Twinspire Issue 61

POLMONT OLD PARISH CHURCH NEWSLETTER www.polmontold.org.uk/

SUMMER 2015

Charity Number - SC003421

HIGHLIGHTS         

ISSUE 61

Story Time ….. from Debbie Turin Shroud European City Churches The Magic of Computers Photo Gallery ‘Exodus’ Film Evening A Response to the Invisible Man BB Camp 2015 Falkirk Food Bank Update ……. And more

Twinspire #61  July 2015

To

Polmont Old Parish Church

Sunday Worship 9.45m ~ Choir Practice ~ (in Church) 10.45am ~ Prayer meeting ~ (in Vestry) 11.00am ~ Morning Worship 11.00am ~ Youth Church ~ (in Church & Session House) 11.00am ~ Crèche ~ (in Fellowship Room) 12noon ~ ACTs (After Church Teas) ~ (in Fellowship Room)

Transport available

Do come and join us Minister

Rev Debbie van Welie  07772 252 297

Treasurer

John Wotherspoon

Session Clerk

Ian W McLean

Clerk to the Board

Andrew Fernie

Church & Hall Administrator

Lynda McKechnie

Church Office

 01324 715995; email: contactus@polmontold.org.uk

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Twinspire #61  July 2015

EDITOR’S RAMBLINGS

SUMMER SUNS ARE GLOWING ~ William Walsham How ~ (1823-1897)

Tune: Ruth (Samuel Smith)

Have I missed the summer this year? Where have all those long ‘lazy, hazy days of summer’ that I remember from years ago gone to? – when we had day after day of hot sunny weather and you could relax in the garden on a sun lounger, have a barbecue and fight off the midges! Or go camping without the fear of being flooded out? I have just been watching the scenes from this year’s ‘T in the Park’ on the TV News – all that mud and ‘glaur’ (a good descriptive Scottish word) and the folk with their ‘wellies’ on – not that the weather spoiled their enjoyment!

1 Summer suns are glowing over land and sea; happy light is flowing bountiful and free.

Everything rejoices in the mellow rays; all earth's thousand voices swell the psalm of praise.

2 See God's mercy streaming over all the world, and his banner gleaming everywhere unfurled.

Broad and deep and glorious as the heaven above, shines in might victorious his eternal love.

I chose to take the title of a hymn – “Summer suns are glowing” – as the theme of this edition, and I attach the words here as a reminder of an old fashioned hymn which I remember from my younger days and from my time as organist – not one which is sung much today.

3 Lord, upon our blindness your pure radiance pour; for your loving-kindness make us love you more.

And, when clouds are drifting dark across the sky, then, the veil uplifting, Father, still be nigh.

I hope that many of you have been able to enjoy some sunny weather on your travels ‘over land and sea’, as the second line states.

But people don’t just go abroad for the sunshine - there is also the excitement of seeing new places and experiencing the food and scenery of other countries. Later in the magazine you will read of Janice’s visit to view the Turin Shroud – surely a once-in-alifetime experience.

4 We will never doubt you, though you veil your light; life is dark without you, death with you is bright.

Light of light, shine o'er us on our pilgrim way; still go on before us to the endless day.

The gardeners amongst us will be hoping for some sunshine too, especially if you intend to enter the local horticultural show, details of which can be found on the Congregational Noticeboard pages.

‘And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves growing on the trees, just as things grow in fast movies, I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer’.

Whatever your plans are for the remainder of the summer, enjoy!

~ F. Scott Fitzgerald ~

Oh, by the way! I did enjoy my school reunion last month – lots of chatting and reminiscing!

Sandra 2

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Story time….

Moab is a land that falls under the authority of its own gods. In the Bible it represents the nations and in the midst of the nations, Israel is that small, insignificant, vulnerable nation that was led out of Egypt. It was led away from Pharaoh's authority under the leadership of Moses, who followed “the pillar of cloud and fire (God Himself) that accompanied the Israelites on their journey through the wilderness”, called by Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, ‘the earliest navigation system of hope’.

A lady who sells fruit and vegetables from her stall along the road, always has her Bible with her so that she can read it when she has no customers.

One day, the sun was shining brightly, a gentleman who was passing by saw her reading and he asked: “What are you reading Madam?”

The lady replied: “The Bible Sir, the Word of God”

Ruth dares say to Naomi, “Do not urge me to leave you or return from following you. For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there will I be buried. May the Lord do so to me and more also if anything but death parts me from you.” (Ruth 1:16-18)

The gentleman said: “The Word of God?...But how do you know that it is the Word of God...?

“Well”, the lady replied, “that is a difficult question Sir...but...look up...how do you know that what you see there is the sun...?

The gentleman replied: “That is not a difficult question. I know that that is the sun because I can see that it gives light, and I can feel its warmth.

These words are spoken and done by a woman whose patriarch was Lot, the father of Moab, the forefather of the Moabites. Lot was Abraham's nephew who accompanied Abraham, when Abraham was called by God until Lot chose to settle in the beautiful Jordan Valley, the Sodom and Gomorrah that were to be destroyed by God.

“Good”, the Lady said, “that is how I know that the Bible is the Word of God...for it gives me light and I can feel its warmth.

What is that light and warmth that the lady feels…? Perhaps it is best to let a story speak.

Leaving her country for Naomi, Ruth chose the God of Abraham, the God of Naomi and in doing so, she chose to go the way Abraham had gone before her: a way of trusting and following the Holy One. Trusting and following Abraham's God, Ruth became the mother of Obed, who was the grandfather of King David, the ancestor of Jesus Christ.

Naomi is a woman who finds herself in a hopeless situation in a strange country, Moab. She and her family, her husband and two sons, had left their home years ago because there was a famine. Their home was Bethlehem. Each son married a Moabite woman.

Naomi’s husband and two sons died.

The story of Ruth shows that Naomi's hopelessness was not without hope because the hope in her and Naomi's life was God Himself.

In this hopeless situation Naomi makes a decision: she wants to go back to Bethlehem. So Naomi takes an initiative which shows that she, despite all hopelessness, has not given up hope.

That hope must be the light and warmth that the lady meant when she spoke to the gentleman.

Both daughters in law, Orpa and Ruth, accompany her on her way to Bethlehem and when Naomi tells them to return, only one of them does: Orpa.

Ruth refuses to return; she insists on staying with Naomi.

So here again we have a woman who makes a decision: the decision to stay with Naomi.

At a time that so many people find themselves in a situation where they cannot see a future for themselves and their children, may they and you all, find strength and guidance in the ‘the earliest navigation system of hope’.

The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face to shine upon you, And be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace.

Ruth, the Moabite woman, leaves her country because she does not want to leave her mother-in-law.

