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The Messenger Online
The bi-monthly magazine from St Michael's, West Hill
Oct-Nov 2020
distributed FREE to every home in the village
2 St Michael the Archangel - part of the Otter Vale Mission Community -
Bringing Jesus Christ to our Community
We are here to help in any way we can – so please contact us.
Getting Married? ... Considering Baptism? Ottery St Mary Parish Church Office 812062 [email protected]
Could someone else from the Church help you? West Hill Clergy The Revd Mac Dick 371064 The Revd John Pangbourne 812393 The Revd Ann Turner 813476
Licensed Reader (also Asst Warden) Ann Yates 813886 Church Wardens Pam Johns (also Sacristan) 814096 Coral King 811295
Safeguarding Officer Sue Ritchie 814811 Verger vacant - contact Churchwardens
Website www.stmichaelatwesthill.weebly.com Postcode EX11 1UW
3 From the Editors For the time being The Messenger will continue on-line, but as in the past few months over 100 copies are available at McColls for those who cannot access the internet, or know someone who would find it easier to read in print. We mail out aa few copies to those we know are unable to get their own. A number of copies will also be available at West Hill Garage. Please do take copies for neighbours or friends.
The Church building is now have two services a month at 11:30 - please see the back cover for details - and our Zoom services will continue alongside these: we often have 35 or more people at these and children coming for Cafe Church on the first Sunday of each month. Do join us: we always open half an hour early - and often end with the option to join a small group. It is a great opportunity to catch up with people. See below for Service details
Harvest Festival - Come and join us! p 6 Regular Services p 24 Advent Carol Service p 18, 24
We hope that this edition will continue to inform, but also give you reading material and articles that will encourage. Thank you to all our contributors.
Faith and Hope p 4, 10,14, 16, 19, 22-23, Craft Pages for children p 7-8
Articles of special Interest p 12, 22-23 A take on a new Film p 15
Community News p 5, 9, 11, 13, 17, 18, 21 Coleridge Medical Centre GP Update p20 Finding Help p2
Editors: Sue Lock (Village matters) 01404-812947 [email protected] Ann Pangbourne (Church and final Editor) 01404-812393 [email protected] Yellow Pages: Rosemary Hudson [email protected]
PLEASE NOTE The last date for copy for the Dec/Jan edition Wed 4 Nov.
The online version is available to download from our website; or can be sent by email Printed copies can be sent by mail or collected from McColls or West Hill Garage
Just ask! The opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of St Michael's
Church. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we can accept no liability for errors. The Editors’ decisions are final
4 Thoughts from The Revd Ann Turner Where is God in all the Suffering ?
This is a question that is likely to have been in many people’s minds in the past six months.
If God is a loving God, why does he allow things like Covid 19 to happen? they may have wondered.
People who are familiar with the Bible know of Jesus’ own mental, emotional and physical suffering, his empathy with human suffering, and his promise to be with us in every situation, but they still find the subject difficult; and for people who have no faith, this unanswered question is a big stumbling-block that prevents their understanding of God.
Recently I received details of books newly- published by the Good Book Company, the firm which supplies our Monday Afternoon Bible Study booklets. One that caught my attention, and which I have since ordered, has the title that heads this article. It was written when the scale of the Covid pandemic was becoming evident. The publicity says: “This easy-to-read and powerful book is good for believers and unbelievers alike as it seeks to help people who are hoping to answer one of life’s biggest questions, as well as those who are suffering personally, or comforting others.”
The author is Dr Amy Orr-Ewing. Living in Buckinghamshire with her husband and three young sons, she has a world-wide ministry as a Christian writer and speaker. She is a regular speaker in Keswick, at the annual Christian Convention, (where John and I benefitted greatly, many years ago, in our early understanding of the Bible and the Christian faith.)
One reviewer describes the book in this way, “ As deeply caring as she is wise, Amy Orr-Ewing has written for all who are suffering. She has been there herself and knows the path of comfort, healing and faith. This is a book to be read slowly, cherished, and shared with others” Among the many other recommendations of this timely book, are those of Rico Tice and J.John, two men whose ministries we know and value at St Michael’s.
