MEARNS KIRK CHURCH MAGAZINE

MEARNS KIRK (CHURCH OF SCOTLAND) Scottish Charity No. SC007125

Mearns Kirk Church, 404 Mearns Rd, Newton Mearns, Glasgow G77 5BU

SPRING 2018

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SPRING CALENDAR MESSAGE FROM JOE

ELDER TEAMS

A: Ramsay Withycombe, Beth Seymour, Sandy Watson, Claire Wilcock, Mandy Stewart B; Isabelle Dyer, Bill Jenkins, Des Young, Bea Young C: Marshall Wyllie, Ronnie Sinclair, Sandra McKay, Eris Rushworth D: Barbara Bremner, Roger Eason, Ian Stubbs, Anne Kerrigan, Robert Paton E: Donald Fraser, Isobel Dawson, Violet Kavanagh, Jim Kerrigan, Sandy MacNiven F: Mary Deas, Stewart Drummond, Fiona Macleod, Hamish Cameron G: Heather Anderson, Christine Milliken, Norman Anderson, Anne Sword H: Liz Ronald, Bryan Robertson, Elizabeth Harris, Isobel Alexander I: Sandra McFarlane, Susan Fraser, Stewart Cairns, John Revill

(PLEASE NOTE NAMES IN BOLD INDICATE TEAM LEADER)

Hi Folks, I just love the Spring ! The nights are getting shorter and the mornings brighter, which I know cheers many. The Earth is coming to life with flowers and plants revealing themselves. New life abounds, signs of which are all around us. I am even getting excited as I write this wee letter for the Magazine ! Where we live on the planet, we can see the nature of Spring and the symbolism of Easter coming together in ways which are very meaningful. Life appearing where death has reigned; newness of life bringing hope when it seems there was none, and light shining in the darkness - these are all feelings which are evoked by Spring. Easter is indeed a time of change when God makes known His love for all people in ways which bring new life. The Cross and Resurrection of Jesus are part of God's one wonderful, glorious act of love wherein God meets us in our darkness and sin, in our rejection of Him ,and reveals a love which forgives and promises a new creation, which we are invited to become part of here and now and in the hereafter. Easter says Love wins, now and always. The Easter message is the Good News of the Christian Faith. Our Faith is an Easter Faith. Without Easter Faith, we could not know such a God, Whose love is the Hope of this world. Without Easter Faith, we could not know just how great is God's love for all people. Without Easter Faith, we could not know God's love so personally and so deeply within our hearts. May all of us discover anew this Easter what God is saying and doing in Jesus such that the joys of Spring might be reflected spiritually in us as God's love lays hold of our lives. Joe

MARCH 10.15am SERVICES

4th TEAM G (Volunteer Kevin Cannon) 11th TEAM H (Volunteer Jim Reid) 18th TEAM I (Volunteer Harriet Reid 25th TEAM A (Volunteer Margaret Withycombe) PALM SUNDAY

APRIL 2018 10.15am SERVICES

1st TEAM B (Volunteer Marie Andrews) EASTER SUNDAY 8th TEAM C (Volunteer Margaret -Ann Leslie) 15th TEAM D (Volunteer Mary Paton) 22nd TEAM E (Volunteer Lesley-Anne Macrae) 29th TEAM F (Volunteer John Henderson)

MAY 2018 10.15am SERVICES

6th TEAM G (Volunteer Kevin Cannon) 13th TEAM H (Volunteer Jim Reid) 20th TEAM I (Volunteer Harriet Reid) 27th TEAM A (Volunteer Margaret Withycombe)

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FRIENDSHIP CLUB

JARS OF GRACE

The following lists our dates for the remainder of this session. If you haven’t been along to the Club yet and would like to join us, we are always pleased to welcome new members. Meetings take place in the Main Hall - fortnightly, on a Tuesday afternoon 1.45pm—3.15pm. March 13th Ciaran Dorris & Heather Innes (Singers/Songwriters and Musicians) March 27th Alastair McDonald (Guitarist/Singer) April 10th Angela Duncan (Singer) April 24th May MacIntosh (Armchair Exercises) May 8th Mary Kathleen Burke (Singer/Songwriter/Guitarist) May 22nd Outing – to be arranged

HELLO, I’M HERE!

Aileen Fyfe

To date we have collected £150 for Vis-de Copil, the Romanian charity which helps orphans and street children.

We still have a long way to go to match last year’s total of over £500 so keep filling your jars with all your small change.

If you do not already participate would you consider starting? Every penny received makes such a difference to those running the charity.

Many thanks again to everyone who has faithfully collected their small coins over the years.

Thank you in anticipation for another good response.

Mary Deas

OUR MEMORIAL GARDEN

I was astounded to find a Jonquil miniature daffodil flowering above the January snows. It is usually snowdrops that first appear in my garden around 25th January.

The Memorial Garden comes to life at Easter, which is when the volunteer helpers start their weekly visits. This year we are going to be without two of our gardeners because of ill health.

The gardens are truly appreciated by those who lay flowers; pause to contemplate; by the elderly; dog walkers and all manner of passers-by.

The helpers themselves derive great satisfaction whether it be tidying fallen leaves, putting in bedding plants or trimming shrubs. We gather 5pm - 6pm each Tuesday from April to end of September.

