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All the paths of the LORD are lovingkindness and truth to those who keepHis covenant and His testimonies.Psalm 25 v 10

THEPLYMPTON PILGRIMSplymptonchurch.co.uk plymptonstmaurice.co.uk

£1 contribution March 2017

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PLYMPTON TEAM MINISTRY CONTACTSPARISH STAFFRevd. Robert Harris 209 Ridgeway 658762Revd. Roger Beck 81 Fore St, St Maurice 336393Revd. Mark Brimicombe 4 David Close, Plympton 338454Revd. Ian Provost 8 Larkhall Rise, Plymouth 319528

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

TEAM OFFICE (both Parishes) Open 9.30 am to 12.30pm (Mon-Fri) 348525Mrs Sarah Duckworth stmarysplympton@gmail.com

CHURCH WARDENS - St Mary’sMr Kenneth Kingwell 11 Rashleigh Avenue 335702Mr Peter Leigh 8 Longmeadow Close 339221

CHURCH WARDENS - St MauriceMr Val Taylor 14 Langdale Close, Plymouth, PL6 8SP(Incl Hall Bookings) 07907739076Mr Ken Ward 21 Maidenwell Close PL7 1RB 330601

PCC SECRETARY - St Mary’sDebbie Tozer via e-mail deborahtozer@aol.com

PCC SECRETARY - St MauriceMrs Gill Easterbrook 339961

TEAM SAFEGUARDING REPRESENTATIVEMr David J. Farley FarleyDjUK@aol.com 342706 1 Courtland Crescent

SAFEGUARDING REPRESENTATIVE - St MauriceMrs Shirley Rogers e mail: rightdk2@virginmedia.com Mob 07596984179/07903366929

CHILDREN’S ADVOCATE - St Mary’sMrs Sarah Duckworth duckworth11@hotmail.co.uk 337239

BELL RINGERSMrs Mary Nicholls - St Mary’s: Practices Mondays 7.30pm-9pm 200053Janet Farrage -St Maurice: Practices Wednesdays 7pm-9pm (not Aug) 07742983311

STEWARDSHIP SECRETARYClaire-Louise Journeaux - St Mary’s 513093Mrs Margaret Lugar - St Maurice 348619

[Cont p26]

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PLYMPTON TEAM MINISTRYPLYMPTON ST MARY

PLYMPTON ST. MAURICEServing Christ in the heart of

Plympton and beyond

March 2017

Dear Friends,

“Prayer is the breath of the new-born soul, and there can be no Christian life without it” Rowland Hill

I hope that you are all looking forward to Lent this year. It is a season for the renewal ofChristian life as we seek to grow closer to God; to enter into a deeper understanding ofour Faith; and to become more fully the people God wills us to be. It is a time of greathope as we look forward to commemorating the great acts of our Redemption and thejoy of the Resurrection.This year there are many opportunities to participate in the process of renewal. Theseinclude our participation in regular worship and, in particular, our engagement withspiritual disciplines such as the Stations of the Cross each week.

Central to this renewal must be a focus upon prayer, both individual and corporate.Bishop Robert has made growing in prayer the first priority in our Diocesan Vision &Strategy: -

Growing in prayer“We want to grow in prayer, living a life close to God. This means taking risks as webecome more honest with ourselves and more honest with God. Prayer opens up deepplaces within us to God’s grace which is why it is such a life-giving activity. Growing inprayer is essential if we are to witness to God’s Kingdom and become the people God hascalled us to be.” + Robert Exon

Yet, if we are honest, prayer is something with which we sometimes struggle.

“How do we pray?”, “What words should we use?”, “Does God hear me?”, “Whatdifference does it make?” are but a few of the questions we may be tempted to ask.Then, because we may be worried that we are not very good at it we find it easy to giveup.

However, prayer isn’t as hard as you may think. Clement of Alexandria said, “Prayer isconversation with God”. Even when we cannot find the words for such a conversationGod is with us and enables our prayer, “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; forwe do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs toodeep for words”. Romans 8.26

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This year our Lent groups are going to take prayer as their theme. It is hoped that thiswill not only enable us to explore the nature of prayer and its significance for theChristian life but also enable us to grow in our own life of prayer. I hope that many ofyou will make a special effort to take part in these groups. Prayer isn’t just part of theDiocesan strategy. It is the lifeblood of the Church.With my prayers and best wishes,Robert

ST MARY’S NOTEBOOK

LENTASH WEDNESDAY – 1st March. There will be a Eucharist at 8.30 am with the Impositionof Ashes and a Sung Eucharist with Imposition of Ashes at 7.30 pm. Please ensure thatyou return your old palm crosses to church by Sunday 26th February and make aspecial effort to be present at one of our services.FRIDAYS IN LENT – Stations of the Cross at 12.00 noon. This devotion enables us tomake a spiritual journey on the Way of the Cross as we commemorate the death andpassion of Jesus. This will be followed by a Lent Lunch.LENT GROUPS – This year we shall be following a course on Prayer written by MarkBrimicombe. Further details will be published in the parish newsletter.

