The Magazine of New Laigh Kirk June 2017

THE MAGAZINE OF

NEW LAIGH KIRK Church of Scotland KILMARNOCK Scottish Charity No.:SC031334

JUNE 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

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: Elinor MacKillop (525233) 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 and 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 and 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 June 2017 Hello folks, "This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it." (Ps. 118 and 95) This is the day‌ the sun is shining for the time being. I like this kind of day when the sun shines and this psalm comes to mind, not just on a Sunday for worship but an ordinary every day routine moment ... to rejoice and be glad in the day. Holidays feel like that too when we get a time to rest and relax and get away from the routine and enjoy a time of renewal and rejoice and be glad in it too.

We are promised that through Christ, we can be renewed, restored and refreshed, we have new life. In the lazy days of summer are we not all searching for renewal? Are we not all hoping to find ways to relax, to take time away from the stresses of our daily lives? Are we not all hoping this summer, that somehow we will be refreshed, restored, energised with new life?

It’s been a busy year at New Laigh Kirk. I take this opportunity to express my thanks and appreciation to all who participate and contribute in the life and worship of our church. Your commitment to worship, prayer, mission and life and work of our church is much appreciated by all who receive from you. Staff, leaders and background workers and those who just like coming along for the fellowship, friendship and sense of belonging which is a hallmark of New Laigh Kirk‌.we rejoice and are glad for you all - Thank you.

Whilst our bodies need rest and renewal, there is always time for spiritual renewal and it is only a prayer away. It can come, even when we feel overtired, overworked and in need of physical rest. Through Christ, we have the chance to be renewed. As you look out your summer clothing think on what Paul said to the Colossians: "clothe

yourselves with the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge according to the image of its creator." Clothing symbolises a new way of life. (Rom. 13:14) Paul writes: "We must clothe ourselves with Christ." (Gal. 3:27) "Put on the armour of light," he writes: "Put on the Lord Jesus Christ. As God's chosen ones, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience‌ Clothe yourselves with love." (Col 3:12, 14).

In taking much needed rest during the holidays you might ask prayerfully, What do I need to do to become spiritually refreshed? Are there practices or behaviours of mine that you want me to let go of? Will you help me let go? How can I clothe myself with Christ this holiday season? Help me find ways to be more compassionate, to be more loving. Open my heart so that I can feel the fullness of your love...for this is the day you have made‌ let me rejoice and be glad in it.

All this I ask of you O Lord, my saviour and my redeemer, Amen.

Have a great Summer God Bless you

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A Letter from Barbara Urquhart Pastoral Assistant

Dear Friends,

I think it was Max Bygraves who used to say "I want to tell you a story!" I love stories and over these last eleven years as your Pastoral Assistant I have been privileged to hear many of your stories of your journeys of life and faith. As I have moved from house to house visiting our most senior members, I have learned so much and grown to love those I visit dearly. I have been given good advice on the best books to read: not forgetting the cooking tips and delicious recipes to try out. I have had fascinating discussions about God's Word, shared in prayer and sung favourite hymns which was uplifting and good fun. All the members I visit have a lively interest in their church remembering us in their prayers and while they may be physically frail, they are strong in faith, wisdom and love.

I have enjoyed very much organising one off events too. Do you remember Ready, Steady, Cook? David and Sara won that event hands down. What about Strictly Come Dancing? I really think the stars that afternoon were the judges, Rena Anderson, Des Simpson and Netta Lindsay. Who could forget the evening when Sally Magnusson spoke so movingly to a

packed church of her experience of caring for her Mother who suffered from dementia? Meanwhile, Silver Sunday has enabled some of our senior members to come to church to share in a short act of worship followed by afternoon tea and fellowship. Our annual Mystery Drive, which as I write I am in the midst of organising, will be our seventh and God willing there will be many more.

It has been a great joy to work with the Pastoral Care Group.

They are thoughtful caring and kind folks who are completely dedicated and faithful visitors. I have valued their support as I have conducted services in the nursing homes and at Mill Court. Their love for God shines right through the service they offer.

Throughout my time with you I have always appreciated David's support and encouragement. His enthusiasm is infectious and I have been inspired by his preaching and leading of worship Sunday by Sunday. I have also enjoyed the fresh enthusiasm that Sara and Bethany bring to the Ministry Team.

As I leave at the end of June I will take with me many happy memories of very special people. New Laigh Kirk will always have a special place in my heart and I will continue to remember you in my thoughts and prayers.

Every blessing, Barbara Urquhart, Pastoral Assistant.

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Where Did New Laigh Kirk Copntributions go?

