City Church now aligned to the Metropolitan Community Churches

City Church now aligned to the Metropolitan Community Churches

Partnership made in heaven

Greetings Readers! Here's some more good news from City United Reformed Church...

Regular readers will have noticed that yesterday I posted news about our Toilet Twinning venture (which I still think is an absolutely wonderful idea) and today i bring you even more exciting news. City Church is now an aligned organisation of the Metropolitan Community Churches!

Great news... but what does it mean?

Metropolitan Community Churches (MCC) is a global church community that promotes social inclusion and challenges injustice. The MCC has been championing human rights and tackling issues such as racism, homophobia, ageism and sexism since it's foundation in 1968. 

I first heard of the MCC at Manchester Pride many years ago. I spotted a leaflet on one of the community stands and searched online to check if there was an inclusive church in Cardiff. At the time there wasn't. Also, I hadn't heard of City Church either and it took a few more months of searching for an inclusive and welcoming church before I set foot inside City Church. 

Now that we are aligned to MCC, people looking for a local MCC will find details of City Church. And given that we have an open and affirming mission, our partnership with MCC is another way of reaching out and welcoming all who share our mission.

Is your church aligned to the MCC? Do you go to a Metropolitan Church? Please do share your experiences.

Until next time...

With best wishes,
Matt the Elder

Carry on giving at your convenience

"Are we all in agreement that we would like to twin our newly refurbished toilets with a latrine in a poor community?"

I nearly choked on my herbal tea when The Minister brought up the idea of toilet twinning! I've heard of town twinning but toilet twinning?! How on earth would that work? Is toilet twinning even a thing?

Apparently it is. And what an utterly splendid idea! The idea is that for a mere £60 you can twin your loo with and raise money for poor communities all over the world. According to the charity Toilet Twinning 40% of the world's population do not have anywhere safe, clean and hygienic to go to the toilet. That's 2.5 BILLION people who are at risk of disease or being attacked while searching for a private place to do their business. So a hole in the ground could really be a life saver for vulnerable people in poor communities.

I am delighted that City Church has decided to twin the three newly refurbished toilets with toilets in Gatonda, Burundi; Amboula, Barisal, Baghda, Bangladesh and Sabola, Ezha, Ethiopia! What better way to celebrate our wonderful new latrines by helping those in need of better facilities oversees. Once all the details are finalised we will receive a certificate, a picture and the GPS location of our sponsored toilet so we can look it up on Google maps! I am really thrilled about this - it's such a brilliant and fun way to raise money.

As soon as I have the GPS and picture I shall share our loo!

Toilet Twinning - just another example of how wonderful City Church is.

Have you twinned your toilets? Do let us know - we could be latrine neighbours!

Until next time.
With best wishes
Matt the Elder

Remembrance Sunday at City Sunday

It was an absolute privilege to read The Roll of Honour during Remembrance Sunday service. Myself and Beth, a fellow Elder, read out the names of people who attended City Church and other Cardiff city centre churches and who gave their lives for our freedom. We owe so much to these brave men and women.

It was a very moving service and gave us an opportunity to pay our respects to those who have fallen in previous wars and to pray for those who continue to serve in the Armed Forces. I have a family member who starts his basic Army training on Monday so this was particularly poignant.

The Act of Remembrance consisted of a few introductory words from the Minister, The Roll of Honour, two minutes' silence and concluding words. The Minister then chose a wonderful song to play during pause for reflection. It was called Remembrance Day by Mark Knopfler. Here's a snippet of the lyrics from the middle verse:

When November brings
The poppies on Remembrance Day
When the vicar comes to say
May God bless them everyone
Lest we forget our sons

We will remember them.

After service a few people remained behind to attend Table Talk. This month the discussion focused on what it means to wear, or not wear, the poppy. What followed was a very mature and respectful discussion and gave the small the group an opportunity to share what Remembrance Sunday means to them.

It's services like this that makes me very proud to be a member of City United Reform Church. It really was a very special morning.

With best wishes,
Matt the Elder

Random acts of kindness

Random acts of kindness

Happy times on holiday!

It's the little things in life that bring the most pleasure. As trite as that sounds I believe it to be the absolute truth. Take the simple act of sending postcards...

As you know, I was recently on holiday (did I mention I had a wonderful time?) and decided this year to send a few postcards to friends at City Church. I rarely send postcards, apart from the obligitory Wish you were here to my parents.