Your minister and friend, Debbie van Welie

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Twinspire #61  July 2015

SPECIAL STEWARDSHIP MEETING

Members of the Kirk Session and Congregational Board are reminded that Sandra Holt, our Stewardship Convenor, will do a presentation on the importance of Stewardship in general and more specifically our own Stewardship Campaign. It is important that we have a full turnout, as the presentation is an important part of our preparations.

Sunday 20th September 5.00pm – 7.00pm in the Church Halls *** Fun for all the family *** HISTORY GROUP

Please be there if you can.

Date: Monday 31st August Place: Small Church Hall Time: 7pm

The new session of 2015-2016 starts on Tuesday 29th September in the (small) Church Hall, at 7.30pm

Derick

LUNCH BUNCH

Our meetings are held on the last Tuesday of the month. The syllabus for the coming season is interesting and varied - we look forward to seeing you.

Returns after the School Holidays on Thursday 10th September ~~~~~~~ Polmont Church Hall, Main Street, Polmont ~~~~~~ 11.30am – 1.00pm

Margaret & Grace

COMMUNION SUNDAY Sunday 4th October 11.00am in Church

We look forward to seeing you there!

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All are Welcome

Twinspire #61  July 2015

DEADLINE FOR NEXT EDITION OF TWINSPIRE

Share-a-Craft

The next edition is due for publication on

Sunday 27th September 2015 Deadline for the submission of articles is

Sunday 13th September 2015 @@@@@@@ Send articles by email to:

twinspire@polmontold.org.uk or give to Doreen Baxter or Margaret Connor for typing

The Share-a-Craft class starts on Friday 11th September at 10am in the lesser Church Hall.

If you have a craft, please come along and share it with us, or tell us about it over a cup of tea.

We would welcome new members, who would like to learn something new.

See you all there.

Grace and Margaret

Baby & Toddler Group Mondays from 1.00pm – 2.30pm In the Church Hall For further information, please speak to Lynda  715995

Thank you!

A huge ‘thank you’ to the ladies of the congregation, who are STILL knitting baby hats, bootees and jackets, suitable for premature babies in the neo-natal unit at Forth Valley Hospital Well Done!!

They will be much appreciated.

PLEASE NOTE We will re-open on 14th September

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Various groups within the Church are looking for assistance on an occasional basis.

Do you have some spare time to help out?

ACTs (AFTER CHURCH TEAS) * Sundays after morning service * to serve teas and coffees at the Coffee Bar in the Fellowship Room * rota basis * Margaret Connor *  633357 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

BABY& TODDLER GROUP * Mondays from 1.30pm - 3.00pm * to serve teas and coffees to the Mums in the Church Hall * rota basis * Lynda McKechnie *  715995 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

BOYS’ BRIGADE * Thursday or Friday evenings * to assist the officers with the boys’ programme * as required * Carolyn Plenderleith *  715338* ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

CRÈCHE * Sundays during morning service * to care for the babies and toddlers in the Fellowship Room * rota basis * Laura Moore *  07921 197154 & Jennifer Park  07472 151524 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

FLOWERS’ ROTA * Sundays * to donate flowers for the morning service or to deliver them to the housebound or sick after morning service * rota basis * Eileen Brown * 716124 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

GIRLS’ BRIGADE * Wednesdays from 6.00pm - 7.15pm * to assist the officers with the girls’ programme * as required * Tracey O’Brien *  07443 567274 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

LUNCH BUNCH * Thursdays from 11.30am - 1.30pm * to supply soup and/or baking * to help in the kitchen and/or to serve at table * rota basis * Janet Anderson *  711882 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

STORY CLUB * Tuesdays after school * to assist in running this very popular club at St Margaret’s Primary School * rota basis * Derick Turner *  711975 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

If you have other interests and skills, which would be useful in the service of the Church in other capacities, please speak to the Minister, Debbie van Welie  713427

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Twinspire #61  July 2015

POLMONT OLD PARISH CHURCH WEBSITE @ www.polmontold.org.uk

PASTORAL VISIT BOOK If you know of anyone who is in hospital or ill at home, who would like a visit from the Minister, please record the details in the red book, which is to be found in the foyer of the church.

*VIEW* this edition of Twinspire in full colour!

POLMONT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY ANNUAL SHOW * Saturday 5th September 2015 * * Sports’ Centre * Salmon Inn Road, Polmont * 2.00pm – 4.30pm WHY NOT ENTER YOUR PRODUCE, CRAFTS, BAKING OR CHILDREN’S WORK Contact: Janet Anderson 01324 711882 for a schedule

Week beginning 10th August 2015

If you are interested in helping with this VERY popular Summer Holiday Club, even just for 1 day, contact the Minister or Lynda on  715995 or email - lynda.mckechnie2@hotmail.co.uk or minister@polmontold.org.uk

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Twinspire #61  July 2015

THE MAGIC OF COMPUTERS

LETTERS

I was asked to provide a photo of the old kirk ruin for one of the Parable of Talents’ projects – mugs with the photos of the old and new kirks on them. As I felt the photo of the old ruin was completely spoilt by the wooden fencing round it, I decided to make use of my computer to ‘clone’ my original photo. It may not be perfect, but I was quite pleased with the result.

Hi Sandra, This is in response to your article in your church magazine re Sister Marion McMillan. A small memorial within the former Church of Scotland Church in California gave the names of those that died during the great wars. When the church closed it found a home in the vestibule of the Church of Scotland in Shieldhill. Sister McMillan’s name was one of the names listed. When researching the names on both California and Shieldhill Memorials for the Braes War Commemoration Society she was not forgotten and the attached extract of these findings give the recorded details of Sister McMillan.

The details confirm what has been written but the photo makes it more personal.

Like “John W” it was a desire to know more about these people other than just a name that led me to research the information on both memorials, and in the process uncovered some remarkable stories.

Jim Currie, Blackbraes and Shieldhill Parish Church.

BEFORE

Sister Marion Lennox McMILLAN S.R.F.N. S.R.N. Daughter of Samuel Mitchell McMillan and Marion McMillan, of California.

Killed in action at sea on the 12th February 1944 while serving with the Queen Alexandra’s Military Nursing Service. Service number 266937.

She is remembered on the Brookwood Memorial, Surrey, England.

AFTER I have now produced blank cards featuring the ‘after’ photo of the old kirk, which are on sale in the Fellowship Room at £1.00, along with other cards featuring the stained glass windows and various other views of the present kirk.

Sandra

Prior to going into the nursing service, she was employed at Gartloch Emergency Hospital as a sister, receiving her early training at Belvidere Hospital and Royal Infirmary, Glasgow.