110623 - NEW LAIGH KIRK Total Contribution to Ministries and Mission for 2017

£124,626

Ministries (84%)

Mission (16%)

£104,686 of your total contribution will go towards the costs of providing over 1000 ministries and other parish workers in communities throughout Scotland and in the Presbytery of England. This contribution also assists with the costs of recruitment and training.

£19,940 of your total contribution will be used to support the Church’s work in: resourcing congregations for Christian education and outreach; providing social care services in Christ’s name to further the caring work of the Church to people in need; accompanying partners around the world on our shared Christian journey; contributing the Church’s opinion in public debate and on issues affecting Scotland and the world; providing central day-to-day service work in administration, financial and legal matters; and in planning the General Assembly and ensuring the Moderator represents the Church.

The Company section had boys representing East Ayrshire Battalion at the National Cross Country Championship at Bellahouston, 150 BB young people aged 11 to 18, from 12 Battalions, ran in 3 separate races.

Our Senior boys entered the National 7s football competition at Stirling, competing against 5 other Battalions from across Scotland.

The Company Section and Anchor Boy Parents’ nights have taken place and the Junior Section is on Friday 2nd June. The winners of the main awards are below: Anchor Boys: Best 1st year: Best 2ⁿd year: Best 3rd year: Best group:

Robbie Work Matthew Doig Miller Stewart Orange

Junior Section: Best 1st year: Best 2ⁿd year: Best 3rd year:

Jack Armstrong Calum Stewart Ewan Auld

Company Section: Best 1st year: Robbie Sanderson Best 2ⁿd year: Craig Grant Best 3rd year: Rowan Taylor Philips trophy (Best Senior): Ryan Dixon and Mark Irvine Lymburner Shield (Best overall boy): 8

Angus Docherty

Thank you to all the Staff, helpers and boys in all 3 sections of our Boys Brigade Company for making 4th/5th Kilmarnock the success that it is.

The Company starts again after the School Summer Holidays.

Anchor boys Parents’ night.

Update From Sara Green Community and Family Worker

Scripture Union Primary Camp From the 5th-7th May, I attended the annual SU Ayrshire primary camp with two of our Kingz Kidz children, Bonnie and Matthew. This was the biggest camp Ayrshire have ever had (97 kids) and it was a blessing for New Laigh Kirk to be part of it. I led the worship over the weekend which was a true joy, and we participated in a variety of activities such as beach volleyball, the ropes course and the adventure playground.

We give thanks for weekends like this, that allow kids the opportunities to make new friends, increase their knowledge of the Bible and help them grow in confidence in their faith.

Easter Musical

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A big thank you to everyone who came along to the Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon performances of the Easter musical: From Darkness into Light.

And a big thanks to the cast- what incredible talent we have at NLK - from people of all ages. It was an absolute delight to work with you all and I hope the audience enjoyed the retelling of the Easter story. I am already in planning for the next musical extravaganza!

Imagine: Summer BBQ The Imagine Summer BBQ will be held on Sunday 11th June 4pm-5.30pm in the halls. If you attended any of our Imagine events over the year, or want to find out what it is about then come along.

We will be serving the food at the outside space towards the back of the halls, where other summer goodies will be on offer. And we are delighted that Reachout praise band from St Kentigern’s will be back to lead us in our celebration worship. This is a wonderful opportunity to spend time together in fellowship and worship before the Summer holidays.

Kingz Kidz: Update On Saturday 20th May, 18 Kingz Kidz attended the Abernethy Barcaple Activity Centre near Castle Douglas. During the day we undertook activities including archery and zip wire. An absolutely super day was had by all! A big thanks to Steven for driving the minibus.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the fantastic Kingz Kidz leaders who dedicate their time to our children’s ministry at NLK. Have a wonderful break over the summer and we look forward to commencing our activities on Sunday 20th August.

Please check the Facebook page and emails for activities over the summer period - if the weather is good on a Sunday afternoon then we could meet for games and picnic in one of the great parks we have here in Kilmarnock!

Tots Praise: Outing Tots Praise has been wonderful this session and we now have over 25 kids on the register!

However, a few of our regulars are off to nursery in August and we need your help to spread the word about this wee group! Please ask Sara for a flyer if you know anyone who would be interested.

Our annual outing will be on Tuesday 20th June to Kelburn Country Park where we will play in the indoor play barn and have an interactive story session with Percy the Park keeper.

I’d like to say another big thank you to Margaret Brown and Anne Brown for their help again this year - the kids absolutely love them and we couldn’t do it without you both.