HOLY COMMUNION AT HOME – The Blessed Sacrament is reserved in church for theCommunion of the Sick and housebound and the Sacrament of Anointing is alsoavailable. Please contact one of the clergy. Also please let Ron and Cherry Nicholls (Tel:515771) know of anyone suffering from sickness at home or in hospital who keep theclergy informed.

MOTHERS' UNIONAn amusing talk by Mrs Margaret Provost on February 8th on living in a vicarage. Thankyou Margaret.Our next meeting is 1st March in church at 2pm for Holy Communion. Also PaulineNicholls will be enrolled into Mother's Union.Friday 3rd March Woman's World Day of prayer 1.30pm at Our Lady of Lourdes inVicarage Road. The theme is “Am I Being Unfair To You” by the Women of the Philippines.Marguerite Coaker

THE CHILDREN’S SOCIETY ANNUAL BOX COLLECTION I will be collecting your boxesfrom now and as usual please bring them to me in Church or if you would like me tocollect the box from you at home just give me a ring.Thank youMargaret Leigh tel 339221

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FLOWERS FOR EASTER AND THROUGH THE YEARI will again be taking donations in memory for the Easter lilies. If you would like todonate to this please let me have your gift in an envelope, together with the name(s) ofthe people you wish to remember as soon as possible

Also: I will be making a new Altar Flower rota from Easter 2017 to Lent 2018, if you wouldlike to donate and or arrange the flowers during this period please let me now. I do notrequire the money until a fortnight before the date, but it is helpful to know the datesyou require as soon as possible.Joan Humphries

FAIRTRADE EASTER EGGSThese are the only Easter eggs made with Fairtrade chocolate, which is very tasty, andthey come with a little story book of the Easter Story, or some have a little puzzle book.No palm oil, or Shea butter is used which is a big plus due the environmental concerns.Also, 10p from each 150g egg is donated to “Traidcraft exchange”.

You may have found some in supermarkets from the middle of February, but only inlimited numbers, so please get them from me if unable to source them elsewhere!Christine Harris Tel: 07590 619164

REFLECTIONS ON CHRISTMAS AT ST MARY’SThe Crib Service- Angels galore, shepherds and sheep, grumpy King Herod, an inn-keeper, Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus and, of course, a donkey. Revd Robert read the oftrepeated story which was interspersed with carols and a few ad libs. The children takingpart were obviously enjoying the experience, those in the congregation lookedenthralled. The Church was packed - it was indeed a service to be remembered and I feelsure the children who were there and all adults who were there will be there again nextyear. It was truly lovely so well done to all those involved.Judith ByeAlthough it seems a long time ago now, this report reminds us that special services willalways help to ensure our door is “open” to all - as it should be all through the year.Editor

A visitor experience- When I came to the Christmas Eve Midnight Mass, and theChristmas Morning service, I posted on Facebook a nice description of how enjoyablethose services had been with all our singing, and how friendly it had been. However oneof my closest friends said she didn't realise that I was religious! She had forgotten thatshe used to join me for the Christmas Eve Midnight Service years ago.I realised that people rarely mention their faith or church these days.The social pressure that has dominated for decades, has been the ridiculing of Christianfaith, which has led to embarrassment for Christians in "admitting" their faith. So theykeep it quiet as if it was shameful.

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I realised that we need to bring back the habit of mentioning our faith and church in normalconversation. This way people will not forget we are Christians, and having our faith andChurch being talked about again as people used to when I was young, would remove allperceived stigma and embarrassment, and so bring people back to Church.Helen McCall from an e-mail to Revd. Robert.

PINEWOOD CLOSE (Rev Roger Beck’s previous Home) By the time that you read thismagazine hopefully we will have enough volunteers to start preparing and painting all therooms in 27 Pinewood Close. However, if you didn’t see the Notice in Church asking for helpand you would like to assist with this or indeed in any other jobs that will need doing e.g theGarden, please speak to Peter Leigh tel 339221

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

Nancy Johnson

Nancy provided this poem for thePilgrim exactly 2 years ago and Ithought it would be a fittingmemory of her that reminds us ofher and her faith in actionPhil Smith

10th August 1919 - 24th January 2017

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STUDY DAY FOR THE TEAM MINISTRYSATURDAY 11TH MARCH IN THE PARISH HALL

10.00am – 3.00pm led byProfessor David Catchpole

THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS OF NAZARETH: REVISITED &REVIEWED

Professor Catchpole writes: “The Gospel writers do not end their narratives with agrim and ghastly death but with unexpected light at the end of the tunnel ofdarkness. They and their fellow-believers called it ‘resurrection’, something intenselyreal to them and intensely meaningful for all thoughts about Jesus from then on. Ourresearches have to examine the phenomenon of visionary experiences of thebereaved, which would scarcely have been sufficient to generate ‘resurrection’thinking, and we also have to probe the stories of an unoccupied tomb which mayhave been more vital than is sometimes supposed. And the place to start – perhapsnot the obvious one – is the extraordinary story of an ascension! What can be madeof that, we might ask? On any account, the end of the story of Jesus became thebeginning of another story which is still not finished. Whatever it is that can belabelled ‘historical’ becomes the basis for a remarkable theological flourishing. Togive but one example, Paul was not content to see the resurrection as an event welook back to: for him it was a reality which Christian people actually share! OnSaturday 11th March we will remember that.”It is helpful to have an idea of numbers attending. Please sign the list available inboth churches and take a programme.Roger Beck