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Twinspire #61  July 2015

GOLF OUTING The Polmont Old Parish Church and Brightons Parish Church Invitation Golf Outing was held on Friday 22nd May 2015 at Dundas Parks Golf Course, South Queensferry.

A short report on this occasion as no events have been held over the last few months. However we do have some good and bad news.

The event was once again well supported with a good representation of players from both Polmont and Brighton Churches.

Car Treasure Hunt The bad news first. This event had to be cancelled as we didn’t get enough people coming forward to make it viable.

However it may be possible to have it later in the summer.

16 competitors took part in the competition over 9 holes, enjoying the opportunity to meet once again in a combined social activity, much appreciated by all who took part.

Pot of Gold

The weather on the day was dry with a slight breeze, making playing conditions ideal for golf and allowing for a competitive but light hearted competition.

Now the good news. After we emptied the pot and took the contents for valuation, we received a total of £1215, an amazing return on an event which did not require a great deal of organisation. Many thanks to all who donated, I am sure they will feel it was all worthwhile.

Prior to the presentation of the various prizes, an excellent 2 course lunch was served in the Clubhouse, bringing to an end a very enjoyable day.

Parable of the Talents This event is continuing over the summer break, with returns to be made at the beginning of September.

From the original 100 envelopes, we distributed over 90, and a number of participants have already raised more than the original £10. Good luck to all those taking part over the summer.

Alex Watson Fundraising Convenor

The following prizes were awarded.

Team Prize Martyn Richards David Patterson Eileen McArdle

(P) (B) (B)

Individual Prize (Men) Martyn Richards (P) Individual Prize (Ladies) Eileen McArdle (B) Pairs Draw Prize Martyn Richards (P) Ian Redfern (P)

‘Then followed that beautiful season... Summer....

Filled was the air with a dreamy and magical light; and the landscape lay as if new created in all the freshness of childhood’.

Nearest the hole (no 9) Jim Wilson (P) It is anticipated that the next combined invitation event will be held at Gogarburn Golf Course in early September (date to be advised). Hopefully we will be able to welcome some new players, especially ladies David Syson

~ Henry Wadsworth Longfellow ~

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2nd Polmont Boys’ Brigade Company Section Summer Camp 2015 The 2nd Polmont Boys’ Brigade held their annual camp this year at Pitlochry which was a tremendous success. All the boys and staff, Alan Ward, Brian Paterson, Cameron Lewis, Craig Brown and myself, really enjoyed the weekend.

There was a massive amount of planning done and purchases made this year, so on behalf of the company I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who contributed towards these, and also to those who donated to the company throughout the session.

The camp was held from Friday 29th – Sunday 31st of May 2015, although some of the boys and officers went up to the camp site on Thursday the 28th May to set up the camp for the weekend, so a big thank you to them, as they all did a grand job, and the camp site looked great for the boys arriving on the Friday night, with our new marquee, which was used at meal times and for meetings with the boys as well as for worship, our 3 new patrol tents, a cook tent that was kindly loaned to us for the weekend and the two officers’ patrol tents.

On the Friday night, upon arrival, the boys were all settled into their tents, it was then time for some camp games before supper, so the boys and two of the officers (Cameron Lewis and myself) thoroughly enjoyed playing volleyball and a bit of football while the other officers cooked supper. Supper was served in our new marquee on the tables and new chairs and was enjoyed by all.

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Saturday unfortunately coincided with the Scottish Cup Final at Hampden Park and some of the boys left camp to support their team, Falkirk, for a time in the afternoon. In the morning before leaving for the match, everyone went on a bike ride round Pitlochry, which was enjoyable, and while the rest went off to support their team, we all enjoyed a treasure hunt.

When the boys returned from Glasgow, we all had dinner and enjoyed some games both outdoor and indoor and then retired to bed fresh air doesn’t half make you tired!

After breakfast on Sunday we went white water rafting on the River Tay, which was great fun, even though we got pretty wet. On return from this it was time for lunch and a few games, then regrettably it was time to pack up and return home, although some of the officers stayed behind until Monday, to dismantle the camp and bring it all back to Polmont.

The camp was a great opportunity for all the boys and officers to be together and enjoy each other’s company, where everyone had to work together to make it a success. We look forward to Camp 2016, which it is hoped may be for a longer period of time.

LIEUTENANT CRAIG FRASER

Using the telephone keypad, work out the summer words from the number sequences eg. 786637 = summer 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

4654329 23224 2255 742642 786 27326 786 428 42327326 786 4527737

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

7327433 5863 5859 7263257 7862876 3325 24247 786326 11

ANSWERS NEXT EDITION

Twinspire #61  July 2015 well at school. Their digital world of Facebook, Twitter etc. is so far from the understanding of previous generations, it is little wonder if the Church is hardly top of their agenda. There are, of course, many projects trying to bridge this generational gap, notably the work of our neighbours in St Andrew’s, Bo’ness.

A RESPONSE Thoughts of TO THE of Th Thoughts INVISIBLE MAN the Invisible Man ible Man In response to the Invisible Man’s article in the

However, children need to learn that going to Church is a different experience from other gatherings. It is not a performance or a concert.

The atmosphere can be friendly and welcoming but people attend church for a variety of reasons and in a variety of moods. Those who come enjoy meeting friends and welcoming newcomers. They do not come to be entertained but to be in a place away from the busyness of the world. Some will be believers, others may be searching and questioning their faith, others coping with personal problems. However, together they become a whole community gathered to share in hymns, Bible readings, prayers and listening to the preaching of the Word of God. D.B.C.

Spring number of Twinspire, I would like to suggest the “true spirit” of Presbyterianism is rather more than the joyless teaching he received in Sunday School. I am sorry that this was his experience, because I would like to think that in most other Church of Scotland Sunday Schools the content would be much more positive.

However, out of respect for his teacher, I think we need to understand that her motives were for the best however negative they appeared.

To me the spirit of Presbyterianism is a mixture of compassion, inclusiveness, moderation, good order and, all grounded in the Westminster Confession of Faith. It is true that sometimes in its long history, the Kirk adopted a severe and sometimes gloomy attitude to personal conduct.

But like the case of the Invisible Man’s Sunday School teacher, we have to realise that this stern approach arose from their understanding of the Scriptures and a genuine desire to guide people in the way of salvation. However, today’s church has embraced the arts, music and drama as legitimate means of presenting and listening to the Gospel.

There is a lot of laughter to be heard in and around the Kirk.

2nd POLMONT ANCHOR BOYS The Anchor Boys have now finished for the summer. We had our annual Parents’ Evening at the beginning of April when 8 of our boys were transferred into the Junior Section. All boys were presented with their Anchor Achievement Certificates and Badges.

