There have been some ’strange stones’ appearing in a Pembrokeshire churchyard - however there is nothing supernatural about this, as they’ve been painted by members of the congregation, and they invite you to add to their efforts.

“One of the unexpected blessings of having to close our church buildings due to the pandemic has been the opportunity to reach more people through our online services,” said Caroline, treasurer at St Mary’s Church Begelly.

Although Begelly Church has now reopened, services continue to be posted on its Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/Begelly-and-Ludchurch-Churches-458583070997788 every other week.

“We recognise that the Church is a really special building in our community and look forward to it being open more widely than it is at present,” she continued.

“It has stood witness to many wars, plagues and pandemics, however for it to remain able to serve the community into the future it needs money.”

This year the congregation at Begelly should pay £27,676 as its contribution towards mission and ministry in the Diocese, in addition to its day to day running costs.

While the Church is very grateful that this year the sum has been reduced by the Diocese in recognition of the fact that fundraising is difficult, with an ageing congregation it is still unable to pay its share.

“We are trying to raise funds so that we can, as things continue to open up, once again run our Messy Church and Knit and Natter group, as well as other initiatives that are planned,” added Caroline.

If you would like to support the Church, you can donate by:

• Accessing St Mary’s online giving page https://www.justgiving.com/stmaryschurchbegelly

• Text BEGELLYCHURCH followed by the amount you’d like to give to 7008