hope A COMMUNITY MAGAZINE.
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ARE YOU BATTLING LOCKDOWN LETHARGY? Pg10
THRIFT IS IN | Pg 4
Homes & Interiors
MACHINE GUN PREACHER | Pg 6 1
hope! KIDS
Where fun is No1 ALL WELCOME ages 5-10 • Monthly Saturday Fun Club for all coming soon. • Keep your eyes out for more information Get in touch for more information: info@myhopechurch.co.uk 0131 665 0303
Kids church every Sunday: • • •
Crafting, games, fun and learning Life skills and friendship Safe welcoming place where Jesus is cool
During the restrictions activity packs are available for all to be sent out, just email your details to us at info@myhopechurch.co.uk
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WELCOME. I am elated to be writing this introduction to our second edition of Hope! Magazine. The first one was so well received we decided that a second was a must-have for our community, especially as Hollywood was calling. In this issue we have none other than our fellow Scot Gerard Butler, with details on his film Machine Gun Preacher and the inspirational true story behind it. We also have our regular articles on health and fitness, homes and interiors (all very motivational stuff) and community news, along with real life stories. They say Spring is all about new beginnings and fresh starts, so let’s hope and pray that as the Covid vaccine is rolled out, and we settle down to read this, life starts to get moving ever so slightly in the direction of “normal” and we are back to enjoying what we all do best, the way we used to. Hope is on the horizon! Enjoy and stay safe
Heather Greig, Founder & Commercial Editor
A note from the Publisher Easter! Regardless of personal belief Easter reminds us that good things can come out of bad, that there is hope even when things look dark. This magazine is called “hope” because we believe we all need hope. It’s free so we don’t need to use bad news to sell it, and we can include useful communication from community organisations.
Glenn Rogers Publisher
Glenn Rogers - Publisher and Senior Pastor glennrogers@myhopechurch.co.uk Heather Greig - Founder & Commercial Editor heathergreig@myhopechurch.co.uk
Courteney Ritchie - Design Director courteneyritchie@myhopechurch.co.uk Robert Walton - Project Manager robertwalton@myhopechurch.co.uk
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JOIN THE UPCYCLE REVOLUTION
Thrift is in! It’s no secret that everyone is looking for ways to recycle and save money where they can. This has created a thriving community of like-minded people creating beautiful products and inspiring the rest of us to innovate and create on a budget. By getting a little creative you can join this exciting revolution too! It’s up to us to see the beauty in everyday things. The next time you are thinking of taking something to the recycling centre or tip just stop for a minute and think, “could I reuse this and turn it into something unique”? You will be amazed how you can transform something in so little time, and with little effort. This is my passion and I have been doing my own up-cycling at home for years, I have slowly built up my knowledge and skill bit by bit with every little project. Here are a few of the items that I have saved from landfill and upcycled recently.
Old chest of drawers upcycled with Annie Sloan chalk paint, wallpaper samples and new handles.
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AFTER
BEFORE
Filing cabinet upcycled into a garden planter, using left over floor tiles:
Now for Home Decor I follow the same principles to DIY and decorating in the home and try to make do and mend where I can. Where possible, I try to do as much of the work myself (with the exception of anything dangerous, I usually coerce my husband for those jobs). I have been busy renovating our Victorian Terrace in Musselburgh for the last 4 years, although this has been painstaking, it’s a real labour of love and I have slowly transformed each room on a very tight budget. This old bathroom was an 80’s frilly disaster-zone but the actual bathroom suite was okay so with a little hard work and imagination, I brought it back to life. Have a peak, here is the before and after:
houseofholmesinteriors
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THE MACHINE GUN PREACHER 6
Gerard Butler is a Scottish actor who lived in our beautiful city of Edinburgh in the early 1990’s while he studied law for a short time, he turned his attention to acting and as we all know and love him now, he became a Hollywood star. In 2010-11 he spent a lot of time with Sam Childers and his family, because he won a role as Sam in the Hollywood movie “Machine Gun Preacher”. The movie is based on his true story and it is gritty, real and a bit scary, but eventually it becomes a warm-hearted story about love and bravery. Gerard and Sam became friends, and as a result of the film Sam was introduced to Hollywood stars from Morgan Freeman to Sandra Bullock. Sam was an outlaw biker and a drug dealer, a gun for hire. Armed robberies of gangsters and criminals were a regular activity of his. He was inherently a bad man who was intimidating to these criminals. As this life went on for him, he eventually found out that his stripper wife had started going to church, Sam was not happy about this, as you can imagine! He ended up going through a life changing experience though and eventually joined her in church. God helped him change dramatically.