Why not take the opportunity to get some free practical advice and all manner of tips from establishing a garden to easy maintenance and choosing plants. Come along for a session - tools are provided. Contact: Celia Corbett 0141 639 8366

If you want to chat with Joe please contact him. He is happy to help where he can, but needs to know if help is needed. Phone 384 2218 or email revjoe@hotmail.co.uk

Joe

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FUNERALS AT REST: Jesus said “ I am the Resurrection and the Life”

BEREAVEMENT GROUP

Eastwood Bereavement Group meet in the Church Hall at 7pm on the 1st Tuesday of each Month. If you are struggling with the loss of a loved one, please join us in the Small Hall, where you will be made most welcome. This Community Group is for ALL people trying to cope with the pain of bereavement and our aim is to try to offer support at this very difficult time.

Christina Shafi

PASTORAL CARE

The Pastoral Group makes visits to the elderly, infirm, housebound, those in care homes etc. Please call Margaret Gray on 0141 644 1606 if you know of anyone who should be on our list. We will be delighted to visit them.

Margaret Gray (Convener)

Please inform Joe if you are ill, in hospital or facing particular difficulties. If he knows about your needs, he will endeavour to offer every possible assistance. Contact him at the Manse or by phone on 0141 384 2218

EASTER PREPARATIONS

This year, the Churches in the Mearns will be coming together to share the Services in Holy Week. Thursday evening's Service of the Lord's Supper will be held in Newton Mearns Parish Church, and the Good Friday Service in Maxwell Mearns Castle Church. Both of these Services will begin at 7pm. On Easter Sunday morning a "dawn" Service will be held at 6 30am, meeting at the Broom Church, before going up to Mearns Castle High School Car Park for an outdoor time of celebration. Breakfast will be served after the Service. A Good Friday Walk of Witness will leave our Church Car Park at 11 30am, journeying to the Church at the Cross for an open-air Service at 12 noon. Our Church will be open on Good Friday from 12noon till 3.00pm for personal prayer and quiet reflection. On Easter Sunday Morning we have our own Service at 10.15am. Please, please support these Services. Participation offers a deep experience of these important events in the life of our Lord and we give ourselves the best means of deepening our own sense of His love for us. There is also the opportunity to witness to Jesus and to encourage the ongoing coming together of the Lord's Church in Newton Mearns.

Nov 23 Sybil Templeman, Mearns Dec 1 Ian Steven, Mearns Dec 1 James Steel, Mearns Dec 8 Jean Britton, Mearns Dec 11 Margaret Irving, Mearns Dec 13 Rena Weir, Mearns Dec 19 Richard Burns, Mearns Jan 16 Ian Turner, Alexandria Jan 18 Bill McIntosh, Mearns Jan 29 Jean Spiers, Barrhead Jan 31 Peter Clark, Giffnock Feb 2 Grace Smith, Mearns Feb 7 Sandy Lyon, Clarkston, Feb 23 Elizabeth Law, Mearns

Joe

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EAST RENFREWSHIRE FOODBANK

In December the Foodbank received an overwhelming number of donations prior to Christmas – amounting to an incredible 6 tons! Schools which had never donated before gave us lots of food, mostly soup, and many donated Christmas sweets, chocolates and goodies, which are put into the parcels at this time of year. The Foodbank was extremely busy on the last four Fridays before Christmas, with over 25 food parcels given out on each of those days.

Apart from fruit juice (long-life) and sugar, donations were well spread out among the things required, and even on a very bad day, weather-wise, eleven parcels of varying amounts were handed out. It’s difficult to predict how much food is going to be needed at any given time, which is why it’s Important that stocks are kept coming in. Everything received by the Foodbank is weighed, both coming in and going out. This means that a meticulous check is kept on our supplies, and even the out-of-date food which we receive and cannot be handed out, is also weighed.

It is wonderful to realise how many people think of others less fortunate themselves, and of course it’s not only at Christmas that the food we give out is needed, but regrettably all year round, and it is amazing how quickly our stocks run down. Our food stocks are held in a no longer used Church in Barrhead, and volunteers sort out the food in date-stamp order, before it is packed into bags and given to those people who obtain vouchers from Citizens’ Advice, Social Work and other official agencies.

Elaine MacNiven

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

MRS NECIA IRIS EASON MBA

My Mother recently celebrated her 104th Birthday!! (15th January).

Gillian, daughter Jane, son Richard and I took her out to lunch where she enjoyed 2 sherries, nibbles, fish and birthday cake.

Afterwards we all went back to Mearns House where she was joined by Kenny and Christine Murchie, Sandra McFarlane and the staff greeted her with balloons. banners, chocolates and flowers.

A truly special day for a truly special lady.

Roger Eason

OUR MANSE

Our manse has been furnished thanks to generous donations from our Church members and others in the local community and we're extremely grateful to all who have contributed. We would like to thank Eleanor and Peter Boyd, who co-ordinated the furnishing and organising of the manse for Alwyn and Hennelien Landman's arrival on 12 February. And we would also like to give our sincere to the many people who helped out - in particular John Dawson, John Henderson and Bobby Fullerton.

Marje Gillies

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THURSDAY’S LUNCH CLUB

The Lunch Cub continues to go from strength to strength and now with the wonderful generosity of Asda, we have been able to take members out on some special day trips. When the weather is kind!, we have taken some out to James Hamilton Heritage Park for a afternoon stroll or even further afield to Irvine for a walk on the front. Some of the men in the Cub were delighted to visit the football museum at Scotland’s national stadium Hampden and all enjoyed the time there remembering the glorious game. We all visited the Glasgow Riverside Museum where we also enjoyed a delicious lunch. Closer to home a volunteer opened up her garden and invited everybody for afternoon tea and a tour of the garden, members and volunteers made the visit very special by donning summer bonnets and it truly felt like a garden party thankfully the weather held until everybody left then the heavens opened.

