Falmouth & Penryn Parish News

Having been introduced to fundraising for the St Julia's Hospice while working for Marks and Spencer, she has been helping to raise funds for Cornwall Hospice Care (the umbrella organisation covering St Julia's and Mount Edcumbe Hospices) for the past eight years, and has chaired the Falmouth group for the last year.

Her talk covered the early history of hospices, how they started, and how they operate now. She said much to dispel the impression that many people still hold, that those going into a hospice will never come out.

The aim of a hospice, she explained, is to provide the highest quality specialist care to alleviate pain and distressing symptoms for people with life-threatening illness, and to offer practical, emotional and spiritual support for them, their family and their carers.

She made members fully conscious of the need for fundraising by saying that government or NHS funding accounting for only a "miserly" 16 per cent of the annual running costs of £5 million. While paid fundraisers concentrate on the higher-profile events, such as abseiling down buildings and overseas treks, it is volunteer groups in the county who provide locally-raised funds from coffee mornings, bring-and-buy and similar activities. A small collection for the hospices was made at the end of the meeting.

The next meeting is on October 17, when Mrs Toms will give a talk entitled "A housemaid at Buckingham Palace".

Anyone interested in joining the U3A or taking part in any of the wide range of activities should contact David Neale, membership secretary, on 01872 320107.

FLORAL ARRANGEMENT SOCIETY: The September meeting took place at the Athenaeum hall. Members and visitors were welcomed by the chairman, Heather Ducker, who introduced the speaker, Catherine Reeves from Truro. Catherine is a member of Kenwyn Valley Floral Arrangement Society and a demonstrator of floral art. She demonstrated under the title "autumn" and produced five interesting exhibition pieces, two of which were especially appreciated by all present. She was thanked on behalf of her audience by the vice-chairman, Cheryl Risely. Those entering the monthly competition "play on colour" were Sylvia Ollerenshaw and Millie Holme. The meeting will be the AGM and the next meeting to which visitors are welcome will be on Tuesday, November 13. Those interested can contact the secretary, Millie Holmes, on 01326 314648.FALMOUTH CAMERA CLUB: The images of a summer field trip by members to Cot Valley and Porth Nanven came in for scrutiny when members welcomed a return visit by David Chapman, the well-known photographer and author who had led the party.

A showing of the varied shots of the fields of corn marigolds and purple viper's bugloss at Boscregan Farm contrasted with the bold landscapes and seascapes taken at Porth Nanven with its large rounded boulders hewn from the cliffs by the natural elements of wind and tide. Mr Chapman, who was introduced by vice-chairman Dean Evans, conducted a critique and with the aid of his own images gave helpful tips on the composition and improvements that could be made to their digital efforts. The first of the points competitions takes place on Thursday, September 27. the Athenaeum club, 7.30pm.

WEST CORNWALL LADIES'LUNCHEON CLUB: What a success Denise Carty made of her debut as the new chairman at the meeting on September 13 at the Royal Duchy hotel. In her opening remarks she welcomed 104 members and six guests and gave a resume of her own life. She then introduced Jodi Redgrove, the support and personal development co-ordinator at Jamie Oliver's Fifteen restaurant at Watergate Bay.

She explained how, two years ago, many young people, most coming from deprived areas, were invited to give a two-minute intervie to Jamie Oliver's organisation. Sixteen of those lived in Cornwall, so a decision was made to open a Fifteen Restaurant in the county last year, and it has been a huge success.

The name Fifteen originated because when the project was started in London, Jamie Oliver took on 15 students, most having no direction or aim in life - and what a transformation he made.

Jodi set out the structure of the three-month programme and what the students do when they finally qualify.

These youngsters were going to try something they had never tried before. First, they were put on a three-day boot camp to see what they were made of, and those who did not like discipline were out, because they must be committed to the work.

Jodi deals with all the youngsters' problems outside "cheffing". Some have had drug addictions, which have to be overcome, and some had family problems, debts, relationship problems and some had never worked at all. Any youngster now found on drugs at work is immediately sent home.