Sam’s new and abundant life close to God saw him start successful businesses, he decided to go on a short-term trip with his church, to build schools in Northern Uganda. His compassion led him to be involved in rescuing children orphaned by the LRA, (a deadly terrorist organisation, which have been carrying out an ongoing guerrilla campaign there since 1987 and is led by Joseph Kony). Sam headed up a group of the South Sudan army and went in to defend villages, they rescued children back from the LRA. He was at war for 8 years against the LRA, stopping their raids and rescuing their captives. He has developed a number of orphanages and other projects for children rescued from hell, and has given them a future and a hope! There is hope for the “baddest” person to have a great life and make a difference. Sam enjoyed spending time with the Scottish actor when Gerard was researching his role and regularly visits our country. Sam’s organisation is called “Angels of East Africa”, and they run programmes to provide further education, apprenticeships and job skills for the orphans. Gerard has also helped fund-raise for this work too. Sam is also helping rehabilitate former LRA terrorists, whom he used to fight, and has seen many adopt a normal lifestyle.
You can watch Machine Gun Preacher the film on Amazon Prime, You Tube and Google Play.
CONTACT ANGELS OF EAST AFRICA If you have some Questions or are interested in helping in any way
814-754-5702 Sam is a friend of Hope Church who loves Scotland and visits nearly every year. He believes that there is hope for anyone, no matter their circumstances, and that his life is an example of that.
aoea.moriah@gmail.com
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HATING RELIGION “ I hate religion, I’ve always hated religion. Hope Church’s Rev Glenn Rogers Man made rules and the stench of a restrictive atmosphere didn’t help me when I was a rebel without a cause. My mother wanted me to go to church but I thought it was boring, irrelevant and not for me. Tradition for the sake of tradition had no appeal for me. One of my favourite moments was when my mother’s minister was doing a graveside funeral and forgot there was a new grave behind him when he stepped back to allow the family to put flowers into the grave. He went from a dignified figure in a robe to a flurry of waving limbs as he disappeared into the empty grave. Fortunately only his dignity was hurt. Heavy rock music was one of my great loves and I couldn’t see how that fit into church as I understood it. I ended up being a guitarist in a rock band in church, now that’s funny! Having started adult life as an atheist I hated religion, now as a minister leading a church I hate religion even more because people don’t get to hear the truth, they don’t get to hear about the hope. Scotland’s spiritual heritage is Biblical Christianity and most Scots don’t even know what the good news about Jesus is.
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For me there is a big difference between religion and a relationship with God. I like fun! I like a laugh! Life should be fun, it should be enjoyable, it should be satisfying, it should be full of adventure. For me I’ve found that through my relationship with Jesus. In this crazy pandemic season I think it’s important that we do all we can to milk fun out of life.
DEALING WITH BREAKDOWN Hope Church’s Rev Terri Ann Rogers I grew up reading Mills & Boon romance novels 400 miles from our nearest supermarket. As a young girl I had too much time to day dream about romantic ideals which are not realistic. Later this severely hampered my relationships with men, particularly the man who became my husband. We lived on a remote farm, called a ”station” in the Western Australian desert and ate Kangaroo meat and home grown vegetables.
My schooling was done through School of the Air, which is school by radio. My mother was the “teacher’s aide” as I sat with my brothers in our living room. My teacher was 400 miles away and one of my classmates lived over 600 miles from my home. Someone criticised my father one day for my lack of education opportunity so he suddenly sent me at 15 to stay in the big city, which was like living in another country for me. The stress at that vulnerable age led to a breakdown, and doctors advised that I should be sent home. My uncle drove me the 800 miles home as he was concerned at my father’s reaction to embarrassing him. My parents didn’t realise that growing up amongst traditional aborigines meant that although I was white skinned my thinking was aboriginal in many ways. All these things contributed to different beliefs in my mind which worked against me.
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As a result I have become keenly aware of how the various mindsets or mental strongholds can bring us down, or prevent us reaching our potential or be a barrier to destiny.
As a counsellor I’ve found that for many people the way forward is not to change the external circumstances but that the real key is internal change. If life is not working then it’s probably time to change our thinking. I’ve found great hope and help, both for myself and others, in identifying and changing mindsets which are actually toxic.
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HOW TO BATTLE LOCKDOWN LETHARGY. Do you feel sluggish, tired, stressed, or even depressed as you endure lockdown? During this period, it’s very easy to find ourselves binge watching the latest series on Netflix in our spare time. As life has changed significantly, some of us are not getting enough exercise, nutrition, or even good enough sleep! So, what can we do differently?
