith lots of resources for the coming year.”

CRE Exeter is open Tue 10 Feb 10am-5pm & Wed 11 Feb 10am-4.30pm. We’ve teamedup with CRE to offer our readers free tickets.Go to www.creonline.co.uk/southwesttickets to claim yours. Or for enquiries call 01793418218 and dial 1 in office hours.For Stand Up for Jesus email: admin@creonline.co.uk

‘Ideal Church Show’ on the way back to Westpoint, Exeter

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Make a Mother’s Day will be the main focus of the Mothers’ Union stand at theCRE. Visit the stand to find out about their Mothering Sunday ethical gift cam-paign which helps fund projects to support families in the UK and abroad or fordetails visit: www.makeamothersday.org

Chris finds God through science and poetryA love of science and poetry help ChristopherSouthgate to connect to God. Chris worshipsat Holy Trinity, Drewsteignton, where he wasbaptized as a baby. He serves as Principal ofthe South West Ministry Training Course,training ordinands, Readers and curates forpublic ministry. Chris also teaches theology forExeter University. He is married with onestepson.Chris says that he came to faith in his mid twenties, after training as a researchscientist. He says, “At a time of deep personal crisis involving the illness ofsomeone I loved, I found myself – not knowing what else to do – falling to myknees to pray, and received then a deep sense of assurance about God’s loveupholding the world, a sense that has stayed with me ever since.”There followed a long period of exploration and study, in which his greatinfluences were Charles Napier, his parish priest, and John Saxbee the thenDirector of SWMTC. As a scientist Chris sees himself exploring the fabric andtexture of God’s astonishing creation, and believes Christians need to face, andbe enriched and challenged by, the remarkable things science has to tell usabout the world. He says, “My own research focuses on the problem of sufferingin evolution, and on the ecological crisis.”Chris’s other work is as a poet. He says, “I see that as another way tocontemplate the world, to try and see into it more truly and faithfully, and tooffer paths into facing those truths.” His great influences include the natureobservation of Hopkins, and the 20th Century truth-telling of T.S. Eliot and R.S.Thomas.Before his present training role Chris worked as a lay chaplain at the Universityand then at the RD&E Hospital. He says, “My faith is sustained by my loving wifeSandy, by great colleagues and inspiring students, and by time alone feeding onGod’s Word in prayer.”His passion remains helping others explore the journey of faith, and he’s nowleading a ‘Pilgrim’ course in his parish.

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www.exeter.anglican.orgtwitter/cofedevonFacebook searchdiocese of exeter

The Glory of GodI was reading of a famous British companywhich enjoyed an established position asthe UK’s leading manufacturer of drill bits.But slowly the competition increased and achanging market eroded their advantage. Inorder to stop the decline, they invested huge amounts of cash in new equipmentbut nothing seemed to work. Finally in desperation they called in a firm ofmarketing consultants to advise them.

Eventually, after months of research, the consultants reported back: “Yourbiggest problem is that you’ve made a serious mistake about who you are andwhat you do. You told us you make drill bits. You don’t. You make holes.” Thatone insight revolutionised the company’s future. Today they are the worldleaders in the application of laser technology to the hole-making industry.

In church life, we too need the reminder that our primary purpose is not to holdservices, maintain buildings or even run food banks or hold missions. We arecalled supremely to give glory to God. We may do so through these activities andmany others; but without that greater vision, everything else risks becomingmere activism.

The season of Lent (which starts on 18th February) is a time to renew that visionof God’s glory. Where do we find it? In creation of course, and in humanity, butsupremely the glory of God is found in the passion, the death and theresurrection of Jesus, for which Lent has traditionally been a time of preparation.“The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified,” John’s Gospel recordsJesus as saying prior to his arrest and execution.In his death and resurrection we are given the clearest glimpse of that strangeglory. We reflect that glory in our houses, workplaces and communitiesthrough lives shaped by the same self-giving sacrifice and the hope ofresurrection. Lent invites us to rediscover our true calling. +Nick