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Summer Club - Guardians of Ancora:Treasure Seekers Summer club preparations are well underway for 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.

It takes place from Monday 31st July – Friday 4th August with a children’s club for ages 411 in the afternoon (2pm4pm) and a teenage programme for S1-S6 in the evening (7pm-9pm). We are looking for a few more volunteers to assist with registration, crafts and snacks so please get in touch if you can help in any way in the afternoons.

For craft activities and snacks, can I request the following items from the congregation: Felt tip pens Cotton Wool Small empty water bottles Crisps for snacks Please pass to Sara or Bethany or call us for collection.

Have a wonderful summer and please keep our kids’ summer activities in your prayers.

Sara Green

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Update from Bethany McCaw Youth and Community Worker

At the time of writing Trekkers have started planning and are looking forward to their Coffee Morning on Saturday June 3rd.

Collectively we have chosen a ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ theme. The young people are full of ideas for how they can dress up and decorate to contribute to a fun morning for church members and friends to attend. Expect a little madness, with a large helping of friendliness and cakes.

They say a picture is worth a thousand words so I wanted to include a few of our youth activities recently for you to get a taste of some of the things we get up to.

00 Summer Activities

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This year for some of our summer activities we are teaming up with Central Evangelical youth group. There are lots of things planned, both fun trips and spiritual input which our young people will enjoy. Following on from last year we will run ‘youth nights’ during summer club week to make it more of an allround mission.

Sun 25 June Wed 12 July Fri 14 July Wed 19 July Fri 21 July Wed 26 July Fri 28 July Mon 31 July

C7 church, Glasgow Blair Drummond Safari Park Friday night Café @ Central Evangelical Time Capsule, Coatbridge Friday night Café @ Central Troon Beach trip Friday night Café @ Central Bowling @ Garage

Mon 31 July – Fri 4 Aug Meet @ NLK halls at 7pm for Youth Activities each night Sun 6 Aug Tues 8 Aug Bethany

Soul Survivor (leave from church) Soul Survivor

Friendship Group

SUMMER OUTING 2017

This year’s Summer Outing will take place on Saturday 26th August 2017 and will be to Portpatrick. We will spend some time in Portpatrick and then head to Girvan where we will enjoy High Tea at the Woodland Bay Hotel. .

This trip is open to anyone from the church who is aged 60 or over. If they wish to do so, they may bring a friend.

The cost of the trip is £20 for New Laigh Kirk members and £25 for non-members. If you would like to go on the trip please complete the attached slip.

Completed slips should be returned as soon as possible to Margaret Paterson at the address below with appropriate payment or the completed slip with payment may be placed in the offering plate on a Sunday in an envelope addressed to Margaret Paterson, and marked ‘Friendship Group Outing’.

Mrs Margaret Paterson, 28 Colonsay Place, Wardneuk, Kilmarnock KA3 2JV Tel: 01563 551288

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Friendship Group Summer Outing 2017

NAME ______________________________________

ADDRESS ______________________________________ _________________________________________ TELEPHONE NUMBER:

___________________

NUMBER OF NEW LAIGH KIRK MEMBER TICKETS @ £20 each

_______

Total Cost: £______ NUMBER OF NON MEMBER TICKETS @ £25 each

_______ Total Cost: £______

Total sum enclosed in payment: £__________

15th Kilmarnock Rainbows We welcomed Isle to Rainbows and she, Lucy and Eilidh will make their Promise on the 24th May. The Rainbows have been very busy completing their Rise to the Challenge Badge, for the last two challenges they have made a bird feeder and designed an outfit for Oliver.

The Rainbows are now working on the Mermaid Mayhem challenge badge. 2017 marks the 30th Birthday of the Rainbow Section and to celebrate girls from all over Scotland will be taking part in this “underthe-sea� themed challenge.

We have had a night at ten pin bowling where we enjoyed bowling and a Wimpey.

We are all looking forward to our last night BBQ and prizegiving, our summer trip this year is to Kelburn Country Park.

I would like to say a big thank you to everyone who supported our Coffee Morning in April and helped make it a success.

Finally I would like to say thanks to Doreen, Jaclyn, Eilidh, Jenny and Abbie for all their help and commitment to Rainbows on a Wednesday night as without them we could not run the unit.

Sheena

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15th Kilmarnock Brownies We welcomed Olivia and Ava to Brownies and they will make their Promise on the 24th May. The Brownies are working on the Agility badge where they have to skip 60 steps forward without a break or spin a hoop around their waist for 20 seconds without a break, make up a one-minute aerobic exercise sequence and encourage other members to join in, using two different balls, throw each ball against a wall and catch it and follow a training circuit that has sit ups, hopping and tuck jumps each to be done for 15 seconds.

