Friday 2 December 2016

Under the Greenwood Tree

Under the Greenwood Tree
A traditional concert for a country church
Given by Washaway Gallery Choir
St Mabyn Church
Monday 19th December 2016 at 6,30 
Hosts --Friends of St Mabyn Church 
Warm seasonal refreshments provided 
Display of Christmas cards and gifts

Tuesday 22 November 2016

The Friends of St Mabyn Church

The Friends of St Mabyn Church invite you to a
 Christmas Flower Demonstration
 by Elaine Reynolds of Bruallen Flowers
 7.00 pm Thursday, Ist December
 St Mabyn Church.
Elaine will demonstrate how to make beautiful
arrangements to decorate our homes at Christmas
Donations in aid of charity instead of an entry fee
Refreshments and a raffle to win flowers and decorations
St Mabyn greetings cards, tea towels and other seasonal
Friends of St Mabyn Church merchandise
 good choices for presents.

Saturday 19 November 2016

Development of Glebe land in St Mabyn

Last months community consultation meeting on the development of the Glebe land was a lively affair!
Staff attended from Savills (sales agents), Coastline Housing Association (developer) and the Diocese (land owner).
There was a good report on the meeting by our own Graham Smith, in the Cornish Guardian on 19th October.
In this report Graham inadvertently created confusion for some in the village! 
Confusion was caused by use of the word “church”, rather than Diocese for ownership of the Glebe land.
We want to make it clear that the St Mabyn Church does not own the Glebe land or benefit from any development profit made on the sale of the land or the houses.
We understand that the Diocese has, by law, to invest the money received on the sale of the land. The income from the investment can only be used for the payment of clergy pensions and salary (stipends). The income cannot be used for any other purpose.
We are much in favour of the proposed car park!
Colin Hyde and Carole Grigg. 

Churchwardens

Wednesday 2 November 2016

Christmas starts with Christ

Friday 25/11 @ 7.30pm –FREE CHRISTMAS CONCERT 
                                       A Christmas gift to the village
                                 Great music--- singing------readings
                                      Free food and seasonal drinks
                Collection in aid of Samara’s appeal aiding refugees from Iraq and Syria

 Thursday 1/12 @ 7pm Making Seasonal Decorations for Christmas     
                              Talk and demonstration by Elaine Reynolds of Bruallen Nursery 
Friday 9/12 @ 7.30 pm-YOUNG FARMERS’ CAROL SERVICE—Steve Williams                     
Monday 12/12@ 1.30 pm - St Mabyn SCHOOL NATIVITY PLAY full dress rehearsal 
Tuesday 13/12@ 6.00pm -St Mabyn SCHOOL NATIVITY PLAY in the Church
Friday 16/12 @ 1.15 pm –CHRISTINGLE SERVICE--Rev Sherry Bryant
Sunday 18/12 @10am- TRAD. CHRISTMAS CAROLS & Readings--- Church Worship Group 
Saturday   24/12 @ 3pm   CHRISTMAS EVE CRIB SERVICE with Steve Williams.
A  great family start to Christmas plus donkey procession and Children’s Carols 
Saturday 24/12Christmas Eve @ 8 pm –Candlelit BETHLEHEM MASS--  Rev David Pollard
Friday 25/12 @ 10am –CHRISTMAS DAY HOLY COMMUNION—Rev Dave Elkington

Friday 6/1/17 @ 7pm FREE Christmas / Epiphany Party with food, drink and entertainment. 

                                               www.christmasstartswithchrist.com

The Remembrance Service

The Remembrance Service will be on 13th November 2016 at 10.15am and will be taken by Rev David Pollard.

Tuesday 18 October 2016

St Mabyn Church in November


We celebrate our Patronal Festival on Sunday 20 November and as usual it will be the only service in the Benefice that day. The Reverend Jem Thorold will conduct the service, starting at 11am and a warm welcome is offered to parishioners from the whole Benefice and, as usual, it will be followed by the Patronal Festival Lunch – not to be missed! We need numbers for this so please let Churchwarden Colin Hyde, on 841546, know if you hope to attend. Remembrance Sunday falls on 13 November and we are pleased that David Pollard will be with us to lead this service, starting at 10am and concluding at the War Memorial in time for the 11 o’clock Two Minutes Silence.
AKH
 

