THE MAGAZINE OF
NEW LAIGH KIRK Church of Scotland KILMARNOCK Scottish Charity No.:SC031334
FEBRUARY 2017
“A caring welcoming church at the heart of Kilmarnock reaching out to all” Minister:Rev. David S Cameron, 1 Holmes Farm Road, Kilmarnock (Tel.: 525416) Session Clerk: Mr Derek I’Anson Depute Clerk: Mrs Margaret Patterson Pastoral Assistant: Mrs Barbara Urquhart, 9 Standalane, Kilmaurs (Tel.: 538289) Community and Families: Sara Green Community and Youth: Bethany McCaw 1
CHURCH CALENDAR SUNDAY 11.00 a.m. 11.00 a.m.
5:30 to 7:30 p.m. MONDAY 7.15 p.m. 8.00 p.m.
MORNING WORSHIP Crèche (0 to 3 years) Junior Kingz (age 3-primary 3) and Senior Kingz(primary 4-primary 7) Contact:Sara Green (07886 138177) TrekkersNG (12-15 years) Contact: Bethany McCaw (07827 816405) Congregational Board Meeting (Dates as arranged) Fusion (formerly TAZ) (12-15 years) Contact: Bethany McCaw (07827 816405) Guild (every second Monday) Contact: Mrs Lesley Wright (523039) Highlights Klub (1 Monday per month – see Syllabus) Contact: Mrs Angela Mitchell (534622) or Mrs Eileen Murphy (543488)
TUESDAY 10.15 to 11.15 a.m. Tots Praise (Babies - 4 year olds) Contact: Sara Green (07886 138177) 2.00 p.m. Music and Movement Contact: Miss Anne McVey (533975) / Mrs Mildred Mullen (528205) 7.00 p.m. Badminton Club Contact: Mr Alan I’Anson (07949 169051) 7.30 p.m. Session Meeting (Dates as arranged) Contact: Mr Derek I’Anson (521445) WEDNESDAY 2.00 p.m. Friendship Group (downstairs second Wednesday of each month) Contact: Mrs Margaret Laird (525732) 6.00 to 7.00 p.m. Rainbows 6.30 to 8.00 p.m. Brownies Contact:Sheena Baillie (531440) 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. Guides Contact: Emma Johnstone (07853 240753) THURSDAY 2.00 p.m. Guild of Friendship (every second Thursday) Contact: Janette Howard (529005) 7.00 p.m. Vestry Contact: Rev David S Cameron (525416) / Mr Derek I’Anson (521445) 7.30 p.m. Choir Contact:Mr Martin Sharp (524133) FRIDAY 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. Boys’ Brigade Anchor Boys (5 to 8 years) St. Andrew’s & St. Marnock’s Halls Contact: Mrs Michelle Taylor (529266) 7.00 to 9.00 p.m. Boys’ Brigade Junior Section (8+ to 11 years) St. Andrew’s & St. Marnock’s Halls Contact: Elaine Park (533464) 7.00 to 9.30 p.m. Boys’ Brigade Company Section (11+ to 18 years) New Laigh Kirk Hall Contact: Mr David McDonald (544037)
Safeguarding Co-ordinators: Andy King and Lilian Gillies Safeguarding Panel Members: John Dale, Bill Sherry and Ellen Stewart 2
New Laigh Kirk Manse February 2017
Hi folks Roses are red, violets are blue sugar is sweet and so are you….. Did you ever write that on a Valentine’s Day card at one time? Valentine’s Day is caught up with tokens of love as well as a fortune made on cards, flowers and chocolate. God’s tokens of love are far greater and more effective. Choosing life, choosing obedience to God, means choosing love. Love for the Lord your God, love for life, love for each other. A voice of love should be our Valentine to the world. This is given in relationship with God, with our loved ones, the stranger and those we find it difficult to love. Have you noticed how angry people seem these days? There is a general breakdown of social graces, and good manners and a lack of love. This gives a validation, a permission, to be aggressive. What happened to the old adage that said, ‘count to ten.’ Today more and more people can’t get past one. Two sisters spent the day fighting. That evening they prepared for bed, still mad at each other. As usual, they said their prayers before closing their eyes and going to sleep. "Dear God," the 8-year-old began, "Bless Daddy and Mummy, bless our cat and dog." Then she stopped. Her mother gently prodded, "Did you forget somebody?" She glared across the bed at her 6-year-old sister and added, "And, oh yes, God, bless my ex-sister." Sometimes we wish it was that easy, don't we? Our brothers and sisters don't become 'ex's' just because we are angry. We were created for relationship. Broken relationships tear at the very reason behind our existence.