They have also enjoyed a night at ten pin bowling.

We are all looking forward to our last night BBQ and prizegiving and our summer trip to Kelburn Country Park.

I would like to say a big thank you to everyone who supported our Coffee Morning in April and helped make it a success.

Finally I would like to say thanks to Alison, Fiona, Jaclyn, Eilidh and Jenny for all their help and commitment to Brownies on a Wednesday night as without them we could not run the unit.

Sheena Brown Owl

˧˦˧˧˦˩˧˥˧˧˥˧f ˧˦˦˧˧˨ ˧˥˩˦˩˦ f ffịffị˧˥˩˧˦˩

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˧˦˩˧˥˨˧˦˨˧˦˧

Far Round the World Press reports of declining church attendance in the UK are depressing, but when we look further afield, there is good news. The global Christian church is expanding rapidly. In 1910 there were 600 million Christians in the world, whereas by 2010 this had grown to 2.18 billion Christians – nearly one-third of the world’s 7 billion people. A century ago two-thirds of Christians lived in Europe, but by 2010 that figure had shrunk to a quarter.

Closer investigation reveals some remarkable statistics.

Only two of the ten countries with the largest Protestant populations are in Europe. The top three are the USA, Nigeria and China.

There are more Catholics in Brazil than in Italy, France and Spain combined.

What is even more amazing is that the church is alive in some countries where it is hardest to be a Christian.

In Iraq the pre-war population of 1.5 million Christians has reduced to 230,000 as fugitives fled from their homes. Now, as people return to villages liberated from ISIS, pillaged churches as well as homes are being restored.

In Syria the Open Doors Christian charity is helping families to repair their homes and open businesses, while also distributing Bibles to people who lost all their possessions in the war.

In Egypt, where suicide bombers disrupted Palm Sunday celebrations in Coptic churches, Christian Aid is working with Coptic Christian partners to support people in vulnerable communities.

In India the Hindu nationalist ruling party has passed anti-conversion laws and failed to stop violence against Christian minorities. Despite this hostile environment, charities such as Christian Aid and Christian 24

Missions Charitable Trust continue to support the most vulnerable families who are denied access to health care, education and decent housing and sanitation.

As we look around the world, let’s be thankful for our freedom to worship in peace. Let us also remember in prayer those who suffer for their Christian beliefs and take practical steps to support them in whatever way we can.

For more information see: http://www.christianaid.org.uk/whatwedo/ http://www.christianmissionsindia.org/cmct-ministries http://www.opendoorsuk.org/

Fancy a good read?

Do you know that we have a library in our church? If you haven’t noticed it, you will find it under the stained glass windows facing John Dickie Street. On the bookshelves you will find a wide variety of books and CDs – Bible commentaries, inspirational biographies, books of prayers, church history and novels as well as books and resources for children.

To borrow books, record what you are taking in the loans book. If you have finished with suitable books or other Christian resources, please donate them to the collection.

Community Bible Experience At the beginning of Lent, members of the congregation were invited to take part in the Community Bible Experience, with the challenge to read all of the New Testament in eight weeks. To encourage reading, those taking part could come along on Sunday afternoons or Wednesday mornings to discuss what they had read, ask questions, and share their insights – just like a modern book club.

Those who attended the discussion groups were asked for a few comments, and these are printed below.

I cannot remember why I failed to participate in the Community Bible Experience last time around – two years ago! But I joined this time and was the only first-timer in our Sunday group.

In what way(s) did I benefit?

Firstly it was the first time I read my New Testament in such a short time, so the experience was both novel and exciting.

Secondly, the rewards of discussion of each section, supported by the minister but with everyone participating, were thought provoking, at times imaginative, always worth the group chat.

Reading the New Testament in a sequence determined by time of writing, rather than in the normal chapter and verse style, created many differing aspects of understanding. The general feeling was of reading and discussing a book (or a novel perhaps) rather than the short verses we are so used to hearing on a Sunday.

Reading and discussing Revelation to John with the foresight of the short video clip to help was of itself, a revelation. Did you understand more than a fraction of it before you took part in the 26

Community Bible Experience? Most certainly, I did not, but now the fog of ignorance is dissipating, albeit still there but in a weaker state.

The clever trick of starting with Luke’s gospel, then carrying straight into the Acts of the Apostles, drove home the enormity of the work carried out by the early believers, in exceptionally dangerous times for Christians. Letters designed to strengthen belief, warn of false teaching, rectify misunderstandings, explain the teaching of Christ and direct believers into a Christian lifestyle but read in chronological order, took on new depth of meaning.