Below, you may find a possible solution to feeling better again!
Exercise According to Harvard medical school ‘exercise is an all-natural treatment to fight depression’. In fact, studies have shown that exercise releases chemicals in the brain called endorphins which will significantly improve your mood. So, how do we start? Start SLOW! In order for the body to adjust easily, we need to remember this. Get your body used to moving by brisk walking 30 mins a day. Once your body
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is feeling more comfortable with moving more often, try doing 10 minutes of slow running a day- or perhaps something related like dance, shadow boxing or cycling. Yoga! Try something relaxing like yoga for stretching out your muscles afterwards. There are endless yoga channels on YouTube, choose one that suits you. Ten minutes a day as you start is all you need, this will make sure your body adjusts to the stretching and new routine, you can build it up gradually from there.
Nutrition Researchers have found that foods with high sugar content can drain your energy and also lead to depression. Start by gradually decreasing the amount of sugar you consume week by week. Try introducing a handful of these superfoods per day in place of sugary foods: Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, almonds, cashews, brazil nuts and dark chocolate, (these have been proven to increase brain function).
Sleep According to the Sleep Foundation, any adult over the age of 18 needs at least 7-9 hours of sleep a night. Studies have shown that lack of sleep can lead to anxiety. Make sure that you are getting
enough sleep. There are apps out there that will help you monitor your sleep so you’ll know what changes are needed. Lavender drops on your pillow or a bath with lavender oils / salts, a milky drink, no devices before bed time and bed at the exactly the same time each night can all help.
The secret to successful change? Small and gradual changes to your lifestyle, week by week is key to success. Trying to change everything at once will only shock your system. And, it will make it an uncomfortable experience. Make a start, try walking at least 30 minutes a day to begin with and go easy on yourself, you’ll feel the benefits.
Author - Robert Walton
References/further reading: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/ how-much-sleep-do-we-really-need https://www.everydayhealth.com/photogallery/ superfoods.aspx https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/too-muchsugar https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/exercise-is-an-all-natural-treatment-to-fight-depression
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AFTER THE RAVE I went through a real emotional journey on regrets I had, but I was giving myself a much harder time than God ever could, he is unconditional, like a parent and how they feel about their own child. I finally have a quieter and more peaceful life and a much longed for family, but I still like to enjoy my nights out with my friends, being a Christian is cool. Forgiveness and acceptance of yourself and others can be hard, but through Him it is so easy. You don’t need to put yourself into challenging situations to let it go and move on, not everyone stays in your life forever and that’s ok.
I became a Christian in 1992 - I was 21 and so happy! I instantly got it, I wasn’t alone and never ever would be. I felt Him and his peace and I knew He was dead but alive too, I didn’t need it explained I just got it and what His purpose was on the cross, faith is definitely a gift. But being a Christian among your peers, in this world and in the heyday of the clubbing 90’s was hard. I tried to take myself out of temptations way and told myself that I would change, and I did, but I was single, young and still wanting fun with my friends. I still went to the clubs and did still make mistakes, focusing on being in the moment, on my work and my flat and going out and about. Even though I overindulged sometimes (well a lot over the years really) which probably got me into all sorts of scrapes that now make me shudder a bit, I never lost faith. I really wanted a settled life, a family and happy church life and when I look back there were times I thought it would never happen. There were anxieties and depressions that were probably brought on by my choices and lifestyle, but God still looked after me, when I look back now I see prayers were answered.
There is a poem that was given to me in a picture that I kept on my wall throughout these years, if I ever needed encouragement, I would just go to it:
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Footprints in the Sand
One night I dreamed a dream. As I was walking along the beach with my Lord. Across the dark sky flashed scenes from my life. For each scene, I noticed two sets of footprints in the sand, One belonging to me and one to my Lord. After the last scene of my life flashed before me I looked back at the footprints in the sand. I noticed that at many times along the path of my life, especially at the very lowest and saddest times, there was only one set of footprints. “I don’t understand why, when I need You most, You would leave me.” He whispered, “My precious child, I love you and will never leave you, Never, ever, during your trials and testings. When you saw only one set of footprints, It was then that I carried you.” Margaret Fishback Powers, 1964
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BiBisBakery
bibisbakery
From business logo’s and company branding, to event invitations, digital design and general advertising, Ritchie Design has got you covered. Anything is possible so don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have an idea you want brought to life! Email: ritchie.graphicdesigns@gmail.com ritchie_design
Website: https://bibisbakery.co.uk/ Phone: 01312265563
Ritchie Design
R&S Designs We love to make bespoke, handmade, beautiful serving platters and chopping boards made from locally sourced timber and reclaimed wood.