St Mabyn Church in October



We are getting to grips with having no Priest-in-charge for a while and are very grateful indeed to the Reverend David Pollard for joining us to lead a Communion Service on the second and fourth Sundays of the month and we then have to use our Inner Resources for the other Sundays! The first Sunday in October was Harvest Festival, and what a joy it proved to be!
This church takes some filling (built in times when most people went to church) and it is always a great pleasure when we have a large congregation. St Mabyn School and staff led the wonderful service of thanksgiving and it was a joy to welcome so many children and their parents – and grandparents! to our delightful Harvest Festival. The church looked lovely, decorated beautifully and there was enthusiastic bidding after the super lunch, for all this produce – proceeds to the Samara Appeal. Our warmest thanks to all involved in all this and not forgetting our excellent auctioneer, John Lobb! The Reverend Steve Williams, also leader of our Music Group (which goes from strength to strength) led our Praise Service on the third Sunday and this always attracts a good attendance from those who prefer a non communion (and rather jolly) service. Our doughty part time organist, Les Field,, whose playing we so much enjoy, is able to join the congregation and participate without responsibilities! The Bible Study Group has grown in number and our thanks to David and Mary Bishop for opening their home to this ever-increasing crowd and also to the dissuasion leaders and those who participate and make it such a worthwhile morning- and the talk often continues in the St Mabyn Inn over lunch afterwards. Steve Williams leads the Meditation Group once a month, at the home of Rob and Liz Turner – and our thanks to them also for their hospitality. We have received this heart-warming thank you from the Samara Appeal - I want to thank all these great people who gave, collected, packed and donated. I am sure the clothes and blankets you sent us will warm our bodies this winter in Syria. But what you did warmed our hearts with the love and care you put in this container. Thank you from the heart. Our thanks too, to all the knitters and crocheters who provided such a wonderful gift to those who are in such need.
AKH

Saturday 8 October 2016

Public consultation on St Mabyn glebe land

Truro diocesan board of finance invite you to attend
a public consultation on St Mabyn glebe land and village requirements.

Sunday 18 September 2016

Harvest Festival

The service, to be held on Sunday 2 October, will be led by staff and children from St Mabyn School starting at 11am – please note this later start time! It promises to be a lovely occasion and will be followed by  hot lunch in the church – to help with catering it would be appreciated if you could let Colin Hyde know - 841546

Bible Study Group

This group, meeting at the home of David and Mary Bishop, Trelowarth on Watergate Lane, every Tuesday at 1030am starting on 20 September, will be discussing “The Meaning of the Eucharist”
 

The Samara’s Aid Appeal

There has been a wonderful response to the appeal for knitted garments (and also some toys!) to send to the children in the refugee camps in Syria, being supported by the Samara’s Aid Appeal. All the items are on display in the church but you will have to hurry to catch them as they must be despatched by the end of this week. Warmest thanks to all from the three Parishes who responded to this appeal.




Church Service

The Reverend David Pollard led our Service of Holy Communion and we all enjoyed the participation of the Worship Band augmenting the wonderful organ playing of Les Field. This coming Sunday, 18 September, the Reverend Steve Williams will lead our non communion at the usual time of 10am. We always serve refreshments afterwards and this offers an excellent opportunity to catch up with old friends. Every Tuesday morning there is a short Prayer for the Village service at 9.30am and Morning Prayer each Wednesday also at 9.30am. Why not pop in for a few minutes and join us? The Parochial Church Council will meet on Saturday 24 September and forthcoming services will be discussed – if you have points you would like to be raised please contact Colin Hyde, Senior Church Warden on 841546
 
 

Friday 12 August 2016

Walking the length of Cornwall - A 'Cornish Camino' -

 We undertook this pilgrimage in early July as a nine day walk the length of Cornwall from the Tamar near Launceston to the cliffs of Cape Cornwall - a distance of about 105 miles. We were lucky to have fine weather varying from grey and windy to bright sunshine and with hardly any rain! The group varied from 2 to 7 people and all seemed to enjoy the experience. By going across the middle of the county through back roads and paths, we were able to see another aspect of Cornwall: quiet countryside including moorland fringes, woods, streams, small scale farming and the remains of mining/quarrying, as well as  the city of Truro and the towns of Camelford, St Columb Major and Penzance.