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In Matthew’s gospel continuing the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus declared, “So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come back and offer your gift.” Jesus dared claim that reconciling with another was the greater, better choice. Go, and alter the anger or mistrust or hurt that your brother or sister and you are part of. In Jesus, love was given a voice. Because of Jesus, it is possible for us to have the same voice and return to the happiness and joy God intends for everyone. Choose love as a way to reconcile with others. Here is Paul’s passage about love from Corinthians. If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, It is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, It is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, 4
I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. Now you might read that and think that’s lovely, how does it affect me? Try reading it again, or have it read you, and in the blanks read your own name. ……….. is patient, ….……. is kind. ……….. does not envy, does not boast, is not proud. ……….. is not rude, is not self-seeking, is not easily angered, keeps no record of wrongs. ……….. does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. ………. always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. ………… never fails. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is the love ……….. gives. We are called to love more than we think we are able to do. All God is saying is “It’s from me to you now go and share it.” Blessed are you, who love because God first loved you. Happy Valentine’s Day With prayerful good wishes
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A Letter from Barbara Urquhart Pastoral Assistant
Dear Friends, As I write, little shoots are appearing in the Manse garden, emerging from the dark earth into the light of the winter sun. No doubt by the time you read this letter the snowdrops will be in bloom. Although appearing fragile they are so resilient with the promise of spring, new life and brighter days. As a Pastoral Care Group our main event this spring is another Silver Sunday event. All present in October greatly appreciated the opportunity of worshipping together in the church building they love, not forgetting the fellowship and hospitality enjoyed. Fuller details will appear in the next magazine. Meanwhile we continue with our monthly services at Argyll House, Grange Nursing Home and Dean House. I am so fortunate to be supported by six members of the Pastoral Care Group and over the years friendships have grown with both residents and relatives alike. Frequent contact is also maintained with many of our senior members in their homes, and although much of this work is unseen it is nevertheless much appreciated. The Pastoral Care Group were pleased to welcome two new visitors to our number and at the year end we were delighted to receive one hundred pounds towards our work from the Music and Movement Group. Every Blessing, Barbara Urquhart Pastoral Assistant. 6
Update from Bethany McCaw Youth and Community Worker
This term I’ve teamed up with two other youth workers to hold a Youth Alpha course for young people in Kilmarnock. It will run for 11 consecutive Thursday evenings until 30th March. A typical night will involve dinner, games, a video on the theme of the evening and small discussion groups. We have a brilliant team lined up for this who are enthusiastic about making it a fantastic experience for young people who attend. It’ll be a great chance for our young people to get to know and hang out with other youth involved in churches in Kilmarnock, as well as to develop their faith in a fun environment. Trekkers enjoyed a Christmas outing to Braehead Ice Skating in 7
December – there were only a few slips and one spectacular fall(!), but everyone had a brilliant time! We took part in a scavenger hunt around Braehead shopping centre too and had a ball searching the shops and talking to people to get the answers we needed. This term we have an activity planned for the last Sunday of each month. This includes bowling, church visits, movie nights and a BBQ. Trekkers are also looking forward to Mother’s Day when we will be leading the family service, bringing our own program and putting a youth spin on it. Thank you for your support for our young people and for my work with them. Bethany
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THURS 19 JANUARY
Youth Alpha Launch: Sumo suits, bouncy castle, pizza and intro to Alpha
SUN 29 JANUARY
Movie and hangout (with food)
SUN 5 FEBRUARY
Trekkers Leading Communion Imagine main event
SAT 25 FEBRUARY SUN 26 FEBRUARY SUN 12 MARCH
Family Music Event
6.30-8.45pm. @ Central Evangelical church, John Finnie Street 6-8pm @ C and B’s house, 124 North Shore Road, Troon 9.50am @ Church 4-5.30pm @ NLK Halls 7.30pm @ NLK Halls
Visit to C7/Destiny Church
Meet 5pm @ Halls
Imagine main event
SUN 26 MARCH SUN 9 APRIL
Trekkers leading Mother’s Day Service Imagine main event
4 – 5.30pm @ NLK Halls Church, meet 10am
SUN 30 APRIL
Bowling @ Garage
SUN 14 MAY
Imagine main event
SUN 28 MAY
Summer BBQ in Troon
SAT 3 JUNE
Trekkers Coffee Morning
SAT 10 JUNE SUN 11 JUNE
Family Activity Day Imagine Summer finale
SUN 25 JUNE
Visit to Destiny Church/C7
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4 – 5.30pm @ NLK Halls Meet 6pm @ Halls Pickup @ Garage 7.30pm 4 – 5.30pm @ NLK Halls 6-8.30pm @ C and B’s 10am-12pm @ NLK Halls Lendrick Muir 4-5.30pm @ NLK Halls Meet 5pm @ Halls
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Update From Sara Green, Community and Family Worker I know it’s February but Happy New Year everyone! The first few weeks of 2017 have been very busy and I’d like to thank everyone for their continued support: to the leaders and helpers for their commitment and enthusiasm, to the parents/grandparents who bring the kids along to various NLK activities, to the congregation for their prayers and words of encouragement and to the kids themselves for being awesome! We have a wonderful fundraiser organised for the 25th February, with all funds being donated towards a block of treatment for one of our Kingz Kidz children at Bobath Scotland. Bobath Scotland exists to improve the quality of life for people with cerebral palsy. They provide specialist therapy from a Glasgow-based therapy centre, offer specialist knowledge, training and support. Please support our Family Music Event with entertainment by up and coming duo, Ginny and the Tonic. Kingz Kidz: Update The children and leaders of Kingz Kidz would like to thank you all for your involvement in the nativity, The Well Good News of Christmas. We’d also like to thank the congregation for their support at our coffee and BINGO morning. Dates for diary include: Sunday 26th February Sunday 19th March Sunday 26th March Sunday 30th April
- All Age Kingz Kidz (meet in halls at 10.45am) - All Age Kingz Kidz (meet in halls at 10.45am) - Mother’s Day Family Service - All Age Kingz Kidz (meet in halls at 10.45am)
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Easter Club: Easter Adventure Calling all explorers! Join us as we begin an exciting Easter journey! During the Easter Holidays, a children’s Easter club called ‘Easter Adventures’ will take place on Monday 3rd, Wednesday 5th and Friday 7th April from 8.45am11.30am. Book your child/children in with Sara as limited spaces are available. The club will include breakfast, games, crafts, bouncy castle and snack! 50p donation per child.