THURSDAY’S LUNCH CLUB

More recently we enjoyed a wonderful Burns Lunch with superb entertainment from Stuart, Jim and Pippa, a student who has been spending time with us before she embarks on her study at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.

We cannot thank our bakers enough for all the delicious baking which is so enjoyed. Please, if you would like to be added to the rota contact Isobel or if you would be interested in helping on Thursday (if only for a few hours) please again contact Isobel. You will be made most welcome and will thoroughly enjoy your time spent in the company of new friends .

Sun was shining in Irvine

Hampden Stadium

The “Bard” would have been proud!

Mandy Stewart

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CHRISTIAN AID WEEK

13th—20th MAY 2018

PLANT SALE

Following the wonderful success of our 1st Christian Aid Plant Sale last year (who an forget the amazing transformation of the New Hall!). We will be holding another this year, again combining it with the Elders’ Coffee Morning. This will take place on Saturday 12th May 2018..

EVENING CONCERT

BIG BREAKFAST

We will, again, be repeating the success of the Big Breakfast on Sunday 20th May. I am sure you will all agree it is such a wonderful, informal, spiritual get together (and the breakfast is pretty scrummy too!!)

Truly hope we can continue our wonderful success of Christian Aid events within our wee Kirk…..let’s all get together to raise funds, but also have some fun.

Mandy Stewart

CHRISTIAN AID WEEK

13th—20th MAY 2018

Keep your diary clear for Friday 18th May at 7pm—it’s our legendary Christian Aid Evening Concert. A night of music and dancing, Silent Auction and nibbles. This year we are delighted to introduce the DYNAGLIDES a 50s/60s band which, I am sure, should go down a treat with everyone.

Tickets will be on sale very soon.

DVD DISTRIBUTION

Can’t attend Church some weeks? That’s okay, because you can still share the experience of Faith within our wee Kirk. A DVD service is available to all, so just let me know if you would like a copy of the Sunday Service.

Carol Lockhart 0141 571 1925 or 07786 150244

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“Cast all your anxieties on Him for He cares about you”. (1 Peter 5 v 7) As a child I was brought up in the Baptist Church and in my early years we had an older gentleman as our Minister. He had a reputation of being a very good preacher. I was too young to know, but he certainly gained my attention when he spoke to the children. One story has stayed in my mind from about the age of 8. A man was going through his town guiding his horse and cart. At the bottom of a hill he saw a friend carrying a sack of potatoes. He stopped his cart and invited his friend to climb up into the cart and he would take him up the hill. Gratefully his friend climbed into the cart. The driver turned to speak to his pal and saw that the sack of potatoes was still on his back. "Put your sack down, friend!" He said. " No, no, said the passenger, "The horse is carrying me. I'll carry the potatoes"

It is such a simple story but really profound. It describes so many of us. I wonder what is in my/ your sack of potatoes? We are facing difficult and exciting times in the life of the Church. Certainly we need to dump our potatoes if we want to bring the life and work of our congregation into the 21st century. We need ' good deaths' - letting go of what hinders and spoils our Christian witness. We need 'a positive YES' to God and all that he wants us to enjoy. Joe has been making this so clear in his preaching especially in recent days. Let us all think deeply about what is in our sack and leave it all behind.

Diane Spiers

CHILDHOOD MEMORY

For the past six years we have been twinned with the Church in Ifumbo, which lies in a very isolated and rural area of northern Malawi. Poverty in this area is beyond imagination, the land is hilly and rocky and the people are dependent on what they themselves can produce. Unfortunately, recently there has been periods of drought followed by heavy rains, all of which has led to a very poor harvest and near starvation for many people. During the past six years we have been able to transport life-saving equipment, clothing, tools, aids etc direct to the area. We have received very positive reports of the effect this has had on the lives of people across all age groups; babies have been provided with starter packs, post natal mothers have been given dignity through simple toiletries; children have been encouraged to attend school after being given shoes that helped them cope with the very difficult terrain; young women have been supported in their efforts to be self-sufficient by being provided with sewing and knitting equipment and the elderly sleep more comfortably when supplied with blankets. One elderly gentleman who had not left his hut for over a year had his life changed when he received a wheelchair. I want to tell you of a new project which we hope to develop working alongside the Rev Godwin. Our plan is for individuals, families or groups in the church to “adopt an agogo”, a Scheme where teenagers in Malawi take on the responsibility for an isolated, elderly person, visit them weekly to carry out a caring role which will include fetching water, cleaning their huts, providing maize, candles, matches, mosquito nets and other basic necessities. We are looking for around 15-20 members of our Church family to commit to giving £7 a month to support an individual elderly person. You will be linked to a specific elderly person, will receive a photograph and regular updates on them. If you wish you could also send a photograph and some information about your life, family etc through Rev Godwins Maere. You can contact Isobel Dawson further information. I am delighted that Stewart Lothian will be involved in this project. Isobel Dawson E mail: issidawson@aol.com

OUR FAMILY IN IFUMBO

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MEARNS KIRK HELPING HANDS

MEARNS KIRK HELPING HANDS

Hello! My name is Vicky Irving and I came into post as Project Manager for Mearns Kirk Helping Hands (MKHH) towards the end of October last year. Since graduating from Glasgow University in 1998 I have held a variety of posts in the voluntary sector, working in homelessness, mental health, addiction and older people’s services. Many of my previous roles have also involved volunteer management. I was very pleased to be offered the post with MKHH- it is an exciting opportunity to be involved with developing a charity which is genuinely responding to the needs of people in the local community.