From comments made by others in the group who benefited like me on their first time, I eagerly await the third Community Bible Experience – it will surely deliver a deeper understanding, a stronger faith and help build the Kingdom of Christ to higher levels in our church.

Jay Ward This was the second time I have been involved in both the reading and discussion groups. I enjoyed the experience the first time around but I feel I have benefited even more this time. The reading, I found to be a little easier this time because of the knowledge I have gained from the previous time, but it has been the discussion that has proved invaluable. Not only did I gain further clarification from David but the discussion has caused me to think more and has challenged some of my ideas. It has been most interesting listening to other people’s views and the journey.

Ken Stewart "I found it beneficial to repeat the Community Bible Experience, having taken part in 2014, as there were passages I couldn’t remember having read before, and others which when reading again I was able to recall the group discussion round those points.

I used the video clips, which were very good as an introduction to the notes preceding each book. This made it easier to focus on the daily passages. 12-15 pages per day over eight weeks is fine, not too much to take in at any one time, and quite easy to keep (or get back on) track.

The weekly discussions were useful, and well led by both David and Janice.

Repeating the Experience in a few years would be worthwhile.

Ellen Stewart May I comment on the Community Bible Experience. As a constant reader of Scripture I found the book of John to be the most difficult to make comments on. But overall the eight week experience opened up a new way of approaching Holy Scripture to my own personal advancement.

Anne Gunn My understanding of the Bible grew in two areas in particular.

Firstly, reading the Bible ‘big’ shows the familiar passages in their context. For example the relevance of the ‘feeding of the 5000’ is properly understood in the context of the preceding and following passages.

Secondly, because the CBE encourages reading the books in the order in which they were written, I have greater appreciation of the writers themselves, the times in which the books were written, and the people to whom they were addressed. The Bible was written at a specific time in history, but it’s far from a history book. Reading it ‘big’ allows the understanding that it is indeed the ‘inspired word of God’, speaking to people at all times, in all places, and to us today.

Janice Grant

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The Guild On Monday, April 24th we had a visit from six members of Lamlash Guild on Arran with whom we have had an informal link for the last five years. We visit year about and keep in touch throughout the year.

The ladies were picked up at Ardrossan in the church minibus and arrived at the church hall at 12.45pm. It had been a breezy crossing but nothing they were not used to. They were warmly welcomed by New Laigh Guild members, especially Pat Caufield who has known one of the Arran ladies, Mary Mackenzie, since they were at college together.

We then enjoyed a lovely lunch of soup, crusty bread and a variety of delicious desserts, provided by the committee.

We were just clearing away when the entertainment arrived in the shape of Andrew Bryson, Danny Murphy and Danny’s friend, Kenny.

They gave us a great hour of music on violin, keyboard and accordion.

There was great audience participation, in the form of singing, foottapping and even dancing. A selection of Scottish tunes provoked a spontaneous Gay Gordons and Andrew just had to mention the word ‘Slosh’ and a good number of us were up on the floor! Great fun – for the lookers-on as well as the dancers! The trio don’t have a name for their wee group but I think they should be called “Three Cheers.”

After a cup of tea or coffee and cakes, it was time for the Arran ladies to head for home. Before leaving they presented us with a gift of Arran cheese, oatcakes and chutney. I think the first summer meeting is to be a wee cheese and wine party!

On arrival at Ardrossan, the ladies were told that all ferries that evening were cancelled, due to strong winds. They were unperturbed and were just about to book into a B&B when it was announced that a ferry would run at 7.20pm. They were a lot later arriving home than

expected but said it did not detract from their enjoyment of the visit.

All the more time to talk! And we certainly enjoyed playing host.

The new members of the leadership team are Janie McCormack, Elinor McKillop and Ellen Stewart. They will be leading the three informal summer meetings on June 26th, July 24th and August 28th – all Mondays at 7.15pm. Come along and join the fun!

Music And Movement Our Spring session finished on the 2â żd of May and the annual trip was on 9th May. This year we went firstly to Garrion Bridge for lunch and retail therapy. Then, in the sunshine, we had a lovely drive to Dunfermline for the afternoon, then to the Bruce Hotel East Kilbride for a High Tea. We wish our members and friends a good holiday break.

Thanks and best wishes to all.