I was quite taken aback at how well received the postcards were. When they eventually landed on the doorsteps I had texts and tweets thanking me for sending a postcard. Then, when I was in church, people came up to me to thank me and to say how delightful it was to receive something in the post that wasn't a bill! People seemed genuinely pleased that I thought to send a postcard.

Perhaps it was the surprise of receiving a postcard - very few people send them anymore - or maybe it was sheer pleasure to receive a little something from Matt the Elder? Whatever it was it was lovely to see such a small thing be so well received. It certainly put a smile on my face!

It encouraged me to do more random acts of kindness. This evening, for example, I went to the gym. On the way I saw my new Spin instructor so I told him how much I enjoyed his class last week and that I would make it a regular class. He seemed really happy and thanked me for the feedback. Then I saw the manager of the gym and I told him that the new timetable works well as it means I can come to the gym more often. Again, he seemed pleased to hear that.

Honestly, I've been handing out random acts of happiness like some kind of Pez Dispenser!

Such simple things really can cheer people up. Why not give it try? A postcard, a text or a pleasant word... you could be making someone feel very happy!

Have you any examples of random acts of kindess?What have you done lately that made someone's day?

With best wishes,
Matt the Elder

Amran Pillars and sunset in the desert

Eilat is very much a popular holiday resort in Israel. Parts of it remind me of some of those popular Spanish resorts. However, Eilat is not a cheap package holiday destination. Yes, the beach side bars are lively and the body-beautiful take their sunbathing and preening seriously but there is an abundance of high end restaurants and shops. We've dined like kings on this holiday!

Eilat is a great base for exploring the surrounding deserts and mountains. The views across to Jordan are wonderful.

I was feeling much better after my recent bout of 'travellers' belly' and decided to join a jeep tour of the Eilat Mountains.

Our guide was good fun and clearly had a passion for nature. We drove through the nature reserve and spotted flamingos, gazelle and the desert dragon - a desert lizard. I was glad that we didn't see any snakes as I have an unhealthy fear of these reptiles!

We took a short hike to the Amran Pillars which I was surprised to discover that they were natural formations caused by wind erosion! A truly magnificent sight!

We carried on our tour through the desert and passed hikers, hitchhikers, a family pitching their tent and a random man laying on an air bed!

Watching the sunset in the desert was such a beautiful experience. As we sat in silence watching the sun set I couldn't help but think how fortunate I am that I can have such fantastic holidays.

With best wishes,
Matt the Elder

Biblical theme park adventure

I'll spare you the details but we've had to alter our plans somewhat due to a surprise bout of 'travellers' belly!'

So, the Timna Park desert hike to see Solomon's towers was replaced with a visit to Kings City Biblical Theme Park! The latter having an abundance of modern toilet facilities!

Ok, Kings City is aimed at kids but so what?! We're on holiday and we love a tourist attraction! Edited highlights of The Old Testament in the Bible Cave... Illusions and mind bending puzzles in the Caves of Illusion... King Solomon's Waterfall ride! It was great fun!

I'm hoping a rest and a few more rehydration sachets will sort me out for the rest of the holiday!

Pray for a speedy recovery!
Matt the Elder

Shabbat shalom

It's Friday sunset which means it must be Shabbat in Eilat.

Our hotel lobby is full of friends and families on their way to celebrate Shabbat. I suspect the restaurants will do a roaring trade this evening! Shabbat isn't so strictly observed here in Eilat compared to, say, Jerusalem. In fact, I noticed a number of signs in cafes saying "Open on Shabbat." Plus the bus service runs on Saturday and all the major tourist sites are also open! Great news - Underwater Marine Park here we come!

However, imagine our delight when we returned to our hotel and found Shabbat cake in our room. What a lovely surprise. It will go rather nicely with our kosher wine this evening!

Shabbat shalom,
Matt the Elder

Goodbye Tel Aviv... Hello Eilat

We said a cheery goodbye to a very hot (32 degrees) Tel Aviv but not before a little jaunt to Ersatz Israel museum. Lots of artefacts from Israel's past and all telling the history of life in The Promised Land!

Anyway, I'm using the fee Wi-Fi at Ben Gurion airport while I wait for my flight to sunny Eilat!

Until next time!
Matt the Elder

Petra after dark

While I'm feeling generous (and also have free Wi-Fi), have another photo of Petra.