Sat 9  Polson Bridge (over Tamar) via St Stephens Launceston to Altarnun 12 miles

Four of us ( Bob Kirby-Harris, Felicity Henchley, Rob Turner, Cathy Glaser) started  on a cloudy, windy, warm day by crossing  the bridge into Cornwall and then turned right off the A388 to walk up to St Stephens by Launceston church for our lunch in the churchyard with a great view over Launceston and the castle. We then walked down the hill over the old St Thomas's footbridge and had a quick look at the church  and Priory remains. Then  we walked due west along Under Lane – a lovely section traversing the Kensey Valley, past New Mills and the old railway line, to Pipers Pool.  We  carefully crossed the busy A395 and turned left down quiet lanes and a footpath traversing the Inny Valley and Penpont Water to reach the beautiful village of Altarnun, with its church, 'the Cathedral of the Moors'.

Sun 10 Alturnun to Lanteglos  via Camelford 10 miles

Eight of us ( Bob & Peter Kirby-Harris, Felicity Henchley, Judy Lamb, Rob Turner, Rex Yeomans, Ruth Ellery, Douglas Evans)  left after the service in St Mabyn and started at Altarnun  on a cooler windier day with some drizzle to begin with. We walked up past West Carne onto an unfenced small road just under Bray Down with fine views to the north and had lunch by a ford. Then we walked  along a section of the Davidstow Airfield road  before turning left through the woods past the old aircraft dispersion areas . We turned left again  onto the road past Crowdy Reservoir and then turned right towards Camelford on the Rough Tor road. We came out onto the A39 and after a short section  along Camelford high street we walked up  through  the back lane, turned left onto the B3266  and then went straight on at the corner towards Lanteglos. We finished at the large fine church by the side of the Allen stream.

Mon 11 Lanteglos to St Mabyn  via St Tudy 9 miles 

Five of us ( Bob & Peter Kirby-Harris, Felicity Henchley, Rob Turner, Judy Lamb) started from Lanteglos church  on another cool windy day with a short burst of drizzle, by taking the footpath across Bowood Golf Course and then on through fields until we came out on a minor road at Treforda. From there we walked south crossing the  busy A39 and then to Treveighan,  where we had our packed lunch in Rex Yeoman's garden - a very pleasant and comfortable break . Then we continued walking south past Michaelstow and on to a short section of the B3266 before taking a footpath through two fields to St Tudy. We then walked the back road to St Mabyn , familiar to several of us; and concluded with a cream tea at Judy Lamb's!



Tue 12 St Mabyn to St Columb Major  via Withiel and St Wenn 14 miles

Two of us ( Bob Kirby-Harris and Cathy Glaser) left St Mabyn church (on another cloudy clear cool day) walking to the edge of the village where we crossed a stile onto a footpath through three fields and back onto the road to Sladesbridge. We crossed the busy A389 and then walked steeply uphill and then down to cross the Camel at Polbrock, where we had  our lunch (at the Forestry Commission picnic site). Then we went along the quiet bank of the Camel to Ruthernbridge, where we turned right along a small side valley on a back road and footpath until we crossed the stream and walked up to Withiel. We then walked due south until turning right at the cross-roads towards St Wenn travelling almost due west for four miles with a brief diversion to look at St Wenn church. Then we joined the B3274 which had an unpleasant level of traffic on it – care should be taken to pick a quiet time of day to walk this section! We then turned right and almost immediately left at Rosevanion corner, walked down through Tregamere to meet the back road into St Columb Major. After the last mile going under the A39 and up into the town we finished at the impressive church of St Columba.

Wed 13 St Columb Major to Truro via St Newlyn East and St Allen 18 miles

Two of us (Bob Kirby-Harris and Rachel Wheeler) started from St Columba's church  on a mild dry day with some sun and walked the length of St Columb Major, crossed the A3059 through Trekenning ( foot/bicycle route) and onto the minor road to White Cross. Here we crossed the A3075 and then took the right fork onto a long fairly straight section towards Trerice. We then turned left and down to cross the Lappa valley at the steam railway site and then walked up the hill into St Newlyn East to look round the church with its interesting carved pew ends and other features. After a good lunch in the pub we walked through the village out to Fiddlers Green turning left and walking for a further two miles to a fairly safe crossing of the busy A30. After crossing and a short walk on grass verges of the main road we turned right down the 'Quiet Lane' towards St Allen. We then walked  south for two miles until we stopped at St Allen  for a brief look round the small church .A further half mile south we turned right down to the Allen river at Gwarnick and then turned left at a small side stream past woodland and through Idless.. We crossed the Allen  just beyond Idless and then continued down the valley until we went through the gate into the Daubuz nature reserve. After a half mile walk through fields and under the viaduct we came out into central Truro within a short distance of the Cathedral.