Church of England

DEVON

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MOTHER’S UNIONOur AGM was on January 7th. Ann Tozer gave the Secretary’s Report. Ann Slumangave the Treasurer’s report. Glenys Otto announced that she would be retiring asBranch Leader. After discussion it was decided we would continue being organisedby the Committee for this year.Many thanks to Revd Roger for chairing the meeting.The party then commenced with dice shaking and Beetle Drawing and tea wasprovided.Our next meeting will be Wednesday 4th February at 2pm in the Church Hall whena Sugar Craft demonstration will be given by Margaret Davies.Marguerite Coaker

BEREAVEMENT GROUPChristmas once again - where does time go?The group got together for a Christmas 'do', this started in the Church Hall withnibbles (the edible variety) and a selection of drinks, the atmosphere was good,lots of chatter and it was good to welcome familiar faces who no longer use thegroup on a regular basis but who do like to join us when we go out for a meal. Wemissed some of the group who for health reasons were unable to attend.A warm welcome was given to us at the British Legion club, Grace was said byDavid Farley, then we tucked in to a lovely turkey dinner and, oh those lovelyscrummy potatoes,  this was followed by a choice of trifle or Christmas puddingand cream.Our thanks were expressed to David Brinkley, resplendent in a very large redseqinned bow tie, for all the work and the time he puts into  running the group.Judith Bye

“A WARM GLOW”They say that February is the coldest month of the year, which means that if you'vegot the "inner glow", this is the time when you become most aware of it. It's dark,cold and damp outside, but just as the new life of bulbs, buds, lambs and thenatural world is stirring, so can we become aware of the inner hope and peacewhich God offers us. Time for quiet, reflection, and to think about the pending joysof spring. How do we find the "inner glow"? A simple prayer to say thanks to Godfor such a lovely world and ask for guidance might help...John Dinwoodie

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CHRISTMAS TREELast year the Christmas tree was provided by Mr and Mrs Otto, from their garden. Wemust give many thanks to Chris Bookless-Brown, Jim Weir, and David Rundle, whohelped to secure this large tree in a safe location, and decorate it. Also thanks to Johnand Jenny Truscott who have helped over many years to maintain this tradition. I amnow considering that it is time to hand this responsibility on to a younger pair of hands.I do hope someone will agree to take this on, as this makes such a difference to theatmosphere at our special Christmas Services.Marguerite Coaker

BEETLE DRIVE AND PASTY SUPPERWe are holding another beetle drive, as requested, on Saturday 21st February from6pm to 9pm. Tickets will be on sale at the beginning of Feb, this is a very popularevent so don't leave it too late to buy yours. Adults £4 Children £2.Margaret Leigh

THE CHILDREN’S SOCIETYI will be collecting your annual boxes any time from February, as usual you can bringthe box to me in Church or if  required I will collect it from your house.Thank youMargaret Leigh

’Come Shekinah... Come!’Take my hand and let me guide you, raise you up from where you lay,Share with me your dreads and demons, find with me a better day;There are none here fit to judge you, we too stand on feet of clay,Stronger we will stand together, seek as one a better way.What your load or what your sorrow, lay your yoke down at my door,We will lift it up together, lighter than it was before;Rise you up upon my shoulders, when your feet are bloodied sore,I will bear you and your burdens, till your strength be full restore.Let me fill your empty belly, set my roof above your head,Warm your bones before my fireside, shun that cold and concrete bed;Sick in body, mind or spirit, let me share the road ahead,There is ever at my table, room to break and share my bread.Should the darkness fold around you, ill falls black the fearful night,Know that I am there beside you, through your terrors, through your plight;When despair’s dark shadows lengthen, doubts rise up to cloud your sight,I will light a flame to guide you, in my window... Burning bright!© Sullivan the Poet 2014Permission granted by Shekinah to publish here

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ToYourCredit – the new money website from the Church of England!A new website, ToYourCredit, has been launched to showcase the Church’s work onresponsible credit and savings, including supporting credit unions.  The websitecontains personal testimonies, videos, and blogs from initiatives across the country.The Task Group has also proposed a network of savings clubs in Primary schools to givepupils practical experience of money management. The programme would build on anumber of successful small-scale initiatives. Visit www.toyourcredit.org.uk for moreinformation.To quote from the website - pertinent to many after the usual Christmas expenses“Credit and debt issues are not a Biblical side-show, they’re absolutely core to thegrand story of the Bible and the Christian faith, starting with Moses and the liberationof the Israelites from debt slavery in Egypt. Engaging on issues of money and debt inour community is not just a good thing to do, it’s a fundamentally Christian thing todo”.