Anne and Mildred

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EACH Each person matters Scottish Charity No: SC 036849

If you spend yourselves on behalf of the hungry And satisfy the needs of the oppressed Then your light will rise in the darkness And your night will become like noonday Isaiah 58:10

EACHa has recently welcomed two new members of staff. John Boyle and Craig McCance have joined David Quinn as staff members, assisting with all of our projects and activities. A photograph is attached, please say hello if you meet them in the church or hall.

Over the past few months we have welcomed staff from various organisations as volunteers at our Wednesday drop-in, under their employers’ ‘Volunteer for a day’ scheme. This allows staff away from their normal work for a day to volunteer to help community groups.

Staff from East Ayrshire Council, Scottish Enterprise and Bank of Scotland have joined us recently, and we have loved having them. They have brought enthusiasm and fresh ideas, and have all gone back to their workplaces praising, and publicising, our work. One result has been that all of the organisations taking part have committed to continue to support us, either financially, further volunteering, or providing food, toiletries and clothes.

On the subject of volunteers, Emma, the Asda Community Champion, volunteers with us for the full day, every Wednesday. She tells us that we’re her favourite charity, perhaps she says that to the others as well!

We very much value all our volunteers. We have around 60 on our books, all giving their time to run the drop-ins, prepare the food, make up the hygiene packs, help at Home from Home. We could not manage without you, nor could we do our work without the very generous donations of money, food and toiletries from members of NLK congregation.

Our volunteers are also very much appreciated by the service users.

Our motto is ‘Each Person Matters’. We never forget that, and we treat everyone who comes through our door with respect and dignity. This has built up trust, and our Friends confide in us, knowing that we will not judge them, and will never break confidences.

At present, East Ayrshire Council staff are assisting us in preparing a report, a plan within the overall plan for Kilmarnock Town Centre, provisionally entitled ‘What is Hope?’ Our service users will have ownership of this plan. It will express in their own words their hopes for the future, and the barriers they have to overcome. Over and over again the message is repeated – ‘We want to be given a chance’, ‘We are judged by everyone’, ‘People look down on us’, ‘We have as much right as anyone else’. Council staff will put the report together, and it will be presented to senior figures in the Council, health service, police, among others.

We are now in the Upper Hall on Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoons. Please come along to see what we do, you will be made very welcome.

Janice Grant mob 07581 722331 David Quinn mob 07779 237318

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Prayer Group Not long ago our minister was speaking about the difficulty of finding peace in our hectic lives in a world which is full of noise and activity. He was pointing to the fact that for at least that one hour in church on a Sunday we can experience calm and peace in the fellowship of our congregation. For the Prayer Group too, our monthly meeting together is a very quiet and tranquil time, after which we often feel refreshed and reinvigorated.

Prayer as therapy!

However, much as I love these times in church, there is another place which is a sanctuary of peace for me – my garden! We have had such lovely weather this Spring that I have spent many hours outside and sunshine and blue skies fairly lift the spirits. I have created a new border, revamped my rockery, tidied the patio, cut the grass, staked the delphiniums and weeded. And weeded and weeded! I find that when I am focused on doing these jobs in the garden, everything else disappears from my mind. As I do battle with the creeping buttercups, I have a great sense of achievement at seeing the ground cleared. All other worries recede and I feel great peace of mind. Fresh air and physical exercise make you sleep better too! I also enjoy watching my plants thrive and try to make sure there are plenty of flowers which attract bees, insects and butterflies. I feel I am doing my bit for God’s creatures and fill my bird feeders every day. I am very excited to have a family of siskins in the garden this year!

There is a verse of poetry about this topic, one line of which at least is well-known: “The kiss of the sun for pardon, The song of the birds for mirth.

One is nearer God’s heart in a garden Than anywhere else on Earth.”

This is from a poem called “God’s Garden” by English poet and hymnwriter, Dorothy Frances Gurney. It is a beautiful poem and this verse sums up the peace that is to be found in a garden. It suggests it can be a spiritual experience – cleansing and uplifting. I like the idea of being “nearer God’s heart.” It reminds me of his loving presence and his closeness. The story of God’s relationship with humanity began in a garden and as I work in mine, I share God’s pleasure in Creation and understand a little better how much he cares for his creatures – birds, bees, butterflies, and you and me!

The Prayer Group continues to meet in church at 7pm on the first Wednesday of the month – a small but faithful band. We would be happy for more folk to join us but if you cannot come in person, please leave your prayer requests in the box in church or send me a message on the church Facebook page.

Here are some topics you might like to pray for: • Sara and Bethany and all the leaders of Kingz Kidz and Trekkers for all the work they have done this year. Bless all the kids too!

• All the young people who will come along to the Summer Club in the first week in August.