We had four fun weeks when we had our Sports' Night in the Greenpark Centre playing fields, a games night in the hall, a movie night when the boys watched the new Paddington Bear Movie and had popcorn and juice, and we had a trip up to Parkhill Park. To round off a fantastic year, we took the boys bowling and then for their tea.

Turning to the Invisible Man’s comments on how the church treats children today, I think we all agree, whatever our age, that we want children to feel welcome in the church – just as for adults.

After all, concern for the wellbeing of children is the duty of the whole congregation as demonstrated at every baptism when we are asked to stand in acknowledgment of this responsibility.

We had a great turnout at our Closing Service and we are now all hopefully enjoying a lovely summer break.

Our church does well in welcoming children in church for part of the morning service. There is always a talk from the minister and a special hymn for them. We also provide a crèche for infants and youth church. We all appreciate the time and trouble the leaders and volunteers take in organising and running these aspects of our congregational life. Let’s hope that our children can be inspired to follow their own journey to faith. Young people today have a challenging time with pressures to conform and to perform

Many thanks go to Mrs. McKechnie, Mrs. Simpson and Cameron for their assistance with the Anchor Boys. Your hard work is appreciated by everyone.

Thank you to all our parents and the Church for their continued support and we hope everyone has a fantastic holiday. See you all in August.

Carolyn Plenderleith (Officer in Charge)

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Financial report for the first six months to June 30th 2015 The cumulative position for the six months to the end of June reveals a useful surplus of £12,782. This is after donations / legacies of £22,079 received this year and the costs incurred in putting the manse in good order and receiving our new minister. Total general reserves stand at £15,225.

However it goes without saying that we must find both alternative sources of income for our Church whilst reducing our expenditure and ensuring that our funding actives are continued. The Board has recently increased he contributions to the church we ask for weddings and funerals.

Our conservative estimate is that by the year end our general reserves will be nearer £9,000.

The Balance sheet at the end of June 2015 shows:£’s Investments 32,733 Endowments Debtors 1,000 Creditors Bank 29,639 Restricted Reserves General Reserves Total 63,372 Total

£’s 32,733 9,663 5,751 15,225 63,372

JWW/ 3rd July

The Ten Pound Talents Fundraising Challenge Film Evening with Refreshments Featuring Hollywood Blockbuster Film

Exodus: Gods and Kings (12) Church Hall Sunday 30th August 2015 at 6:30pm

Ticket for refreshments £3 Available from Gillian or Derick Turner

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Some of our congregation and our new Minister who attended Princess Anne’s visit to Strathcarron Hospice, representing the Church and other groups who support the Hospice.

I have been to several garden parties at Holyrood, both Royal and Church of Scotland, but the one I attended in Falkirk in June was certainly not overshadowed by any of them.

The weather was not very kind to us but it did not dampen the enthusiasm. It may take the house some time to recover.

Style was everything - from top hats and silver-topped canes to full highland regalia and bush hats. And that was only the men! The ladies were very stylish in large chapeaux or hatinators or fascinators, brightly coloured summer dresses or more sombre coloured suits – fashionable in the extreme.

The food was so appetisingly displayed and tasted delicious. Just as at communion, kirk elders were serving the drinks. In fact it was firstly a ‘communion’ in the true meaning of the word, with everyone going from room to room chatting and stopping in the hall en route to have a word with the folk who could only find

seats on the stair. There were strangers there, but they were unrecognisable because everybody was so friendly and laughter abounded.

A great deal of work went into making it such a wonderful afternoon of food, fun and most of all fellowship, and everyone left with a smile on his or her face. A big thank you is due to the organiser and her assistants.

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Twinspire #61  July 2015 As the ‘up - the - braes’ saying goes – “If ye wurna there ye missed yersel!”

Thank you.

Nanette

Pretty maids all in a row

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Twinspire #61 ď – July 2015

On 27th June, choir members, some partners and friends went on the summer outing to Pitlochry.

Dunkeld's Hilton Hotel, with its stunning riverside site, was the first gathering place for teas, coffees and the obligatory home-made scones.

Then it was off to Pitlochry and some retail therapy before meeting up for the matinee performance of "A Little Night Music" at the Festival Theatre.

Sondheim's music and lyrics are testing, but the cast showed their musical versatility (the acting wasn't bad either!). Imaginative sets and a moving interpretation and reprise of "Send in the Clowns" added to a very enjoyable show.

A return to, arguably, the choir's second love - FOOD! - took those who had journeyed North to the Glendarroch Hotel for a splendid afternoon tea - even if some of the staff wrestled with our accents and humour!

The homeward trip followed. "Send in the Clowns" no doubt featured in many thoughts but one version "don’t bother, they are all in Presbytery", was not the lyrics I remember in the show!

Norman Black

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Twinspire #61  July 2015 EUROPEAN CITY CHURCHES

images would have been clearly translated in the minds of those who looked upon them.

European capital cities are geographically large, culturally diverse, tourist saturated, architecturally inspiring wonders. Each city has its own distinct personality, or characteristic, formed through centuries of socio-political agendas blended with a dash of conflict. One such influence on the development of most European cities has been Christianity.

Whether church architecture is appreciated to the same extent as it was originally intended is perhaps a trivial point, but what shouldn’t be overlooked is the role which church buildings have served and how they continue to be relevant to communities throughout the continent.

Jamie

It is common-place to trace Christianity’s influence on European development from the time of Roman Emperor Constantine (4 th century). However, one must consider at least twenty centuries of European (or global) history to gain a full insight and understanding of how Christianity has shaped the cities of today.

Fifteen exercises we'd be better off without Jumping on the bandwagon, Wading through paperwork, Running around in circles, Pushing your luck, Spinning your wheels, Adding fuel to the fire, Beating your head against the wall, Climbing the walls, Beating your own drum, Dragging your heels, Jumping to conclusions, Grasping at straws, Fishing for compliments, Throwing your weight around, Passing the buck.

Is this my summer story? Not quite.

Having visited a handful of European cities, I have discovered a fascinating aspect they all share and this was reinforced on a recent trip to Madrid. Amongst the busyness of these cities there is a quiet space where courtesy and solemn respect is the international language. This place is the church or cathedral. Entering a large city church or cathedral I noticed that the level of noise suddenly reduces, the rush of urban existence slows and my eyes are drawn to the amazing spaces which have been created.

Contributed by Tracey

Bed in Summer ~ Robert Louis Stevenson ~ In winter I get up at night And dress by yellow candle-light.

In summer quite the other way, I have to go to bed by day.

The more I have these experiences, the more I have considered whether this is how a church ought to be experienced and whether this experience is how the building has been experienced in the past.