It has taken a few months for me to settle in to my role, meeting all the volunteers involved with the various groups and getting to know some of the group members. I have been made to feel so welcome! I have also been attending various meetings and development sessions with external agencies to make sure MKHH is well placed to be part of wider local service provision. This has also helped me to develop a good sense of what is already available in East Renfrewshire, and where our work can provide the greatest benefit.

At present I am working with the Group Leaders and volunteers from the Friendship Club and Lunch Club for People Living with Dementia to review policies and practice, identify and provide any training required and assist with setting up administrative systems such as transport rotas. I have been attending these groups as often as possible and have been incredibly impressed by the commitment, skill and enthusiasm of the volunteer teams. My priority with these groups over the coming months will be a recruitment drive to engage more volunteers, to allow us to expand our Tuesday provision (for the alternate Tuesdays and summer months when the Friendship Club does not run), our transport provision (drivers needed!) and to increase the number of male volunteers. The Lunch and Social Club for People Living With Dementia is also in the early stages of looking at some potential partnership work with students from Strathclyde University, and in discussions with staff from Mearns Primary about holding some intergenerational sessions with children from the school and Lunch Club members.

As one of our key strategies is contributing to improving the health and wellbeing of our community, I have also been involved in developing our partnership with RAMH (Recovery Across Mental Health). Through this partnership MKHH will be taking active steps towards improving the mental wellbeing of those living in East Renfrewshire. Our recent Mindfulness taster session was booked to capacity which was a positive start to our working relationship, and a short course in Mindfulness will follow soon. I am confident that many more joint projects will develop in the future.

MKHH’s involvement with the Talking Points initiative is another key strand to my work. Talking Points are an excellent opportunity for people to find out about activities which may be of interest to them, or access services which could help make life easier, without having to go through the usual Social Work channels. I will continue to liaise with the Talking Points team and the Halls will be host to sessions throughout the year.

Robert Paton (Chair of the Board of Trustees for MKHH) and I will be working together to secure further funding to sustain the good work already underway and to allow for future developments. I will also be responsible for reporting back to our existing funders on how their investment in us is helping those who need it most in real terms.

I am based in the Halls on a full- time basis, so if you are passing and want to say hello, please do! And if you have any suggestions or questions regarding Mearns Kirk Helping Hands, or would like to get involved as a volunteer, you are very welcome to email me at mkhelpinghands@outlook.com, or phone me on 07858552767.

Vicky Irving,

Project Manager, Mearns Kirk Helping Hands.

15—17 JUNE 2018

TEEN RANCH is a Christian Outward Bound Centre in Perthshire where young people aged 11+ can enjoy horse riding,

canoeing, rifle shooting, archery, flying fox and many other activities

Mearns Kirk is booked up to go again this Summer. All young people aged 11+ and their friends are very welcome!

This year we are able to reduce the cost to only £55 as Mearns Kirk has released funds from the Outreach Trust, to enable more

young people to take part. Siblings from the same family get a further discount. (£46 for 2nd child, £42 for 3rd child)

TO BOOK contact Marianne MacGregor 0141 639 6972 or text 07718 317215 or email Marianne81@btinternet,com We need a deposit of £30 by 15th April (balance by 15th May)

For information, you can also contact Shona Clark 0141 639 6239

What is Teen Ranch?

Www.teenranch.scot Facebook, Teen Ranch Scotland

VOLUNTEERING IN NEPAL

The Church community has been exceptionally generous to me over the past few years, helping me raise funds for my World Challenge expedition in Sri Lanka in 2016 by buying pots of jam and Christmas cakes. This year I have volunteered to take part in a 10 week Raleigh International expedition in Nepal. I will be working on two separate community projects in country, focusing on bringing water and sanitation back to rural communities that lost access to clean water after the 2015 earthquake. I will be involved in building sanitation units in these communities and educating the women and children of the village on the importance of health and hygiene. In return for Raleigh allowing me to go out and complete this community work, Raleigh asks for a donation of £3,450, which helps to cover the cost of the project materials and the cost of my food and accommodation. My travel is not included in this sum, and as I only found out I had been granted a place 4 weeks ago, I have an exceptionally short time to raise this donation. I am very aware of how much the Church community has given me in the past, and I am exceptionally grateful for all the help and support I have received. This expedition is much more about bringing help to poor and devastated communities, so any donation you can make will bring real help to people in those communities. As part of my fundraising I will be doing a sponsored event at the local gym, where I will be climbing the equivalent height on a stair climber from Base Camp to the top of Mount Everest. As with Sri Lanka, I hope that as 1st Mearns Brownie leader, I can pass some of this experience, and the importance of helping others, onto the Brownies and Guides. If you would like to donate please go to my Just Giving page at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/rhonamccalman. Thank you

Rhona McCalman

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MY TRIP TO SOUTH AFRICA

I must share with our people a most wonderful holiday I had with my son and daughter-in-law in South Africa. We flew direct from London to Cape Town, - it’s one of the most beautiful towns in the world. I think I am qualified to say that as I have visited lots of towns in the world during my amazing lifetime travels.