THANKS FOR THE WONDERFUL SUPPORT OF THE PLYMPTON AND DISTRICT CIVICSOCIETY AND OTHERS

St Mary’s has benefited greatly from a group ofcommunity stalwarts who continue to tend the hedges,banks and greenery around the churchyard. But also Imanaged to “catch in the act” John Netherton andRoger Good. I am also aware of the labours of DavePearn, Peter and Paula Rhodes, John and Nan Willis,some of whom are not under a Civic Society umbrella,with John Boulden’s name also prominent. I am sure I

have missed people, whether regular or occasional helpers, with this never-ending task soI apologise if I've missed anyone!Many thanks to all you “hidden people” who work so hard to ensure the churchyard isregularly maintained.Editor

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ST MAURICE NOTEBOOKLENT begins on ASH WEDNESDAY - 1st March.There will be a Eucharist (said) at 9.30am and (sung) at 7.30pm – both with Ashing.In the Gospel for the day (Matthew 6.1-6,16-21) we hear again what have become thethree aspects of Lenten discipline – PRAYER, FASTING & ALMSGIVING.There are many ways in which these can be practiced by the individual but there is onewhich both takes in all three and marks the day of the crucifixion. This is the “Stations ofthe Cross” at 12noon each Friday followed by a Lent lunch of soup and cheese from12.30pm with donations to support the work of the Food Bank. By the time you read thiswe will have had a talk on this work over a Sunday coffee.It will also be possible to support the Food Bank with gifts of food through a box in church.Some years ago there was a slogan “Keep Sunday Special” perhaps during Lent we could“Keep FRIDAY Special” and make prayer, fasting and almsgiving part of our Lent and do thistogether.Saturday 25th March THE ANNUNCIATION OF THE LORD TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY.There will be a Eucharist for Lady Day at the Lady altar at 10.00am. This day is particularlyobserved by members of the Mothers’ Union.Fr Roger

ST MAURICE MOTHERS’ UNION MARCH DIARYWednesday 1st 9.30am Ash Wednesday Corporate CommunionFriday 3rd 1.30pm Women’s World Day of Prayer at Our Lady of Lourdes in Vicarage Road ( Shared service in Plympton)Tuesday 14th 1.30pm Julian of Norwich with Patricia Stokes MU Speaker, Reader.Friday 24th 12noon Lent Lunch provided by MUSaturday 25th 11am LADY DAY in EXETER Cathedral with Bishop SarahTuesday 28th 12noon Parish LunchThe National AGM is planned to take place in Edinburgh from 29th -30th September 2017.Packs should be available currently to provide members with relevant information ifrequired. The MU representative at the UN Commission on the Status of Women in 2017will be formed by “a delegation of representatives handpicked from our membership toprovide a voice of knowledge and experience which firmly roots Mothers’ Union as anauthority against Gender based violence.”Away from it All – please do refer to your priest if you aware of any person who couldbenefit from this scheme. Last year 26 families were provided with short break holidaysthrough the Exeter Diocese Mothers’ Union.Rose Jones

PLYMPTON ST MAURICE LADIES BREAKFASTThe Parish Ladies Breakfast is held on the first Saturday of the month at Wetherspoons(Stannary Court) on The Ridgeway at 9 30am. The next Breakfast will be on Saturday 4th March at 9 30am. Do join us for good food and good company with no washing up.You can be sure of a warm welcome. Either just turn up or contact Sue Hawes 345054.

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Church of England Devon MagazineGood News from the Diocese of ExeterFebruary and March 2017 (extracts)

Fund award will helprefugeesFunding to help house Syrian refugeefamilies in North Devon has been includedin the second round of awards from thediocesan Mission and Growth fund.The TARKA Community RefugeeSponsorship in the Bideford, Landcross,Littleham, Monkleigh & Weare GiffardMission Community has been awarded£10,000 towards the costs of supporting aSyrian family relocating to the UK.Lead sponsor on the project Brian Walkersaid: “Thanks to the fund we already haveenough to welcome our first family. We arenow searching for two 3/4 bedroomhouses. The Syrian families will pay thelocal market rental for a lease of two years,with us helping when necessary. We needfurniture, appliances, household goods andmore, for two family homes. Our initiativeis open to all who wish to help refugees.”A total of 13 grants were received. Fiveapplications were unsuccessful but all wereencouraged to resubmit their applicationstaking into account the comments andsuggestions from the panel.St Andrew’s, Cullompton has beenawarded £15,000 towards the cost offunding a Pastor to families in severe needand a parish safeguarding officer.Plymouth City Deanery has been awarded£5,678 towards the cost of hosting a‘Leading Your Church into Growth’conference.The Edgemoor Group (Bishopsnympton,Charles, East Anstey, High Bray,