• Our minister, David, as he enjoys his summer break and for Laura and the family. They’ll have to put up with more of him than usual!!

• All new councillors and MPs, that they will do their best for all their constituents.

• War-torn areas of the world, especially Syria.

• And pray for rain in drought-stricken areas in Africa, so that they may see their crops grow and their children fed.

And enjoy some garden time. You’ll feel the better for it!

Lesley Wright.

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New Laigh Kirk Walking Group

The Walking Group’s regular Wednesday evening Walks have recommenced. These run (weather permitting) from the beginning of April until the first week of September. We meet at 7pm each Wednesday evening at the entrance to the main Car Park at Dean Castle Country Park. Everyone is welcome, (children and dogs too!) and there are walks to suit all ages and fitness levels. Walks last on average 45 minutes. Come along if you’d like some light exercise, fresh air and friendly chat. Although many of the routes around Dean Castle Country Park are still closed due to major reconstruction works, there are still a few walking routes to choose from, and ring the changes.

Over the summer months, we also have several walks taking place at weekends. We try to alternate these on Saturdays and on Sunday afternoons. So far this year, we had a light stroll around Irvine Harbour and Beach Park in March, and a visit on a lovely warm Sunday afternoon in early April to the grounds of Dumfries House. A repeat of last year’s successful ‘Big Day Out’ to Arran is scheduled for Saturday 10th June, with three walking routes this year – a walk up Goat Fell for experienced (and very fit) walkers led by Derek I’Anson, the Glen Rosa Circuit led by Shirley Auld, which is an intermediate route - and a more sedate circular walk from Brodick along the Fishermen’s Trail, followed by an evening meal together prior to catching the ferry back to the mainland.

Other walks planned for June/August are:

Sunday 25th June - 3pm *

Alloway to Rozelle Park, with Belleisle option Departing from Car Park at Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, Alloway at 3.00pm* (Please note change from usual starttime).

Saturday 8th July (Choice of Two walks)

Sanquhar to Wanlockhead or Euchan Glen, Sanquhar 1. Sanquhar to Wanlockhead– a walk of Intermediate difficulty, along part of the Southern Upland Way, taking approximately 4-5 hours, which includes some fairly boggy ground and an ascent of 589 metres over the course of the walk. This walk will require walkers to be dropped off in Sanquhar and uplifted in Wanlockhead. Travel arrangements for this option are still to be finalised.

Anyone interested in doing this walk should contact either Ellen Stewart, Shirley Auld or Derek I’Anson.

2. Euchan Glen, Sanquhar – A slightly strenuous circular route of approximately 4 miles from Sanquhar Tolbooth on good paths and metalled roads. No steep climbs, but children should be supervised. Departure – 2pm at Sanquhar Tolbooth in the main street.

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Sunday 23rd July - 2pm

Coastal walk to Seamill/Portencross option Meet at 2.00pm at entrance to car parking area on the seaward side of the Ardrossan/Greenock coast road, which is opposite a road exit from West Kilbride (and beside a small restaurant/garden centre on the right ).

Saturday 5th August - 2pm

Chatelherault Country Park, Hamilton Meet at 2.00pm at entrance to main car park, Chatelherault.

Sunday 27th August- 1.45pm NLK Walking Group Family ‘Fairtrade’ Walk and Treasure Trail around Kilmarnock Town Centre. DETAILS TO BE ANNOUNCED LATER. If you are interested in coming along to any of our walks, put the dates in your Diary and contact either Ellen Stewart, Shirley Auld or Derek I’Anson. If you require transport from Kilmarnock, please contact one of the aforementioned persons. Further details, nearer the date of each event, will be intimated in the Orders of Service, on the Church website and on social media.

Families………….a Date for your Diary!

Sunday 27th August – 1.45pm-4.00pm NLK Walking Group’s Family ‘Fairtrade’ Treasure Trail around Kilmarnock Town Centre, starting and finishing at the Church Halls, John Finnie Street. afternoon for all the family

This promises to be a fun

Details to follow later – Look out for these on the Church website, on Social Media, and in Orders of Service.

Guild of Friendship Once again we had a very good session closing on 23rd March with our AGM and Games afternoon. Throughout the session we have had excellent speakers, musical and games afternoon. We are now looking forward to our trip to Aberfoyle and Callander with High Tea on the way home.

We are now preparing our syllabus for next session when we would love to see some new members.

Janette Howard

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STAMPS Once again I must thank all those who bring their used stamps to me. I have collected hundreds since Christmas to pass on to the Blind Club to be sold for deserving charities. It’s amazing how they mount up so please keep them coming - no matter how few!