I have to go to bed and see The birds still hopping on the tree, Or hear the grown-up people's feet Still going past me in the street.

Historically, these city centre churches and cathedrals would have not only served as meeting places, shelters and food providers, but their grandeur would have amazed any worshipper. Furthermore, the ornate decoration inside these buildings often depicts biblical scenes, and at a time of reduced literacy these

And does it not seem hard to you, When all the sky is clear and blue, And I should like so much to play, To have to go to bed by day?

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Twinspire #61 ď – July 2015

THE TURIN SHROUD (I’ve tried to darken the photo which Janice supplied, so that you can hopefully read the words better once the page is printed.

Editor) Early in June we visited our Italian friends who live in Valperga, which is a town just north of Turin. While there we visited Turin Cathedral, where the Turin Shroud was on show for the first time in 5 years. Pope Francis wants it to be seen more often and he was visiting on 21 June.

Hundreds of thousands of visitors are expected and the organisation was amazing. Hundreds of volunteers, dressed in purple jackets were all along the path, welcoming everyone and answering questions. Tickets are free but have to be booked. Everyone follows a wide path, winding towards the cathedral, and as you near the building it is covered and lined with pictures of saints who were born in and around Turin.

Just before entering the area where the shroud is, you stand in an outer area and watch a video which explains the details of the Cloth. Although there has been much discussion about the authenticity of the Shroud, the explanation of the detailed marks certainly make it believable.

As the video finished, the doors into the main area of the darkened Duoma opened and we were shown in and filed to the front of the Shroud which was in a long glass case, hanging up so everyone could see it. As only a group is allowed through at a time we were able to stand and look at it for a minute or 2.

Before entering the path we were all given a leaflet in our own language which explained the route and also contained a prayer written by the Archbishop of Turin, Cesarean Nosiglio who is also the Papal Custodian of the Holy Shroud.

As we stood in front of the Shroud, all you could hear was the prayer being said in different languages. This was the part that moved me most as it brought home how Christianity is important to so many people from nations far and near.

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Twinspire #61  July 2015 The Prayer Lord Jesus, In front of the Shroud, as in a mirror, We admire the mystery of your passion and death for us.

It is the greatest love, With which you loved us, up to giving your life for the last sinner.

It is the greatest love, Which also induces us to give our lives for our brothers and sisters.

In the wounds of your battered body We meditate on the wounds caused by all sins: Forgive us, Lord.

In the silence of your humiliated face We recognise the suffering face of every man: Help us, Lord.

In the peace of your body lying in the sepulchre We meditate on the mystery of death which awaits resurrection: Hear us, Lord.

You who embraced us all on the cross, And as children entrusted us to the Virgin Mary, Make nobody feel far away from your love, And in every face we can recognize your face, Which invites us to love one another as you love us.

Front cover of the Leaflet

As we came out into the sunshine I felt very humble to have experienced the viewing of the Shroud but also to be in the company of other Christians, even for such a short time.

Janice Lewis

‘A single sunbeam is enough to drive away many shadows’. ~ St. Francis of Assisi ~

As a visitor to your Church today, I bring greetings from my own congregation Polmont Old Parish Church

‘Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see a shadow’.

Polmont, Falkirk Scotland

http://www.polmontold.org.uk

~ Helen Keller ~ 19

Twinspire #61  July 2015

WEDNESDAY CLUB

THAT’S LIFE: A CENSUS POEM

Our short outing on Wednesday 23rd May was our last afternoon of the club until September. Although it was raining we still enjoyed a nice scenic run to the Three Bridges Hotel, South Queensferry where we enjoyed afternoon tea and our time together.

Grace Hodge gave a vote of thanks to the committee and helpers for all they do for the club during the year.

He said: “Your occupation please”, This census-taking guy.

I started to enumerate And said quite frankly ………

Age Concern Outing On the 23rd June, which was a beautiful sunny day, two buses headed to Largs, with a stop at the Cardwell Garden Centre for coffee or some retail therapy. After another stop in Largs town everyone again had time to shop and then an excellent high tea at the Willowbrae Hotel ended our lovely day. We arrived back in Polmont after 8pm with everyone saying they had thoroughly enjoyed the outing.

Do the washing, iron the clothes, Pick up playthings, mend the hose, Sweep out daily, close britches, Sew a dress with tiny stitches.

Dates for your Diary 9th September Staring date for the Wednesday Club (new members always made welcome)

Tuck in covers, hear each prayer, Brag a little, ease a care, Take your pick, I get no pay, But that’s what I do every day.”

“I wash the dishes, scrub the floors, Shine the windows, polish doors, Bathe three children, wipe their noses, Work a little in the roses.

Nurse a sick one, make the beds, Kiss hurt places, shampoo heads, Wash the blood off, hunt the mittens, Wipe up after pups and kittens.

13th October Proposed date for Age Concern autumn outing.

Date and details will be confirmed in the next issue of Twinspire and all members will be notified.

He listened very carefully, That’s why I’m so annoyed.

Because the man just scribbled down ......

“Housewife. Unemployed.”

‘Enjoy the summer break’ Sandra Gow

FELLOWSHIP We are looking forward to seeing members, friends and new members when we resume on Monday 21st September in the church hall at 7.30pm.

Your agenda already has ----- Debbie our minister, a film night, fashion show, speaker on Rights and Scams, fun night, dinner out, 2 wonderful projects that we will help fundraise for at our fundraiser in February and a day trip in May and much more......

Looking forward to welcoming one and all.

Alice Cumming President

Author unknown

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Twinspire #61  July 2015 4th: 60 years since Richard Baker and Kenneth Kendall became the first BBC Television newsreaders to be seen reading the news.

ANNIVERSARIES I am continuing the series of looking at lesser known historical anniversaries, covering August and September.

Sandra

5th: 200th anniversary of the Braemar Royal Highland Society which is best known for running the Braemar Gathering since 1832.

The annual event is one of the most famous of Scotland’s traditional Highland Games, and an event famously attended by the Queen and other members of the Royal Family.

AUGUST 1st: 175 years since labourer slaves in most of the British Empire were emancipated.

1st: 50 years ago, cigarette advertising was banned on British television.

7th: 75 years ago, Nazi Germany began to rain bombs on London. This would be the first of 57 consecutive nights of bombing. On the 13th, German bombs damaged Buckingham Palace.

5th: 70 years since the first appearance of the Giles family cartoon in the Sunday Express.

13th: The first UK heart-lung transplant was carried out at the Harefield Hospital in Middlesex 30 years ago.

19th: Lord Haw Haw (William Joyce) was sentenced to death in London 70 years ago.

th

15 : VJ Day, recognising the end of hostilities in Japan, was celebrated in the UK 70 years ago today.