Knowstone, Mariansleigh, Molland,North Molton, Twitchen, Rose Ash andWest Anstey) has been awarded£12,045 towards the cost of funding aGroup Administrator.St Mark’s, Exeter has been awarded£3,000 towards the cost of relocatingtheir coffee servery and the provisionof a children’s area.St Peter’s Foundation, Salcombe hasbeen awarded £15,000 to help furtherthe work of the Foundation.St Paul’s, Stonehouse, Plymouth hasbeen awarded £12000 towards thecost of funding a full time ProjectWorker.Bideford and the 4 parishes MissionCommunity have been awarded£15,000 towards the cost of funding apart time Children’s and Family’s Co-ordinator.

Visit facebook.com and search forTARKA Community Refugee Sponsors,and North Devon Refugee Solidarityfor gifts in kind. You may also donateonline, visit justgiving.com and searchfor “Tarka”.

Hope slogan from the Calais Jungle Camp

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Welcoming refugeesChurches in our diocese have been working tosupport families coming to Devon as part of thegovernment and UN programme with the SyrianVulnerable Persons Relocation scheme. In EastDevon and at Bideford, community sponsorshipprojects have been launched to accommodate andresettle Syrians locally. Additionally churches havebeen welcoming people to Devon and especiallyoffering practical help to the children and youngpeople being temporarily housed at Torrington.Martyn Goss, Director of Church and Society at theDiocese of Exeter, said: “These initiatives arewonderful signs of hospitality, generosity andsolidarity, all profound Christian values, expressedby local people in response to a global challenge.They hold up beautiful symbols of hope inunpredictable and uncertain times.”Elsewhere Christians are also involved in otherprojects and activities, including ‘About Time’ and‘Open Doors International’ in Plymouth, wherethere are already existing refugees as part of theearlier government dispersal programme. WestDartmoor churches recently donated nearly £1,000to support the ‘About Time’ project.The Diocese of Exeter has set up a page on itswebsite to encourage and suggest ways that localcongregations, parishes and individuals can

continue to support displacedpeople seeking sanctuary locally,and to challenge the causes thatlead to the global crisis such asenvironmental destructionconflict and persecution.Visitexeter.anglican.org/resources/faith-action/refugees-in-devon tofind out more.

Volunteer Chris serves food at theAbout Time weekly lunch inPlymouth

Bishop sleeps out for YMCABishop Sarah is taking part in this year’s YMCA sleep-out. The Sleep Easy event takes place on 4 March inExeter Castle. Over the 7 years YMCA Exeter has runthe event they have raised over £115,000 to supporttheir work with young people who have experiencedneglect, domestic violence or family breakdown.Bishop Sarah said: “I can’t begin to imagine what it islike to be young and homeless but hope that by joiningSleep Easy 2017 I can make a small contribution toYMCA who can make a difference.”For details and to donate visit

sleepeasyexeter.org.uk

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Fridays are a time of excitement asresidents in the Chaucer Way estate inPlymouth anticipate the arrival of the bigblue bus bringing tea and cake and thechance to chat.Phil Baul and his wife Chris have beenrunning the bus since it was donated tothem by First Buses in 2012. The pairmoved to the area in 2008 with the aim ofhelping the 13 churches of the oldDevonport Deanery with their childrenand families work. After plans for acommunity centre fell through, thecouple, who work for the Church Army,had the idea of a bus and every Friday nowpark up in Congreve Gardens from 10amto 2pm.Phil said: “We have seen friendshipsdevelop and we have a growing numberjoining us on social outings. People fromthe bus have since joined in an Alphacourse at church and young people fromthe Discovery College run by the YMCAalso use it.” He adds: “We all believe thisproject has been God inspired!” Bishop

Robert recently travelled on the bus as part ofhis visit to the Plymouth area.Meanwhile, as part of our Bishops going outand about around the Diocese, Bishop Sarahmet people in Barnstaple and visited patientsand staff at the North Devon District Hospital.In January Bishop Sarah will also have visitedTotnes Deanery and Bishop Nick is going toTorrington Deanery. It is part of a year of visitsto communities in Devon, to listen to people’sconcerns and talk about the new vision for theChurch in Devon.

CATCH THE BUS

Melanesia event raises funds for Sisters

The Sisters and Novices enjoyingtheir lunch of rice and fish thanksto the ‘Lunch Appeal’ organisedthrough the Melanesian Mission.