Copies of the book are available for £6.79 from the Good Book Company on-line, or by phone on 0333 1230880....... or you are very welcome to borrow mine. Ann Turner
5 West Hill Parish Council Astonishingly, it’s now over 6 months since the start of the Covid-19 lockdown. Sadly, as there’s no change to the Government advice on holding public meetings the Council will continue to hold meetings by video-conference. Please remember that you can join a meeting if you wish. Agendas are published on the website and on the noticeboard at McColls. Please contact the Parish Clerk for more information. Traffic Study Consultation – Speeding Traffic. The West Hill Vehicle Activated Signs (VAS) Scheme will start in the Autumn. VAS signs flash a speed limit reminder when they are triggered by speeding vehicles and are known to have a significant impact on traffic speeds. Highways have approved 5 locations for the village including two sites on the B3180. Unfortunately, some of the Council’s proposed sites, including some on West Hill Road, were not approved. To maximise the impact of the signs the VAS unit will be regularly moved between sites. The Parish Council will review the scheme in 2021 and, if possible, agree further sites. Traffic Study Consultation - Creation of a new pedestrian access to the Village Hall. The Parish Council and Village Hall Trustees (VHT) have agreed, in principle, to create a new path giving direct access from West Hill Road to the Village Hall and School. Safety has been a key concern for the working group. With this is in mind the proposed design for the path was developed following liaison with Highways and by commissioning a Traffic Speed Survey/ Road Safety Audit. The scheme must be approved via a planning application but first the Council and VHT want to receive your views and answer your questions. Under current restrictions, a drop-in session at the Village Hall is not viable. Instead full details will be available on the WHPC website and in the autumn Council newsletter. Please take the opportunity to view the proposals, discuss your concerns or express your support. Councillors have decided it is time to review the West Hill Help Scheme, implemented for the pandemic Lockdown. Whilst the Scheme is currently suspended it is thought timely to review its operation. The Council will be directly surveying volunteers involved and a sample of the users of the Scheme. However, if anyone else wishes to make comment on the usefulness, communication about and operation of the Scheme please email Councillor Cannings at [email protected] by 23rd October.
Parish Clerk: Anne Oliver 01404 232 100 or 07413 932406 Email: [email protected] Website:
www.westhillparishcouncil.gov.uk
6 Harvest Festival Cafe Church on Zoom Sunday October 4 9:30 am
A Celebration of God’s goodness The idea of a Harvest Festival comes from the Old Testament, when God set out plans for His people to celebrate with Him three times a year. Firstly the harvest of the barley in the spring Secondly the wheat harvest six weeks later And thirdly the gathering in of all the fruits of the year in the autumn. Each of these celebrations was made special by God as he showed His love to them at these exact same times. In the Spring by rescuing them from slavery in Egypt (Passover) Six weeks later by giving them His Word ( Pentecost) and at the final harvest celebration, by reminding them of how he had cared for them during forty years of wandering in the desert when the only homes they had were temporary shelters known as sukkot. Hence the final celebration is known as Sukkot, or Tabernacles. So at Cafe Church we want to have a real celebration of God’s goodness to us, both in good times and bad. Knowing that however difficult life may be, God is there and cares for us. At Succot God asked that each household should bring two loaves of bread, as a reminder that - after years of eating manna in the wilderness, they could now eat bread made from their own crops, in the land of His Promise. So as part of the service we are asking every household to bring a loaf (or two) of bread.This could be a model of a Harvest loaf (email me if you’d like directions to make this. Ed) a simpler model using salt dough or play dough a home baked loaf, of any design or a bought speciality loaf Another part of the celebration was to bring samples of the harvested fruits, so if you have the time and inclination, please also bring either A small basket of fresh fruit or A jar of jam you have made from harvested fruits or A harvest collage using foodstuffs ( pasta, lentils, rice etc) There will be much else to enjoy including on-the-day crafts for children. So: Please do join us and make this a real celebration! If you don’t normally receive the Zoom log-in details and would like them: please email John Pangbourne who will send them out a few days beforehand ([email protected])
Children’s Page
Autumn
Since March, we’ve all been spending more time at home and especially in our gardens. It’s been an opportunity to watch all the birds, insects and animals that also call our gardens ‘home’. A number of people have said that they’ve seen hedgehogs for the first time in years! In the church calendar, we celebrate Harvest. In autumn, animals also gather food to prepare for winter. Squirrels collect nuts, acorns and seeds, which they bury underground ready to be eaten when food is scarce. Hedgehogs hibernate, which means they spend the winter sleeping to help preserve their energy. A pile of leaves, spaces under sheds or a purpose-built hedgehog home are all spaces where hedgehogs might hibernate. Have you got an area like that in your garden? The shorter days and lack of light are signs for the deciduous trees to prepare for winter. The leaves change from green to beautiful shades of red, yellow and orange before eventually falling to the ground and the trees have their winter sleep. Remember to think of the birds and animals during this time and perhaps make a home for them or put out some bird food. So, put on your jumpers and get outside to play in those crispy leaves and enjoy our gardens and countryside!
7
Children’s Page
Autumn
Since March, we’ve all been spending more time at home and especially in our gardens. It’s been an opportunity to watch all the birds, insects and animals that also call our gardens ‘home’. A number of people have said that they’ve seen hedgehogs for the first time in years! In the church calendar, we celebrate Harvest. In autumn, animals also gather food to prepare for winter. Squirrels collect nuts, acorns and seeds, which they bury underground ready to be eaten when food is scarce. Hedgehogs hibernate, which means they spend the winter sleeping to help preserve their energy. A pile of leaves, spaces under sheds or a purpose-built hedgehog home are all spaces where hedgehogs might hibernate. Have you got an area like that in your garden? The shorter days and lack of light are signs for the deciduous trees to prepare for winter. The leaves change from green to beautiful shades of red, yellow and orange before eventually falling to the ground and the trees have their winter sleep. Remember to think of the birds and animals during this time and perhaps make a home for them or put out some bird food. So, put on your jumpers and get outside to play in those crispy leaves and enjoy our gardens and countryside!