NLK Prayer Room "PRAY IN THE SPIRIT, ON ALL OCCASIONS WITH ALL KINDS OF PRAYERS AND REQUESTS." EPH 6:18 During the 12th - 18th March our own session room will be transformed into a prayer room. Over the 6 days the prayer room will be open from 8am until 8pm and will include stations to help you pray in different ways! Prayer Rooms help people learn to pray by praying through words, art, music, activity, silence and more, anyone can try talking to God. Here are some comments from last year’s prayer room:
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‘We have had an amazing experience using the prayer room. It was peaceful and relaxing the quickest hour ever....’ ‘I found it most beneficial. Not knowing what to expect, I found it very conducive to reflection and prayer....’ ‘An oasis of peace’ To sign up please visit https://www.24-7prayer.com/signup/438e83 or see our website and Facebook pages for the direct link. Summer Club - Guardians of Ancora: Treasure Seekers This year our Summer Club will take place from Monday 31st July until Friday 4th August with a children’s club for ages 4-11 in the afternoon and a teenage programme for S1-S6 in the evening. The afternoon kids club will be called Guardians of Ancora: Treasure Seekers, which is Scripture Union's exciting new holiday club for 2017, and a follow up to last year’s Guardians of Ancora. More information will be revealed in due course! Please do continue to support our kids and youth events, and ask the kids to bring friends along! Many thanks, Sara Green 13
EASTER ROCK MUSICAL Are you passionate about amateur dramatics or singing? Then join the production of, From Darkness into Light, an Easter rock musical! Sara is looking for 18-20 members to form the chorus of the show, and 4 people to play the principal roles of Jesus, Mary, Pilate and Simon. No previous experience is necessary to be part of the production - the only requirements are that you are enthusiastic and can attend a minimum of 8 rehearsals. Rehearsals will begin on Wednesday 1st February at 7pm in New Laigh Kirk church and continue on through February and March. The musical will take place on the stage in the halls on two dates: Saturday 22â żd April at 7pm Sunday 23rd April at 3pm Please consider joining us as we bring the Easter story to life!
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15th Kilmarnock Guides Dear NLK I would like to give you all an update on the new 15th Kilmarnock Guide unit at NLK. We now have 24 guides and really at maximum capacity until I can get another full time leader. I have to thank everyone to enable us to run. In particular Ellen Stewart, Fiona Malcolm and Fiona Richardson. Also a special thank you to my mum, Margaret, for stepping in when I have been really stuck and at last minute. I would also like to thank NLK for the very gratefully received donation and for the use of the bus and David Ramsay for very kindly driving us. Also last but not least the Guild for their continued support and donation. Since our last communication the girls have been to their first county camp with other guide units from Ayrshire North. The girls met about 30 other guides and enjoyed archery, reverse trampolining, making shelters, various team building activities, sleeping under canvas and the all important campfire!! They had an absolute ball and probably all of them will be going again this year. We had two patrol leaders that went on patrol leader training at the Cairngorms Christian Centre and had a wonderful experience. It was their first time away so far as guides and I was very proud of them as they were a wonderful example of guides. They were very inclusive and tried all the new activities. They enjoyed raft building and the X-Factor type activity which I am pleased to report our girls won the challenge. The girls also took part in the Senior Section 100 years of guiding celebrations with a walk around Millport – where we had our newer guides at the time making their promise on the beach with the district commissioner.