We spent a week in Cape Town and the highlight for me was the visit to Robben Island. As you know, this was where, as a political prisoner, Nelson Mandela spent 27years of his life. I am convinced that God was with me when I tell you my visit story.

We were booked up for the boat on the Friday of our stay in Cape Town. On arrival at the actual boat we were told sailing was cancelled due to high winds and rough weather. We rebooked for the Saturday—another disappointment meant still “no sailing tears”!

We were due to leave on the Sunday morning—my daughter-in-law said “let’s try again once more!”. It was agreed we could delay our drive to East London—about 350 miles north of Cape Town where my son, Bryson is a Systematic Theology Lecture at a college called Dumisani.

On the Sunday morning I prayed to God “Please help me to visit Robben Island” and HE DID! We queued for the 11am sailing of the early boat event. It was 50-50 but, praise God, the boat was sailing. It was a rough sailing, but I didn’t care! - I was going to see the small cell of the great man Nelson Mandela.

Digging in the lime quarries, surrounded by armed guards—these prisoners were human beings!

Having read Nelson Mandela’s book “Long Walk to Freedom” and other books along with several other biographies, I have a wonderful memory of Nelson Mandela—one of the World’s greatest statesmen.

After all the injustice, meted out to Nelson Mandela, quoting Jesus he said:-

“FORGIVE THEM”

David Arthur

MY TRIP TO SOUTH AFRICA

No bed—just a mat on the floor and rough blankets!

It was very cold for Nelson Mandela and the other political prisoners in the winter—contrasting with the blazing summer heat (40 degrees)!.

WALKING GROUP

The Walking Group decided that this year we would defer our Christmas Lunch till January and consequently met on the 16th January. There was a very heavy fall of snow that day, but nevertheless 13 of us duly met at La Laterna restaurant in Hope Street, where we all enjoyed a really lovely meal. The 7th February was our first walk of the year and we kept it very local in view of the unpredictable winter weather. On leaving Parklands car park, we proceeded down Capelrig Road and picked up the newish paths which the council along with other funding, have provided and which offer a nice leafy walk with a new bridge over the burn, which was in full spate, and out onto the far end of Harvie Avenue. On crossing over Crookfur Road we then picked up the second part of the walk which passes through a Glen and finally comes out on the Stewarton Road. Of course we found our way back to Parklands for our usual coffee and chit chat, albeit that we never stop talking throughout the walk! As we are now meeting on the 1st Wednesday of the month, our next walk is 7th March when we intend to visit Bellahouston Park, although this could be subject to change, depending on numbers and conditions.

Wednesday 4th April - Eaglesham Wednesday 2nd May - Kelvingrove. New members will be made most welcome. It’s a great chance for our Church family to get together. For further information, just phone:

Irene Graham 639 4192

CHRISTMAS PRESENTS

As Convenor of our Outreach Group, can I thank everyone for all the varied and wonderful gifts given at Christmas. Your response was overwhelming and, as a result, many families had a much happier Christmas than ever expected. The organisations we helped were Quarriers Family Centre in Ruchazie, Women and Children First in Paisley, Glasgow Care Foundation, Glasgow Befriending, Aberlour Trust and Falkirk Social Services.

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In addition to what we were able to do, Orchardhill Parish Church “planted” their own Tree of Kindness encouraging folks in the local community to donate gifts, which they passed to us for distribution to our chosen organisations. It was lovely to work with friends from another Church, to iron out ways of do-ing things better next year and for all of us to grow relationships with people working with families who often feel that no one cares. You made a huge difference and thank you.

Susan Fraser

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PRAYER POINTS

Please pray for:

For God to grant Joe His powerful help and direction as he seeks to bring his vision for our Church to fruition.

For God to be in the heart of the work of our Church Groups, for those existing and for those new and upcoming. May those who work within these Groups experience His support and encouragement.

For those within our church family who are experiencing problems with their health, both physical and emotional. May they experience God’s healing touch.

For God be in all the organisation needed to be made by Rev Alwyn, Hennelien and their sons in order ensure a smooth and happy transition from South Africa to Scotland.

For the homeless. Wisdom for our government in reaching a fruitful agreement with Europe.

For an outpouring of Your Holy Spirit in our young, bringing them to Christianity.

For God to reach out to war-torn countries and alleviate the suffering there.

For God to be at the heart in the fight against terrorism around our world. May those responsible for security be extra vigilant and aware.

DO NOT BE AFRAID

Do not be afraid for I have redeemed you.

I have called you by your name; you are mine.

When you walk through the waters, I’ll be with you;

you will never sink below the waves.

When the fire is burning all around you,

you will never be consumed by the flames.

When the fear of loneliness is looming, then remember I am at your side. When you dwell in the exile of the stranger, remember you are precious in my eyes.

You are mine, O my child;

I am your father; and I love you

with a perfect love.

By Gerard Markland

If you would like to join our Circle of Prayer group or if you would like us to pray for you, please phone Mary Paton - 0141 639 8609. If you want prayers for a particular situation, but don’t want to mention any names, you can put a note into the prayer box in the vestibule. This is situated near the table where the hymn books sit. All prayer requests will be treated confidentially.