This was the view from my hotel balcony which overlooked Petra.

I feel very humble that I have been able too visit this amazing place.

With next wishes,
Matt the Elder

A glimpse of Petra

Here's a little treat for you; a photo of me at Petra!

I promise to write a longer blog post about this wondrous city when I return home. In the meantime, here I am reading Agatha Christie's Appointment with Death. A Poirot whodunit set in Petra!

I think I may be a little bit enchanted by this lost city!

With best wishes,
Matt the Elder

Ps the butler didn't do it!

Next stop: Jordan!

For the last two days we have been an hour late for everything. Breakfast. Dinner. Tea. We didn't know this, of course. We were blissfully going about our holiday completely unaware that we hadn't set our clocks correctly.

The first we knew of it was when the hotel receptionist called our room at what our clock said was 0500 to inform us that our coach for the Jordan Highlights Tour was waiting outside! Turns out it was really 0600!

After a frantic wash and pack we were on the bus and on our way to Jordan.

Getting there

The excitement started at Israel and Jordan boarder control. Visas, taxes and two different currency later we were through!

I've never experienced land boarder control, only at airport and Eurostar. This this was completely new to me. It took up to 2 hours to cross the boarder into Jordan. Sadly we didn't have time to pick up a few bargains in the duty free shop!

I've really struggled to find anywhere with inclusive Wi-Fi and the price our hotels are asking for even one hour is surprisingly expensive. Quite frankly, 5 Jordanian Dinars for an hour is a rip off.

So I'm afraid I'll be giving you edited highlights of our tour and I'll wait to upload until we are in Tel Aviv for the free Wi-Fi!

Jordan Day 1

We traveled through Jordan to the Greco Roman remains at Jerash. Wow! The remains were incredibly well preserved and among the best I have ever seen. We spent about 3 hours here but you could easily spend a day exploring.

Our hotel was in downtown Amman. I was quite surprised at how modern Jordan's capital was. The tour guide informed us that it was very safe and we could explore Amman by night without any hassle. Considering we were up at 0600 and traveling all day we had food, some local wine and went to bed.

Jordan Day 2

Petra. Lonely Planet and Rough Guide could sum up Petra more eloquently than I. However, here's my opinion.

OMG! WHAT AN AMAZING PLACE!

I was overwhelmed with the beauty of Petra. Everywhere you turn you are confronted with such beautiful structures. Nothing could have prepared me for The Treasury or the Monastery. Wonderful sights!

Petra deserves a blog all of its own so I shall wait until I get home and share this trip in more detail.

Jordan Day 3

Our tour guide informs us that Day 3 is a Holy Day because we are visiting two holy sites. First up was St George's Church in Madaba, famous for the oldest mosaic map of The Holy Land. This was followed by a visit to Mount Nebo, resting place of Moses. The views of the Promised Land were breathtaking! 

I absolutely loved our three days in Jordan. But three days is not enough. I think you would need about a week or so to truly do this country justice.

Until next time,
Matt the Elder

Ps I'm blogging from my smartphone. Excuse the brevity of writing!

Beach Day at Tel Aviv!

Not wanting to make you jealous our anything but I'm currently on the beach drinking a delicious glass of cold white wine while reading Rhyming Life and Death by Israeli author Amos Oz.

It's also about 27 degrees. It's hot. It's gorgeous weather here.

Lekhayim!
Matt the Elder.

Tel Aviv: Day One

Two years after our first visit, I have fallen in love with Tel Aviv all over again! 

The arrival

When we left Cardiff and arrived at London Heathrow for our El Al flight to Tel Aviv, it was cold and wet. When we arrived at our destination it was 22 degrees! The best time to visit Israel is between October and April. Neither too hot nor too cold. Just perfect sightseeing weather.

We actually flew on my birthday. I was delighted to receive a Happy Birthday Tweet from El Al airlines. I had tweeted them previously to say how excited I was to be flying with them.

If you have flown with El Al before you will know how thorough their check in is. You can expect lots of security questions and, personally speaking, I find this very reassuring. They take passenger safety seriously.

The check in staff at Heathrow were so friendly! The one guy offered us some tourist advice about what to see and do on our travels. So, a wonderful start to the holiday.