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Since August we almost doubled in size with 23 guides. I was excited to have girls participate in the rededication of the organisation service at Church with some of our girls making their promise there. We had 14 girls enjoying Halloween at a sleepover in the Halls. The theme was Harry Potter and the girls dressed up as wizards and witches and did a range of wizarding tasks like playing quidditch and making wands. All girls achieved their expelleramus challenge badge. At Christmas time the girls had a marshmallow party – theme being anything and everything you can do with marshmallows which was a hoot. I am also pleased to announce that instead of the girls getting presents they opted to donate money to charity. They had a vote and sent £115 to Cash for Kids to help out with their Mission Christmas Campaign. I am so proud of them. Going forward we have another opportunity for Patrol leader training – which there will be 5 at this time. I am very excited about this as it is in Netherurd (which is the Scottish guide house). It is a great facility and has been used for many years in guiding (I remember going there as a young guide only a few years ago). We have 4 girls going to International camp (in Eglinton Country Park), county camp and the guides Tartan gig at the Hydro. The girls will be fundraising with bag packing at Morrisons and a coffee morning on the 1st April, keep a note in your diary for that one as I will be thrilled if we could have a wee hand with donations!! Our aim is to raise enough money for the girls to go to International camp and the other girls to go to county camp to keep costs down at home. Once again I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their continued support with the guides – we really could not do this without it. The girl’s numbers are growing fast and they really enjoy coming to the unit. Emma Johnstone
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The Guild The second half of our session began on Monday, January 9th with a visit from a “weel-kent” member of our congregation – Ken Stewart, Kirk treasurer and, more importantly, husband of committee member, Ellen. His topic was the Kirk and its Worthies and he gave us an interesting and light-hearted talk about the many different churches of which he has been a member and an elder and all the characters that he encountered along the way. It is always a special pleasure to have a member of our own congregation as one of our speakers – so if you have a topic or a talent which you could share with the Guild, don’t be shy! It seems no time since Guild Week when the very enjoyable concert by A Choired Taste raised £250 towards our Guild projects. Thanks to those who supported us. Thanks too to Barbara Urquhart who made the Guild the topic of her service at the end of Guild Week, giving the opportunity to two members, myself and Netta Lindsay, to take part. I enjoyed examining the Guild badge with the Kingz Kidz and telling them a bit about the Guild. Netta had the harder task of telling the congregation about the two projects we are supporting this session, “Care for the Family” and “Feed the Minds.” However, we appreciated the chance to shine the spotlight on the Guild and all that it does, in the name of Jesus, “whose we are and whom we serve!” We have many interesting speakers to look forward to before our closing social with music group, Cantante, on April 3rd and we would be happy to welcome you to any of them. However, we do ask for your particular support at our coffee morning on Saturday, March 4th from 10am till noon in the church hall. Tickets will be on sale beforehand and this is our main fundraiser. The money goes to our projects and to various other charities and groups within our own church. And you are always assured of a good cup of tea or coffee from the Guild, in a Guild cup! We look forward to seeing you there. Lesley Wright 18
The Junior section took part in a giant “sleep over” at the Glasgow science centre along with 400 other BB boys from all over Scotland. They experienced live science shows, learned to build their own rockets, created their own fossils and explored the stars in the centre’s state-of-the-art planetarium. The Junior section also went to the SECC in Glasgow to see the Pantomime “Aladdin” and met the star of the show Wishee Washee played by Kilmarnock's own Johnny Mac. After our coffee morning the Juniors section went to support Scotland at Rugby Park when they played Georgia at Rugby. And when Kilmarnock FC played Dundee at football a group of our boys were invited onto the pitch at half time to entertain the crown with a kickabout.
Boys at Rugby Park
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As a Company we have successfully taken part in the Battalion Swimming Gala and the Company Section boys also a had shot at Curling when the Battalion arranged a “Come and Try” event at Ayr Ice Rink. We have had 2 Parades so far this session, we were representing the Battalion at the Cenotaph for the Remembrance Parade with a flag party at New Laigh Kirk and our Enrolment parade was to St Andrew's and St. Marnock's Church. This year we are hosting the Battalion Parade in March as it is going to be at St Andrew’s and St Marnock’s Church In the National competitions we only have a team left, that is the U14 5-a-side football team, having been knocked out of the U18 5-a-side football, masterteam quiz, table tennis and chess. Thank you to everyone who contributed or helped with our Coffee Morning and donated to our fundraising during Boys’ Brigade Flagweek.
THE FRIENDSHIP GROUP The quiz winner was Ian Anderson. Well done! I would like to thank everyone who helped at the pantomime and at the the tea after. A great day was had by all.