PRAYER POINTS

Mary Paton

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LODGING HOUSE MISSION

2017—WHAT A YEAR We maintained the basic service of free food in a warm and safe environment. We served over 30,000 main meals. 90 – 100 people used our services each day. We helped 161 on one day – what a humbling experience. We added Pharmacy and Dentistry and a few others to the existing services of IT, Numeracy & Literacy, Life skills, Arts & Crafts, Monthly outings, Choir and much more. All major Homeless Charities and associated help Agencies now meet weekly to discuss common issues. We were (and still are) host to the Glasgow Winter Night Shelter, an initiative to give overnight accommodation to Glasgow’s street sleepers over the Winter period (1st December 2017 to 31st March 2018). Through legacy donations, we refurbished much of the premises including the two public toilets and showers. Opening hours. We opened on all public holidays except New Years’ Day. We completed a full year of Saturday opening (with great help from Church volunteers). During the Winter Shelter, we are opening on Sundays. Effectively, we are currently open 364 days per year. We never forget that we are only able to offer these facilities because of the generous financial and other help from Churches and charitable trusts.

Thank you for your prayers, encouragement and support throughout the year.

Gus Smeaton Lodging House Mission

FAITH

As you may know by now! I am very passionate of my Faith. Joe asked recently how we could describe God? To me, it’s quite simple— He is my Rock; He is Love and my Constant. Without Faith, what do we have?

As I am writing this article, it is minus 4 outside! Are you like me and thinking of the homeless? Folks who don’t have the luxury of a roof over their heads?

Many years ago, I worked near a homeless shelter. Each morning I would see poor souls sitting on the ground, at the ventilation heaters trying to keep warm whilst feeding the birds with bread given by the shelter. I must admit I felt anxious passing by—shame on me! In my defence, I was young!

One day, a man approached me—crumpled up in his weather-beaten hands was a piece of paper with a telephone number. He asked to me call the number—it was his daughter’s 21st birthday and he remembered! I told him I would and he said “God bless you” - 3 words from a man who had nothing in the materialistic world we live, but had Faith!

I called his daughter, who broke down in tears—her dad hadn’t been in contact for over 2 years. I told her where I had met him and, to this day, wonder if they ever connected again.

Take a moment to pray for the homeless, thank God for services like Lodging House Mission and Glasgow City Mission who work tirelessly within our city, helping those struggling. I remember meeting with Gus Smeaton who reminded me that for many homeless people, apart from the necessary help—sometimes folks just need someone to talk to and listen!

Alison Berry

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REV ALWYN LANDMAN Paul said to the congregation of Rome: “To all those in Rome (and all Churches today which includes Mearns Kirk) who are loved by God and called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our father and the Lord Jesus Christ”.

With these words I want to extent my sincere thanks for the way in which my wife

and I were welcomed into your congregation. The warm welcome by everybody and the effort that were made to prepare the manse for us (although just for a short stay first) were indeed noticed and appreciated.

I also want to introduce myself so that you can learn a bit more about me. In the year that I will stay with you – starting the 1st of June 2018 – it is my sincere hope that it will be more on a personal note and not on paper alone.

Returning from a theological study tour in the USA in 2009 we rerouted our way back to South Africa via Scotland and visited here for 3 weeks. It is at this time that I heard the call to minister in Scotland – the people and the country just spoke to me! While here in Scotland, we attended two Church of Scotland congregation gatherings and our call to Scotland was confirmed. At that time I was busy studying for my doctorate at Fuller seminary in Los Angeles and felt that I must finish the doctorate first before venturing into pulling up our roots and move.

The studies were interrupted by my wife Hennelien being diagnosed with cancer in 2013 and the subsequent treatment with chemo, radiation and hormone replacement therapy put our lives on hold for a time. I never lost the pull of the call to minister in Scotland, and therefore I finished my studies in 2016 and contacted the Church of Scotland in order to take up a charge where I am needed.

Joe will also help me, guide me and introduce me to the ways of the Church of Scotland – for that I am most grateful to him. Hennelien, the two boys and I are excited about being with you for the next year.

I also wish to convey to you a bit (just a wee bit) of my journey thus far and how the Lord prepared me for ministry. I grew up in a Christian home and finished school when I was eighteen. I went to work for the South African Police Force where I did duty at the uniform branch, detectives, mortuary, counter terrorism and specialized investigation branch. I retired from the police in 1996 as a Lt Col. I had my own business for three years before being called to full time ministry. I studied at three Universities where I ob-tained my five degrees.

I married Hennelien in 1982 and we will be married 36 years this coming August. We are blessed with two sons – Wynand, turning 30 (he is a paramedic) and Werner turning 23 (final year study as industrial engineer). Both of them will accompany us and we are in the process of seeking work/study for them.

We all are keen walkers, movie crazy, historical inclined and passionate about the Gospel.

Blessings until, God willing, we meet again in May 2018.

Alwyn Landman

OUR NEW FAMILY MEMBER—REV ALWYN LANDMAN

The process involved coming over to Scotland to take part in a placement conference in Dunfermline in April 2017. Hennelien and our two sons accompanied me and they also fell in love with Scotland and her people. The Church of Scotland affirmed my status as a minister who can take up a charge of a congregation. There is, however, a process in place to govern the smooth transition from my denomination (Dutch Reformed Church) to the Church of Scotland. My placement with you for a year is part of that.

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MY UNFORGETTABLE US ROAD TRIP PART 1

Last summer, I, along with husband, Laurence, and son, Euan, embarked on a road trip of the southern states of the United States the purpose of which was twofold – to gain insight into the American civil rights movement and to experience the roots of some of the great American

music of the twentieth century.