Bible passage:In ancient Israel the Law did prohibit charging interest on one category of loans—thosemade to the poor (Leviticus 25:35-38). This law had many social, financial, and spiritualimplications, but two are especially worth mentioning. First, the law genuinely helpedthe poor by not making their situation worse. It could be humiliating to have to seekassistance. But if, in addition to repaying the loan, a poor person had to make crushinginterest payments, the obligation would be more hurtful than helpful.

Second, the law taught an important spiritual lesson. For a lender to forego interest ona loan to a poor person would be an act of mercy. Yet that would be a tangible way ofexpressing gratitude to God for His mercy in not charging His people “interest” for thegrace He has extended to them. God had mercifully brought the Israelites out of Egyptwhen they were nothing but penniless slaves and had given them a land of their own(Leviticus 25:38), so He expected them to express similar kindness to their own poorcitizens.Christians are in a parallel situation. The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus has paidour sin debt to God. Now, we can help others in need, particularly fellow believers, withloans that do not escalate their troubles. Jesus even gave a parable along these linesabout two creditors and their attitude toward forgiveness (Matthew 18:23-35).

Incidentally, “tithing”, giving 1/10 of your income to the church for its work and missionof helping others, is a concept underpinning the funding of churches. However,modern tithing could be viewed as “tithing after basic living has been allowed for”. InBiblical times, the society was not so dependent on money. The important principle isfor us to give as much as we are able with time and/or money - and to do so with agenerous heart - bearing in mind what are luxuries for us and what are our basic needs.Phil Smith

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FROM THE REGISTERS 2015

BAPTISMS[To be included with next month’s edition]

MARRIAGESNone this month.

FUNERALS & INTERMENTS OF ASHES18th December Georgia-Jane Biles aged 3 years19th December Betty Florence Slee aged 93 years8th January Eunice Lena Ayres aged 83 years9th January Grace Ernestine Mary Pengelly aged 99 years

In His Service

Lord, open my eyesLet me seeThe small tasks that get forgottenLet me talkTo the quiet ones, the newcomers.Let me shareThe sorrow of a friend’s heart.

Let me listenTo the one who needs to talk.Let me speakWhen I say something usefulLet me supportThe ones who make decisions.

Let me workFor those in need.Let me laughAs we share happiness together.

Let me doWhat needs to be doneTo make this placePart of your kingdom.

Nancy Johnson

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MAIN SERVICES FOR FEBRUARY

1st February THE PRESENTATION OF THE LORD (Candlemass) 8.00am Holy Communion 9.30am Morning Prayer (in choir) 10.00am Parish Communion 11.45am Holy Baptism 6.30pm Evensong

8th February SECOND SUNDAY BEFORE LENT 8.00am Holy Communion 9.30am Morning Prayer (in choir) 10.00am Parish Communion 10.00am Morning Prayer at Chaddlewood United Church 6.30pm Evensong

15th February SUNDAY NEXT BEFORE LENT 8.00am Holy Communion 9.30am Morning Prayer (in choir) 10.00am Parish Communion 11.45am Holy Baptism

18th February ASH WEDNESDAY 8.30am Morning Prayer & Litany 7.30pm Parish Communion with Imposition of Ashes

22nd February FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT 8.00am Holy Communion 9.30am Morning Prayer (in choir) 10.00am Parish Communion 10.00am Holy Communion at CUC 3.00pm Café Praise (in the parish hall) 6.30pm Evensong

Chaddlewood United Church (CUC) meets in Chaddlewood Farm Community Centre.During term time St Mary’s Sunday Club usually meets at 10.00am in the parish halland joins the Parish Communion at the Peace, sharing what they have been doing atthe end of the service.STATIONS OF THE CROSS each Friday of Lent beginning on 20th February at 12 noon.