Many thanks Margaret Paterson
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Highlights Klub Firstly, we would like to wish everyone a happy new year from all at the Highlights. Our November evening saw Margaret and Lynnette trying to bring out our creative talent – with varying degrees of success! We all had great fun and most of our sugar craft pillar boxes and robins bore at least a passing resemblance to the real thing. Many thanks to the ladies for such an enjoyable evening, and making it look so easy! In December, our Christmas night out was a festive dinner at Franklin and Sloane, where 37 of us enjoyed good food, good company and lovely surroundings. It really did start the festive season off nicely. By the time the magazine is printed, we will have had our tap dance workshop with Heather – I am sure that, as usual, Heather will have found a way to make exercise great fun, hopefully helping us to lose a few of the extra Christmas pounds! February continues the feel good factor, with aromatherapy and therapeutic massage, followed by a night of laughter in March as we welcome back Ronnie Russell. Please note that on the March evening, we need names and payment for our summer outing to the House for an Art Lover in May. Please also note the date of our annual charity quiz in aid of Breast Foot Forward. This will take place on Monday 24th April in the Lower Hall and we look forward to seeing members and friends there. Please put the date in your diary – an evening not to be missed! New members are always welcome – contact me on 543488 or Angela on 534622, or speak to any of the committee. Eileen Murphy Chairperson 21
Prayer Group It seems no time since I was writing about “Peace on Earth and goodwill to all” in my last prayer group article and over Christmas time our thoughts were focussed on that special event in Bethlehem in the Holy Land. So it should have come as no great surprise when one of our members handed out information to us at our first meeting of 2017 about a prayer vigil for the Middle East. This comes from the ACT Alliance which is a coalition of 130 churches, one of them being the Church of Scotland, and affiliated organisations working together in 140 countries. We are asked to pray with and for our brothers and sisters in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory who have called for an ecumenical prayer vigil across the globe on the 24th of every month, which will continue until we can celebrate an end to occupation and a just and lasting resolution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. We are asked to light a candle and read Psalm 122 – “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem” and then pray for peace. You can do this in your own words or there is a printed sheet which I am sure we could make available to you if you would like – speak to me at church! However, I would like to share part of it with you now. Part of the closing response is this: Pray not for Arab or Jew, For Palestinian or Israeli, But pray rather for ourselves That we might not Divide them in our prayers But keep them both together In our hearts. 22
I was very struck by these words, for they seemed so important and meaningful in light of all the divisive words and actions that have been so prevalent in recent times. Hatred of those of different races, different religions, different sexual orientations, different political beliefs, different backgrounds seems to have been allowed to rise to the surface, threatening the peace and harmony of the world. The Prayer Group continues to meet in the church on the first Wednesday of the month at 7pm and all are welcome. If you would like us to pray on your behalf, leave your prayer requests in the box in church or contact us via the church Facebook page. In the meantime, here are some topics you might like to mention in your prayers: • • • •
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Pray for peace in the Middle East on the 24th of every month. Pray for the success of the new EACHa “Home from Home” initiative, based at St John’s church hall every Friday afternoon. Pray for the new initiatives to encourage more visitors to our church and for all the Doors Open volunteers. Pray for all the vacant charges in our presbytery, that they may soon find a new minister to lead them and not lose heart meantime. Pray that the Church of Scotland, and our presbytery, will be inspired to see ways of dealing with the “crisis” of too few ministers and use it as a positive force for change.
And, at the risk of sounding like an aging hippy, I ask you to continue to pray for peace and love in our world this year. I think they’ll be needed!
Lesley Wright
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FELLOWSHIP OF KILMARNOCK CHURCHES
Everybody is welcome! Shared worship Join in songs of praise and prayer with people of the town’s churches. Sunday, 26 February 2.30 p.m. St Kentigern’s Church Sunday, 19th March 3 p.m. St Andrew’s and St Marnock’s Church --- o --Lent Bible Study Groups March / April Look for announcements about groups in churches and homes as we journey towards Easter through Bible study. 24
Church Open Doors New Laigh Kirk's major restoration works will soon be complete and we will soon be able to open our doors to visitors again. The church will be open on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 12noon to 2.00pm. The church will be open for those who want to come for a period of solitude or reflection, to see the newly restored stained glass windows from the inside or to find out some of the history of the church and town. We urgently require some more volunteers to welcome the visitors, so if you could spare a couple of hours every six weeks or if you could cover shifts when regular volunteers are on holiday, we would be delighted to hear from you. If you would like to be included in the rota, please speak to Helen Colman. Remember that the more volunteers that there are, the less often you will be on duty!