19th: 1 year ago today, Scotland voted "No" to Scottish independence by a margin of 55.3% to 44.7%.

17th: 70 years since the publication of George Orwell’s ‘Animal Farm’.

21st: 100 years ago, Cecil Chubb acquired Stonehenge at an auction for £6600.

27th: The ‘Guinness Book of Records’ was first published 60 years ago.

SEPTEMBER 1st: 300 years ago – the first of the major Jacobite Rebellions in Scotland against the rule of George I of Great Britain broke out.

The Earl of Mar raised the standard of James Edward Stuart and marched on Edinburgh.

James, the son of the deposed King James VII, arrived from France.

22nd: 60 years ago the television channel ITV went live for the first time ending the 18-year monopoly of the BBC. The first advertisement shown was for Gibbs SR toothpaste.

24th: 40 years ago Scotsman, Dougal Haston, and Doug Scott became the first British people to climb Mount Everest.

3rd: 80 years since Sir Malcolm Campbell reached a speed of 304.331 miles per hour on the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, becoming the first person to drive an automobile over 300 mph.

26th: Birdseye began selling fish fingers in Britain 60 years ago.

28th: 150 years ago, Elizabeth Garrett Anderson graduated as Britain's first woman doctor.

30th: First episode of Thunderbirds aired 50 years ago.

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Twinspire #61  July 2015 Report of AGM held on 27th May 2015 at Camelon Parish Church Hall

a 6 month period. The introduction of Universal Credit is coming to Falkirk at the end of May, resulting in the above figure of 3 referrals being increased to 4 for our clients, before requiring an assessment for continuing to deliver food parcels.

As Polmont Old Parish Church has been a strong supporter of this initiative, financially and with resources, I have included an extract of the report for your interest.

During the reporting period, donated food amounted to 75 tonne of which 67.6 tonne was delivered with 23.1 tonne remaining as warehouse stock. The current monthly distribution is about 5.6 tonne. The stock includes dog/cat food and toiletries.

“THE RELIEF OF POVERTY PRINCIPALLY THROUGH THE PROVISION OF FOOD STUFFS AND ESSENTIAL GROCERIES” This is the charitable objective of the Foodbank as explained in the 2nd Annual Report covering 1st April 2014 to 31st March 2015.

A person or family (our clients) can access support from the Foodbank only when they receive a referral from one of our 120 agencies, which includes Social Work, Health Visitors, Medical Practices and C.A.B. The Foodbank provides a supply of nutritionally balanced food to last 3-4 days. If there is a dietary need they seek to accommodate this, including babies’ food products, nappies and baby wipes.

The top five main reasons given for a referral: 1. Benefit delay. 2000 people (up 54%) 2. Benefit changes which result in suspension of benefits until recalculated.

1200 people (down 8.5%) 3. Homeless. 1000 people (up 11%) 4. Low income. 700 people (up 27%) 5. Debt. 400 people (up 100%).

As stated above, the Foodbank fed 6122 during the reporting period, compared to 5146 in 2013/2014 - about a 19% increase. During the year, due to generous food collections at Tesco Supermarkets and food donations from churches and schools (Harvest Thanksgiving), the Foodbank was able to increase the size of food parcels from 3 day to 6 day supply.

All that the Foodbank gives out is donated, principally through churches and other organisations and twice yearly collection days, sponsored by Tesco who have partnered with the Trussell Trust. The Foodbank operates by delivering food (unmarked vans) directly to the clients given the geographic spread of the area they cover.

The support from Polmont Rotary Club, local dentists and the NHS Service has supplied the Foodbank with toothpaste and toothbrushes, which are placed in each food parcel, helping people to maintain oral health

The work of the Foodbank is mainly undertaken by unpaid volunteers, but due to the increased workload it was necessary to engage a paid selfemployed Project Operative. The bulk of cash donations received still goes to helping those in crisis and need of food. However, the Foodbank does have essential overhead costs: namely insurances, utilities plus the running cost of the building and the delivery vans.

An agreement with Falkirk Council to remain in Units 1/3/5 Tamfourhill Industrial Estate for up to four years has allowed the Foodbank to upgrade these premises.

LOTTERY FUNDING During the first year of operation application was made to the Big Lottery Fund for financial assistance via a grant to secure the ongoing operational costs. The award of £73,290 was received during the year. It must be made clear that this does not mean a

SOME BASIC FACTS AND FIGURES In the reporting period, 6122 people have been fed with emergency food, and a proportion of these will be repeat referrals. Trussell Trust’s standard operating conditions require that 3 referrals are normally allowed for the same client within

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Twinspire #61  July 2015

POEM/PRAYER COLUMN

cheque was received but rather an allocation from their funds being made available after proof of purchases made on the items identified within the remit of the award.

Since there have been no appropriate contributions to this column, I thought I would feature the prayers which are found on the front page of the weekly Order of Service. These are the ones for the month of July.

LOOKING AHEAD Looking to the year ahead they cannot foresee that the demand for the Foodbank services will diminish; further benefit reform will likely produce increased pressures on individuals and families, and where benefits do change, there can often be a delay in recalculating their entitlement, resulting in their benefits being suspended. Folks with no savings or financial backing have only the Foodbank to turn to for food support.

Sunday 5th July Loving Lord, thank You for desiring communication with us, and for the reassurance that You are indeed listening and ready to help in time of need. Teach us to come to You with confidence in Your amazing love for us. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Sunday 12th July Father, may we think more of others this week than we think of ourselves. May we lose our thoughts of self in our thoughts of other people and their needs. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Sunday 19th July Lord, in the midst of life with all its bustle and noise, teach us to silence our own loud voices, and may we, rather than complaining that we cannot be heard, learn to listen in humility to Your still small voice. ~~~~~~~~~~ Sunday 26th July Lord, it's easy to let discouragement sap our energy and joy. Help us to reject all agents of discouragement in our lives and to trust You for comfort and strength.

For the sake of clarity the Falkirk Foodbank takes no political position. The benefits régime operated within the country is a matter for the Government of the day. The Foodbank’s only interest is in the effects of any policy made by any government of any political persuasion.

Keith C. Macdonald

The Lake Isle of Innisfree ~ W. B. Yeats ~ I will arise and go now, and go to Innisfree, And a small cabin build there, of clay and wattles made: Nine bean-rows will I have there, a hive for the honey-bee; And live alone in the bee-loud glade.

And I shall have some peace there, for peace comes dropping slow, Dropping from the veils of the morning to where the cricket sings; There midnight’s all a glimmer, and noon a purple glow, And evening full of the linnet’s wings.

I will arise and go now, for always night and day I hear lake water lapping with low sounds by the shore; While I stand on the roadway, or on the pavements grey, I hear it in the deep heart’s core.