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The Restoration of the Bells of St Mary’sHistory in BriefIt seems that possibly there was a ring of five or six bells from the seventeenthcentury to 1868, when John Warner & Sons appear to have recast the “fourth” ofthe six bells and added two “trebles”. However, in 1933 the whole ring wasrefurbished and re-tuned by Gillett & Johnston of Croydon, the old wooden framebeing replaced by one of metal and the plain bearings being replaced by rollerbearings. That work cost £484, in contrast to the present day refurbishment whichhas cost over £20,000. A ring of eight existed with a tenor bell 25 cwt in D (over 1ton in weight!). This ring of bells is the second heaviest in Devon - the heaviestbeing at St Mary’s, Totnes. The Tenor bell was donated in memory of Marie Stroudof Newnham in 1614, the fourth which was installed in the same year was possiblydonated by the Parish, and all re-tuned by Gillett & Johnston to ensure they are amusical ring.

Need for worksIn 2011 the parish celebrated seven hundred years of church history and service tothe community and as the bells were becoming harder to ring, the ringerssuggested that an engineer should inspect the bells installation. The subsequentreport indicated that, whilst the bells were safe to ring, some £40,000 of work wasdesirable. To celebrate those 700 years of church history, the ringers composed aring of 700 call changes that they planned to ring on a continuous basis for sevenhours, changing the ringers every 45 minutes. On the appointed day, all went wellfor the first two hours, at which point the fifth bell stopped. Its wheel had brokenand temporary repairs allowed the ringing to re-start and for the ‘marathon’ to becompleted. The following year a further inspection produced a somewhat lowerquote and the ringers found that by undertaking voluntary work, including paintingthe frame, they could bring down the quote to about £20,000. Our voluntary effortwould save approximately £10,000.

Fund-raising - a major team effort!Fund-raising started in 2013 and in just under eighteen months an order was placedwith Whitechapel Bell Foundry to undertake refurbishment. The work includedattention to wheels, clappers, pulley boxes, and replacing the bearings. Grantswere received from The Sharpe Trust, Viridor, Devon Historic Churches Trust,Devon Church Bells Restoration Fund, One-Stop and The Co-operative Society.Local fund-raising events included coffee mornings and Tower Open Days. Asmentioned above, a considerable amount of voluntary labour was put in by ahard-working group of ringers. In the first few days of November 2014 an engineerand three volunteers removed the fittings that needed replacing and they were

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sent to Whitechapel. The target date for completion was originally March 2015and we were delighted that Whitechapel was able to bring forward the date to15th December with the aim that work would be completed by the 19thDecember - a try-out pencilled in for Saturday 20th December. We would havebells ringing for Christmas!

Setback at ChristmasOn the 15th December we proceeded to hoist all the fitting up to the ringingchamber through the hatch in the floor. Once this part was completed theengineer started work on removing the head bolts while the volunteers startedto move the fitting up to the bells. It took the bell hanger two complete days toremove and replace all the head bolts: after 83 years this is to be expected, butit also meant that the original five days would be stretched. It was an extremelytiring job and all three volunteers were beginning to become stressed out andthis was evident by some “really stupid blow-ups” when things went wrong asthey seemed to on a regular basis. At the end of five days working we hadmanaged to replace the fittings on five bells (the front five) and we had hopedto get the sixth bell ring in time for Christmas but this remained only a hope:the clapper refused to go back in situ meaning we only had five ringable bells!We had made the statement we would ring for Christmas and this we intendedto do even with only five bells but we felt this was better than nothing.

Implications if we had delayedIt is important to note that the work we carried out was badly needed becausewe found that at least one bearing was faulty on every bell. The Tenor bell hadboth bearings faulty and the comment was made that within five years, withoutattention, the bells would become impossible to ring - thus denying the futuregeneration the pleasure of ringing this beautiful peal of eight bells. We have

Bell components laid out The wheels!

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been able to ring on the five bells and,although they do go very well, the team“couldn’t wait” to ring all eight in peal.