The hotel

A very friendly taxi driver took us to our hotel. Base Camp is Herod Hotel, a 1930's inspired hotel which overlooks the beach and promenade. The hotel receptionist was lovely.

Our room is spacious and even has a balcony! However, we arrived late and all we wanted to do was go to bed!

The next day

The first thing I did upon waking up was phone reception. I had no idea what the time was. Neither myself nor The Big Fella (aka the other half) could remember the time difference. It was 0740 local time which meant it was 0540 back home! It seemed far too early to be awake while on holiday! But we were far too excited to go back to bed and both eager to start sightseeing.

Admittedly, we've been to Tel Aviv before. Two years ago we did a pilgrimage tour of Israel. It was one of our favorite holidays. And memories of Tel Aviv have stayed with us.

We have such a fondness for this city. Could it be the laid back atmosphere? Or the energetic nightlife? The gorgeous beaches teaming with water sport activities, sun bathers and people just kicking back and relaxing? Perhaps it the food?

Oh, it is most certainly the food!

The food

Speaking as a vegan who follows a gluten and wheat free diet, I am spoilt for choice! The vegetarian and vegan restaurants here are among the the best I have ever eaten at. Take Mezze, for example. The owner clearly has a passion for good healthy and tasty food. And the staff do all they can to ensure you have a great time.

Exploring Jaffa

We spent the morning walking along the beach side promenade to Jaffa. This historic port is a must-see. With its sea views, cafes and galleries - not too mention St Peter's Church, which houses The Vatican Consulate, this is a pleasant area to spend a few hours.

We decided to splash out on the exciting sounding multi sensory tour of Old Jaffa. Honestly, at 30 NIS, it was holiday money well spent!

The English speaking tour guide with charming. Upon hearing we were from Cardiff, she delighted in telling us of her love of Doctor Who and plans on visiting the Doctor Who Experience!

The tour was indeed multi sensory. Hilarious and well acted videos told the history of Jaffa while the tour guide showed us excavations and exhibits of the old port. The tour guide clearly loved her job; she was entertaining - and hugely knowledgeable about Jaffa past and present - throughout the 45 minute tour.

Not only was it audio and visual, it was also wet and windy! During the story of Jonah the audience was treated to gusts of wind and sea spray much to our surprise! A multi sensory experience indeed!

The delights of Carmel Market

We then headed to the wonderful Carmel Market. I love this place. It's endlessly fascinating and packed with shoppers, bargain hunters and tourists all coming to experience the frenetic atmosphere. It's worth visiting just to hear the traders banter with customers and each other! Much of it in Hebrew, granted, but who needs translation when everyone is having this much fun?!

Once again, it's all about the food! Name a fruit or vegetable and you'll find it here, looking nothing like the uniform produce of Britain's boring supermarkets. It really has inspired me to shop at my local market.

Friday evening - Sabbath

It's Sabbath. The streets may be quiet but the beach and promenade are still busy. Families and friends are enjoying spending time with each other. The beach-side cafes and restaurants are bustling and still people are playing sport or relaxing on the beach.

I'm sat on my hotel balcony, sipping the local wine and writing my blog. It's warm. I feel blessed. And it's only the first day.

Shalom, my friends.
Matt the Elder.

Matt the Elder is back!

It's fair to say I've completely dropped off the radar lately. I haven't blogged for over a month. My attendance at City Church had been sporadic. And the last elders meeting I went to I didn't say a word.

It's been a tough month. I've been feeling really unwell for ages. Completely wiped out and lacking energy. Turns out I've been fighting a nasty infection. It all came to light after an emergency dash to the dentist!

Anyway, you'll be pleased to know that I'm feeling much better. In fact, I feel like the old me once again!

Apologies for not keeping you up to date with the goings on at City Church but now things are back to normal the blogging continues apace!

Starting with my trip to The Holy Land! Stay tuned for regular updates about my holiday to Tel Aviv, Jordan and Eilat!

With very best wishes,
Matt the Elder

Over a thousand page views!

It occurred to me while listening yet another scintillating sermon from The Minister that I should find out if anyone is reading my Bonhoeffer in the City blog! Well, wasn't I in for a surprise...

It would appear over a thousand people have viewed this blog! The actual figure is 1,147! Quite frankly, I'm astounded! 

When I started this blog, I hadn't thought about stats and how many people would read about the adventures of Matt the Elder. At the very least I thought a couple of hundered hits during the first year.