A fundraising lunch in Escot church hasraised £312 to support the work of theMelanesian Sisters through the MelanesianMission charity based in East Devon and withwhom we are linked as a diocese. Around 50people enjoyed the event. Katie Drew,Executive Officer of the Mission said: “Thisdonation will ensure that all the Sisters andNovices at the religious orders’ headquartersand training centre will have lunch for thenext three months. Before this appeal wasstarted only those in most need would havelunch, and the health of the Community wassuffering.”For details visit: www.mmuk.net

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www.exeter.anglican.orgTwitter.com/cofedevon

Facebook Diocese of Exeter

“God is rather like a stamp collector, youknow.” I remember hearing this in asermon by that great Biblical scholarCanon John Fenton. There was acollective silence wondering what onearth he meant. “You see, the thingabout stamp collectors,” he continued,“is that they love stamps with odditiesand quirks, the ones that aren’tcompletely perfect. God is the same withus. He loves us as we are, with all ouroddities and quirks; he delights in them.”I found this immensely reassuring - thethought of God delighting in the real mewith all my mistakes, rough edges, andbits missing – the individual me, thewhole me, warts and all.Of course, I can’t deny that there areaspects of me that go beyond oddity intosinfulness – things that need righting andtransforming. That is true for all of us,and Lent is when we bring the real me toGod for his forgiveness and healing. Butany such healing will surely respect theindividual people we have become. I’msure serious stamp collectors gentlyclean and restore their prized

Please note these are relevant extracts from the recent February and March News.

possessions; but they still preserve thequirks and oddities which make aparticular stamp unique.God has made a creation in which we eachemerge as the unique people we are. Herejoices in our individuality. And Christ’sresurrection suggests that individualitywill continue into eternity: Christ isrecognisably himself, even down to theholes in his hands and feet.If God rejoices in our individuality, and allour quirks and qualities, then so shouldwe. He loves us as ourselves, as you, asme. Remembering that may stop usbeating ourselves up for falling short ofsome image of perfection which we thinkwe should be striving for, but inevitablynever attain. We’re not called to bealabaster saints; we’re called to beourselves.So do pause on your Lenten journey tofeel God’s love for you as you. Do thankhim for transforming you now and in thefuture into the perfection of yourself. Anddo delight in who you are, just as he does.

The Ven Dr Mark ButchersArchdeacon of Barnstaple

StampCo l l ec t ing

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FROM THE ST MARY’S REGISTERS 2017

BAPTISMS15th January 2017 Grace Marie Connelly

Lily Rose Parker5th February 2017 Charlie Isaac Blackmore

Evelyn Frances Melvin

MARRIAGES[None to report]

FUNERALS & INTERMENTS OF ASHES23rd January Graham Ian Silver aged 6027th January Phyllis Rosina Knight aged 8931st January Leon George Carder aged 791st February Sylvia May Boulden aged 788th February (Gladys) Nancy Johnson aged 97

FROM THE ST MAURICE REGISTERS 2017[None to report this month]

DO NOT WORRY“Therefore I tell you, do not worry aboutyour life, what you will eat or drink; orabout your body, what you will wear. Is notlife more than food, and the body morethan clothes? Look at the birds of the air;they do not sow or reap or store away inbarns, and yet your heavenly Father feedsthem. Are you not much more valuablethan they? Can any one of you by worryingadd a single hour to your life ?

“And why do you worry about clothes? Seehow the flowers of the field grow. They donot labour or spin. Yet I tell you that noteven Solomon in all his splendour wasdressed like one of these.

Matthew Ch 6 v 25-29

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MAIN SERVICES FOR ST MARY’S MARCH 2017

5TH MARCH FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT 8.00 am Holy Communion 9.30 am Morning Prayer (in choir) 10.00 am Parish Eucharist 11.45 am Baptism 6.30 pm Evensong

12TH MARCH SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT 8.00 am Holy Communion 9.30 am Morning Prayer (in choir) 10.00 am Family Eucharist & welcome

of newly baptised 10.00 am Morning Prayer at CUC 6.30 pm Evensong

19TH MARCH THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT 8.00 am Holy Communion 9.30 am Morning Prayer (in choir) 10.00 pm Parish Eucharist 11.45 am Baptism 6.30 pm Evensong

26TH MARCH FOURTH SUNDAY OF LENT (MOTHERING SUNDAY) 8.00 am Holy Communion 9.30 am Morning Prayer (in choir) 10.00 am Parish Eucharist 10.00 am Eucharist at CUC 6.30 pm Evensong

During term time St Mary’s Sunday Club (from age 3) meet in the Parish Hall and join theParish Communion at the Peace. ‘CUC’ is Chaddlewood United Church, who meet atChaddlewood Farm Community Centre.

WHAT ARE THE “STATIONS OF THE CROSS” OR THE “WAY OF THE CROSS”, ALSOKNOWN AS “WAY OF SORROWS” OR “VIA CRUCIS”?These terms refer to a series of images depicting Jesus Christ on the day of hiscrucifixion. The stations grew out of imitations of Via Dolorosa in Jerusalem which isbelieved to be the actual path Jesus walked to Mount Calvary. The object of the stationsis to help the Christian faithful to make a spiritual pilgrimage through contemplation ofthe Passion of Christ. The images are often used to support devotional readings andprayers on Fridays during Lent, especially Good Friday, following the path of Jesus to thecrucifixion. Often followed by a simple meal and donating alms to a suitable charity.

