Community

Film shows church’s 2020 vision projects

Published

10 years ago

November 11, 2014

FROM ministry areas to community cafes, changes are happening in churches across Wales can be seen in a short film now available online.

The 2020 Vision film highlights stories from each of the six dioceses in Wales which show how they are responding to the church in Wales’ strategy for growth. You can see the fi lm on The Herald website. All the stories were chosen by the dioceses and show ways in which they are trying to remodel the church to become a more outward, community-facing organisation. Some stories are about major structural projects which have long-term objectives, such as the move from parishes to ministry areas.

Others show projects churches are running in the local community which have a significant impact, such as a cafe. While the fi lm is not a comprehensive guide to all the work underway in the church, it does give an impression of the change in culture happening. Stories featured include: ‘ministry area conversations’ in Neath; a leadership course in Newport; ministry at the Gower Show; a community café in Sandycroft, Flintshire; a children’s club in Llangaffo, Anglesey; and church work in Carmarthen.

The film was show to members of the church’s Governing Body in September and was introduced by Helen Biggin, chair of the 2020 Vision Implementation Group. Mrs Biggin said: “One of the powerful messages of the fi lm – encapsulated in the parable of the sower which runs through it – is that we have been entrusted with an amazing gift by God which we have a duty to fi nd new ways to share. Some of what we try to do may not be successful, but we must take that risk so that we have a chance of achieving great rewards.”

The 2020 Vision Strategy came out of a wide-scale review of the church in Wales in 2012. Its aim is to help the church grow and better serve the needs of Wales as it approaches its centenary in 2020. Mrs Biggin added: “The review has inspired and helped support some truly visionary work across the church, the results of which will only be seen in years to come. However, the activity which supports these projects is already helping to reinvigorate church life. As demonstrated in the fi lm, we are thinking seriously about how we might engage more effectively with the communities we seek to serve and are putting time, money and other resources into achieving the vision of the church becoming truly the ‘prayerful heart of the community’ .”

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

2 hours ago

November 14, 2024

Richard Lewis

THIS WEEK, the NSPCC’s annual campaign to safeguard children from sexual abuse reached the steps of the Senedd.

Pantosaurus, the friendly mascot of the NSPCC’s PANTS campaign, appeared to raise awareness among Members of the Senedd and the wider public about the vital importance of child safety. The campaign encourages parents and carers to talk openly with young children about risks and protective measures.

The PANTS campaign is built around five key child protection messages:

Privates are private.
Always remember your body belongs to you.
No means no.
Talk about secrets that upset you.
Speak up; someone can help.

After meeting Pantosaurus, Samuel Kurtz MS, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, expressed his support for the campaign

He said: “I wholeheartedly support this important NSPCC initiative. Since its launch in 2013, it has empowered over six million families to discuss this sensitive subject.

“This issue affects communities across Wales, so promoting the five principles of PANTS is essential for everyone in Pembrokeshire and beyond.”

Community

Crowdfunding drive launched for documentary on forgotten 1967 football match

Published

11 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A CROWDFUNDING campaign has launched to support a new documentary capturing a nearly forgotten piece of football history—a 1967 charity match in Liverpool featuring Hungarian football icon Ferenc Puskás, alongside British legends Billy Liddell and John Charles.

Daniel Metcalf, director of the film and grandson of Chester FC striker Mike Metcalf, who played in the match, describes the film as “a love letter to the beautiful game,” aiming to highlight community spirit and the unity of sport. “Through personal stories, historic footage, and expert insights, we’ll revisit this unique game and explore 1960s football’s influence over the decades,” he said.

The project has attracted substantial backing, including collaboration with Chester FC, endorsements from notable players like Neville Southall, and the involvement of a skilled production team with narration by broadcaster Kim Thomas.

Supporters can choose from various funding tiers, with contributions starting at £10 for acknowledgments and extending to £5,000 Producer credits. Rewards range from film credits to signed memorabilia and invitations to the UK premiere. The funding target of £3,300 aims to cover initial production costs, with stretch goals set to enhance production quality.

Filming will commence in Chester in May 2025, with the documentary slated for release in early 2026 for the festival circuit.

For more information or to support the project, visit Kickstarter.

Community

Carew Castle triumphs again as Visitor Attraction of the Year at Croeso Awards

Published

14 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

CAREW Castle, one of Pembrokeshire’s most treasured landmarks, has once again been named Visitor Attraction of the Year at the prestigious Visit Pembrokeshire Croeso Awards, cementing its place as a top destination for visitors to the region.

The award, presented during a grand ceremony at Pembrokeshire College, recognises the Castle’s ongoing dedication to providing an exceptional visitor experience. This second consecutive win underscores Carew Castle’s commitment to excellence, from its welcoming guides to its expertly preserved grounds and engaging events, drawing visitors year-round.

Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle, expressed gratitude for the continued recognition: “Winning this award two years in a row is a testament to everyone involved in bringing Carew Castle to life – from the knowledgeable guides to the conservationists, dedicated team of volunteers, and our hardworking tearoom team. It’s truly a group effort, and we’re honoured to be recognised once more as one of Pembrokeshire’s premier attractions.”

The Castle has become a hub of excitement year-round, with special charm during the quieter winter months. Seasonal events like Glow, an enchanting Christmas light display, featuring rooms of the Castle dressed for the festivities and live musical performances, draw visitors of all ages. This festive season also includes Santa’s Grotto, a Christmas Needle Felting Workshop, and children’s Christmas Craft Workshops – ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy as the nights draw in.

Carew Castle is open daily from 11am to 3pm throughout the winter, with extended hours on Fridays through Sundays when Glow and Santa’s Grotto are in full swing.

For a full schedule of upcoming events and activities at Carew Castle, visit www.carewcastle.com.

Pictured: Carew Castle is celebrating its second consecutive win as Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Croeso Awards, recognised for its exceptional visitor experience and engaging year-round events.