However, I am delighted that so many people are reading it. It's interesting to see the most viewed pages. Here are the top three:

3, My First Elder's Meeting: part 2

2, City Church... Comforting your buttocks...

1, "A delicious play on words, Minister!"

Anyway, thank for reading this blog. It's as much about my being an elder as it is about sharing what a brilliant place City Church is!

Please do pay us a visit at City Church. You would be most welcome. And who knows, you may even get to meet the author of this blog!

Wish best wishes,
Matt the Elder

Some Christians are gay...

Matt the Elder on Canal Street

Apologies for being quiet of late. It's been a very hectic month. However, I'm back and ready to return to regular bloggin'

Last weekend I was at Manchester Pride. Those of you who follow my real life persona on Facebook and Twitter will know how much I love Manchester Pride! It's my favourite weekend of the year and I pretty much countdown to the Big Weekend from January. 

I've been attending for the last 13 years. My partner and I love the atmosphere; full of fun and good times! Everyone is there to have a good time and celebrate all things lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender! It's also a very safe place, what with the fantastic security team, door staff and St John's Ambulance looking after everyone. 

Can you tell I LOVE MANCHESTER PRIDE? 

Co-op advert on Canal Street

Anyway, this year we marched with The Co-operative in the Manchester Pride Parade. We marched with banners and gave away ice lollies and flags. It was an incredible experience. The route was packed with onlookers cheering us on! 

I do most of my business at The Co-op because they have such strong values and one of those values is about celebrating and respecting diversity. I'm proud to shop and bank with them!

We also passed a group of religious protesters. They always make a peaceful protest and every year they have the same placards with the same anti-gay Biblical quotations. Every float gives them a big cheer and wave as they pass them! It always makes me smile.

Jesus saves all... 

Compare that to a gay Christian group who marched with a giant puppet Jesus wearing a rainbow sash! It was wonderful to see such a bold statement being made at a pride event. Being gay and Christian is totally compatible - and don't let anyone tell you otherwise! 

I loved the t-shirts that the Christian group wore; "Some Christians are gay... Get over it!" Indeed!

I've mentioned previously that City Church is very supporting of the LGBT community - which is why I am a member. This weekend they have a stall at Cardiff Mardi Gras which will be staffed by volunteers who want to show what a welcoming and diverse church community we are. 

If you are visiting Cardiff Mardi Gras please do pop along and say hello! 

Does your church attend gay pride events? How do you welcome the LGBT community to your church community? Please do share your comments below.

Until next time.

With best wishes,
Matt the Elder

Ps: Don't forget to 'LIKE' us on Facebook!

Someone's been reading m'blog!

Just Text Giving now available at City Church

Do you remember a previous post where I shared five things churches could do to engage with visitors? Well, it would seem the Minister has been keeping a sharp eye on m'blog because he has adopted one of my ideas!

As you can see from the picture, it was the idea of setting up a Just Text Giving service for City Church. I noticed that Fowey Church were advertising their Just Text Giving service. I thought it was a marvellous idea especially as I had no cash on me in which to donate to the church. And when I spotted their advert I immediately donated money via text. 

It is very easy to use. To donate to City Church simply text CURC00, leave a space and then add the amount you would like to donate. £2, £5, £10, for example. You send that message to 70070. 

I couldn't wait to try it out so I sent a text to 70070 with CURC00 £5 in the message. And it worked! Within seconds I got a reply thanking me for my donation and a link to gift aid my donation. All very straightforward. 

I'm delighted that the Minister set this up based on reading my blog. It really made my day knowing that I've helped City Church to strengthen their fundraising efforts. 

Has your church had success with Just Text Giving? What other ways do you engage with your visitors? Please do share in the comments below.

Until next time.

With best wishes,
Matt the Elder

Ps: Feel free to 'Like' City Church on Facebook!

Officially Matt the Elder

There's no going back...

With the laying on of hands, my transformation into Matt the Elder was made complete. I even have a certificate to prove it!

Let's start at the beginning... Picture the scene. Cardiff was basking in glorious sunshine. The people of Cardiff were smiling and happy and there was not a cloud in the sky. Yet, unbeknown to many a momentous event was about to take place at City Church...

It may have felt like an ordinary Sunday service but half way through a crack team of elite Elders stepped forward  for their ordination and induction. These brave few stood in front of their congregation, the very people who elected them, and pledged their allegiance to serving City Church. 