Thur 14 Truro to Stithians 9 miles

Four of us ( Bob Kirby-Harris, Ruth Ellery, Felicity Henchley, Mike Bradley) met up at the cathedral  on another dry day with sunny skies later, and then walked across the centre of Truro and up Chapel Hill until we crossed the A390 onto a small quiet lane round the back of County Hall. We walked under the old mineral line and then  the main line, and then turned left under the line again for about four miles (going straight on at cross roads) to Helston Water. We then walked down to the B road at the edge of Bisoe, turned right and then left at the next junction  towards Frogpool, turning left and then hard right down a small lane  and then straight on at the next junction. After a third of a mile at a right angle corner we took the footpath straight on  crossing a minor road at Trewedna Water and then joining a small road due south to Pelean Cross. Here we crossed the A393 and walked on to Trebost, where we took the minor road to the right past Seaurreaugh Farm and Mill and then walked up to the  fine church of St Stithians on the northern edge of the large former mining village of Stithians.


Fri 15 Stithians to Relubbus 13 miles

Four of us  (Bob Kirby-Harris, Felicity Henchley, Mike Bradley, Mike Newson) started from St Stithians church  on a fine day with clouds and bright and bright sun and walked south through the village turning right on the road through Tregols. We turned right at Little Rame Farm past the Common through Carnkie and Halwin to Porkellis, where we had lunch in the pub which also doubles as the village store and library! Afterwards we walked on westward  past a patchwork of small fields and the remains of mining activity until crossing the B3297 and then reaching Nancegollan where we crossed the B3303. We then continued walking west crossing the B3302 and on through Godolphin Cross past Godolphin Hill and  past several mining shafts to the edge of Millpool. Here we struggled to find the footpath that follows the Hayle stream, finally walking along this very boggy route until coming out at Relubbus. It would be easier next time to walk further along the roads to St Hillary church.

Sat 16 Relubbus to Penzance via St Hilary and St Michael's Mount 8 miles

Six of us (Bob Kirby-Harris, Felicity Henchley, Ruth Ellery, Judy Lamb, Mike Bradley, Trevor Ponman) started from Relubbus on a glorious sunny day by walking on footpaths through the fields to St Hilary church with its very interesting 'Arts & Crafts' paintings, icons and statues. We then walked  through two more fields to reach the back road to Marazion. We turned left and walked past Plain-an-Gwarry and under the A394 to reach the charming 'town' of Marazion where we had lunch at a pub overlooking St Michael's Mount. Afterwards we walked along the coastal path  with marvellous views across Mounts Bay into Penzance and up to St Mary's church.

Sun 17 Penzance to Cape Cornwall via St Just 10 miles

Five of us ( Bob Kirby-Harris, Felicity Henchley, Mike Bradley, Ruth Ellery, Douglas Evans) drove down after church in St Mabyn on a hot sunny day to have our packed lunches in the attractive church grounds of St Mary's church, Penzance. We then walked up through the town past the A30, using an underpass at the round-about, until finally turning left at the far edge of Heamoor. Then we walked west past the woodlands of Trengwainton and other estates to cross the A3071 at Tremethick Cross. We continued walking west, the road crossing several streams leading into Drift Reservoir, until meeting the 'New Road' to St Just at Grumbla Common near Sancreed. Here we turned right and walked the last three  miles, with great sea views in the middle distance, past Commons and Nature Reserves - and also several tips and shafts as reminders of the former mining activity in this area – to reach the edge of St Just, where we took  a footpath for the last half mile into the village. After refreshments we walked the last mile and a half down to Cape Cornwall, which was  mostly clouded in sea fog.  We  then climbed up the last hill to see the chimney with its memorial  plaque right on the Cape. By this time, fortunately, the fog had cleared and we enjoyed good views of the cliffs, castles and mining buildings along the coast.  

We all agreed that it was a fine end to a great pilgrimage!



Bob Kirby-Harris July 2016


Garden Party

Warmest thanks to Audrey and Dave Elkington (the Archdeacon of Bodmin and the Rural Dean respectively) for the delightful Barbecue Lunch and Garden Party to which they invited all parishioners to their home. There was a great turnout and a very convivial time was enjoyed by all – and even the weather was super!
The Reverend Canon Dave Elkington was given a terrific send off by members of all three congregations in the Benefice at the service held in St Mabyn. He chose all the hymns, including one (Mary Magdalene’s Song)  where his wife, the Venerable Audrey Elkington, Archdeacon of Bodmin had written the words, to a well known hymn tune and preached a really inspiring sermon – as always! He will be much missed and Senior Church warden Colin Hyde led the call for Three Cheers and John Lobb, former Churchwarden and very longstanding member of the congregation proposed the toast during the festive refreshments after the service. Warmest thanks to those who baked and helped provide the delicious spread. We will hope to see him from time to time and wish him a very happy retirement.