Fortunately, all the youngsters are now doing well and working through their personal battles. Some have excelled so well that they have gone to Australia and America and graduated. Some who were suicidal because of their former way of life have found a completely new life and are doing very well.

Jodi had a letter of thanks recently from a mother who said that Fifteen Cornwall had completely changed her son's life and consequently, that of the family and how proud they felt of him.

On leaving the course, the students get a Jamie Oliver stamp to show they are really employable.

The president, Margaret Sanders and member Jill Monny gave their own experiences of attending the Watergate Restaurant. Margaret also gave a very warm vote of thanks.

Next month's luncheon will be on Thursday, October 11 when the guest speaker will be David Pollard, who will give the inside story of "cruising and cruise ships".

FRIENDS OF PRINCESS PAVILION: The Friends held free patio entertainment with the Misty Mountain line dance team, who gave an excellent demonstration, and were joined by members of the audience for some of the well known dances. The friends have expressed thanks to everyone for their support and those people who provided raffle prizes, and those supporters who bought tickets. The next free patio entertainment will be on Thursday October 25 at 2pm. The Appalations duo will provide the entertainment, giving a chance for a singalong. Non members very welcome.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Christmas meal will now be held at the Falmouth Beach Hotel on Thursday December 6, at 12.30pm for 1pm. The three-course festive lunch will cost £11.50 per head, with concessions for members of the friends of the Pavilion. Entertainment will be provided by Les Graham and there will be a raffle.

Bookings can be made at the October 25 meeting, or by telephone to Maureen Davies before that date on 01326 312508.

The December monthly meeting will be held on Thursday December 13 at the Pavilion with entertainment from Roger Polmere. Please note there will be no meal.

WOMEN'S INSTITUTE: When Alan Cox brings his slides it is always an interesting evening, and this week was no exception. With the able assistance of Ann he showed some outstanding shots from land, sea and air en route to the Isles of Scilly.

Their love for the islands was obvious and the commentary that accompanied the slides was most interesting and informative as it included the history of the lighthouses and the boats used by the islanders. Tresco gardens were particularly spectacular with many of the less common shrubs in flower and as always the tame birds were enchanting. Altogether it was a delightful evening giving pleasure to all.

ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION: Shipmates and friends of Falmouth Branch of the Royal Naval Association celebrated the 25th anniversary of the re-commissioning of the branch with a lunch at the Falmouth Hotel on September 21. Branch Secretary Ron Burdekin welcomed those present, and read out a number of apologies for absence and messages of congratulation.

Branch president Commodore Tony Hogg was unable to attend, due to two previous engagements, and Commander Paddy McClurg, general secretary of the Royal Naval Association, was unable to attend at the last minute, due to a family bereavement.

Messages of congratulations on the anniversary included several RNA Branches, RFA Mounts Bay, RFA Lyme Bay, Falmouth Merchant Navy Association, and Falmouth and Penryn Sea Cadets.

The branch chaplain, the Rev Stephen Tudgey said grace, and those present proceeded to enjoy an excellent three course lunch. Following the lunch, shipmate Richard Hart, chairman of Area 4 (South West Flotilla) of the Royal Naval Association, deputising for Cdr Paddy McClurg, presented branch chairman Mick Stevens with a framed certificate marking the occasion. In his remarks, Richard made reference to important events that had occurred 25 years ago, in particular the Falklands conflict.

In his response, shipmate Stevens continued the theme of memorable events of 1982, including the raising of the Mary Rose -- thus disproving the submariners' theory that it is only submarines that go to the bottom and come up again! He also paid tribute to the work of his predecessors as chairman of the branch, in particular to Harold (Thommo) Thompson, who had held the post for some seventeen years, and to whom the branch owed a great deal.

Shipmates Ted Turvey, Bill Marshall and Don Herbert, three of the four members of the branch who were present at the first meeting in 1982, were presented with commemorative tankards to mark the occasion, and the secretary and treasurer later visited shipmate John Kipling to present him with his tankard.