Legacies It was requested at last year’s Annual General Meeting that we facilitate a leaflet on the subject of Legacies. You will have received a leaflet with this monthly magazine and we would ask that you give consideration to leaving a Legacy for a specific aspect within our Church or indeed unspecified - which would be applied where there is greatest need. Such a Legacy would help to ensure the future of our Church here at New Laigh Kirk. Derek I’Anson
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Missionary partners During January our Missionary Partner, Joel Githinji, visited our Presbytery while on leave from his work in the United Mission to Nepal. UMN is a co-operative effort between the people of Nepal and Christian organisations from 18 countries in four continents. It was established in 1954 and serves the people of Nepal in Conflict Transformation, Food Security, Disaster Management, HIV/AIDS, Organisational Development, Enterprise Development and Women and Children. Joel works as an Adviser on HIV, giving accurate information on prevention, care and support to those affected. The aim is to reduce the stigma around HIV through education and to encourage people not to miss out on treatment because they don’t want to declare their illness. Only 1.4% of Nepal’s population are Christians. They still faced persecution and it is illegal to convert a person from one religion to another. As recently as autumn 2016 eight pastors and church leaders were arrested by police when they supported needy children. UNM does not discriminate on the basis of religion, but aims to demonstrate the love of God by supporting the poorest, most marginalised communities, regardless of their religious faith. Nepal is only one of several countries in which the Church of Scotland supports missionary partners. The World Mission Council is the channel through which the Church of Scotland responds to the command of Jesus to, "Go into all the world and preach the Good News to all creation." The Council deals with requests from partner churches in Malawi, Zambia, Bangladesh, Israel/Palestine and Pakistan. Links to Zambia and Malawi have their origin in the era of David Livingstone. Missionary partners in Malawi all have medical expertise and work in Mulanje and Nkhoma Hospitals as well as providing food aid. Lack of resources is acute. As one doctor said, “With no water, no lights and a charcoal stove, it is even becoming difficult to make a cup of tea when you come off duty”. As the aim is always to empower local
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people, the Church of Scotland supports Malawian and Zambian students to gain Pharmacy degrees and other medical qualifications. The Tabeetha School in Jaffa, Israel, was founded by Scotswoman, Jane Walker-Arnott, in 1875. Today, it serves pupils from thirty nations and several faiths. Inside the school gates, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is put aside as students and teachers live, study and work together. The World Mission Council also supports the Saint Andrew’s Scottish Guesthouse in Jerusalem and the Scots Hotel at Tiberias. Newsletters from missionary partners are posted on the Church of Scotland website at http://www.churchofscotland.org.uk/serve/world_mission/mission_par tners/. These open our eyes to the conditions in which these workers serve and the people and circumstances for which they request prayer support from church members. We may never be called to Christian service abroad, but we can all support our missionary partners through prayer. Prayer points Nepal • Strength, endurance and supplies for those rebuilding their homes after earthquakes. • Health, safety and encouragement of missionaries who leave their homes to serve God. Malawi • Hospital staff to remain committed to their service amid severe financial constraint. • Wisdom for leaders in making decisions on how to use scarce resources effectively. Israel / Palestine • Strength and wisdom for peacemakers in the face of escalating violence. • Fresh respect for the civil liberties and human rights of all, regardless of race or religion.
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EACH Each person matters Scottish Charity no: SC 036849 Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have entertained angels without knowing it. Hebrews 13:2 First of all, a huge thanks to everyone who donated gifts to the Christmas gift appeal. We were overwhelmed by the amount and quality of the gifts. At the final count, almost 1,600 gifts were received, from New Laigh Kirk members as well as members of ten other churches, from the staff of local employers, and from school pupils and individuals. There was even a very large doll’s house! Every single gift was delivered before Christmas, by staff of children’s and social services, to families where there was not much money for Christmas gifts. While we were overwhelmed by the care and generosity of so many kind people, it is disturbing that there are so many children in families who have to rely on donated gifts at Christmas. We were also able to provide gifts for the residents of Blue Triangle, the hostel for homeless young people, and for the women who are supported by Women’s Aid. This is part of a thank you letter from Women’s Aid: ‘I am writing to thank you very much for the many Christmas gifts you donated to the women, children and young people who use our services. As always, it is astounding to see how generous your members are and the donations will make a real difference to many families this Christmas’. 28
And the Project Manager of Blue Triangle says it all: ‘It is a time where I reflect on the good in people and as such I offer my sincerest thanks to you all again. You give hope, friendship and commitment to others whilst asking for nothing in return. A truly wonderful gift which is recognised by those fortunate enough to receive it.’
Thanks to everyone who helped in any way, by donating gifts, and helping to sort and pack the parcels, and to repair damaged wrappings. Food parcels, 52 in all, were also delivered to every person in temporary accommodation, including the homeless hostels. As ever, December was our busiest month, and a humbling, as well as uplifting, experience. We are back to our normal activities, with our drop-in on Wednesdays in the John Finnie Street hall, and on Mondays and Fridays in Grange Street. All of these continue to be very busy, where everyone who attends enjoys a time of chat, something to eat, friendship and advice available if required. We now have staff of Stalkers hairdressers in regular attendance. This has been a huge attraction, getting a good haircut does wonders for self-confidence. It has become so popular we may have to introduce an appointments system! In January we began our Home from Home project. This runs each Friday afternoon in St John’s church hall, offering a meal and social activities to families in the North West of Kilmarnock. The families will be identified by local children’s services as likely to benefit from an evening of friendship and fun, as well as enjoying a nutritious meal in a relaxed environment. While our drop-ins attract adults, many of whom live in poverty, we are aware that there are many 29
vulnerable families who struggle with the pressures of daily living, and our project aims to offer support in a dignified, friendly manner. Please contact David or Janice if you would like more information about EACHa’s activities. David Quinn tel. 07779 237318 Janice Grant tel. 07581 722331
New Laigh Kirk Minister honoured by Rotary On 22 December, 2016, the principal guest at Kilmarnock Rotary Club was Revd. David Cameron who delivered the Club’s annual Christmas message. Rotarians also welcomed David’s wife, Mrs. Laura Cameron. Following the Christmas message, Rotarian Derrick MacAllister announced that Rotary International was honouring David as a Paul Harris Fellow in recognition of his outstanding commitment to service in the community, particularly in areas of local need and deprivation. Paul Harris founded Rotary in America in 1905 promoting the motto “Service above Self” and developing internationally and locally the promotion of quality of life issues world wide. Rotary recognised David’s strong influence in community outreach in North West Kilmarnock and the town centre, his leadership in the setting up of EACHa (East Ayrshire Churches Homelessness Action) and his involvement in the town centre regeneration action plan. Club president Iain Shaw presented the Paul Harris certificate and David responded with pleasure and appreciation to the Rotary Club of Kilmarnock, which brought rousing applause to complete the evening. Derrick MacAllister
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CHURCH OF SCOTLAND GUILD PROJECTS The focus of the Guild is to be BOLD AND STRONG and we endeavour to do this by supporting projects both here in Scotland and throughout the world. We believe that by sharing our Faith and our resources we will be able to bring about positive change in our world. Over the 3 years from 2015-2018 the Guild nationally will be supporting 6 different charities / projects. They are :
1 Christian Aid 2 Mission International 3 Prospects entitled All Friends Together 4 Care for the Family 5 Feed the Minds 6 Street Pastors Current donations for these projects are ÂŁ255,518.38 .