O for a summer noon, when light and breeze Sport on the grass, like ripples o’er a lake Alive with freshness! when the full round Sun, With the Creator’s smile upon his face, Walks like a prince of glory through the path Of Heaven!—Thou vast, and ever-glorious sky, Mantling the earth with thy majestic robe... ~ Robert Montgomery ~

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Twinspire #61  July 2015 THE BASIC RULES FOR CLOTHESLINES (If you don't even know what clotheslines are, you should skip this.)

Contributed by Lyn McQuaker

1.

2.

3.

You had to hang the socks by the toes... NOT the top.

You hung pants by the BOTTOM/cuffs... NOT the waistbands.

You had to WASH the clothesline(s) before hanging any clothes – walk the entire length of each line with a damp cloth around the lines.

4. You had to hang the clothes in a certain order, and always hang "whites" with "whites," and hang them first.

5. You NEVER hung a shirt by the shoulders - always by the tail! What would the neighbours think?

6. Wash day on a Monday! NEVER hang clothes on the weekend, or on Sunday, for Heaven's sake!

7. Hang the sheets and towels on the OUTSIDE lines so you could hide your "unmentionables" in the middle.

8. It didn't matter if it was sub-zero weather.... Clothes would "freeze-dry."

9. ALWAYS gather the clothes pegs when taking down dry clothes! Pegs left on the lines were "tacky"!

10. If you were efficient, you would line the clothes up so that each item did not need two clothes pegs, but shared one of the clothes pegs with the next washed item.

11. Clothes had to be taken off the line before dinner time, neatly folded in the clothes basket, and ready to be ironed.

12. IRONED???!! Well, that's a whole OTHER subject!

AND NOW FOR A POEM ……

A clothesline was a news forecast To neighbours passing by There were no secrets you could keep When clothes were hung to dry

It also told when illness struck As extra sheets were hung Then nightclothes, and a bathrobe too Haphazardly were strung

It also was a friendly link For neighbours always knew If company had stopped on by To spend a night or two

It also said, "On vacation now" When lines hung limp and bare It told, "We're back!" when full lines sagged With not an inch to spare

For then you'd see the "fancy sheets" And towels upon the line You’d see the "company table cloths" With intricate design

New folks in town were scorned upon If wash was dingy and grey As neighbours carefully raised their brows And looked the other way

The line announced a baby's birth From folks who lived inside As brand new infant clothes were hung So carefully with pride!

But clotheslines now are of the past, For dryers make work much less.

Now what goes on inside a home Is anybody's guess

The ages of the children could So readily be known By watching how the sizes changed You'd know how much they'd grown!

I really miss that way of life It was a friendly sign When neighbours knew each other best By what hung out on that line Author unknown

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Twinspire #61  July 2015 NOAH’S ARK Everything you need to know, you can learn from Noah’s Ark …..

 The liquid inside young coconuts can be used as a substitute for blood plasma?  No piece of paper can be folded in half more than seven times?  Donkeys kill more people annually than plane crashes or shark attacks?  

 You burn more calories sleeping than you do watching television?



 Oak trees do not produce acorns until they are fifty years of age or older?



 The first product to have a bar code was Wrigley's chewing gum?

   

 In a pack of cards, the King of Hearts is the only king without a moustache?  Venus is the only planet that rotates clockwise?

 

 Apples, not caffeine, are more efficient at waking you up in the morning?



 Most dust particles in your house are made from dead skin?

Don’t miss the boat.

Remember that we are all in the same boat.

Plan ahead. It wasn’t raining when Noah built the ark.

Stay fit. When you’re 60 years old, someone may ask you to do something really big.

Don’t listen to critics; just get on with the job that needs to be done.

Build your future on high ground.

For safety’s sake, travel in pairs.

Speed isn’t always an advantage. The snails were on board with the cheetahs.

When you’re stressed, float a while.

Remember, the Ark was built by amateurs; the Titanic was built by professionals.

No matter the storm, when you are with God, there’s always a rainbow waiting.

Interesting Anagrams

 Walt Disney was afraid of mice!

EPISCOPAL PEPSI COLA DOMITORY DIRTY ROOM PRESBYTERIAN BEST IN PRAYER THE MORSE CODE HERE COME DOTS ELEVEN PLUS TWO TWELVE PLUS ONE SNOOZE ALARMS ALAS! NO MORE Z'S A DECIMAL POINT I'M A DOT IN PLACE THE EARTHQUAKES THAT QUEER SHAKE

 Pearls dissolve in vinegar!  It is possible to lead a cow upstairs... but, not downstairs.  A duck's quack doesn't echo, and noone knows why.

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Twinspire #61  July 2015

Welcome Team

Flower Donors

Flower Distributors

Crèche

After Church Teas ACTs

AUGUST 2nd

C

Fay Guthrie

Eileen Brown

Susan Higgins

9th

C

Ann Liston

Elspeth Wood

16th

C

Gibby Peddie

VACANT

23rd

C

Kareen Morris

VACANT

30th

C

Allison Andrews

Alex Brown

Nancy Rule Heather Park Laura Moore Jennifer Park Margaret Slater Diane Dagger Janice Lewis Allison Andrews

SEPT. 6th

D

Sandra Reid

Elspeth Wood

13th

D

Girls’ Brigade

VACANT

20th

D

The Fellowship

Eileen Brown

27th

D

Charlotte Bayne

Alex Brown

CONTACT PERSON

Alex Watson

Eileen Brown

Claire Lawson Myra Turner Susan Higgins Nancy Rule Heather Park Laura Moore Jennifer Park

Jen Park  07472 151524 Laura Moore  07921 197154

Margaret Day Margaret Laing Sandra Gow Ellen Wilson Margaret Connor Isobel Thomson Margaret Day Margaret Laing Gillian Turner Myra Turner Sandra Gow Ellen Wilson Margaret Cowie Val Hawkins Isobel Thomson Helen Young Norman Black Munro McKie

Margaret Connor

SUMMER ‘Spring flew swiftly by, and summer came; and if the village had been beautiful at first, it was now in the full glow and luxuriance of its richness. The great trees, which had looked shrunken and bare in the earlier months, had now burst into strong life and health; and stretching forth their green arms over the thirsty ground, converted open and naked spots into choice nooks, where was a deep and pleasant shade from which to look upon the wide prospect, steeped in sunshine, which lay stretched out beyond. The earth had donned her mantle of brightest green; and shed her richest perfumes abroad. It was the prime and vigour of the year; all things were glad and flourishing’. ~ Charles Dickens ~ ‘Oliver Twist’

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Twinspire #61  July 2015

Monday 31st Stewardship Meeting * 7.00pm * Church Hall * for Kirk Session & Board Members

