Issuu

James M. F. Davis

Dolly MacAskill Matheson

John Thomson Murray

19th Aug 1916 – 25th Sept 2012

27th Sept 1918 – 5th Sept 2012

7th Oct 1917 – 14th Sept 2012

Elder Whifflet Jim was an elder for over 55 years. He was from around the corner from the church of which he was a faithful member until his passing. He saw the church being built and helped in all the fundraising activities. Jim was called up in 1938 to the 602 Squadron (City of Glasgow) and after the war he met and married Louise. They had 64 years together before her passing on 25th August 2011. They had two children, two grandchildren and one great grandson. Despite a severe back injury and later kidney cancer, Jim’s faith kept him going and his great joy was going with the Minister to give Home Communion. He also enjoyed and willingly helped others. Jim will be much missed by all who knew him.

Wilson Memorial UF Church, Portobello, Edinburgh. Wife of U. F. Minister, Ian Matheson. Dolly was born at Drynoch in Skye on 27th September 1918. She was the 7th of 9 children. Brought up on a croft, Dolly milked the cows and fed the chickens. She could make butter and cheese (called Crowdie) and did occasional work in Nursing homes owned by cousins in Glasgow, as a cook and carer. About 1949 a UF Minister, Ian Matheson, came to his first charge at Portnalong where he met and soon married Dolly. Their first child Mary was born in 1953 and after moving to Balintore, Alastair was born in 1956. In 1960 the family moved to Broxburn where they lived till 1973. Then they moved to Chryston, Glasgow till Ian’s retirement in 1978. Sadly Ian passed away a year later. Dolly always loved Edinburgh and after a time in Broxburn she finally moved to Croft an’ Righ where she lived for about 20 years. Dolly was a wonderful support in Ian’s Ministry and exercised her own Ministry too: President of W.A. etc. She was also a great support and encouragement to other people, being trusted by all when sharing personal issues. To have her friendship was a privilege.

Elder Edinburgh Corstorphine John was born in Greenock on Sunday 7 October 1917 and in 1939 he graduated with an MA from Glasgow University and then trained as a teacher in Glasgow specialising in Mathematics. He had various teaching posts in Edinburgh before retiring in October 1981 as Headmaster of Edinburgh Tollcross Primary School. The church has always played a big part in John’s life it was through the church that he met his late wife Nancy. In the early 1950s John and Nancy started attending Martyrs and St John’s church and it wasn’t long before Nancy was leading the Women’s Association and John was in the choir and then became an Elder, Board Clerk and Session Clerk. When Martyrs and St John’s closed they moved to Corstorphine and it was not long before he was typing the Board and Session Minutes.

THE MAGAZINE OF THE UNITED FREE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND

Cunningsburgh / Sandwick Holiday Club

DEC/JAN 2012/13

Tributes: Teaching in Malawi Page 17/18

Page 4

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: Women’s Fellowship Weekend Hope and Strength for the People of Iraq Visiting Turkey: the ‘cradle of Christianity’

Unfortunately he had to give up his position as Session Clerk due to his failing eyesight but still faithfully each Sunday attended church. When life became too difficult to cope on his own he moved to Braeside House for the Blind in September 2011 where he peacefully died. John was a deeply religious man who served his Lord as an elder for nearly 60 years we at Corstorphine will miss him greatly but he will remain in our thoughts for many years to come. John is survived by his son Andrew and our thoughts are with him and his family at this time.

Editorial Policy All Editorial Correspondence should be addressed to: The Editor – United Free Church of Scotland, 11 Newton Place, Glasgow G3 7PR Telephone: 0141-332-3435 Email: Stedfast@ufcos.org.uk

N.B. The views expressed in the features, news reports, letters and book reviews are not necessarily those of the editor. Editorial comment and signed articles do not necessarily contain the official views of the Church, which can be laid down only by the General Assembly.

Advertising and orders for Stedfast should be sent to: Rev John Fulton BSc., BD, The Secretary, United Free Church of Scotland, 11 Newton Place, Glasgow G3 7PR Telephone: 0141-332-3435 Published by the United Free Church of Scotland. Scottish Charity SC008167

2 Copy is required not later than the 15th February, April, June, August, October and December, and should be written or typed on one side only.