Church Fete


This is a somewhat belated, but nonetheless very heartfelt thanks to all who helped make the Fete this year such an outstanding success – those
who assisted at / attended / rang the bells to herald it / otherwise supported this wonderful and successful event where over 500 people enjoyed all the fun of the fete and we were able to raise the monies necessary to insure this wonderful and historic building. Not everyone is a  member of the regular congregation but many are grateful that it is there for them. This event attracts attendance from a very wide area and is well known for being such a great afternoon out. The participation of the school – children, parents, teachers – is also much appreciated and helps give it such a lively and youthful atmosphere too! There are so many people to thank that the risk of leaving out even one person means that we can’t list names but there IS one, Tony Dickinson, in his super uniform and with his great style at the, microphone, who really must be name checked! Thank you to all and see you next year! 

Thursday 11 August 2016

Samara's Appeal


Many thanks to all the local 'knitters' from St Mabyn and St Tudy who have been knitting for the 'Winter Clothes Appeal' for Samara's Aid. We now have a lovely selection now of blankets, hats, gloves, scarves and some jumpers ready to send.The deadline for this appeal is September 18th, 2016 (although I daresay we will 'carry on knitting'!). For further information, please contact Jan Fisher 01208 852182 

Monday 8 August 2016

Cream Teas

On Sundays 14th, 21st and 28th August Cream Teas will be served in St Mabyn Church between 2.30pm and 4.00pm. All welcome.
MD

Wednesday 3 August 2016

Farewell to Dave

The Reverend Canon Dave Elkington was given a terrific send off by members of all three congregations in the Benefice at the service held in St Mabyn. He chose all the hymns, including one (Mary Magdalene’s Song)  where his wife, the Venerable Audrey Elkington, Archdeacon of Bodmin had written the words, to a well known hymn tune and preached a really inspiring sermon – as always! He will be much missed and Senior Church warden Colin Hyde led the call for Three Cheers and John Lobb, former Churchwarden and very longstanding member of the congregation proposed the toast during the festive refreshments after the service. Warmest thanks to those who baked and helped provide the delicious spread. We will hope to see him from time to time and wish him a very happy retirement.
AKH
 

Friday 22 July 2016

Cornish Camino

Last week Bob Kirby-Harris and friends walked the Cornish Camino covering between 10 and 18 miles per day.
It started at Polson Bridge over the Tamar near Launceston and finished at Cape Cornwall.


Sat 9  July Polson Br (over Tamar) Launceston to Altarnun 11 miles:
Sun 10 Alturnun to Lanteglos Camelford 10 miles: -start from St Mabyn church after service

Mon 11 Lanteglos to St Mabyn 9 miles:

Tue 12 St Mabyn to St Columb Major 13 miles

Wed 13 St Columb Major to Truro (cathedral) 18 miles:--- start from St Columba’s church

Thur 14 Truro to Stithians 9 miles: from Truro cathedral 11am

Fri 15 Stithians to Relubbus 13 miles:

Sat 16 Relubbus to Gulval 7 miles ( via St Michael's Mt:

Sun 17 Gulval to Cape Cornwall 10 miles: start from St Mabyn church after service ( drive to Gulval church),



Tuesday 12 July 2016

‘Duw Genes’----- Rev. Dave !

‘Duw Genes’----- Rev. Dave !
Rev Dave Elkington will be taking his last service as Vicar of St Mabyn on Sunday 31st July at 10 am 
He will be greatly missed for all that he has done and will always  be remembered by the village church as follows: 
Interesting, topical, to the point with a touch of humour which keeps you on your metal. 
We shall miss him and hope that he will come back from time to time to take services in his retirement.
He has done a lot for St Mabyn Church.
Inspirational and empowering.
Diligent, Optimistic, Inspiring.