Shipmate Hart proposed a toast to the branch, and shipmate Alan Polley proposed the toast to absent friends.

The proceedings concluded with the auction of a bottle of Pussers' Rum, purchased in Tortola, British Virgin Islands, and kindly donated by CPO Mark Thompson of RNAS Culdrose.

ALL SAINTS' CHURCH: At a time when the fashionable terms are career change and re-training, the members of All Saints were able to congratulate their priest-in-charge, Father Stephen Drakeley not only on his birthday on Tuesday but celebration of his 30 years in the priesthood.

Father Stephen presided over the sung parish Mass assisted by Father Stewart Turner (curate), which began with the processional hymn All my hope on God is founded. Following on, Father Stephen greeted the congregation and led the prayers of penitence and confession.

The singing of the kyrie and gloria in excelsis preceded the reading of the first lesson by Jane MacLennan. This was from the book of the prophet Jeremiah chapter 8 vv 18 to end, chapter 9 v 1. God continues to speak through the prophet and laments over the short-comings of his chosen people. The second lesson from Paul's first letter to Timothy chapter 2 vv 1-7 was read by Paul Jenkins. Central to this passage are words that set Christianity apart from other world religions - "For there is one God; there is also one mediator between God and humankind - Christ Jesus". Fr Stewart proclaimed the Gospel of Luke chapter 16 vv 1-13. After the story of the dishonest farm manager comes the scripture "You cannot serve God and wealth". For the theme of his address Father Stephen considered the question: should the church be involved in secular as well as spiritual matters?

Father Stewart led the intercessions, before Father Stephen celebrated at the eucharist. The chalice bearers were David Fittock and Barbara Jenkins. Servers for the Mass David Fittock and Anthea Bancroft, sidespersons Maureen Roberts and Derek Smith. Organist Roger King (church organist) whose playing of the voluntaries O praise my soul with gladness (Sigfried Garg-Elert) and Grand March from Scipio (G F Handel) was well received by the congregation. The Mass ended with the hymn To God be the glory.

Forthcoming event. Sunday, September 30 at 6pm, All Saints will host Falmouth churches together combined worship.

On the 15th Sunday after trinity, the sung parish mass was a celebration of the 40th wedding anniversary of Paul and Barbara Jenkins, giving thanks for the work they do at All Saints. Paul is treasurer of the church, while Barbara is currently church secretary and leader of the ladies' social group.

The mass was presided over by Father Stewart Turner and began with the processional hymn Praise to the holiest in the height. Father Stewart then gave the traditional Christian greeting before inviting the congregation to join in the prayers of penitence and confession. The singing of the kyrie and gloria preceded the reading of the first lesson by Jim Hall. This was from Jeremiah, chapter 4 vs 11-12, 22-28. The prophet continues to deliver the message he has been given by God warning the Israelites of the ills that would befall them because of their turning away from Him.

Barbara Jenkins read the second lesson, from Paul's letter to Timothy, chapter 1 vs 1 and 12-17. Paul recounts his past which was not good but takes comfort from words that are the central tenet of Christianity: "the saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners."

Chalice assistants at the Eucharist were Jane MacLennan and Barbara Jenkins. Server was David Fittock. Sidespersons were Frances Martin and Ken Eagles and the organist was David Cunliffe. The mass ended with the hymn Tell out my soul. The congregation then presented gifts to Paul and Barbara and toasted them with cake and wine.

ST MARY'S CHURCH: On Sunday September 16, mass was celebrated by Father Jon Bielawski together with Father Stephen Bulambo who is on a visit from Malawi. This was Home Mission Sunday, and the reading from St Luke's Gospel told how the shepherd went out into the wilderness to rescue the one sheep that was lost. After Mass, Father Jon introduced Joanna Clay, who has come to work as part-time Catholic youth and family worker for St Mary's parish, Falmouth, together with Truro parish. She has begun by visiting families in the parish and setting up the confirmation programme. After Mass, many parishioners enjoyed a harvest lunch at Falmouth Beach Hotel.