Close to successOn the 19th January 2015 the bellhanger will have returned with all thecorrect fittings to complete the originaltask and the same volunteers will havearrived to help. This major voluntaryeffort has kept the cost down andunderpinned all the fundraising efforts.The bells do ring now, will soon ringvery well and will be a pleasure to ring inpeal for long time in the future. Lots ofproblems may be expected with ringershaving to learn all over again to ring the“new” bells but once we learn, we willmake a wonderful sound. We now havea musical ring of bells in excellent order

"Mary Nicholls guiding the wheels’vertical passage through the thetower

and are now safe for future generations and we look forward to welcomingvisitors to ring them. We also aim to recruit some new ringers and a broadcaston local radio in mid December did help make known our deeds.

Brian Meek

Editor’s Note: Brian Meek and Mary Nicholls have led the team and havemanaged a remarkable feat through sustained effort and a positive attitude.This edited article seeks to ensure the efforts made to safeguard the vital heritageof St Mary’s for future generations is faithfully recorded.Grateful thanks go to the many other supporters - individual donors, volunteerworkers, and local companies, who have enabled this major challenge to be metthrough their consistent support and generosity.Phil Smith

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The ‘Plymouth Plan’guiding development over the

next 10 years

At the end of January Plymouth City Council published, for consultation, it’sproposed planning policies to guide development and growth over the next10 years. The strategy document is known as the ‘Plymouth Plan’ and unlikeits predecessor, the Local Development Framework, the document will alsocover the Council’s Transport and Economic Development plans for the City.Following this consultation phase, in the summer of 2015 the City Council willalso publish site specific proposals with Plympton currently seen as an areathat can sustain considerable development.

There is currently unprecedented pressure on the ‘green spaces’ in Plymptonwith an excessive drive for new housing development. It is important thatnew development complements our existing community and that sufficientinfrastructure is provided to accommodate such growth.

During the period of consultation there will be a number of opportunities forparishioners to engage, respond and guide the City Council on the wishes ofour community. My fellow Plympton Councillors and I will either be conven-ing special public meetings or using the Neighbourhood Meetings to discussthese proposals.

Information on the plan has been published on the Council’s website and isaccessible at the Library. I urge everyone to please get involved and to respond.

Councillor Patrick NicholsonCity Councillor Plympton St Mary WardFor any queries please contact Patrick on 01752 347474 or emailpatrick.nicholson@plymouth.gov.uk

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Buy Your Lucky Number from Sarah Duckworth

If you would like to be part of this Mission Work we would be glad of your help.As it is a ‘Cafe’, we are always in need of cakes for the children’s tea time.

Volunteers are also needed to help the children with their simple craft projects

Chaddlewood United Church - Plympton St Mary - Plympton St Mauriceworking together in the community

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Sudoku Puzzle for February 2015

nb: Answers on next page

“And Lo, a light shone in the East”

Many have commented on the Altar window illuminationduring the “Nine Lessons and Carols” service.The Church is most grateful to John Rowse and MartinHead of Rowse Electrical Wholesalers Ltd, for donatingthis expensive piece of electrical equipment, and to C&DElectrical who installed the light temporarily in time forthe Services. This will be fitted permanently in time andwill enable us to enjoy one of St Mary’s stained glasstreasures in its full glory.

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Sudoku answers from p21

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ST MARY’S TABLE TOP SALES10am - 1.30pm

ST MARY’S CHURCH HALL

Saturday 7th February 2015Saturday 7th March 2015

Saturday 4th April 2015

Table rents £6 for each tableBook well in advance - often fully booked months ahead!

Contact Marcia Knight on 335541

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Magazine and Publicity MattersContributions to be included in the March edition should be sent to the editor byWednesday 11th February, and for the April edition by Wednesday 11th March. Forthose wishing to pass items over on a Sunday, the previous Sunday to these days is tobe used.