Price £1.50

Contents 2–3

Running the Race: Mental Health Problems

Leaving the Baggage Behind

Cunningsburgh / Sandwick Holiday Club

5/6

Healthy Eyes at Wilson Memorial

Announcement of Moderator Designate

Glasgow and District Women’s Presbyterial Association

Women’s Fellowship Weekend

Poem: The Savior came to Save

9/10

Prison Fellowship

Hope and Strength for the People of Iraq

Rev Alexander Ritchie Farewell and Induction

13/14 Visiting Turkey: the ‘cradle of Christianity’ 14

Running the Race: But what about People with Mental Health Problems? By Marion Carson

5/6

Moody and Sankey at Balintore

15/16 Interview with Gordon Mackenzie 16

Scottish Government Introducing Legislation on Same-Sex Marriage

17/18 Teaching in Malawi 18

WEC Trek 2013

Tributes

Editorial In the article on the opposite page on Christian attitudes to those with mental health problems, Marion Carson highlights a theme that very much runs through this Christmas edition of the magazine. While we are indeed “running the race” she points out that it is not by our own efforts but, as was discussed at the recent Youth Conference (p3), it is about letting go of the baggage of wrong “world views” and allowing God to work in and through us. In order to stop me physically withering away too quickly in my old age I recently decided to join my wife, Margaret, at the local running club. Three definitions that have been helpful on this journey are: “to run” is anything faster than walking: “to race” is to do the best one can; and “to club” is to support others along the way. So as we approach 2013 and reflect once again on the significance of the Incarnation and God becoming one of us, I trust you will be encouraged by several of the articles that help us understand what it means to belong to Christ’s Church. From food banks at Portobello (p5), setting the prisoner “free” (p9); outreach in Iraq (p11); and teaching in Malawi (p17); these are just some of the ways we can support others in “the race” as we seek to become more Christ like. I trust you have a blessed and joyful Christmas.

Alastair Wright Stedfast Secretary

13/14

Marion trained and practised as a psychiatric nurse, is a part-time lecturer at International Christian College and author of “The Pastoral Care of People with Mental Health Problems” – SPCK Library of Pastoral Care The metaphor for the recent Dunblane conference was “running the race”. We heard an inspiring talk on persevering in discipleship, looking for our reward only when we see Him. The idea of the Christian life as a race will appeal to some and not to others. As someone who dislikes physical exertion of any sort, and hated PE at school, it comes as a great relief to me that this race, unlike others, is not a competition. It is about doing the best one can, rather than coming first. For this race is quite different from any we might have run on school Sports’ Day. We are not to try to outdo each other in our spirituality, or in our service of others. For if we were, we would be so caught up in our own efforts, our own need to be first, that we would forget the real goal of the race – Jesus Christ Himself. The fact that the race is not competitive is very important for those who suffer from mental health problems. For, often, they cannot run the race in the way that other Christians do. They may be slower, or run in a different way from everyone else. They may sometimes stumble and fall. The trouble is, though, that many Christians are often so concerned with their own affairs (their own “race”), that more vulnerable people find themselves left behind, ignored, and even rejected. But the truth is this: people with mental health problems are made in the image of God, are loved into existence by Him, and are entitled to take part in the race just like everyone else.

So how should the church respond to mental illness? The answer seems obvious – with compassion and love. But unfortunately, that is not always the experience of those of us who suffer from mental health problems. Many who seek help from the church encounter misunderstanding, insensitivity and ignorance which add to their suffering, rather than drawing them closer to God. Take, for example, these three very common responses: 1

Christians should not suffer from mental health problems at all

Christians should take medication for mental distress

Mental distress must be caused by sin in one’s life.

Now, I have no doubt that people who say such things are often well meaning and want to help. But note the tone of each of these – they are rebukes; blaming the sufferer for his or her condition and for its continuation. They also imply that the “helper” is somehow spiritually superior to the one with the mental health problems. However, responses like these tell us that such “helpers” know next to nothing about mental illness, have very little empathic awareness, and may even misunderstand the nature of the Christian faith. Let’s consider each one in turn. First, it is a very strange idea that Christians should not suffer from mental health problems. Christians are not exempt from illness and suffering – nor should we be. If God’s people lived pain-free lives, they would be unable to walk alongside those who are in trouble, unable to be the “wounded healers” (to use Henri Nouwen’s phrase) Christ requires us to be. We would be divorced from the real world, and this would neither gain us the respect of unbelievers nor be an attractive witness in the world. Second, it is very odd to say that someone should not take medication. Most Christians don’t hesitate to take a paracetamol if they have a headache. It is unlikely that a Christian who is diagnosed with high blood pressure will

Running the Race: But what about People with Mental Health Problems? (Cont.)