The 2 projects we In New Laigh Kirk Guild are supporting this session are Care for the Family and Feed the Minds.
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CHURCH OF SCOTLAND GUILD PROJECTS CARE FOR THE FAMILY - “LET’S STICK TOGETHER’” The aim of this charity is to help new Mums and Dads stay together in the early years of parenthood. In the excitement and utter exhaustion of becoming new parents the first thing which can be overlooked is their own relationship. Let’s Stick Together helps new Mums and Dads to refocus on each other, strengthen their relationship and keep their family together for good. Statistics show that 50% of parents who separate do so within 3 years of having a baby. The Let’s Stick Together educational course, helps combat the isolation and loneliness many parents feel after the exhilaration of the first few months with a new baby. Many new Mums and Dads don’t have the support of close family near at hand the way many of us used to have. The one hour sessions run by trained volunteers take place in both ante-natal and post-natal groups and any where Church toddler groups meet. The sessions are free and available to anyone. The support of the Guild will enable this course to be offered to thousands of families all over Scotland and help keep Dad as well as Mum involved and encouraged as a parent.
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CHURCH OF SCOTLAND GUILD PROJECTS FEED THE MINDS - BREAKING THE CYCLE OF F.G.M. FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION This is very BOLD AND STRONG project working in the community of Kuria in Kenya. Its aim is to break the cycle of F.G.M. In many communities this practice of F.G.M. is a yearly event and is seen as a ‘coming of age” Ceremony, a “right of passage” and is often the reason for a huge celebration, but unfortunately many of the girls are unable to attend and enjoy the party due to the pain and distress they are experiencing, because of infection, bleeding and sadly sometimes even death. It is of course a cultural ritual for young girls aged 11-16 yrs but many of the girls are starting to become aware of their rights and rebel against this act, however it is still happening in Kuria. Some currently want F.G.M. to stop but traditions and hierarchies have great power. The Elders of the Clans often receive money for organising such an event. We are aware that change cannot happen overnight as some traditions are more ingrained than others. But despite all these challenges., through Prayer and education FEED THE MINDS are confident that given time the CYCLE OF F.G.M. will be broken and lives will be transformed through their Communityled projects in Kenya. The Guild support our projects not only by fundraising, but also by WORSHIP, PRAYER and ACTION which we do joyfully in the name of our Lord and Master. Whose we are and Whom we serve.
Netta Lindsay (Project Partner)
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Walking Group Although there is snow on the ground as I am writing this article, Spring will soon be here with longer daylight and (hopefully) warmer temperatures. The Walking Group will resume its regular Wednesday evening walks on Wednesday 5th April. This will be confirmed on the church website, Facebook page and in the Orders of Service. Although works in Dean Castle Country Park are ongoing and likely to be so until late Spring/early Summer, we will continue to meet at 7pm on Wednesday evenings in the main car park at Dean Castle Country Park and undertake a selection of walks from there - including the park area on the town side of the roadway and Kay Park. As walking routes become available at 'The Dean' once more, these will be included. Meantime, we will be holding a couple of walks in readiness for our "Walking Season". Put the dates into your Diary. We'd love to see you. On Sunday 12th March, weather permitting, we will have a walk around Irvine Harbour. We will gather on the riverside, adjacent to the Maritime Museum, at 2pm, and will walk along the path as far as the Direction Indicator at the beach. There are several benches along the route for those people who wish to rest or who wish a shorter stroll. If people wish to walk further, the route can be extended around the Beach Park, returning to our starting point. 'The Puffer' cafe at the Maritime Museum is handy and there are other cafes in the vicinity. Children and dogs are welcome to join the walk. On Sunday 2nd April, (again - weather permitting) we will repeat our successful outing around the grounds of Dumfries House. Last year we were able to have two routes, one a short, easy walk around the Queen Elizabeth Rose Garden and a longer more strenuous walk to Knockroon and back along the river, with both groups enjoying a 34
coffee and cake break. More paths have been opened up, with some marvellous views, and there is the new Maze as well as the Japanese bridge to be admired. There is also more parking space. We will meet outside the Visitor Centre at 2pm. All welcome. Bring friends, the children.....and the dog! Children will love the Adventure playground and the Scientific water features - very user-friendly and which will both amuse and entertain children and adults alike. If anyone would like to come on one of these walks, and requires transport, please contact me. Other walks over the summer have yet to be decided. We would welcome suggestions for a variety of walks (local as well as outwith the local area) to suit a range of ages, walking ability and interests. Last year our walks included a Sunday afternoon walk from Prestwick to Troon, a 'Grand Day Out' to Arran (with a choice of two routes), and a Heritage Walk around Sanquhar. There are lots of great walks around Sanquhar, some simple, others suitable for fit, experienced walkers. We'd like to include a couple of these in our programme this year. Walking part of the John Muir Way may be another possibility, as would a return to Arran. If you have a particular favourite walk you think others would enjoy, or would like some company when you go walking/rambling, please contact us. Ideally, we'd like to be able to offer a range of walks, of varying difficulty and duration on different days. Perhaps you'd like to lead a walk? Let us know. In the summer NLK Walking Group will host a Family 'Treasure Trail' Walk the date of this has still to be finalised, and details will follow in a subsequent issue of the Magazine as well as on the church website, Facebook page, and Orders of Service. Ellen Stewart. 35
Dates for Your Diary
Guild coffee morning Saturday, March 4th 10am till noon in the church hall.