Children’s Page
Autumn
Since March, we’ve all been spending more time at home and especially in our gardens. It’s been an opportunity to watch all the birds, insects and animals that also call our gardens ‘home’. A number of people have said that they’ve seen hedgehogs for the first time in years! In the church calendar, we celebrate Harvest. In autumn, animals also gather food to prepare for winter. Squirrels collect nuts, acorns and seeds, which they bury underground ready to be eaten when food is scarce. Hedgehogs hibernate, which means they spend the winter sleeping to help preserve their energy. A pile of leaves, spaces under sheds or a purpose-built hedgehog home are all spaces where hedgehogs might hibernate. Have you got an area like that in your garden? The shorter days and lack of light are signs for the deciduous trees to prepare for winter. The leaves change from green to beautiful shades of red, yellow and orange before eventually falling to the ground and the trees have their winter sleep. Remember to think of the birds and animals during this time and perhaps make a home for them or put out some bird food. So, put on your jumpers and get outside to play in those crispy leaves and enjoy our gardens and countryside!
Children’s Crafts
On the Children’s Page in this magazine we have been thinking about autumn and all the animals that are preparing for winter. Here’s an idea for a hedgehog craft. Make an Autumn Leaf Hedgehog
1. Collect some colourful leaves from the garden and dry them between 2 pieces of kitchen roll. Put a book on top to keep them flat.
2. Cut out a hedgehog shape from card 3. Stick the dried leaves onto the back of the hedgehog to look like prickles. 4. Draw a happy face onto your hedgehog! 5. Attach a piece of ribbon or string to hang up your artwork
8
Children’s Crafts
On the Children’s Page in this magazine we have been thinking about autumn and all the animals that are preparing for winter. Here’s an idea for a hedgehog craft. Make an Autumn Leaf Hedgehog
1. Collect some colourful leaves from the garden and dry them between 2 pieces of kitchen roll. Put a book on top to keep them flat.
2. Cut out a hedgehog shape from card 3. Stick the dried leaves onto the back of the hedgehog to look like prickles. 4. Draw a happy face onto your hedgehog! 5. Attach a piece of ribbon or string to hang up your artwork
Genesis 1:25 And God made … everything that creeps on the earth according to its kind. And God saw that it was good.
9 Otter Vale Friends of Hospiscare During these last few months of the coronavirus crisis, Hospiscare has continued with its work of providing end of life care in Exeter and Mid and East Devon. Searle House Hospice in Exeter has remained open and has given specialist care as usual and Hospiscare Community nurses have gone on looking after people in their homes. Because of all the current restrictions, our local support group has not been able to hold their various fund raising events although individuals around the area have raised money in different ways and have also given donations. All 20 Hospiscare shops were closed but they are now slowly reopening and at the time of writing, the Ottery St. Mary shop is still closed. For those of you who would like to donate items and/or clothing, the Exeter shop and warehouse at Marsh Barton is open and also the Honiton shop and warehouse . Both will take donated items but an appointment slot will be needed to be made in advance.
“Marathon in a Month” Hospiscare is organising this event which will run throughout October. Participants can walk, jog or run a marathon all at once or in stages, with or without their dog. The entrance fee is £10 for adults a n d £ 5 f o r c h i l d r e n a n d dogs.Email hospiscare.co.uk/marathon for details . Because Hospiscare has a £1,000,000 deficit this year, we hope that this Marathon will be a huge success and raise much needed funds for your local charity, Hospiscare. Finally, our Hospiscare Magpies have not been able to take their jewellery around to local fetes and other events, but they are looking forward to recommencing their invaluable work as soon as possible.
Margery Whittington.
Matthew 10:8 Freely you have received, freely give
10 Old Age is Golden - a variation
Old age is golden, I've heard that it’s said, But sometimes I wonder as I go to bed; My ears in a drawer; my teeth in a cup; My eyes on a table until I wake up.
How do I know that my youth has been spent? ‘Cos my get-up-and-go, has all got up and went. But in spite of all that, I am able to grin When I think where my get-up-and-go has all bin. So I wake up each morning and dust off my wits; I pick up the paper and read the "obits". If my name is missing, I shout “Hip hurray!” And potter around for the rest of the day.
On a serious note, my future is bright; I’ll get a new body with perfect eyesight; A new set of teeth with enamel intact And my hearing restored; now that is a fact.
How do I know this? I’ll tell you no lies. When Jesus returns, descends from the skies, If I’m still alive I’ll be changed in a mo’; If I’ve popped my clogs I’ll get one to go.
Because I’ve accepted his life-gift for free Eternity beckons, no sadness for me, On a new perfect earth, what a glorious array, God’s amazing creation which will not decay.