Encouraging , positive, dynamic, caring, hospitable 
"A ministry of friendship, inspiration and encouragement’
As a newcomer to the area, Dave in his own way has said to me:
'You are welcome here, wherever you come from, whoever you are - you are welcome'
His sermons relate to 'everyday', are current and bring the bible to life.
An inspirational leader, compassionate and prepared to provoke us into spiritual growth.
 Always building people up and encouraging them to believe and achieve. 
Passion maintained throughout his years of ministry –just like a true Leicester Tigers fan!

We will really miss you Dave. You have done so much to help uncertain people learn, understand and enjoy worship. Thank you.

More Church Fete photos













Church Fete photos

Warmest thanks to all who assisted at / attended / rang the bells to herald it / otherwise supported this wonderful and successful event where 500 people enjoyed all the fun of the fete and we were able to raise the monies necessary to insure this wonderful and historic building. Not everyone is a  member of the regular congregation but many are grateful that it is there for them.














Samaras appeal


Made by Marjorie Hamley (our retired organist aged 85+) for Samaras appeal

Wednesday 22 June 2016

St Mabyn Fete

Warmest thanks to all who assisted at / attended / rang the bells to herald it / otherwise supported this wonderful and successful event where 500 people enjoyed all the fun of the fete and we were able to raise the monies necessary to insure this wonderful and historic building. Many thanks to everyone for their donations and especially those who gave their time collecting items, preparing the field and clearing up the field on Saturday evening.

Weekday Church Services

Every Tuesday morning there is a short Prayer for the Village service at 9.30am and Morning Prayer each Wednesday also at 9.30am. Why not pop in for a few minutes and join us?

Bible Study Group

A series of six consecutives meetings, every Tuesday has started but do feel free to come along and join in. They take place at Trelowarth, Watergate Lane starting at 1015 for 1030 and many adjourn to the pub for lunch afterwards – but it isn’t compulsory!. All welcome

Garden Party

Audrey and Dave Elkington (the Archdeacon of Bodmin and the Rural Dean respectively) invite all parishioners to their home on Sunday 3 July, at 1230pm, after the service, for a barbecue and Garden Party – fine weather has been ordered but there’s plenty of room indoors just in case!

Church Service

The Reverend Dave Elkington led our services of Holy Communion when we were delighted to welcome Prebendary David Foster as guest preacher and after the service the usual refreshments took the form of a birthday celebration for Her Majesty the Queen with cake and wine! This coming Sunday, 26 June there will be a service of Holy Communion,led by the Reverend Dave Elkington assisted by Steve Williams. Do come along at 10am where warm welcome awaits you.

Friends of St Mabyn Church

The Annual General Meeting of the Friends of St Mabyn Church will be held at 7 pm on Tuesday 28 June in the church. We will outline a campaign to raise funds for a project which will benefit many parishioners. Please come along if you’re at all interested. All very welcome.

Friday 20 May 2016

St Mabyn Fete


The third Saturday in June is a fixture in most locals' diaries and this year's promises to be the usual Great Day Out! St Minver Silver Band will be our guest musicians this year, and we look forward to the schoolchildren's maypole dancing, Punch and Judy for children of all ages! and lots of games and sideshows for have-a-go activities, children's races and the tug-of-war, as well as the usual wonderful stalls - plants, books, games, bric a brac, jewellery and cosmetics, cakes and tombola. We've said prayers for good weather, so that all this can take place on the village green (teas under the oak tree of course) but we do have a wet weather plan which will involve the village hall, school playground and of course the church itself - the fete aims to raise the staggering three thousand pounds which is the cost of the insurance premium, and with your support we will achieve that again this year - do come along for a great afternoon! Offers of help are always gratefully received by Colin Hyde, senior Church warden on 841546. See you there!