be told not to bother picking up their prescription from the chemist, but to trust in God instead. Yet, this is precisely what is often said to people suffering say, from depression. Now, I do believe that far too many people are prescribed anti-depressant medication – but it is for the medical profession to get its house in order in this respect, rather than for us to give uniformed advice to those who are in need of help. We need to be consistent in our thinking, and clearer in our minds as to what trusting in God really means. Thirdly, the idea that mental health problems are due to sin in one’s life is, to say the least, odd. True, mental distress and suffering can be caused by choices we make – but the same is true of many “physical” illnesses. In fact, most serious mental illness is unsought. The view, or example, that schizophrenia or bipolar disorder are caused by sin, besides being shockingly arrogant, shows a distressing lack of understanding, and is usually expressed by people who have never experienced mental distress themselves, or who regard it as a sign of weakness. And remember what John says: “If we say we have not sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us” (1 John 1:8).

So how can the church help those with mental health problems? Perhaps we should examine our attitudes and beliefs regarding mental illness. Do we, consciously or unconsciously, think that Christians who do so are somehow weak or second class Christians, to be written off as unable to run the race? Given the sheer numbers of those affected by mental health problems – that would mean writing off a great many people. But it would also mean a fundamental misunderstanding of the nature of the Christian life. For this is a different kind of race: the aim is not to win at all costs. On the contrary, participation in this race demands that we stop to help others who are struggling, walk with them at their pace, and even be prepared to sacrifice our own preconceived notions of how the race should be run. © Marion LS Carson

Leaving the baggage behind! By Liam and Sarah Adamson

Cunningsburgh / Sandwick Holiday Club

By Liam and Sarah Adamson

The second youth assembly of the year took place in the Inchinnan Bible centre on the 5th–7th October and once again was a weekend filled with challenges, fun and delicious food – looking at the theme of leaving the baggage behind. Over the weekend we studied what it meant to be redeemed and learned that redemption is for our soul, in that we are saved for eternity, and also for our lives, because we are changed to serve the Lord now. We looked at the passage in Galatians 5 and studied characteristics of the old self and the new ‘redeemed’ self. We then had to write the old traits on a suitcase and the new traits on another suitcase. This was a real challenge as it was clear the traits we should have but also that so often we pick up the old traits and carry them with us and don’t let God transform us. We also spent some time looking at the theme of ‘Where’s Wally?’ and how Wally is distinguishable amongst large crowds of people, but are we? Do we blend in with the crowd or are we set apart and living the redeemed life? At the end of the session Robert Owens gave us a very challenging quote; “You are only as holy as you choose to be”. We need to let the Lord change us and leave things with Him instead of always trying to fix things ourselves anyway. The Saturday afternoon consisted of team building games and activities which got extremely competitive although fun for all. In the afternoon teaching session we looked at relationships and had question and answer session, both of which were helpful. In the evening, we went ten pin bowing which was reminiscent of youth assemblies in years gone by and a lot of fun. On the Sunday we all travelled to the church in Drumchapel to join with the congregation there in their Harvest service. It was a lovely chance to meet with people from the domination and celebrate all that God has given us and how much we have to be thankful for. The whole weekend was extremely enjoyable and challenging – so again a massive thank you to Robert and Laura for all they did to make the weekend very enjoyable.

From the 22nd to the 26th of October it was WasteWatchers Club in the Cunningsburgh Public Hall. Not WeightWatchers or WaistWatchers, the childhood obesity pandemic is not something we are fighting as a church as yet, but a Holiday Club based loosely around recycling, creation, and the changes from old to new in a Christians life. With all the preparations made it was left to faith that some children would be keen to come, and with the October holidays being 2 ½ weeks this year and some families away there were perhaps some doubts at times. These were proved unfounded as on Monday we were blessed with 26 keen (and loud) primary 1–7s who turned up raring to go. Each day began with the bairns split into their four teams; the Foxes, Badgers, Squirrels and Owls, amusingly named after animals you won’t see in Shetland. They spent some time making large models from rubbish that had been donated before they were entertained each day by a short drama set in a public garden that was related to that days Bible story that was to come. There were some Oscar nominating performances from Peerie Sarah Adamson (not nee-Meredith) and Emma Halcrow, but the depth of emotion and character displayed by Liam Adamson with his take of a disgruntled park keeper was truly forgettable.