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SERVICES FOR ST MAURICE MARCH 2017

5TH MARCH FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT 10.00 am Sung Eucharist

12TH MARCH SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT 10.00 am Sung Eucharist

19TH MARCH THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT 10.00 am Sung Eucharist

26TH MARCH FOURTH SUNDAY OF LENT10.00 am Sung Eucharist

Seekers Sunday School meets in the Church Hall at 10am. On one Sunday in themonth (usually 4th) they are in church for an All Age Eucharist.

There are Lent events at both StMaurice and St Mary’s duringthe whole of March. Check theinformation on pages 4 and 8,the websites and Facebook formore information.

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THE MAN WHO BROUGHT US THOMAS THE TANK ENGINEA reluctant author who created characters loved bymillions of children died 20 years ago this month, on 21stMarch 1997, aged 85.The Rev Wilbert V Awdry is best known as the writer ofThomas the Tank Engine and 25 other railway books,which at the time of his death had sold an estimated 50million copies. He invented the stories initially to tell his

son Christopher when he was ill with measles, and had to be persuaded by his wifeMargaret to get them published.Mr Awdry, who was made an OBE shortly before his death, was a clergyman whoministered in Hampshire, Wiltshire, Birmingham and Cambridgeshire. He was also apacifist who once lost his curacy as a result. He was always interested in railways,having listened to steam trains ascending the grade into the nearby Box Tunnel inSurrey.The Fat Controller in the stories is sometimes thought to be a God-like figure, but hewas intended as a satire on bureaucracy. For Mr Awdry, the morality of the stories wasclearly Christian, and analogies between the Christian faith and the ways of the railwaywere obvious: the engines are meant to stay on the right track, and they pay the priceif they go off the rails. But they are always forgiven, and never scrapped.Asked how he hoped to be remembered, he said he would like his epitaph to say that“he helped people see God in the ordinary things of life, and he made children laugh”.

THE GREAT DAFFODIL APPEALHere is an opportunity to support a really worthwhilecause. March brings us the annual Marie Curie’s GreatDaffodil Appeal, and volunteers are always needed forcollections. Could you help? Founded in 1986, the Appealhelps fund Marie Curie nurses to care at home for peopleliving with any kind of terminal illness. In 2013/14, Marie

Curie was able to support 40,844 people living with a terminal illness.People cared for by Marie Curie Nurses are three times less likely to be admitted tohospital in an emergency at the end of their lives. Seven out of 10 people cared for byMarie Curie Nurses are able to die in their own homes.

ENGLISH TOURISM WEEK: 25TH MARCH – 2ND APRILIt’s time to celebrate English Tourism Week! Lots of events are planned across thecountry. Tourists certainly help keep Britain ‘great’. Did you know that the Englishtourism sector is the third largest employer in the country? It supports 2.6 million jobsand is a major employer of school leavers.In England, the visitor economy is worth a staggering £106bn a year. For a host of tipsand suggestions, visit:www.visitbritain.org/english-tourism-week

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Errata: February’s article “WHAT’S IN A HYMN?” came from an item placed in my churchpigeon-hole. It was with a different article from Mavis Buttle but I was wrong inattributing this to her. My sincere apologies (I hope it was of interest, nevertheless!) Editor

MIRROR, MIRROR ON THE WALL – HOW DO YOU SEE YOURSELF THIS LENT?

Somebody asked a Christian friend why he was eating doughnuts, when he had given themup for Lent! He answered, ‘At the bakers I told God, that if He wanted me to buydoughnuts, He should provide a parking space in front. On the eighth time around, thereit was!’ Rather than seeing Lent simply as a time to give things up, let’s use it intentionallyfor self-examination, reading Scripture, penitence, fasting and prayer.

At Jesus’ baptism, God’s voice says, ‘You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am wellpleased.’ (Luke 3:22). The Holy Spirit then leads Jesus into the wilderness, where we findHim coming to terms with who He is. Satan’s temptations challenge Jesus in key threeareas of His identity: social action, political power, and religious identity (Luke 4: 1-13). Itis as though Jesus looked into the mirror at Himself to discern what kind of Saviour Hewould be.We can also think of Lent as an opportunity to hold a mirror up to ourselves and ask thequestion, ‘who am I?’ It is a season of honest encounter with who we are, what we’vedone, and the world in which we live. How will you keep the Lent period of 40 days runningup to Easter? What will you see when you hold up the mirror to yourself? Alongside takingtime to read Scripture, study a Christian book and pray with fasting, why not give up textingfor Lent and simply talk on the phone; commit ourselves to just working 40 hours a weekor spend five minutes each day in silence!

Whatever we do, Lent is a season for self-reflection, as we put ourselves in a position toreceive afresh the forgiveness and healing that God offers.

LADIES’ GROUPSt Mary's and St Maurice have a joint Ladies' group for women of working age (18-65ish)to meet and take part in a variety of activities.Please check the church website or Facebook page for details of the next event.Alternatively, contact Christine Harris, Sarah Duckworth or Claire-Louise Journeaux.(See contacts on page 2).