I thought I might share with you a little of what we learned about the civil rights movement and about the life of Doctor Martin Luther King.

Where to start? Perhaps a bit of history will help put things in context. The first settlers to America rightly sought economic and religious freedom, but they sought power as well and this desire led to the forcible removal of the native Americans from their land. Then as manpower was needed on the ground, Africans were brought to America as servants in the 1600s but by the end of that century a system of slavery had been established which was to last for 250 years. By 1860, there were four million enslaved people in the US. As slavery grew, so too did the feelings of white racial superiority. The view that slaves were less than human was formalized into laws, which covered every aspect of a slave’s life.

The end of the civil war in 1865 brought change. The thirteenth amendment to the Constitution outlawed slavery, the fourteenth protected the rights of newly freed slaves and the fifteenth gave black slaves the right to vote. Sounds promising! In many southern states black Americans were elected to high office, new state constitutions were written and fourteen black representatives served in the House of Representatives. But progress was short lived. White reactionary politicians, who were determined to keep black people poor, uneducated and powerless, used corruption and force to re-establish their power. Rights to vote, to marry, to use public transport and to integrated schooling were lost. The Ku Klux Klan used terror and violence to enforce white supremacy and between 1885 and 1901 2,000 black people were lynched. By 1910 there was a degrading system of complete segregation throughout the South. As a result of “Jim Crow” laws (named after a black minstrel in a popular song) black people were ordered to use separate restrooms, water fountains, restaurants, waiting rooms, bus seats -everything.

MY UNFORGETTABLE US ROAD TRIP PART 1

Here is where the Fraser family join the story – our first civil rights stop in Montgomery Alabama. The city that had been known as the “Cradle of the Confederacy” has the distinction also of being the “Birthplace of Civil Rights”. Three reasons for our stop. Firstly, we wanted to visit the Rosa Parks Museum. On 1 December 1955 Rosa Parks, a seamstress boarded a bus home from work. The bus was full when a white man boarded. The driver ordered Rosa and three other black people to move and allow the white man to sit down. Rosa refused and was arrested

As a result, a bus boycott was suggested and fliers distributed overnight. Black ministers and lawyers had been waiting for a test case and Rosa Parks presented them with an ideal opportunity. They recruited a reluctant young minister, Martin Luther King, to lead their boycott. Dr King’s wonderful oratory galvanised the black community and made him spokesman for the modern civil rights movement. 50,000 people joined the bus boycott in Montgomery over the next 361 days. If the bus boycott was peaceful and guided by love, Doctor King said, justice would be won. And it was – they organised car pools, walked long distances, remaining peaceful when harassed and beaten and on 21 December 1956 the US Supreme Court outlawed bus segregation on public transport. The protest demonstrated to the world that nonviolent resistance could work.

The year before, 1954, Doctor King preached his first sermon as pastor of The Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery a block away from the Alabama State Capitol where in 1861 the Confederate States of America (the seven slave holding states) was formed – and so to our second reason for visiting Montgomery to attend Sunday Service at Doctor King’s Church

MY UNFORGETTABLE US ROAD TRIP PART 1

What a welcome! Signing the visitors book discreetly wasn’t an option here. Instead, The service stops. Everyone is asked to stand and say where they have come from.

Unsurprisingly, we were the furthest travelled. The whole congregation comes around to shake our hands. We met people who had been in Church with Dr King and talk of him as their friend.

Yet sadly, the only white people there were visitors. Most of the congregation were elderly, but how they could sing those gospel songs! We left uplifted, feeling the resonance of history in God’s house.

As a result of his role in Montgomery Bus Boycott, Dr King became the acknowledged leader of the Civil Rights Movement and his increased responsibilities led to his resignation from church duties after only four years.

Our third and last stop in Montgomery was at the Civil Rights Memorial Center, where the beautiful memorial outside honours forty individuals who sacrificed their lives during the Civil Rights Movement and encourages visitors to reflect on the struggle for equality.

Inside visitors can sign a pledge to work for justice on the Wall of Tolerance. Having signed, my aim, even in writing this article, is to draw attention to the need to stand up for justice, for freedom and for equality wherever we find ourselves. Slavery, discrimination, inequality thrive today – we must gain motivation to make differences however small. To quote Doctor King –

“If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way.”

In case you think my holidays are overly serious, we also took in a baseball game in Montgomery – Montgomery Biscuits v Birmingham Barons.

The Biscuits lost 5-4 but no one (not just me) seemed to care -spending just an evening with the family and eat lots of goodies!

In our June Church Magazine, I will take you to the Edmund Pettus Bridge and our Visit to Selma……...

Susan Fraser

MY UNFORGETTABLE US ROAD TRIP PART 1

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Our annual coffee morning is on Saturday 12 May 10am-12noon and we hope you'll be able to come along, for even a short time. It's a friendly occasion where people can come together and have coffee or tea with lovely home baking! We would be very grateful for donations of home baking, books and DVDs - these can be delivered to the halls on the evening before at 7-8pm or on the day. Tickets will be available nearer the time - we look forward to seeing you there!

Many of you will know that we are planning to refur-bish our church halls to make them fit for the future. As part of this, members of the congregation came to a consultation in January to give us their ideas about what changes they would like to see. Our thanks go to the people who attended - their contributions were very positive and useful. The information from that day has been added to the previous consultations with Hall Users and with employees based in the halls. We are now at the stage of selecting an architect and we'll keep you up to date as things develop.