You can E-mail editor.plymptonpilgrim@virginmedia.com or write it down and putit in Magazine pigeon-hole at rear of church.Advertisements, and any service quotes offered, do not imply recommendation onbehalf of the Church. Grateful thanks go to our advertisers, especially Walter Parsonwho sponsor the printing, and subscribers who financially support each edition.Photographs submitted can only be used if permitted by the owner of any copyright.When using photographs of children and young people, it is preferable to use grouppictures and written permission must be obtained from parents to use such pictures.Enquiries for Magazine distribution - contact Marguerite Coaker Tel: 335720.Reminder - £5 annual subscription is now due. Distributors will collect money whenthey deliver this magazine - the February 2015 edition.Phil Smith

The Heart of Valentine’s Day

What is Love - C. S. Lewis

“There is no safe investment. To love atall is to be vulnerable. Love anything,and your heart will certainly be wrungand possibly be broken. If you want tomake sure of keeping it intact, youmust give your heart to no one, noteven to an animal. Wrap it carefullyround with hobbies and little luxuries;avoid all entanglements; lock it up safein the casket or coffin of yourselfishness. But in that casket — safe,dark, motionless, airless – it willchange. It will not be broken; it willbecome unbreakable, impenetrable,irredeemable. The alternative totragedy, or at least to the risk oftragedy, is damnation. The only placeoutside Heaven where you can beperfectly safe from all the dangers andperturbations of love is Hell.”

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MAGAZINEPhil Smith, Editor 45 Molesworth Road 219355 editor.plymptonpilgrim@virginmedia.comMarguerite Coaker Magazine Distribution 335720

WEBSITE DEVELOPMENTJack and Sarah Duckworth duckworth11@hotmail.co.uk

HOLY BAPTISM Enquiries to the Parish Office on Tuesday and Thursday mornings (348525). At other times: 316161

SUNDAY CLUB Sunday mornings at 10am for children aged 3-13 details from David Upcott 341908

and Louise Lewis 336159

PARENT & BABY/ Wednesday 9.15-11am in the Hall (during term time)TODDLER details from Teresa Talbot 348525

PRE-SCHOOL Monday 9 - 11.30 am & 12.30-3.00 pm – Hall Tuesday 9-11.30am - Hall Wednesday 9-11.30 am &12.30-3.00 pm - Meeting Room Thursday 9-11.30 am &12.30-3.00 pm –

Hall and Meeting Room Friday 9-11.30 and &12.30-3.00 pm – Hall Mon - Fri: 11.30am-12.30pm Lunch Club details from Teresa Talbot 344214

RECENTLY BEREAVED Monday 9:30-11:30am David Brinkley. 336342

MELTING POT Helpline/Coffee/Company/trips on Tuesdays 9:30-11.00 am in Parish Centre 348525 or Sheila Prizeman 335513

AT CHADDLEWOODBIBLE STUDY Monday evenings at 7.30pm led by Rev Ian Provost.

Details from Judith Goodridge 337178PRAYER GROUP Wednesdays at 9.30am - 10.30am.

Details from Beryl Smith 348764BIBLE STUDY 4th Wednesday of each month at 7.30pm.

Led by Bob Harrison. Details from Beryl SmithGOOD COMPANY 1st Thursday of each month for ladies on their own.

Monthly outings and a meal out.Details from Judy Willcocks 330948

FAMILY FRIENDS Each Friday Bible Study and discussion at 11.00am Details from June Drake 343039

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Services at St Mary’s

SUNDAY 8.00 am Holy Communion 9.30 am Morning Prayer 10.00 am Parish Communion 6:30 pm Evensong

MONDAY 8.30 am Morning Prayer 5.00 pm Evening Prayer

TUESDAY 8:30 am Morning Prayer 11.00 am Holy Communion (BCP)

5.00 pm Evening Prayer

WEDNESDAY 8:30 am Morning Prayer with Holy Communion

THURSDAY 8:30 am Morning Prayer 7.00 pm Evening Prayer with Holy Communion

FRIDAY 8.30 am Morning Prayer with Holy Communion 5.00 pm Evening Prayer

SATURDAY 8.30 am Morning Prayer5.00 pm Evening Prayer

Services at Chaddlewood United Churchat Chaddlewood Farm Community Centre (unless stated otherwise)

1st Sunday: 10.30am Methodist Service at Colebrook Meth. Church2nd Sunday: 10am Anglican Service at Chaddlewood3rd Sunday: 10am Combined at St Mary’s Parish Church4th Sunday: 10am Anglican Service at Chaddlewood

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