That was followed by some choruses, a memory verse each day and then storytime. This covered creation, the healing of the blind man, changing water into wine, Jesus’ death and resurrection, and Jesus meeting Mary. The theme running through each story was Gods power to change; lives, circumstances and us. Each group had a teenager from the church as a leader and it was a real blessing and encouragement to see how well they all worked with their groups; organised them, helped them with their work, crafts and memory verses. It was not so long ago they were at holiday clubs themselves and they really helped make it fun for the bairns who were keen to keep coming each day.

On the Friday we had our usual program but invited parents along to see what we had been up too. This was well attended and it was good to meet them and for us to be transparent with everything we had been doing. The numbers ebbed and flowed a bit all week, but with 38 different names on the register and a minibus load each day coming across from Sandwick we had a fantastic turn out and feel blessed that we have children and families happy to be involved. A huge thanks to everyone who was involved; Martin and Isobel, Hazel, Sarah, Emma, Sally, Chris, Debbie, Alan, Kay, Douglas and Sheila. Thanks to all who donated supplies, food and sweets, and remembered us in prayer, this is where the work is done and the battles won.

We hope this is a first step to more connections with families and not just a one off event!

Healthy and Unhealthy Eyes: ‘Unhealthy’ indicates a refusal to be generous to poor people. A ‘healthy eye’ responds with generosity – it operates as it should. The best translation of ‘healthy’ is SIMPLE. A simple eye is not confused or complicated – it sees the stark reality, the suffering of others and acts accordingly.’ (extract – A Tearfund Article) The care of the needy is an important part of our Service to God. The statistics are heart rending enough but until we put flesh on the figures and think about the grief of individual, real people, we will never have a strong enough motivation to compel us to do something about it.

at Wilson Memorial

Over the past 8 months we have met a colourful array of interesting people, struggling with multiple and crippling needs. These are people of all ages who for a variety of reasons find themselves caught in a downward spiral of helplessness and powerlessness. Many have serious debt problems and accommodation issues. Some have mental health difficulties. Most are on Job Seeker’s Allowance or other Benefits. A few examples will illustrate the variety of folks and needs we are meeting: • Client receives JSA but because of high utility bills and debts, by midway through the benefit period has no money left to buy food. • Single mother (2 month old baby) struggling to heat her home, pay bills and buy shopping for herself and baby.

By Ralph Dunn A brother asked one of the Elders, ‘There are 2 brothers of whom one remains praying in his cell, fasting 6 days at a time and doing a great deal of Penance. The other takes care of the sick. Which one’s work is more pleasing to God? The Elder replies – ‘If that Brother who fasts 6 days at a time were to hang himself up by the nose, he could not equal the one who cares for the sick!’ Scripture exhorts us not to be ‘hard hearted or tight fisted towards the poor man and giving him nothing.’ What would we do if all the money we had in the world would not buy enough food to feed our family for the rest of the week? Many people are living on less than £10 a day – 24,000 families in Scotland are living in deep poverty. After contributing to Edinburgh City Mission’s ‘Basic Bank’ Crisis food-share programme for 3 years, the Kirk Session approved a proposal to set up our own ‘local’ Food Bank. Commencing in March, 2012 we have to date (Nov.), given away over 2,500kg. of food supplies, toiletries and household articles, to about 35 individuals and their families. That is about 500 bags of basic essentials – approximately 20 bags per person over a 6–8 week period. Everything we have is donated by members of Wilson Memorial Church, in partnership with a nearby C of S Church and a small group from a local RC Church. People from all 3 Churches (+recent volunteers from Portobello Baptist Church); make up the team which meets every Tuesday between 10am and 1pm in Wilson Memorial’s Church Hall and Kitchen. Our aim is to provide a friendly atmosphere where people can find the kind of help they need. The effectiveness of the venture is dependent on our ‘joint-churches’ group of dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers.

I see us moving out of our cosy fellowships and confronting real people and real issues. The spoon-fed, self-comforting view of Christianity must be exchanged for a hard working, outgoing concept of Christian service. A ‘fuller

• Benefits reduced by £125 a week – no money to buy food for ‘growing ‘ family of teenage boys. • Single woman – mental health issue, vulnerable... to wait 5 weeks for Employment and support Allowance (ESA). • Threatened with homelessness. • Sees his children at weekends. He makes sure they have food and goes without himself. • Husband, Mother and Brother recently died. Reached a financial (and emotional) crisis point.

demonstration’, if you like. We genuinely seek to address (in a tiny way perhaps), the huge difficulties people are experiencing today. We aspire to providing practical relief, along with friendship, sharing and prayer.