This future’s on offer to each single one But hurry, tomorrow you might well be gone. And torment and anguish could well be your fate, So turn to your Saviour before it’s too late.
submitted by Mike Simms
11 West Hill Village Hall Registered Charity No.1160370
It is a pleasure to report the reopening of the Village Hall on 10 August, and the forthcoming return of West Hill Pre School and West Hill Primary school and most of our users during September and October. Pilates led the way with their first session on 13 August, and with the two schools returning a week or so into September, and the majority of our other users by end of October, the hall will at last begin to resume its vibrant role in our community. For example, it was not until the end of July that the government enabled indoor sports and exercise classes to recommence, including badminton, dancing, keep fit, pilates, short mat bowls and yoga – so now is the opportunity to become active again!
There will of course be a new dimension due to the effects of Covid-19, but we have put in place a range of protective measures consistent with government guidelines, to make the hall as safe and secure as possible. The two schools will have their own entrances and exits, leaving the front door reserved for all other users. Our Bookings Secretary, Sarah Woolfries is meeting all returning group leaders individually to help them to follow government policy on Covid-19, and to ensure that the high standards we seek to protect visitors are followed by us all.
We held our AGM by email on 31 July 2020 when reports were included by our Chairman, retiring Treasurer Rob George, and our Hall Manager, Mike Hemming. The Chairman recorded his thanks to the Trustees, Mike Hemming and Sarah Woolfries not only for their work during the financial year ending 31 March 2020, but also for their additional support in protecting the hall during lockdown.
We said farewell and thanks to retiring Trustees Rob and Monica George, Ian Ross, Quentin Tailford and Scott Massie. Meanwhile, we welcomed Gary Woolfries who has kindly agreed to become our Treasurer for the current financial year. Our cash resources remained strong at £54k for the year ending 31 March 2020, though despite a government grant of £10k in April to cover lockdown, we will need to keep a close eye on expenditure, until our normal income stream returns.
Our discussions with West Hill Parish Council regarding the proposal for a pedestrian footpath through the hall grounds have resumed, and the next stage will include a public consultation exercise in the autumn.
For booking enquiries, please contact Sarah Woolfries on 814216 between the hours of 9.00 and 17.30, or email [email protected] or visit our website www.westhilldevon.org.uk/villagehall.html. Ian Heard. Chairman, Village Hall Trustees
12 The Birds of West Hill by Geoff Green
Over the centuries humans have transcribed many bird songs into words. One of the most familiar word representations is the ‘little bit of b read and no cheese’ o f the Yellowhammer’s song. The male can be heard clearly as it perches at the top of a bush to make itself heard. Scientists have discovered that bird songs have local dialects. Individuals can recognise an interloper from a different area by the
slight variation in their song and will attempt to exclude them.
Beethoven famously used bird song in his 6th Symphony, the Pastoral, which included the Yellowhammer. John Clare wrote “In early spring, when winds blow chilly cold, the Yellowhammer, trailing grass will come, to fix a place and choose an early home, with yellow breast and head of solid gold.” The hammer part of the vernacular name comes from the German ammer, the name for a bunting. Many local names refer to the bright yellow colouration of the male with names like golden amber; gouldie; yellow an-bird and yellow bunting. Bessy blakeling combines a female name and a local name for yellow and the suffix –ling. Guler is a name from the Dutch gulden, a gold coin. The bird's eggs have exquisite fine line markings on them and local names reflecting this include scribbling lark; writing lark and writing master. The serpent-like marks on the eggs led to the Welsh name servant-of-the-snake, from the myth that the markings warned snakes of predators. The population and distribution of this species has declined markedly over the 50 years to 2017 with numbers falling by 59% and it has had a UK conservation status of red since 2002. Extracted from "British birds - names~tales~myths" published by Geoff Green, available from him (813127), W H garage or The Curious Otter bookshop.
13 Developments on making Ottery St Mary and surrounding communities
Dementia Friendly
The progress to achieve this goal has not developed quite as planned but we have worked on various aspects of the project which includes:
The open event held at The Institute on March 7th which was well supported locally with representations from many professionals and local providers. One of the outcomes was the need to provide more support for those who care for those with Dementia, meeting times for carers allowing them to still pursue aspects of their previous life, a trip to the pub, attend a much loved book club, a walk along the river the ideas are endless. This often is only able to occur if there is someone to sit with their loved one. The Ottery Help Scheme offers such a service. So things start to become joined up!
Working very closely with Ottery Help Scheme, The Ottery St Mary and District Health and Care Forum, The Coleridge Medical Centre, East Devon Community Network, Rowan and Linden and other statutory services and other providers and small groups in our communities who support our residents in OSM and the surrounding villages served by The Coleridge Medical Centre.