Our instruction was simple. Come forward when the offering is brought forward. We were to take a seat in the front row. Easy.  Alas,  someone missed their cue? 

It was me! 

The Minister's Wife had one job...

I was faffing with my camera phone as I had asked the Minister's Wife to take a few snaps of the ordination. Whoops!

As you can see, somehow the Minister's Wife managed to alter my camera setting to 'record' and filmed her walk back to her seat. 

Note to self: do not ask the Minister's Wife to take any more photos!

Ordination and induction

Back to the service... The ordination and induction consists of seven elements:

• Introduction
• Statement of Purpose
• The Nature, Faith and Order of the United Reformed Church
• Affirmations
• Ordination
• Induction
• Declaration of Induction

The Affirmations that we were asked to make were as follows. The Elder's said the bold type.

Do you accept this statement and confess again your faith in one God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit?
                                   I do.

In dependence on God’s grace do you reaffirm your trust in Jesus Christ as saviour and Lord and your promise to follow him and to seek to do and to bear his will all the days of your life?
                                   I do.

Do you believe that the Word of God in the Old and New Testaments, discerned under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, is the supreme authority for the faith and conduct of all God’s people?
                                   I do.

Do you accept the office of elder of the United Reformed Church in this congregation and do you promise to perform its duties faithfully?
                                   I do.

As I was the only person who has never been an elder before, I had to kneel at the alter step while the Minister and two current elders laid hands on me.

This was a completely new - and strange - experience! To be honest, the laying of hands felt a bit pentecostal and I was half expecting a Gospel choir to start singing the Bon Jovi classic Lay Your Hands on Me! Sadly, that didn't happen. 

If only the ordination was this sexy...

I did, however, feel for the three people who were laying hands on me. Little did they know that 45 minutes earlier I was sweating it out at Pilates Bootcamp and then cycled to church. There are, sadly, no showers at City Church and while I had run a comb through my tousled locks, I did have a sweaty head. Apologies guys!

And with that I was handed a certificate which made my Eldership official!

It was a wonderful experience. I really felt part of something special and with most of the church community watching I felt a great sense of responsibility to serve them as best I can. What an absolute privilege!

What's your experiences of laying on of hands? Have you been ordained and inducted? What were your experiences. Please do share in the comments below.

Until next time...

With best wishes,
Matt the Elder

5 things your church can do to welcome visitors

"Thou shalt not steal ideas from other churches..."

Previously, I blogged about my recent holiday to Cornwall. I also mentioned that as I visited a number of churches on my hiking route I picked up a few ideas of how they welcomed visitors. I thought I would share with you my top five favourite ideas.

1. Welcome cards on pews

 I spotted these at St Andrew's in Tywardraeth. They were perched on the end of each pew and on one side was a welcome message and on the other was two short prayers and contact details of the Parish Priest.

I particularly liked the comment about not worrying if you've not visited before and don't know what to do! How reassuring - we've all been in those situations!

The welcome cards were delightful. I sat down, rested my weary feet and quietly said the prayers. Although no one else was in the church (apart from the Big Fella) I felt very welcome. In fact, after I read the card I had a big smile on my face.

It's the little things that leave a lasting impression.

2. A Visitor's Guide

Granted, this is not a new idea. Lots of places have visitors guides but I'm not aware that City Church has ever produced one. I often pick one up as a memento of my visit to a particular church.

3. An introduction to Christianity

I spotted this at Fowey Parish Church. A very engaging introduction to Jesus and Christianity.

This display placed opposite the main door and was very eye-catching. I loved the illustrations and commentary. A really nice touch, I thought.

4. Contemplative tour of the church

 Fowey Parish Church have clearly thought long and hard about what makes a church a tourist attraction. Here's another idea from them, a contemplative tour of the church. Each panel gives an explanation about aspects of the church, a Bible quote and a prayer. 

It was all very well thought out and we spend about 40 minutes following the tour.

5. Just Giving - text a donation

Another idea from Fowey Parish Church. Not everyone has change on them but most people will have a mobile phone. Just Text Giving is a quick and easy way of donating without rummaging for loose change. Brilliantly simple!






What do you think of these ideas? Have you had any success in your church adopting these or similar ideas? What works for you? Have you spotted other ideas? Please do share in the comments below.

