Cwmbran Church in Wales Ministry Area
Ministry Area Leader
Rev Nick Perry
I am the Ministry Area Leader for the Cwmbran Ministry Area and see my role as developing and supporting ministry in all of the congregations for which I am responsible; but most of all, to allow others – both lay and ordained – to explore their own ministries, as they seek to take their place in the Christian Church.
I have been in Christian Leadership since the age of eighteen and find most satisfaction when I see others mature and flourish in whatever God calls them to.
Married to Caroline, who shares my faith and is a tremendous support, we enjoy music, plays and travel together. We are regular visitors to the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford-upon-Avon. We enjoy Choral music but find ourselves drawn to all different types of music.
I have an interest in Military History, particularly the Anglo-Zulu and Boer Wars; I enjoy sport and am an enthusiastic supporter of Manchester United, but enjoy watching and discussing football with others whatever their team. I enjoy watching Rugby Union and Rugby League.
For over twenty years I lectured in Management, Strategy and Education and have been involved in education and training for most of my adult life. With this in mind I am particularly keen to see our local Church Schools, at Henllys and Ponthir, thrive. I see education as a key component in our countries economic prosperity.
Team Vicar
Rev Elizabeth Kerl
Team Vicar
I am one of two Team Vicars that support the Rector in the running of the Ministry Area and supporting the team - both lay and ordained - that join us in serving Cwmbran. I have been here since 2018 and am focal priest at St Peter's Henllys, The Worship Centre Henllys and St Michael & All Angel's Llantarnam.
Faith & Prayer
I have a family of my own and know how difficult it can be to balance work, family needs, life and faith. I am a Bible-believing Christian with a rhythm of daily prayer, retreats and Bible study. If you are struggling with faith and have questions; or you're finding it hard to pray and would like someone to pray with you or for you; or you'd like to do some Bible study but don't know where to start; or you know what to do but are having trouble balancing your work-life schedule and would appreciate some pointers - then get in touch. Before I entered the Church, I was a teacher, lecturer and examiner for nearly 25 years. I am sure that, between us, with God's guidance, there's nothing we cannot work out!
Schools
One of my great privileges is to visit schools, take classes and assemblies, teach the Christian Faith, prepare people for Baptism and Confirmation and support schools as a Governor and Link Governor. Being present at schools is always fun and challenging - there are times of sadness when I am able to provide support; there are times of fun when I'm able to join in; there are plays, services and events which I am able to take part in - from Inspire assemblies to Remembrance services to being the 'dragon' during enterprise week - I am always happy to help. I am Chaplain for Henllys Church in Wales Primary School and I visit every week - often with Ignatius the Church Mouse!
Community
Living in the community of Henllys means I get to meet lots of neighbours out and about every day. I am a Trustee at Henllys Village Hall and offer my support at meetings and events to ensure Henllys Village has a wonderful resource available to them. You're more likely to find me washing up in the kitchen than pushing myself forward, but I love to serve in anyway that I can. We have Tree Lighting and Carols each winter, Remembrance and Armistice services in November and a wonderful summer fete every June.
In Llantarnam I work closely with local councillors, Llantarnam Primary school and the Food Bank. Projects are underway for youngsters, families and single parents. There's a lot going on and I'm never far away if I'm needed.
Naturally Cwmbran Ministry Area has its own faith community, but you will find that each of our serving team has links and friendships in the communities we live in too! Don't be afraid to come and say hello!
Music
Music is a fundamental part of Christian Worship and I am delighted that it is also a hobby of mine. I sing alongside the choir of St Michael & All Angels Llantarnam, I play the piano for The Worship Centre Henllys services on a Sunday morning, and I lead from the front at our services in St Peter Henllys - I've even been known to turn my hand to the organ or play carols in the streets as needs arise.
St Michael & All Angels Llantarnam is also blessed with a tower and a peal of bells which welcomes us to Sunday services. We are always looking to welcome new players to have a go at ringing. The bells are quite light and anyone over the age of 10 should be able to have a try with their family.
If you love singing or playing an instrument or want to have a go at bell ringing, do let me know - there's something for you in our Ministry Area and you can be sure of a warm welcome.
Team Vicar
Rev Sister Wendy Tayler
I originally come from Oldham in Greater Manchester and moved here in 2003 to begin my vocation as a nightclub chaplain with the Church Army. I was ordained in 2013 and have worked all my years in ministry in the Llandaff Diocese before moving to the Monmouth Diocese in 2018.
I am married with two children and one of my favourite hobbies is sewing (when I'm lucky enough to find time) I am a complete film buff and my favourite genre is chick flick or comedy.
I would love to swim with dolphins one day and a visit to Cuba is on my bucket list!'
ASSISTANT CURATE
Reverend Karin Pardoe.
I am the Assistant Curate at St. Mary’s Church, Croesyceiliog, which is part of the Cwmbran Ministry area.
I am part of the Clerical Team, who support the Rector in the running of the Ministry Area, which is made up of six churches and the Worship Centre at Henllys Church in Wales School
I have been involved with the Church since I was a small child, becoming more involved in Church leadership in the role as a Church Warden and then a Lay Eucharist Minister at Holy Trinity Pontnewydd. This led to me being Ordained into the Ministry as a Priest, and came to join St. Mary’s in 2020.
I am extremely keen to bring the Ministry Area together to share in social events and also certain church services. Enabling us to come alongside each other to celebrate our love of God through worship and praise.
ASSOCIATE PRIEST
REVEREND SUSAN (SUE) HOBBS
Associate Priest at Holy Trinity Church Pontnewydd in the Cwmbran Ministry Area.
I was born in the Cwmbran area and have lived here all my life. I am married and have 2 adult children and 5 grandchildren.
My career spans a wide area, I have been a Manager within the ASDA grocery chain, a home sales consultant with British Gas and a Family Support Officer with the local authority.
I became a worshipper at Holy Trinity Church in early 1996 following the closure of St Peters Church, Fairwater.
I gained a Degree (Hons) and a P.G.C.E. qualification aged 50yrs and became a licenced Lay Reader in the year 2000. I was ordained in 2015.
In 2009 I went to India as a member of a group of missionaries.
I am an active member of the “Churched Together” group in the Cwmbran area, I work with local schools in the “Open the Book” project and for a number of years I was a School Governor. Holy Trinity Church still has a very close relationship with the local school in Pontnewydd.
My life is dedicated to Evangelism and never miss an opportunity to share the love of Jesus.
DEACON
REVEREND MARLWYN NIXON
I moved to Wales 12 years ago and fell in love with the place, first in Aberystwyth where I went to University and met my lovely husband Phil, before moving to Cardiff to study for ministry.
I enjoy the diversity in the many different expressions of faith that can be found in Anglican churches, and I think it's important that each person has a space they can connect to God best in.
In my spare time I enjoy knitting, reading, playing video games, drinking tea, canal boating and playing with our lovely cats Coco, Cinnamon and Nutmeg.'