Setting up the training for a group of volunteers this came about through the dedicated work of the Ottery St Mary Health and Care Forum. The training, funded through the Imagine If initiative has been offered to 8 local volunteers. Whilst the current situation prevented us from meeting physically we soon became competent Zoom users until relaxation permitted us to meet at a distance and further our training. The impact of Covid 19 on our community has led us to appreciate while Dementia Friendly status is our initial aim , there is a role for this group to develop further with scope to promote communication with those experiencing a wide range of issues and assist to direct them to specialist support or voluntary providers who offer a helping hand at difficult times. We are not a group of experts but we all come with experience form our lives; some with a professional background, personal experience or just an interest to improve the way we support and communicate with those in our communities. The training is nearing completion we are now preparing materials to circulate with prompts, such as how can we all support those in our community who are experiencing difficult times?, how to start conversations with those who are feeling vulnerable where to signpost them to support mechanisms and being that friendly face, something we can all take on board! We will in the next few weeks be completing the preparation of materials, being approaching retailers and businesses to support the launch of the publications and in time offer some get together sessions to share what we have learnt.
Axminster, Seaton, Honiton and Sidmouth have all worked in a similar way through the Imagine If programme each focusing on a different aspect of community need it is proposed eventually to share information and materials to benefit all in our communities.
Most important is whichever direction we move it is in conjunction with well-established charities, statutory providers and the voluntary sector and local businesses.
If you would like to contribute to the initiative have ideas to share or are seeking advice and support please do make contact. Jill Dudding
[email protected] Mobile: 07999487537
14 Inner Wheel On Zoom Our Chairman Jill Cobley has done an amazing job in keeping our members in touch with each other through lockdown and social distancing by holding zoom meetings each month. This has been a big learning curve for some of us !!. They have been a great success allowing us to catch up with each other's news, hold business meetings and also enjoy a speaker or two.
Email dinner We have also held fundraising events within the club. As we couldn't dine out we thought it would be nice to share recipes via email with members planning a three course meal using their favourite recipes and to donate £5 to the charity fund. Sponsored Walk With the relaxing of lockdown a sponsored walk on Woodbury Common was also arranged in aid of Hospiscare. Ten members took part starting and finishing at Four Firs car park. Cake, scones and coffee were then enjoyed, with social distancing of course. Garden Book Sale Social distancing was also observed at our recent book sale held in Chairman Jill's garden and when we, just for fun and the chance to meet up, visited the gardens of Cadhay and just recently a walk along the towpath of the Tiverton Canal Ottery in Bloom We were also pleased to be able to assist Ottery in Bloom by watering the flower tubs by the Heritage Museum and around the Monument during the months of July, August and September. For many years we have organised our annual Quiz Night in aid of Hospiscare. However due to Covid 19 our club has decided, with regret, that we will not be holding it this year. We look forward to welcoming you all back next year.
Stay safe - Jan Mullen Club Correspondent
When Doubts Come Down When doubts come down and fears arise Dark shadows falling all around Don’t despair, for God draws near To bring peace into your mind Think upon these things
Whatever things are noble, whatever things are true Whatever things are lovely, whatever things are pure Think on things admirable, whatever things are right
Everything of excellence - worthy of praise in His sight from the book Something to Sing About, by Jim Collins used with permission
based on Hebrews 3:1 “Fix your thoughts on Jesus”
Let every thought be captive now In obedience to the Lord To His commands - delight and will Be still and know that He is Lord Think upon these things
15 “Call to Spy” Due out in October this new film tells the true story of the network of spies established early in World War two in occupied France. ‘Spymistress’ Vera Atkins is commissioned to enlist courageous and resourceful women for the drop into dangerous territory, with the aim of building a resistance behind enemy lines. Virginia Hall and Noor Inayat Khan, both unlikely spies, risked everything as they undertook their vital roles. There are lots of examples of covert agents in the Bible. Caleb and Joshua, once part of a twelve man spy network, drop into enemy territory at the start of the book of Joshua, in order to check out hostile territory. In the unravelling events Rahab takes up the spying mantle when she chooses to hide them from the enemy, and in doing so she goes down in history, her acts of heroism recognised as an expression of faith and dedication - Hebrews 11 v 31. Queen Esther also took on a kind of spying role when her cousin informed her of the secret operation to destroy her own people. Working covertly, prayerfully and courageously she got on with the job of righting that dark wrong, using her skills to change the course of history - Esther 4 v 13-17. In occupied Israel, Mary and Joseph would risk their lives smuggling their precious tiny child out of Bethlehem to Egypt, escaping the horrors of Herod;- Matthew 21 v 17; and thirty years later another Mary, with her sister Martha, would regularly offer a covert hideout for Jesus whenever he needed to escape the pressure of the crowds and the danger of arrest. - John 11 & 12 In a very different way, perhaps there is a sense in which we are all called to be agents in occupied territory from time to time, commissioned to do secret acts that speak of kindness and hope, scuppering the ammunition dumps of cynicism and despair wherever we come across them. It sounds as if I’m exaggerating, but it’s not always an easy challenge to stand up and speak up for truth and compassion and faith, when peer pressure would invite us to tread another path; or to remain silent when gossip, criticism and nastiness fill the airwaves. ‘It’s small things that change the world,’ activist Shane Claiborne once said. And we may often wonder whether small things are really worth it. But Jesus urges us that our heavenly father sees all the covert acts we do to challenge any negative status quo. And what about those ongoing faithful ‘ordinary’ tasks so many perform day in and day out, caring for others, those things which speak of grace and the wonder of the one who left heaven on a mission to serve.
by Dave Hopwood used with permission
www.davehopwood.com
16 Stories of Hope This was the title of the Third Sunday service in August, during which we revisited four stories from the Bible, which were stories of hope. Each of the first three were about people who had little reason to hope, but who trusted God and did not find him wanting.