With best wishes,
Matt the Elder

A visit to Ewenny Priory in the Vale of Glamorgan

Gorgeous screen glass at Ewenny Priory

I just wanted to share with you a couple of pictures from a recent visit to Ewenny Priory in the Vale of Glamorgan. I was hiking in the area and took a detour to the church. I've visited many, many times as this is the area where I grew up. I still love visiting. It's so peaceful and tranquil. 

Anyway, in 2006 a glass screen was installed which separates the parish church from the monastic section which is looked after by Cadw. Swansea based glass artist Alexander Beleschenko was commissioned to design the screen. It represents the resurrection of Christ.

Isn't it wonderful?

If you haven't visited the area I'd recommend you do so. It's a great place for walking and close by is Ewenny Pottery and Ogmore Castle. 

Below are a few snaps I took while on my hike. 

Corn fields at Corntown

A selection of Ewenny pottery

With best wishes,

Matt the Elder

Charming churches in Du Maurier Country

Matt the Elder's Cornish Adventure

Last week myself and the Big Fella packed our walking boots & the tent and headed off to Cornwall. Cor, what a scorcher! God must be looking favourably upon me to bless my camping and hiking holiday with such wonderful weather! Perhaps God is a fan of m'blog?

I hadn't intended to write about my holiday as it had nothing to do with my being an elder at City Church. However, half way through the holiday I realised that every walk myself and the Big Fella planned involved a detour to a local church. In fact, when I mentioned this to the Big Fella he reminded me that pretty much all our holidays take in numerous churches and synagogues.

And so I thought I would share with you some of the churches we visited during our hiking holiday in Cornwall.

Daphne Du Maurier Country

One of my favourite authors is Daphne Du Maurier. Rebecca, Jamaica Inn and Frenchman's Creek are some of my favourite novels. We often spend a week or so in Cornwall and more often than not we spend it in Polruan, just across the estuary from Fowey - where Du Maurier lived and which served as an inspiration for many of her Cornish novels. It is a beautiful area and one we consider to be our second home.  

We walked every day and averaged about 8-9 miles of coastal and countryside trails. So, without further ado, here are some of the churches we visited.

St Julitta, Lanteglos

Walking from Polruan to Pont we decided to take a short diversion to visit Lanteglos, the church where Du Maurier was married. It proved to be the perfect spot for lunch. The churchyard was beautiful and clearly a haven for wildlife. Inside, the church was an oasis of calm and the cool temperature was a much needed respite from the heatwave outside!

A view from across the churchyard

Looking ahead to the alter

Taken from above

This robin was not shy!

Churchyard

A monk's tomb

St John, Bodinnick

We have been to Bodinnick many, many times but we had never spotted this delightful little church. It's right at the end of the Hall Walk path and just up from the Ship Inn. A wonderful discovery!

A hidden gem

A view of the alter

Close-up of the alter

St Andrew, Tywardraeth

We stopped at St Andrew's church in Tywardraeth after completing The House on the Strand walk. It was one of the hottest days and we were flagging! We couldn't wait for half a Cornish cider at the nearest pub but delayed the pleasure so we could visit St Andrew's.

The impressive St Andrew's

Looking towards the alter

A view from behind

St Ildierna, Lansallos

That we actually visited this church is in itself a miracle. Throughout most of the walk St Ildierna was always in our sights, getting closer and closer each step. Until, that is, we dipped into a valley and took a wrong turn. Of course, being the one holding a map this was all my fault! I'll admit, harsh words were exchanged but eventually we found the church. 

Again, a delightful church and one that offered us hot and frustrated hikers a moment to regroup and thank God that we are fortunate to be able to take holidays and walk such distances together.

"It's just over that hill!"

A view of the alter

Beautiful wood carvings

A view from our picnic spot

Unruly parishioners... beware!

Fowey Parish Church

No visit to Fowey is complete without a visit to the church. Fowey is often packed with visitors so this church is a welcome break from the crowds. 

Close up of the alter

A view from the back 

We had a fantastic time and I hope you have enjoyed reading about the churches we visited. I have one more blog to post about my holiday which will look at some of the unique things some of these churches are doing to welcome visitors, some of which I think may work at City Church.

Have you visited the churches mentioned above? What are some of your favourite churches? Please do share your thoughts below. 

With best wishes,

Matt the Elder