Thursday 19 May 2016

Cornish Camino

A 'Cornish Camino' ­ Walking the length of Cornwall from the Tamar to Cape Cornwall – a Pilgrimage in Appreciation and Thanks after Whitsun
After our enjoyable pilgrimage to Truro in June last year I started planning a longer route across the whole length of Cornwall that would be a sort of 'Cornish Camino' ­ starting at the Tamar outside Launceston and then going via Altarnun skirting Bodmin Moor, through St Mabyn then to Truro and on to Cape Cornwall ­ a distance in total of 100 miles. As many of you will know I was diagnosed with prostate cancer last Autumn, and all this went on hold while I undertook radiotherapy treatment at both Exeter and Truro hospitals – excellent places with very professional kind staff . We were really touched by the level of concern and support we received from our friends ( local and distant) and the church communities of St Mabyn, St Tudy and St Breward, which made a profound difference to our approach to the cancer and its treatment. We recently received the great news that the cancer has been cured ( as much as one can be sure of anything in life), and I'm well on the way to being fully recovered. So, to demonstrate my appreciation to all of you and my grateful thanks to God, I've decided to undertake this Pilgrimage as a continuous 8 day walk starting on Sunday 10 July and finishing on Sunday ­17 July. I will walk the whole way but the start day and finish day will start after church in St Mabyn. Others will be joining me for the two Sunday walks and some/all of the other legs. This should be an attractive route passing through quiet countryside with great views and several points of interest including ancient churches, the cathedral, St Michael's Mount, and ending on the dramatic sea cliffs of Cape Cornwall.
I would be delighted if others would join us for part of the route or even the whole pilgrimage – I have done some preliminary work on places to stay along the way and ways to organise drop­offs and pick­ups – and I will do more later as numbers walking become clearer. The specific walks will be: Sun 10 Polson Br (over Tamar) Launceston to Altarnun 11 miles
Mon 11 Alturnun to St Mabyn 19 miles
Tue 12 St Mabyn to St Columb Major 13 miles
Wed 13 St Columb Major to Truro (cathedral) 18 miles T
hur 14 Truro to Stithians 9 miles
Fri 15 Stithians to Relubbus 13 miles
Sat 16 Relubbus to Gulval 7 miles ( via St Michael's Mt)
Sun 17 Gulval to Cape Cornwall 10 miles
If you would like to find out more please contact Bob Kirby­Harris on 01208 850651 or 07837 603130 or email kirbyharris@btinternet.com

Wednesday 23 March 2016

Annual Church Meeting

At our Annual Church meeting Colin Hyde and Carol Grigg were re-elected as Churchwardens and a full list of members of the PCC is posted in the porch of the church. WE were all delighted to learn that the church electoral roll now stands at 55 and we have all been so pleased to welcome the new members.

Maundy Thursday Service

Do come and join us for our Agape meal and Tenebrae sung by Roscarrock Revival – this is always a very moving occasion, and of course also with much enjoyable fellowship.

Easter Sunday Service

The Reverend Canon Dave Elkington will conduct our service of Holy Communion for Easter Sunday, and blessing and distribution of the Palm Crosses  this coming Sunday, 20 March at 10am. Refreshments are always served afterwards and offers the opportunity to socialise with friends old and new.There is a table at the back of the church with a wide selection of magazines – do come in at any time for a browse (they cover all sorts of hobbies and not just of a religious nature!) and please take home any you would like.

Monday 21 March 2016

Lent Course

The Lent course is an exploration into the truth of the Christian faith as revealed in Jesus Christ.

The first session on 17th February was an introduction to the creeds - what we believe in and trust.
We covered the Apostles creed - which sets out the faith of the Church and the Nicene creed, a more detailed summary of what the church believes.
We spent much of the time exploring the reasons the creeds were developed.

The second sessions, which were on 24th February explored the profound and wonderful truth that God is Trinity - Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
We looked at and were inspired by Russian Icons of the Trinity.
We discussed the love and self-giving within the Trinity and which person of the Trinity we found it hardest to engage with and why!

In the third session, on Tuesday 1st March, we explored the unique nature of Jesus.
This will teach us a great deal about God and what it is to be human.

Wednesday 2 March 2016

THE QUEEN'S 90th BIRTHDAY

On Thursday 21 April 2016 the Queen will be 90 years old, and St Mabyn Parish Council have decided to mark the occasion by joining in the lighting of Beacons.  There is a long tradition in Britain of lighting beacons on Royal occasions.  It could turn out to be a very enjoyable village get-together.
More information re: location etc. will follow shortly. Carol Bray

ST MABYN POPPY APPEAL 2015

Collectively, St Mabyn raised £613.43 which went towards the Wadebridge District total of £24,500 +.  The Wadebridge District is made up of St Mabyn, Rock, Polzeath, and of course Wadebridge itself.  Many thanks to everyone in St Mabyn and Longstone who gave so generously.  Carol Bray

Monday 29 February 2016

Mothering Sunday

A warm welcome to all this coming Sunday, at 1030am (please note start time) when the Reverend David Pollard will lead our special, non-communion, service, with the children from the school

Parochial Church Council

The PCC meets next Saturday, 12 March, so if you have any matters you would like to see discussed – location of the singers / musicians / service format (the traditional services being used for Lent have proved popular) and any future activities please contact one of the churchwardens.