The first was the widow of Zarephath. Elijah the prophet had been told by God to go to Zarephath where a widow would provide for him in a time of drought and famine. When he arrived he discovered the woman collecting sticks. It turned out that she was without hope. She had only a handful of flour and was gathering sticks to make a fire, so that she could bake a small loaf of bread for herself and her son, before they died of starvation. But Elijah told her not to fear. He asked her to bake him a small disc of unleavened bread first and told her that God was going to keep her flour and olive oil supply going until the end of the drought. In faith she did as she was asked - and God kept His word to her.
The second was Ruth. Elimelech, his wife Naomi and his two sons left Bethlehem - again to escape famine - and went to live in Moab, the other side of the Jordan river. Life was good and both sons married local girls. Ruth was one of these. And then death struck the family, first the father, then his two sons. Naomi was without hope: past the age of childbearing herself, she had no means of support and could not care for her two daughters in law. She decided to return to Bethlehem and to send the girls back to their families, where they might have hope of remarrying. But, out of love and loyalty, Ruth chose to go with her. And not only did she choose to go, but she also chose to abandon the gods of Moab and put her trust in the God of Israel.
Back in Bethlehem they had nothing but house and piece of land they had abandoned years before. Ruth had to join the poor, picking up the left over grain in the fields - trying to scratch a living. As a foreigner she had no hope of remarrying. But God was faithful. A law that God had put in place years before, said that if Naomi were to sell the land, which was both hers and her dead sons, to a near relative, that relative would become protector of her and her son’s widow. She set in train a series of events, which resulted in Ruth’s marriage to this relative - a wealthy man named Boaz. But it was not just a convenient arrangement: it was love match. From this marriage came a baby who was grandfather to David (famous for fighting a giant). David became the greatest king known in Israel - and the ancestor of Jesus. The Bible abounds with stories of hope. Two more next time!
Ann Pangbourne
17 West Hill Garden Club
Bearing in mind we are living in very uncertain times to which we have to adapt, at the club’s August committee meeting (suitably distanced) it was decided sadly to abandon any hope of holding the usual monthly meetings until the New Year. Then we plan to hold a belated 2020 AGM on Thursday 14th January, which will ‘kick start’ the new programme that David has tentatively planned for 2021. Towards the end of November the committee will again to review the situation, but as this will be too late for including in the December/January Messenger please follow the club’s website www.whgardenclub.weebly.com, or phone Pauline (tel. no as below), for details. The planter, having been very colourful during the hot weather, took rather a battering in the torrential rain and winds in the latter part of August. A few extra plants were added in the hope they will rejuvenate it and brighten the village until October when replanting will take place ready for the winter. These members who wish to take part in next year’s daffodil competition (the chosen bulb is ‘Intrigue’) should by now have collected their bulb from Eileen and planted them ready for judging in April 2021. To find out if there are any left phone her on 815905. Autumn is always a busy time in the garden, firstly harvesting fruit & vegetables for enjoyment during the winter; also plant splitting, planting new shrubs whilst the soil is still warm and giving the lawns some TLC or even (if like ours) resuscitation! In the meantime remember all your hard work will be rewarded in spring 2021. Christine Morrison
Enquiries to: Chairman – Monica Highnam – 01404 811263 Secretary – Pauline Wade – 01404 813191
Getting Out and About In mid-August we met up with one of our daughters and her family. They live in London so a good mid-way point was Andover. Despite having passed the sign year on year we had never visited the Hawk Conservancy before - so this was a first . As with many things now we had to book ahead, but it was beautifully organised on the day. Three very interesting displays - all quite different. The children, aged 3 & rising 7 both enjoyed it: in fact our granddaughter (7) said “This has been the BEST day” ….with an afterthought - “except from my birthday!” As autumn draws on getting out may need warm coats, wellies and not-too-drawn-out picnics, but do take time to think where else you might go that perhaps you wouldn’t normally visit. Ed
18 Ottery St Mary Choral Society The society normally hold rehearsals in Ottery URC, which because of the pandemic is not open to us. Similarly our concerts are held in Ottery St. Mary Parish Church, and this is not available for concerts this side of Christmas. Our Committee met in my garden recently and decided that, for these and other reasons, the society could not meet again this year. There has been research recently into singing and playing wind instruments. It has found that singing is no worse than speaking, and that it is more the volume that is important. Shouting or Singing loudly is to be avoided. As a result the restrictions have been relaxed so that both professional and amateurs can meet for rehearsals, but only realistically in small groups. The choral society is not a small group, and as well as numbers we have to consider that the average age of our members is high, putting them into a higher risk category. We had originally intended singing The Seasons by Haydn at Easter this year, and we had held hopes that things would be better by now so that we could perform a special concert in October. This was not to be, and the scores have now been collected back in. We can only make provisional plans until life is again more certain. Everyone is worried about a second wave in the autumn. Who knows? We have a booking long standing at the parish church for a concert on 27 March 2021, and we just hope that thing will improve to allow us to rehearse again commencing in January. If this is possible, we are considering performing Handel’s Solomon. Our website is http://otterystmarychoral.org/ and we will try to keep it up to date. David Wade, Chairman Ottery Choral Society
Advent Sunday
Nov 29 - 6:30 pm An Advent Carol Service on Zoom
“Looking for the Light” This will be a traditional Advent Carol service with readings and hymns to reflect on the coming season. If you do not usually receive information about the Zoom services, please be in touch with John Pangbourne to receive log-in details. [email protected]
Everyone Welcome! Bring Your Own Candle!