• Single man who is unable to read or write and with benefit issues.

Our watchword is:

• Single man at risk of losing his flat due to rent arrears, eviction proceedings initiated.

“What, then will I do when God confronts me? When God examines my books, what can I say? Aren’t we all made of the same stuff, equals before God? Have I ignored the needs of the poor, turned my back on the povertystricken, taken care of my own needs and fed my own face while they languished? Have I ever left a poor family shivering in the cold? Didn’t the poor bless me when they saw me coming?” Job 31:16ff There are presently about 200 Food Banks operating in the UK today, helping 130,000 people, with one new one being opened every 4 days. It is estimated that 8–900 are needed. There are 5.8 million people in deep, dire poverty in Britain today. Let us hope many more Christians and Church Groups will lift up the torch and, inspired by the love of Christ, shine a few flickers of light in wee corners all over the nation. We follow the ‘Basics Bank’ concept of Edinburgh City Mission, whereby people are ‘referred’ to us for help in a crisis. We aim to support them over a 6–8 week period – (the average period for a Benefits Application to be processed).

• Single man – Social Anxiety Disorder.

• Single man – paying off court fines and crisis loans. There is no space in this overview of a Food-Bank to fill in the multiplicity of details of all that is involved, therefore I invite you to enquire further regarding how your Church or group of friends could take up this challenge. At times we feel we are trying to empty the bath tub with a teaspoon with the tap still running, but at least it is something and I hope this kind of initiative will strike a chord with your Church. We need to mobilise ourselves to transform our communities – ‘one drop at a time.’

Visitors Welcome: Tuesdays 10am–1pm

Announcement of Moderator Designate The United Free Church of Scotland is pleased to announce that the Moderator Designate of our 2013 General Assembly is Rev Graham Brown B.Sc; B.D. The Assembly will meet in Perth from 29th – 31st May 2013. Mr Brown is minister of Sauchie and Fishcross United Free Church in Clackmannanshire. He was born in Kilmarnock in 1956. Mr Brown was educated at Kilmarnock Academy where he came to faith through the work of Scripture Union. He became a student at Glasgow University where he graduated in 1977 with a B Sc in Maths, Computing and Statistics. He then moved to Cumbernauld where he secured employment with Burroughs Machines. Sensing a call to the ministry and having completed some evening classes at the former Bible Training Institute in Glasgow, Mr Brown applied to the former Home Area Committee of the United Free Church and was accepted as a lay pastor. He was appointed to Kilmaurs in Ayrshire in 1987. He later studied Divinity at Glasgow University and was ordained and inducted to Aberdeen: Northfield in 1998. He moved to the Sauchie and Fishcross congregation in 2003. Mr Brown has served the Church as Clerk to the Presbytery of the North, as Moderator of the Presbytery of the East and is presently Clerk to the Presbytery of the East. Nationally he has served as Convener of the Evangelism Committee and he is currently Convener of the Administration and Finance Committee. Mr Brown is married to Christine who is also very much involved in the life and witness of the church, and who will be totally supportive of him in his role as Moderator of the 2013 General Assembly.

Glasgow and District Women’s Presbyterial Association By Irene Laird The first rally of the new session was held in Drumchapel United Free Church on the afternoon of Saturday, 3rd November 2012 and was a delightful meeting which was attended by 36 ladies. We would like to thank our speaker, the Rev. Ann Deacons, Nathan and Steffi for two beautiful duets and to the Rev. Robert Owens and the ladies of Drumchapel for hosting the meeting and for the warmth of their welcome. The next rally will be held on 2nd February 2013 at 2.30 pm in Chryston United Free Church when the speaker will be Gordon Mackenzie, one of our students for the Ministry. It is good for the ladies of our denomination to worship together and share fellowship on these afternoons and we would encourage and invite any ladies who would like to join our gathering for the first time to come along on 2nd February.

We wish you all the blessings of Christmas and peace and happiness in the New Year.