ELDERS COFFEE MORNING

CHURCH HALL REFURBISHMENT

BRIGHT NEW WORLD

In his rewrite of the New Testament John Hanson describes The Kingdom of God as, 'the Bright New World', a world that Jesus opened up and embodied. This is his translation of the Sermon of the Mount.

Splendid are those who take sides with the poor: they are citizens of the Bright New World. Splendid are those who grieve deeply over misfortunes: the more deeply they grieve, the stronger they become. Splendid are the gentle: the world will be safe in their hands. Splendid are those who have a passion for justice: they will get things done. Splendid are those who make allowance for others: allowances will be made for them. Splendid are those who seek the best for others and not themselves: they will have God for company. Splendid are those who help enemies to be friends: they will be recognised as God's true children. Splendid are those who have a rough time of it because they stand up for what is right: they too are citizens of the Bright New World.

(John Hanson) Article donated by Diane Spiers

CHURCH CHRISTMAS LUNCH 2018

What can I say….. I’m sorry. I do however have a good reason for mentioning it at this stage. Are you alone at Christmas when everyone says they are off to spend it with family?

How about coming and joining the fellowship team for Christmas Lunch in our Church Hall? The thought at the moment, (although details may change), is that after the Christmas morning service, we shall come down to the hall for coffee and chat, whilst we finish off preparing our Lunch. We shall then all sit down for Lunch, and you will be home before it gets dark. Transport can be organized too if you need it. We shall do our best with the current facilities that we have- we do not have any Michelin stars yet!. If you are interested, and would like to put your name on our list for Lunch or to help in the kitchen, please contact either myself or Joe. Thanks Ann 07867 781512 or 0141 639 9341 anncampbell16@btinternet.com

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THANKSGIVING & BLESSING MEARNS KIRK WEBSITE

Have you tried the new Website yet? Every Friday, the Order of Service for Sunday is uploaded to the Website—so you can look up the Bible Readings beforehand, or you can read through the intimations. The You Tube video of each Service is added a few days later. Other new features are the News and Calendar sections, showing what is on every week. All the different Groups have their own sections and can send in their events/news/photos to: webmaster@mearnskirk.church.

Are you a Group Leader? We want to hear from you, or a nominated person who can send us your calendar of events and news. A lively Website reflects a lively Church and anyone moving into the Mearns area will do their research online before coming through the Church doors.

Is the Website working for you? Does it have all the information you are looking for? What other types of information would be useful?

In the next phase, the Media Team (Nancy Harrison, Alison Berry and Marianne MacGregor) are looking for Groups and individuals to send in more photographs from events and activities. We hope to update the Calendar section—to be more informative and useful. We also plan to build a more in-depth History Section over time.

Jesus said, "Let the children come to me." Feb 25th Carmen Jennifer Frame, daughter of Melissa and Ian, Mearns

JOY IS A CHOICE

“This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.”

PSALM 118:28

It’s fair to say that some days are harder than others! Sometimes the sun doesn’t shine; the day ahead feels daunting and it seems almost impossible to get out of bed. Thankfully, the joy that God has rooted into our hearts is not circumstantial.

Joy is a choice—a gift to embrace daily. In every situation, good or bad, God has given it to us for the taking.

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SUNDAY CLUB

December was dominated by rehearsals for the nativity play as well as Christmas party preparations. The nativity was a huge success with all the children singing and acting their hearts out. The Christmas party

Following that the Sunday Club has returned to its main programme for the start of the year. The first weeks saw us concentrate on Jesus' miracles with the children learning about events from changing water into wine to the raising of Lazarus. Activities included paper plate craft which created a fake "water into wine" jug, wrapping up kids in "graveclothes", and four friends carrying one brave volunteer around on a sleeping mat!

Sunday, January 28, saw Sam and Dan Brooks hold their first all-ages session which focused on Fruits of the Spirit and was a massive success. There were music and games to help the kids learn about the Fruits of the Spirit. Sam and Dan are already preparing for the next event which takes place on Sunday, February 25 and will focus on Love.

The new Sunday Club has very much been a group effort and we've hugely enjoyed the sense of community and friendship it has encouraged. Please keep praying for us, and encouraging leaders and kids alike. As always we'd be delighted to welcome anyone who would like to join in and help out in any capacity, no matter how big or small.

On Easter Sunday we hope to see many children take part in our Easter Egg Hunt. Sunday Club will continue as usual during the holidays.

The Sunday Club has a new leadership team! With John Stuart stepping down, we are very fortunate to have four volunteers to take on the leadership as a team effort:

Sam Brooks, Jamie Robertson, Marianne MacGregor, Fiona Edwards.

A new programme and rota will start after the Easter Holidays—building on the basics with a variety of activities. A big THANK YOU to John for all his support over many years. We would ask everyone to pray for the new team and all our volunteers as they embark on this new venture.

SUNDAY CLUB

CRECHE

We are looking to start a Creche again, as there are now a number of young families with babies in our Church

Would you like to help with the rota after Easter? If you are interested, please contact Alison Berry (berryalison4@gmail.com) or Marianne MacGregor (Marianne81@btinternet.com)

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Alison Berry 0141 563 5142 or 07927 049400 or email: berryalison4@gmail.com

FINALLY

I truly hope you enjoy the “Bumper” Spring Magazine—thank you so much for those who contributed—you make my heart “sing”

Till next time……Summer (and yes, hopefully, the snow will be gone!!)

Alison