19 Words for Our Time written over 350 years ago Old St Paul’s, Baltimore, Maryland, 1662
Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible, be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly, and listen to others, even the dull and ignorant; they too have their story. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own work, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is, for everywhere, life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune, and do not distress yourself with imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore, be at peace with God, and whatever your labours and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, be at peace with yourself. With all its pain, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.
Be careful; strive to be happy. Ann Turner
Light a candle Land mark walks and rambles, celebrations, fun and games, Theatre visits, dinner dates, all cancelled in the main. The speakers and the teachers have all been put on hold, Until it’s safe to meet again, as and when we’re told.
For lo and behold, in the month of March in the year 2020, Along came a bug from a foreign land making us sick and ill aplenty. It upset lives and did its best to dampen all our spirits, As we all knew it lived with us in each and every minute.
Throughout the times of heartache, of illness and ruin, It should have been of joy for some, or even a reunion. Let’s give our thanks to those who helped in the all-important ways, And light our candle firm and bright to ‘SHINE’ throughout these days.
Janet Miller, Kilwinning Trefoil Guild used with permission
recently printed in the September issue of The Trefoil Guild magazine, part of Girl Guide association.
20 Coleridge Medical Centre Update Against the backdrop of all that Covid 19 has brought, Dr Nigel de Sousa writes Phoning your GP - 01404 814447 “We have been trying to reopen our services at the surgery. Most people can speak to a clinician on the day they ring up but we are encouraging patients to wait a few days if needed, to talk to their own GP or the GP who is dealing with their on-going problem. Continuity of care greatly helps you receive consistent care, reduces the need for repeated conversations, tests and referrals.
“Video consultation has been a great new addition to what we do and can enhance a normal phone call just like talking to family on Facetime or WhatsApp. We use a secure app called AccuRx® for video consultations, which also allows your clinician to send you messages, sick notes or links to helpful sites. You may also be invited to reply or upload images.
Advice on the website “We have launched a refreshed website on www.coleridgemedicalcentre.co.uk/. Besides some current national advice on Covid-19 from NHSE, there is lot of information about the practice, services and advice on simple health care.
Attending the surgery, by invitation “We are inviting more patients into the surgery who need examination or treatment. We ask you to wear a mask when in the surgery and your clinician will also be wearing PPE. A lot of effort is going into making sure the surgery is kept as clean as possible and each room is cleaned after each patient. As you can imagine all this takes a lot of time. We are struggling wearing PPE on hot days, so please bear with us if the opening up process appears slow.
Extra clinics on Saturdays “We are making every effort to catch up on things that have been delayed. We have extra clinics now on most Saturdays where we have been doing vaccinations, cervical smear tests, contraception procedures and bloods.
“Please stay safe, and keep up to date on the latest guidance by visiting our website.”
21 The Royal British Legion West Hill & Aylesbeare Branch
As with many charities, The Royal British Legion has been badly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. Briefly, the Legion Headquarters have decreed that there will be no house-to-house or static Poppy Appeal collections this year and the number of collection tins put in shops and hospitality outlets will be limited. With this in mind, the West Hill Branch are working on a plan to make sure every household in the village will have poppies in time for Remembrance.
We are also looking at a way we can hold a ceremony at the War Memorial on 11 November and Remembrance Sunday, with due regard to social distancing and safety. We managed to hold a brief ceremony at the Memorial on VJ Day, which was supported by a smaller than usual number of attendees. We would like to thank those who attended for their observance of the distancing requirements and their support on the day. When we have established plans for the Poppy Appeal and Remembrance S u n d a y , d e t a i l s w i l l b e p o s t e d o n t h e v i l l a g e w e b s i t e (www.westhillparishcouncil.gov.uk), the village Facebook page (What’s On In West Hill) and the RBL Branch website (www.rbl-westhill.co.uk).
We are in the process of extending the Club kitchen. By doing this we will be able to offer enhanced catering facilities for clubs, societies and large family gatherings using our facilities. All this would not have been possible without the help of several organisations and people. We offer our thanks to the Armed Forces Covenant Fund for the grant which made this possible and to our members and friends who donated the concrete blocks and excavated the foundations, all free of charge! At the moment, we are unable to say when the kitchen will be finished and in service as we are still fundraising for the outfitting. Full details will be posted on the Branch website when known.