Attending Groups: Church groups are open to all.Many meetings, like Mother’s Union, can be attended just because the topic is of interestor you. Obviously you can become a “member” if you wish. Do contact the person listed ifyou are not sure about arrangements. You will be welcomed, I am sure!This is where church groups differ from “clubs”, as the barriers to attending should bezero! Editor

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BIBLE CROSSWORD FOR MARCH 2017[Uses NIV Bible as source. Answers to the clues are on page 25]

Across1 These letters come between Romans andGalatians (11)9 ‘You will not — me to the grave’ (Psalm16:10) (7)10 King of Moab to whom the Israelites weresubject for 18 years (Judges 3:14) (5)11 Town possessing mineral spring (3)13 Mede (anag.) (4)16 High-fidelity (abbrev.) (4)17 He succeeded his father Rehoboam as kingof Judah (1 Kings 14:31) (6)18 A son of Simeon (Genesis 46:10) (4)20 Controversial religious book of the 1970s,The — of God Incarnate (4)21 ‘He has received from the Father the prom-ised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you— — and hear’ (Acts 2:33) (3,3)22 ‘You — me together in my mother’s womb’(Psalm 139:13) (4)23 Edit (anag.) (4)25 ‘Who has believed our message and towhom has the — of the Lord been revealed?’(Isaiah 53:1) (3)

28 Abraham’s brother (Genesis 22:23)(5)29 ‘When Mordecai learned of — thathad been — , he tore his clothes’ (Esther4:1) (3,4)30 Sympathetic (Proverbs 11:16) (4-7)

Down2 ‘That was why his parents said, “He is— —; ask him”’ (John 9:23) (2,3)3 Integrated Services Digital Network(1,1,1,1) 44 ‘Saul has slain his thousands, and Da-vid his — of thousands’ (1 Samuel 18:7)(4)5 Concept (John 8:14) (4)6 ‘Do we, then, — the law by this faith?Not at all! Rather, we uphold the law’(Romans 3:31) (7)7 Industrious (2 Timothy 2:6) (11)8 ‘I pray also that the eyes of your heartmay be — in order that you may knowthe hope to which he has called you(Ephesians 1:18) (11)12 ‘Out of the same mouth come — andcursing’ (James 3:10) (6)14 This was how many of the Jewishleaders described Jesus (John 10:20) (3)15 Vitality (Job 20:11) (6)19 He urged David to kill Saul at Hakilah(1 Samuel 26:8) (7)20 ‘So for a whole year Barnabas andSaul — with the church and taught greatnumbers of people’ (Acts 11:26) (3)24 ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, theLord — — ’ (Deuteronomy 6:4) (2,3)25 Parched (Matthew 12:43) (4)26 ‘In the image of God he created him;— and female he created them’ (Genesis1:27) (4)27 Disparagement (Psalm 15:3) (4)

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Suitable for adults who are beginners or experienced artists

MELTING POT TRIPS 2017These coach trips are a great general social opportunity - open to all (invite a friend?) andinclude the opportunity to take part in a raffle etc during the trip.To book tickets come to the Parish Hall Office any Tuesday between 9.30am-12noon orphone 348525. Further information is available from Shiela tel 335513.

Day Date Destination CostFriday 17th March Tamar View & Tavistock £11.50Friday 21st April St Just & St Mawes £14Friday 12th May Stourhead (Early start) £18Friday 23rd June Port Isaac & Wadebridge £13Friday 21st July Marlwood Hill Gardens £15Wednesday 9th August Sidmouth £14.50Friday 1st September Teignmouth £14.50Friday 29th September Lyme Regis £14Friday 27th October Taunton £14.50Friday 17th November Clark’s Village & Wells £16.50

Special congratulations toBeryl Smith who celebrated her 90thbirthday recently.

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Helping YOUR ChurchNo-cost Fundraising

1. Sign up atwww.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/

Stmarysplymptonpcc/Or

www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/plymptonstmauricechurch/

2. Go to easyfundraising

3. SHOP! (NO CATCHES NO COST)Help us to preserve both your history

and your spiritual community

Any Questions?Ask Keith Shepperd or Revd. Robert

(see contacts pages)

HENRY’S

For FREE advice and a no obligation estimate, please call:Tel: 01752 336564 Direct: 07881 962013

E-mail: henrysfencing@gmail.comRecommendations Available, Fully Insured, 19 yrs Experience

Wood or concrete post; Palisade,gates made to order, High qualitytreated decking, fencing repairs,Creosoting, all types of landscapingincl patios and paths, Tree felling,lopping, pruning & spraying, fruittree planting, stump grinding,

hedge cutting, shrub pruning,turfing, patios, landscaping,gravelling, weed control, woodbark, jet washing, drainage work,overgrown gardens cleared, allgreen and garden wasteremoved.

PERSONAL PET AND HOME CAREDo you need help with your pets?

We are here to help you!Our services include: Dog walking; Dog

boarding & Pet care visitsWe are a reliable and established

business with full insurancePlease visit our website for furtherdetails or call Lee to discuss your

requirements!