During the spell of beautiful weather, St Mary's school has been able to catch up on the sports days that were cancelled due to appalling wet weather in July. Beginning this week, the school offers its pupils 16 after-school clubs of various kinds. School Mass was said for the whole school when term began, and for class 6 on Wednesday.

Sad news on Monday was the death of Mrs Joan Rutt, who after a long stay in hospitals was admitted to Sheldon Nursing Home five days before her death. Prayers have also been said for Ray Demaine and Dennis Offord. Their funerals have been arranged for the coming week.

On Tuesday the Catholic women's league held their regular meeting and decided to contact Julia Goldsworthy MP concerning the draft human tissues and embryos Bill which will permit the creation of cloned human-animal embryos.

On Friday the wedding was celebrated of Daniel Sollom and Ruth MacPherson, with Father Mark O'Keefe celebrating Mass. On Saturday it was the wedding of Benjamin Frankly and Kate Westbrook, with music from the Gospel Singers from Callington.

On Sunday Father Bulambo read the scripture from St Luke's Gospel warning of the dangers of greed and dishonesty in handling money. Father Bielawski preached the homily explaining this Gospel parable. Polish translations of the Sunday prayers, the psalm and the scripture readings were provided for those who could not understand them in English. After Mass at the coffee club in the hall, happy birthday greetings were sung for Harry Lobban who blew out the nine candles on his cake with one puff.

CHURCH OF KING CHARLES THE MARTYR: Holy communion 1662 was celebrated at 8.30am with the collect and lessons for the 16th Sunday after Trinity. The celebrant was the Rev Stephen Tudgey.

Mr Tudgey was the president and minister at the 10.30am sung eucharist with holy baptism. The server was David Snell. The eucharist was sung to the Mass of St Thomas by David Thorne and Lance Foy was guest organist. Mr Tudgey began by welcoming visitors and especially the family of Jack and Ethan Harris who were baptised during the service. The introit hymn was New every morning is the love, then Jan Winslade read from the Gospel according to St Luke, chapter 19, vs 1-10.

Mr Tudgey preached the sermon on this text and told the story of Zacchaeus and how an encounter with Jesus led to a transformation in the life of Zacchaeus. We also can have a new beginning when we receive Jesus and start to apply His teaching to our lives. Mr Tudgey then welcomed Jack and Ethan who were joining the family of Jesus and starting their journeys in life with firm foundation in baptism. Jack and Ethan were then baptised. Jan Winslade took the intercessions and the offertory procession was led by members of the congregation. During the giving of communion, the choir sang Christ is the World to a traditional Scottish melody; Michael White sang the tenor solo.

At the end of the service, Jack and Ethan were given lighted candles which should be re-lit on their birthdays and on special occasions to remind them of their baptism and their commitment to Christ. Mr Tudgey gave the blessing and everyone was invited to coffee and refreshments in the church hall after the service.

Mr Tudgey was the officiant at the 6pm sung evensong and Mr Bob Smith was guest organist. The first hymn was Alleluia, alleluia followed by the singing of Psalm 128 "Blessed are all they that fear the Lord: and walk in His ways", the Magnificat and the nunc dimittis.

Wendy Pyatt, from the congregation, read the first lesson from Ezra chapter 1, which tells of the return from exile and the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. Robert Martin, a member of the choir, read the second lesson from St John chapter 7 vs 14-36 which is part of the teaching of Jesus when he went up to Jerusalem for the feast. Mr Tudgey led the intercessions. Jan Winslade preached the sermon in which she showed how God turns human perceptions upside down. She also drew attention to verse 17 of the Gospel reading which was a great turning point in Jesus' ministry; He gave the Jews the choice between believing that He was a blasphemer or was truly the Son of God and the saviour of the world.