It would be greatly appreciated if when you are cutting them out you could leave a border of about 8 mm (1/2 inch), if possible, as I have discovered this is what is needed.

Thank you once again.

Esther Douglas

BADMINTON The badminton club is a great night, 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

Highlights Klub Our evening with Ronnie Russell in March was once again a great success, with much laughter and shared memories of past summer holidays when the sun always seemed to shine!

In April we held our annual charity quiz in aid of Breast Foot Forward, which was again very well supported.

Many thanks to all those who came, who bought raffle tickets and donated prizes, and to those who could not be with us but made a donation.

Your continuing generosity allowed us to raise the great sum of £1180, including Gift Aid. This amount was reached from the quiz, the fee donated by our speakers in February, and the star raffle prize of a £50 note, won by Susan Withers, but then kindly donated to the charity. This takes our total for Breast Foot Forward to a magnificent £12,626.75 (also including Gift Aid) over the years.

Our winning team, “Keen as Mustard”, comprising of Morag, Miriam, Fiona, Liz, Jenny, Linda and Barbara managed to pull ahead of the men’s team in the final round – the questions on night sweats and crochet stitches perhaps helped a little!

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The wooden spoons this year went to the team “6VGF”.

This apparently stood for 6 very good friends, and we certainly hope they still are after their defeat!

Prizes were also given for perfect attendance and lucky seats, but a special mention has to go to Anne Scullion who won the spot prize for being closest when guessing the number of baked beans in a large tin!

Our visit to the House for an Art Lover for our summer outing was absolutely wonderful. James, our guide, was very knowledgeable, with just the right amount of humour! The house is stunning and it was lovely to see the Music Room set up for a wedding. We enjoyed a beautiful afternoon tea with Prosecco after our tour and then the icing on the cake was seeing the bride arrive for her big day just before we left. I think the bride and her father were quite taken aback and amused by 29 total strangers oohing and aahing and giving her a round of applause as she stepped out the car, but it certainly made our day!

Angela, Laura, Janis and I would like to thank you all once again for your support and for the gifts you gave us at the end of the session – not necessary but very much appreciated!

Our new session will start on Monday 25th September – look out for details in the syllabus in the August magazine. Hopefully there will be something for everyone. Meanwhile we wish all our members and friends a lovely summer and look forward to seeing you all back for the new session in September.

New members are always welcome – contact me on 543488 or Angela on 534622, or speak to any of the committee.

Eileen Murphy, Chairperson

Church Register Profession of Faith 16th April 2017

Jean Mullholland 56a Campbeltown Drive Kilmarnock

Ordination of Elders 16th April 2017

Lynn Agnew 3b Bellsland Place Kilmarnock Fiona Duffy 6 Doon Place Kilmarnock Graeme Johnstone 4 Greenan Road Kilmarnock Alasdair MacLean 66 Dunlop Street Stewarton Fiona Richardson 31 Glen Farrar Way Kilmarnock Ellen Stewart 13 Central Avenue Kilmarnock

Funerals 13th April 2017

Jean Barclay (M) Whinpark Farm Kilmarnock

18th April 2017

John Newell (M) 14 Grougar Drive Kilmarnock

20th April 2017

Hugh Paton 22 Lennox Crescent Kilmarnock

25th April 2017

Sean Rowan (M) 12 Lomond View Symington

3rd May 2017

Michael Paterson 6b Montgomery Place Kilmarnock

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3rd May 2017

Margaret Faulds (M) 3 Moorfield Avenue Kilmarnock

9th May 2017

Effie Strang (M) 5 Dean Court Kilmarnock

18th May 2017

Mary Cumming (M) Grange Nursing Home Kilmarnock

“…You would know the secret of death.

But how shall you find it unless you seek it in the heart of life?

The owl whose night-bound eyes are blind unto the day cannot unveil the mystery of light.

If you would indeed behold the spirit of death, open your heart wide unto the body of life.

For life and death are one, even as the river and the sea are one.

In the depth of your hopes and desires lies your silent knowledge of the beyond; And like seeds dreaming beneath the snow, your heart dreams of spring.

Trust the dreams, for in them is hidden the gate to eternity…

For what is it to die but to stand naked in the wind and to melt into the sun?

And what is it to cease breathing, but to free the breath from its restless tides, that it may rise and expand and seek God unencumbered?

Only when you drink from the river of silence shall you indeed sing.

And when you have reached the mountain top, then you shall begin to climb.

And when the earth shall claim your limbs, then shall you truly dance…”

Kahlil Gibran

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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