Roger Strike
22 Heroes of Today and Yesterday
Some talk of Alexander, and some of Hercules, Of Hector and Lysander, and some of Meltiades.
But of all the world's brave heroes, there's none that can compare With a tow row row row row
To the British grenadiers When I was growing up I was always interested in heroic figures like Nelson, Wellington, Richard the Lionheart and many more. I learnt to sing the song shown above when I was in the school Cadet Force. One of my grandsons is called Alexander and I regularly sing it to him. He lives in Switzerland though and I don’t think he has a clue about what I am singing! During my secondary school years my view of heroes began to move to more contemporary figures. In my early teens, like many of my friends, we used to hero worship the captain of the school Rugby first XV team. As we got older we grew out of that. I was born early in the Second World War and many of my family members were involved in the war effort. Many of these became my heroes when I heard their stories mostly after the war was over. My Dad was certainly top of my list. In the First World War he joined the Royal Navy including working on really hazardous journeys on a flat bottomed Monitor Battleship called the ‘Erebus’ sailing round to Murmansk in the Arctic Circle to help the White Russians fighting against the new Bolshevik regime. He was also a fleet boxing champion. I thought that was good until I heard that in 1936 he saved the life of King Edward VIII (later the Duke of Windsor) during a journey back to Buckingham Palace from a state opening of parliament. At the time he was a special police constable, one of many helping to line the route. An armed Irishman called McMahon dashed out through the cordon and started to run towards the State Coach. My Dad brought him to the ground with a rugby tackle and he became a national super hero for a couple of weeks. And in WWII he was in the RAF for 6 years as a gunnery instructor. Other members of my family did their bit too and became mini heroes to me. My eldest sister was in the Wrens. My future brother in law was a paratrooper, my uncle was an intelligence officer debriefing captured German officers, my cousin was a naval officer helping the partisans in Yugoslavia and the list went on. As a 6 year old when the war ended these were all my heroes.
contd on p23
23 Heroes of Today and Yesterday contd from p22 When I became an adult, I started to think that heroes were also people who made a positive difference to others, particularly those on the fringes of society. People like William Booth who founded the Salvation Army, Dr Barnado who started the children’s homes and Mother Teresa serving the poor in Kolkata. In my later years my faith has influenced my choice of heroes which include people like Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Maximillian Kolbe, Christian ministers who were killed by the Nazis. When I left working for a multinational corporation to join a charity working with disadvantaged young people, I made friends with some inspirational and gifted people who devoted their lives to helping less fortunate young people achieve their human potential. They made a massive difference to the well being and development of so many. Heroes but often unsung! In my immediate and my extended family, I have seen many heroic and kind actions. My wife, Jan, was one who worked for the NSPCC raising funds so that our country’s children can be protected. A niece and two of my stepchildren jumped out of a plane to raise some of these needed funds and I think that was at least momentarily heroic. During this horrific pandemic we have also seen heroes emerge. In our own village of West Hill, I think of those who put themselves out to assist those were shielding. People like Dave Underwood who faithfully over many weeks collected peoples’ prescriptions and I know there were many others like him. We will all have seen pictures of NHS personnel who have died through Covid 19 whilst saving people’s lives. Exhausted doctors, nurses and carers doing their utmost to save lives. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lays down his life for his friends (John 15: 13). For me that verse is even more powerful when it applies to people that were mostly unknown to their doctor or carer. You will all have your own ‘list’ of heroes and as I have enjoyed thinking back in my life to locate mine, perhaps you too might be amazed at the heroes you can find in your life both old and new. As you might expect my greatest hero is Jesus Christ who paid the ultimate sacrifice for me and for you on that cross followed by eleven of his disciples who also endured a martyr’s death for believing in somebody who showed us what perfect love really is. Mac Dick
24 St Michael’s Zoom Services
Oct 4 9:30 Cafe Church - Harvest see p6 Oct 11 10:00 Morning Prayer for Trinity 13 Oct 18 10:00 Third Sunday Service Acts 16:1-18:22 Round trip to Europe Oct 25 10:00 Morning Prayer for Trinity 20
Nov 1 9:30 Cafe Church - “Who should keep Britain Tidy?” Nov 8 10:00 Morning Prayer for 3rd Sunday before Advent Nov 15 10:00 Third Sunday Service Acts 18:23- 21:14 In Ephesus Nov 23 10:00 Morning Prayer: Christ the King
Nov 29 Advent Sunday 6:30 pm An Advent Carol Service on Zoom
“Looking for the Light” * * * * * *
Services in the church building are planned for second and fourth Sundays In addition to the Zoom services, services in the church building have recommenced. Each month at 11:30 am there will be Morning Prayer on the second Sunday and Holy Communion on the fourth Sunday. These services will be said for the time being (no hymns) and masks are required - except for the officiant. Details on our website. All precautions are being taken in line with government guidelines. Only a limited number of people are allowed in the building.