Highlights Annual charity quiz in aid of Breast Foot Forward. Monday 24th April in the Lower Hall at 7:30pm
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Quick Updates BADMINTON CLUB The badminton club is back and ready to play after our Christmas break. We enjoy playing games and having a laugh. We have fun and friendly members of all ages and abilities. We are on in the lower hall Tuesday nights 7.15pm-9.00pm. Alan I'Anson 07949 169051 Alan.ianson@sky.com
GUILD OF FRIENDSHIP Our first session was very good with excellent speakers, quizzes and musical afternoons ending with our Christmas party. We started again on 12th January and our meetings for the session are: Feb 9th Beetle Drive Feb 23rd Slides of Lake Garda and Venice March 9th Daffodil Tea March 23rd AGM We would love to welcome any new members so if any of the above appeal to you we meet at 2pm in the lower hall. Janette Howard
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Church Register Baptism 4th December 2016
Lucy Christine Mitchell Newton Head Farm Ayr Road Lanark
8th January 2017
Hope Bethany Purdon 76 Queens Drive Troon
29th January 2017
Matilda Jane McDonald 18 Carmel Place Kilmaurs
Funerals 1st November 2016 (M)
Sadie Caldwell Springhill Nursing Home Kilmarnock
22â żd November 2016
Anna Gibson 9 Balmoral Road Kilmarnock
24th November 2016 (E)
Alex Grant 30 Fairlie Avenue Kilmarnock
8th December 2016 (M)
Susan Dow 10 Ellis Street Kilmarnock
23rd December 2016 (M)
Betty Orr 36 Woodside Ave Kilmarnock
6th January 2017 (M)
Chrissie Maxwell 42a South Hamilton Street Kilmarnock
10th January 2017 (M)
Doris Grant 5 Carmel Avenue Kilmarnock
12th January 2017 (M)
Donald Strachan, 25 Dean Court Kilmarnock 38
19th January 2017 (M)
Isobel Marchetti Springhill Nursing Home Kilmarnock
24th January 2017
Rhona Lyon Argyll Nursing Home Kilmarnock
Resurrection Long, long, long ago; way before this winter’s snow First fell upon these weathered fields; I used to sit and watch and feel And dream of how the spring would be, when through the winter’s stormy sea She’d raise her green and growing head, her warmth would resurrect the dead. Long before this winter’s snow I dreamt of this day’s sunny glow And thought somehow my pain would pass with winter’s pain, and peace like grass would simply grow. (But) The pain’s not gone. It’s still as cold and hard and long as lonely pain has ever been, It cuts so deep and fear within. Long before this winter’s snow I ran from pain, looked high and low For some fast way to get around its hurt and cold. I’d have found, If I had looked at what was there, that things don’t follow fast or fair. That life goes on, and times do change, and grass does grow despite life’s pains. Long before this winter’s snow I thought that this day’s sunny glow, The smiling children and growing things and flowers bright were brought by spring. Now, I know the sun does shine, that children smile, and from the dark, cold, grime A flower comes, it groans, yet sings, and through its pain, its peace begins. Mary Ann Bernard
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Hospital Visiting Due to the inadequate provision of patient lists to ministers of the church, knowing who is in hospital is impossible to determine. This includes Crosshouse, Ayrshire Central and Ayr Hospitals. David and Barbara have no way of knowing if your family members and our church members are in hospital unless they are told. Please use the Pew Card, telephone or email to inform them if you know of someone who is in hospital at any time. Your help in this matter will ensure we maintain effective pastoral contact with our members in time of need.
David
01563 525416 dvdcam5@msn.com
Barbara
01563 538289 barbaraurquhart1@gmail.com
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