Located in the Abbey Hill area of Edinburgh with lots of access to public transport and on street parking. Vicky is a self employed hairdresser who works within Salon 328. She has 6+ years in the industry and offers cuts and restyles to ladies, gents and children. Vicky also specialises in colouring and creative colouring services.
We are making a variety of boards at a variety of prices to suit all budgets, starting from £10. We are happy to custom make something for you… So please get in touch or visit our facebook page for more.
You can contact Vicky on Facebook if you would like more information or to enquire about appointments.
vicky.lee.hairdressing 32 Montrose Terrace, EH7 5DL, Edinburgh
Rachel: 07931 884436
Stephen: 07956 448464
R & S Designs. Reclaim Creations.
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MEET YOUR PROVOSTS
JOHN McMILLAN - PROVOST
ANDY FOREST - DEPUTE PROVOST
Councillor John McMillan was born in Musselburgh and educated locally before starting his working life as a Chartered Member of the Institute of Internal Auditors. He worked here and abroad, primarily in training and development. After a distinguished career he returned to Haddington with a desire to invest in the town and the East Lothian area he loves. John has a desire to try to make a difference and make more opportunities for young people to learn, find good jobs, travel and see the world as he has been lucky enough to do.
Andy was born in Whitecraig and grew up in Dalkeith. When the pits started to close his father moved to Mansfield. Andy later moved to Musselburgh after marrying Mary. They have two children and 1 grandchild. Andy became a community activist long before becoming a councillor. He enjoys working in the community and making a difference for people.
“I felt my own education in East Lothian helped me to achieve a lot and I wanted to bring some ideas to help make our communities safer. Making modern places to live welcoming to all, caring for our vulnerable folk, and respecting of our older folk.” Elected to Council in 2012 , and appointed as Spokesman for Economic Development and Tourism, he became Provost in 2017, hoping to improve an area he loves and values.
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He is on the Board of Capital Credit Union, and has taken part in everything from fun days to gala days to Tenants and Residents Groups, Community Councils, Parent Councils, Area Partnerships and Musselburgh and District Crime Panel for well over 30 years. Elected to Council in 2003, Andy became Depute Provost in 2017. “I was driven to become an Elected Member to make a difference within the Community. Being a Councillor is not just about making decisions in the Chamber but about being involved in the Community, helping to make a difference.”
COMMUNITY & POLICE PARTNERSHIP The Musselburgh CAPP was set up around 9 years ago. This is a Community and Police Partnership. The Group is made up of community police and various community groups that meet once every 6 weeks to discuss problems within the communities of Musselburgh, Whitecraig and Wallyford. Topics discussed are wide and varied; from dog fouling, off road motor cycles, speeding traffic, and anti-social behaviour. At the meetings, members of the groups are updated on what is happening in the various communities. Each of the community members are given an opportunity to say what has been happening and what problems are affecting their community. Once all the members have voiced their concerns, the Group will then decide what the 3 priorities are for this particular period. Working with the police and the local community police these set priorities will be taken forward. This this has been a great success in ensuring that the communities voice is heard. Haddington Police Station 39-41 Court Street Haddington, EH41 3AE Telephone number: Single Non-Emergency, Number 101 Email: For all non-emergency issues or enquiries relating to Police business, you can contact us via email to: EastLothianLPP@scotland.pnn.police.uk
MUSSELBURGH MAP
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EVERYONE NEEDS HOPE YOU’LL FIND IT AT HOPE CHURCH
SERVICES ONLINE AT 12PM DURING LOCKDOWN AND RESTRICTIONS
SERVICES WILL BE AT HOPE HUB ONCE RESTRICTIONS ARE LIFTED
YOUTUBE CHANNEL :Hope Church Edinburgh
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL FOR NEW AND EXCITING CONTENT THROUGHOUT THE WEEK
GOT A LITTLE ONE? DON’T WORRY WE HAVE A FABULOUS CRECHE WITH FULLY DISCLOSED CARERS. YOU CAN BE AT PEACE THAT THEY ARE CARED FOR WHILE YOU ENJOY THE SERVICE
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Phone: +44 131 665 0303; | Email: Info@MyHopeChurch.co.uk Website: www.myhopechurch.co.uk Address: HOPE HUB, 49 Bridge Street, Musselburgh, EH216AA
Hope! Church, is charity registered in Scotland, No: SC010342, and a charitable company limited by guarantees, No: SC417097.