Tel: 01752 651501Mobile: 07896 862 893

www.personalpetandhomecare.co.uk find us on Facebook

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Counselling

Watercolour Painting

class with Shari Hills

Plympton St MauriceChurch Hall

Thursdays 10 - 12 noon

Newcomers welcome

£75 for 10 week term

shari.hills@hotmail.comwww.sharihills.co.uk

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ST MARY’S TABLE TOP SALESThese sales are organised to raise funds to support the Church and are not a commercial

venture

10am - 1.30pmST MARY’S CHURCH HALL

Saturday 4th March 2017Saturday 1st April 2017Saturday 6th May 2017

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

Contact Marcia Knight on 335541

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● Expert installations and repairs● 10 year parts and labour warrantees on

selected boilers● Fixed price contracts● Annual Boiler Maintenance Contracts● Local, friendly, trustworthy & reliable

engineers

25

Magazine and Publicity MattersPlease submit articles by the 5th of anymonth for the next month’s magazine. E-mail:editor.plymptonpilgrim@virginmedia.comor put information into the Magazine pigeon-hole at the rear of St Mary’s or via Val Taylorat St Maurice. Photographs submitted canonly be used if permitted by the owner of anycopyright.When using photographs of children andyoung people, it is preferable to use grouppictures and written permission must beobtained from parents to use such picturesusing forms obtainable from David Farley(Safeguarding Representative) or Phil Smith(Editor) Advertisements, and any servicequotes offered, do not implyrecommendation by the Church. Gratefulthanks go to our advertisers, and to WalterParson who sponsor the printing.Enquiries for advertising, please contact theEditor but note space is at a premium.

Crossword Answersfrom page 18

ACROSS: 1, Corinthians. 9,Abandon. 10, Eglon. 11, Spa.13, Deem. 16, Hi-fi. 17, Abijah.18, Ohad. 20, Myth. 21, Nowsee. 22, Knit. 23, Tide. 25, Arm.28, Nahor. 29, All done. 30,Kind-hearted.

DOWN: 2, Of age. 3, ISDN. 4,Tens. 5, Idea. 6, Nullify. 7,Hardworking. 8, Enlightened.12, Praise. 14, Mad. 15, Vigour.19, Abishai. 20, Met. 24, Isone. 25, Arid. 26, Male. 27,Slur.

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TEAM CONTACTS (continued from page2) MOTHERS UNIONMrs Anne Tozer - St Mary’s 338931 Mrs Ann Parkinson - St Maurice 923177(new no]

WEEKLY NOTICES - St Mary’sMrs Pauline Nicholls grandma.pauline@btinternet.com 346403

HOLY BAPTISM Enquiries to the Team Office on Monday to Friday mornings (348525) or e-mail the Office.

SUNDAY CLUBS St Mary’sSunday mornings at 10am for children aged 3-13 details from David Upcott (341908) or Louise Lewis 336159

St Maurice Sunday mornings - SEEKERS at 10am Mr Haydn Davis (Acting Leader) 07977267475

PARENT & BABY/TODDLER Wednesday 9.15-11am in the St Mary’s Parish Hall (term time only)PRE-SCHOOL Details from Teresa Talbot 07724592978

TEAM MINISTRY EVENTS COORDINATED BY CUCBIBLE 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 outDetails from Judy Willcocks 330948

GENERAL INFORMATION REGARDING CONTACTSPlease contact the Team Office if enquiring about Baptisms, Marriages or Funerals

stmarysplympton@gmail.comor 01752 348525

Information about church groups, or whom you should contact on any matter, can beobtained by contacting the Team Administrator in the first instance:9.30am -12.30pm Mon-Fri, or using the websites of each church to find the contactinformation about each group:

www.plymptonchurch.co.ukwww.plymptonstmauricechurch.co.uk

The combined contacts lists for the two churches have been reduced in length afterblending as most information can be obtained simply via the office, the relevantwebsite or Facebook page, or another primary contact.

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PLYMPTON TEAM MINISTRYDaily Services

Prayer and worship is at the very heart of our lives both as individuals and asmembers of a wider Christian community. It is in our prayer and worship that weencounter God and that we are strengthened and fed in Word and in Sacrament. Itis in our worship that we experience communion with God and with one another aswe seek to live together in that unity which is God’s will for us.Monday 8.30 am Morning Prayer, Plympton St. Mary

Tuesday 8.30 am Morning Prayer, Plympton St. Maurice 11.00 am Eucharist, Plympton St. Mary (BCP) 7.00 pm Eucharist, Plympton St. Maurice

Wednesday 8.00 am Morning Prayer, Plympton St. Mary 8.30 am Eucharist, Plympton St. Mary 9.30 am Eucharist, Plympton St. Maurice

Thursday 8.30 am Morning Prayer, Plympton St. Maurice 11.00 am Eucharist, St. Vincent’s Chapel 7.00 pm Eucharist, Plympton St. Mary

Friday 8.00 am Morning Prayer, Plympton St. Mary 8.30 am Eucharist, Plympton St. Mary

Saturday 8.30 am Morning Prayer, Plympton St. Mary

Services at Chaddlewood United Church (CUC)at 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 Chaddlewood5th Sunday: at Chaddlewood - see notices for details

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