Church Spring Cleaning

We traditionally give the Church a thorough spring clean before Easter and if you would like to give a hand – many hands make light work! – and have some time on Monday 14th (start time 9.30am onwards or the following day please give Anthea Lobb a ring on 841581

The Lent Course

Our Lent course continues each Tuesday morning until Easter, very kindly hosted by David and Mary Bishop at their home, Trelowarth, Watergate Lane – and newcomers are always welcome. 1015 for coffee and a 1030am start. We are considering the Creeds. A warning – the group generally adjourns to the pub for lunch afterwards! and indeed anyone who would like to join us just for lunch is most welcome.

Sunday Church Service

The Reverend Dave Elkington led our service of Holy Communion, with Steve Williams preaching an excellent sermon. The Music Group has now been augmented by a keyboard – it’s almost a band in its own right now! Refreshments are always served afterwards and many thanks to the bakers of the great Welsh Cakes, and also a super lemon sponge.

There is a table at the back of the church with a wide selection of magazines – do come in at any time for a browse (they cover all sorts of hobbies and not just of a religious nature!) and please take home any you would like.

Wednesday 24 February 2016

Fish Friday at St Mabyn School

The School is offering the local community the chance to enjoy a fish meal at the school on Friday 18th March at 12.30pm. Cost £3. 
If you are interested please call the School Office on 01208 841307 to book your meal. They would love you to come and join them.

Tuesday 16 February 2016

Speaking Out 2016

A challenge for Lent
St Tudy and St Mabyn were the first people to speak about Jesus in our area of North Cornwall,
They have been followed by many generations of faithful people speaking of salvation and hope.
It is  by these first saints telling their story and then others telling their story that we arrive at today.
Bishop Tim has issued a challenge for 2016  and is asking people to tell their stories of faith and share with others something of what is important to them  and why.
It is a challenge that before Easter two thousand and sixteen faith stories will be spoken and heard in Cornwall ie. to  speak hope, to speak love, to tell story.
This may be done with members of our your family , friends or shared in Church or the pub !
It may be a story about someone else who has shared  their story with you in the past.
If you would like to write a few words then this could be emailed to a friend  or published  anonymously on a website eg www.stmabynchurch.co.uk or shared on social media.

Story telling has always been with us and certainly outdates modern technology so please keep this tradition going.
Bishop Tim

Thursday 21 January 2016

St Mabyn Church News


At the recent PCC meeting exciting plans were made for the Easter period and Holy Week in particular – it all happens rather early this year so please make a note! Warm thanks were expressed to all who contribute to making our services so enjoyable and the Church Warden’s report of increased attendance last year proved that we must be getting something right! The lack of a fulltime regular organist has actually led to a wider variety of music and we are deeply grateful to Les Field for playing the organ for us from time to time and also to the Reverend Steve Williams and his amazing Music Group for the joyful sounds they produce – there is nothing so good as a strong lead from the front! This has enabled us to enjoy some very jolly Gospel style hymns as well as the old stalwarts with which so many of us grew up. Our Lent course starts on Tuesday 16 February and each Tuesday morning until Easter and David and Mary Bishop have kindly agreed to host these at their home, Trelowarth, Watergate Lane – and newcomers are always welcome. A warning – the group generally adjourns to the pub for lunch afterwards! and indeed anyone who would like to join us just for lunch is most welcome. Mothering Sunday is on 6 March and we will hold a non-Communion service and look forward to the participation of the children from St Mabyn School. On Maundy Thursday we will hold our Agape Supper and this year it will be accompanied by the singing of Tennebrae. We will hold our Annual Church meeting after the Palm Sunday service on 20 March – do come along and hear what we have been up to and what are our future plans – including the installing of a kitchen and full toilet facilities!

Saturday 16 January 2016

Weekly attendance has continued to grow

Many people greatly enjoyed the special Christmas Services at St Mabyn with over 190 attending on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
As usual the Donkey proved to be a popular figure at the Crib Service together with John Lobb and his bucket.
The Church was brilliantly decorated and the true message of Christmas was presented by Rev Dave Elkington and Steve Williams.

It  is good to see that weekly attendance has continued to grow* by 15% throughout 2015
* this is opposite to the National trend in the Cof E and must partly due to the way in which everyone is made to feel very welcome.
      
Lent Course will begin on 16/2/16 at Trelawarren , Watergate Lane
It will be led by Rev Dave Elkington and focus on The Creed