Kenwin Barton Singers performed a concert version of the Mikado by Gilbert and Sullivan on Wednesday, September 12. The singers were conducted by their musical director Geoff Pope who gave a brief and very amusing summary of the plot, and soloists and chorus contributed to a wonderful evening. Coffee and biscuits were served in the interval and the Singers enjoyed a pasty supper after the performance. The evening produced a profit of £222.10 which goes to hall funds. As part of the nationwide Tea Party Scheme, Jan and Roger Winslade hosted an afternoon to help people in the world's poorest communities to work their way out of poverty. Tea and delicious cakes were enjoyed and a wonderful Ginger Lily plant in Jan and Roger's garden, which boasted over 25 blooms, was admired!

Ann Wilkes is sponsoring for one week, commencing September 23, to commemorate her late sister, Jeannette Charlton, whose birthday is on September 25 and an anonymous donor will be sponsoring for one week, commencing on Sunday September 30.

Forward events: On Thursday, holy communion is at 10.30am and Charlie's Angels at 1.30pm On Sunday, September 30, holy communion will be held at 8.30am, sung matins at 10.30am, and evensong at 6pm.

PENRYN: PENRYN FEDERATION: Forty members enjoyed a salad harvest supper prepared by members of the committee, who also made and supplied a variety of desserts. The supper was followed by a short harvest service conducted by the Rev Arthur Cowburn.

Committee members Ivy Evans and Margaret Harrison auctioned the array of produce that members had kindly donated and £112 was raised towards the Federation Christmas lunch.

Unfortunately committee member Mary Pearce was unable to attend as she was at West Cornwall Hospital and Doreen Hancock was unwell. Three members celebrated their birthdays; Val Burleigh played the birthday march for them.

Thirty members went to Penzance for the annual outing. The weather was great, however members were held up on their journey because of two accidents, delaying the time spent in Penzance. Members did not seem too worried and, once watered and fed, they shopped till they dropped and then snoozed on the way home to Penryn. The next meeting is on Friday September 21, 7.30pm at Penryn welfare hall,with the Tresillian Singers.

PENRYN TWINNING: The weather was good for a barbecue at Flushing overlooking the bay, and twinners enjoyed playing boule and rounders whilst the children played on the adjoining pirate ship.

Members all brought a raffle prize and £25 was raised towards funds.

Ada, Christine, Beryl and Kate organised a tombola stall at Penryn town fair, which raised £163; the four members donned colourful samba outfits to match the theme of the fair.

There will be a harvest supper, service and auction at 7.30pm on Saturday, September 29, at Penryn welfare hall. Tickets are £5 and are available from Mary May on 377390. Penryn Twinning AGM will be on Thursday, October 18, at 7.30pm at Penryn town hall. New members will be welcome. Twinning Christmas lunch will be held at the Falmouth Beach hotel on Sunday, December 9, at 12.30pm.

PENRYN METHODIST CHURCH: Mrs Dianne Webber of St Erth conducted Sunday morning's service. Visitors were made welcome with one couple attending from the Isle of Wight.

Mrs Myra Bennett led the hymns for the service, the underlying theme of which was based on harvest.

Mrs Webber opened the service with some words from Psalm 105 verses two and three. She then told the story of a young curate whose first job was to give a harvest festival address to children. On the day of the service he involved young people in the church by asking them to fetch a bunch of grapes, oranges, dates, mushrooms, apples, daisies, eggs, trailing ivy, a turnip, grapefruit, radishes, oats and wheat. Taking the first letter of each item Mrs Webber, with the help of some Sunday club members , placed them on a long ribbon and it spelt out "God made it grow".

To illustrate the sentence, the young people elevated a sunflower which Mrs Webber had made. The first lesson was from Corinthians, chapter 3 vs 1-9. The Gospel lesson was taken from St Matthew, chapter 13, with Jesus explaining the parable of the sower.

Mrs Webber's text for her sermon was: "for we are partners working together for God and you are God's field". Church can be likened to a field with walls as boundaries; as a field is worked, we work and participate for the church, helping needy people. Fields are planned out by farmers and the church also works to a plan.