AUGUST Sunday 2nd Choir practice * 9.45am * Church Prayer Meeting * 10.45am * Vestry Morning Service * 11.00am Crèche * 11.00am * Fellowship Room ACTs * 12noon * Fellowship Room

SEPTEMBER Wednesday 2nd Girls’ Brigade * 6.00pm - 7.15pm * Church Hall House Group * 7.30pm * chez Marion

Sunday 9th Choir practice * 9.45am * Church Prayer Meeting * 10.45am * Vestry Morning Service * 11.00am Crèche * 11.00am * Fellowship Room ACTs * 12noon * Fellowship Room

Thursday 3rd BB Anchor Boys * 6.00pm - 7.00pm * Church Hall Friday 4th BB Junior Section * 6.15pm - 7.45pm * Church Hall BB Company Section * 7.45pm – 9.30pm * Church Hall

Monday 10th to Friday 14th * HOLIDAY CLUB * ‘Mission Rescue’ Summer Holiday Club * 9.30am – 12noon * Church Halls * for kids in P.1 to P.7

Saturday 5tht Polmont Flower Show * 2.00pm * Meadowbank Sports Centre

Sunday 16th BACK TO SCHOOL SUNDAY Choir practice * 9.45am * Church Prayer Meeting * 10.45am * Vestry Morning Service * 11.00am Youth Church * 11.00am * Church Crèche * 11.00am * Fellowship Room ACTs * 12noon * Fellowship Room

Sunday 6th Choir practice * 9.45am * Church Prayer Meeting * 10.45am * Vestry Morning Service * 11.00am Youth Church * 11.00am * Church Crèche * 11.00am * Fellowship Room ACTs * 12noon * Fellowship Room

Sunday 23rd Choir practice * 9.45am * Church Prayer Meeting * 10.45am * Vestry Morning Service * 11.00am Youth Church * 11.00am * Church Crèche * 11.00am * Fellowship Room ACTs * 12noon * Fellowship Room

Wednesday 9th Age Concern Wednesday Club * 2.00pm * Church Hall Girls’ Brigade * 6.00pm - 7.15pm * Church Hall Thursday 10th Lunch Bunch * 11.30am - 1.00pm * Church Hall BB Anchor Boys * 6.00pm - 7.00pm * Church Hall House Group * 7.30pm * Church Hall

Wednesday 26th Girls’ Brigade * 6.00pm - 7.15pm * Church Hall

Friday 11th Share-a-Craft * 10.00am - 12noon * Church Hall BB Junior Section * 6.15pm - 7.45pm * Church Hall BB Company Section * 7.45pm – 9.30pm * Church Hall

Thursday 27th BB Anchor Boys * 6.00pm - 7.00pm * Church Hall Friday 28th BB Junior Section * 6.15pm - 7.45pm * Church Hall BB Company Section * 7.45pm – 9.30pm * Church Hall

Sunday 13th * BRIGADES’ OPENING PARADE * Choir practice * 9.45am * Church Prayer Meeting * 10.45am * Vestry Morning Service * 11.00am Youth Church * 11.00am * Church Crèche * 11.00am * Fellowship Room ACTs * 12noon * Fellowship Room Deadline for ‘Twinspire’ articles for autumn edition

Sunday 30th Choir practice * 9.45am * Church Prayer Meeting * 10.45am * Vestry Morning Service * 11.00am Youth Church * 11.00am * Church Crèche * 11.00am * Fellowship Room ACTs * 12noon * Fellowship Room Showing of ‘Exodus’ * 6.30pm * Church Hall * cost £3.00

Monday 14th Baby Group * 1.00pm – 2.30pm * Church Hall Congregational Board Meeting * 7.30pm * Church Hall

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Twinspire #61  July 2015 ADVANCE NOTICE OCTOBER Sunday 4th * COMMUNION * Choir practice * 9.45am * Church Prayer Meeting * 10.30am * Vestry Morning Service * 11.00am Youth Church * 11.00am * Church Crèche * 11.00am * Fellowship Room

SEPTEMBER Wednesday 16th Age Concern Wednesday Club * 2.00pm * Church Hall Girls’ Brigade * 6.00pm - 7.15pm * Church Hall House Group * 7.30pm * chez Marion Thursday 17th Lunch Bunch * 11.30am - 1.00pm * Church Hall BB Anchor Boys * 6.00pm - 7.00pm * Church Hall

NO ACTs

Friday 18th Share-a-Craft * 10.00am - 12noon * Church Hall BB Junior Section * 6.15pm - 7.45pm * Church Hall BB Company Section * 7.45pm – 9.30pm * Church Hall

SUMMER HOLIDAY CLUB

Sunday 20th * HARVEST THANKSGIVING * Choir practice * 9.45am * Church Prayer Meeting * 10.45am * Vestry Morning Service * 11.00am NO Youth Church Crèche * 11.00am * Fellowship Room ACTs * 12noon * Fellowship Room Messy Church * 5.00pm - 7.00pm * Church Halls

Monday to Friday 10 – 14 August 2015 Church Halls 9.30 – 12noon

st

Monday 21 Baby Group * 1.00pm – 2.30pm * Church Hall Fellowship * 7.30pm * Church Hall

For P1s to P7s

Wednesday 23rd Age Concern Wednesday Club * 2.00pm * Church Hall Girls’ Brigade * 6.00pm - 7.15pm * Church Hall Thursday 24th Lunch Bunch * 11.30am - 1.00pm * Church Hall BB Anchor Boys * 6.00pm - 7.00pm * Church Hall House Group * 7.30pm * Church Hall

For one swallow does not make a summer, nor does one day; and so too one day, or a short time, does not make a man blessed and happy. ~ Aristotle ~

Friday 25th Share-a-Craft * 10.00am - 12noon * Church Hall BB Junior Section * 6.15pm - 7.45pm * Church Hall BB Company Section * 7.45pm – 9.30pm * Church Hall Sunday 27th Choir practice * 9.45am * Church Prayer Meeting * 10.45am * Vestry Morning Service * 11.00am Youth Church * 11.00am * Church Crèche * 11.00am * Fellowship Room ACTs * 12noon * Fellowship Room ‘Twinspire’ (Autumn edition) published

Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quote s/a/aristotle401403.html#Uz4q6BxtXTxEk 40z.99

Monday 28th Baby Group * 1.00pm – 2.30pm * Church Hall Tuesday 29th History Group * 7.30pm * Church Hall Wednesday 30th Age Concern Wednesday Club * 2.00pm * Church Hall Girls’ Brigade * 6.00pm - 7.15pm * Church Hall House Group * 7.30pm * chez Marion

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