A Christmas Poem By Avril Davidson (Auchterarder UF)

Women’s

Fellowship Weekend From the moment you walk in the door of the venue – a stunning Grade A listed mansion house in beautiful grounds within Central Scotland – you feel right at home at Glasgow & District Women’s Presbyterial Annual Conference Weekend. You’re welcomed with open arms and instantly feel comfortable and relaxed. This weekend is open to women of all ages and in September 2012 spanned 6 decades; the youngest in their 30s up to the oldest in their 80s! But age doesn’t come into it. This weekend is all about a group of like-minded, God-loving women sharing fellowship together. There were 33 women representing 10 different churches. It’s a weekend brimming over with plenty to do and with ample relaxation time too. The weekend takes it’s theme from the Women’s Association theme of the year and we have a guest speaker who leads us in worship over the weekend. This enables us to further explore the bible and share experiences with the other ladies. Our guest speaker this year was retired Baptist minister George Mitchell. George is a wonderful teacher and with his vibrant personality, combined with his deep knowledge of the bible; the sessions with George were an unforgettable experience! So what happens at this weekend? Well, after arriving late Friday afternoon there is time to renew old friendships and make new friends. There is good food to enjoy and an evening session after dinner which is taken by the weekend’s guest speaker. We then split into discussion groups and finish with evening worship.

After breakfast on Saturday there’s a morning worship session and then we have the final session with our guest speaker. We split into discussion groups again, followed by a feedback session.

After lunch, you have the rest of the afternoon to yourself. Dinner is followed by an evening of entertainment, which is concluded with evening worship. On Sunday there’s a morning worship session and then we head to a local church for the Sunday service where we’re warmly received every year. After lunch comes the closing session. One of the women attending, Ena Mitchell, said “I didn’t know what to expect at this weekend and the word ‘conference’ frightened me, but my expectations were far exceeded. Everyone was so friendly and within half an hour I felt like I’d known the women all my life; they went out of their way to welcome me. It was so lovely to spend time with these women who love the Lord – one heart praising God, all together under the one roof.” A massive thanks to Betty Graham (president) of Lochwinnoch and Mary Faulds (secretary) of Cathcart for all of their hard work over the past 3 years in organising this wonderful event. Vice President Laura MacLean has now taken over as President, Morag Stenhouse is the new Vice President and Jan Gillies is our Secretary. With these new members, there is now representation from the East and the West Presbyteries to organise the next ladies weekend in 2013. Information will be circulated to churches in the early months of 2013.

It really is a fantastic weekend where you laugh, you cry, you share. It’s uplifting, invigorating and actually, it’s humbling. If you attend once, I’m sure you’ll want to come back. Ladies, whether you are a member of a women’s group within your church or not, why not come along to this fantastic weekend next year? You won’t be disappointed!

From the ills of this world The Saviour came to save He came to turn darkness into light He is the light He came to bring hope and joy and peace He came to show people A way of life that is good He came from God. The Saviour came to save People from themselves From selfish wants and desires To selflessness and service From waywardness to purpose And a reason to be here To walk in his way Is to follow a path It will not be easy But it will bring a reward. The Saviour came to save That we could be as one with him And know the love that passes all understanding If we put our trust in him He will not let us down. The Saviour came to save That we could be transformed to be like him He overcame the world And so can we If we follow him. The Saviour came to save Those who are in need He came to help and guide If only we can believe That he has the power To bring order out of chaos. The Saviour came to save He came to relieve people from their burdens And give them rest He came to give strength and courage For the days that lie ahead We need not fear While he is near.

The Saviour came to change things He came to give a clear directive To love God with all our being To love each other To treat each other as we would wish to be treated To show compassion and understanding And to care in an uncaring world. From the sins of the world The Saviour came to save He came to intervene on our behalf And make us right with God The Holy Spirit came to take his place So we would not be left alone The Spirit of truth reveals what is hidden And knows what is required He will not be denied. The Saviour came to tell us about the Kingdom of God He taught us how to live He taught us how to forgive He came to give us Life in all its fullness. The Saviour Came to Save those who are lost He came for You He came for Me This is why he came.

A personal tribute:

Prison Fellowship: Good News for all Mankind?

By Rev David Cartledge

By Billy Paul Executive Director of the Scottish Prison Fellowship

This Christmas across the UK there are 94,000 prisoners and approximately 160,000 children, with either one or both parents in prison, and will experience a very different Christmas to the one that we will. While we celebrate with friends and family, many prisoners will feel lonely as they are separated from their families and struggle to cope with Christmas behind bars. In this article Billy Paul, the Executive Director of the Scottish Prison Fellowship, outlines their work in Scotland and how we can support them.

‘Good News to the Poor’ ‘The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour’ Hopefully the Spirit motivates us in the same way it motivated Jesus – to care and bring a message of Good News and to take action to demonstrate that Good News. Prison Fellowship (PF) Scotland’s volunteers have felt that urge of the Spirit and are working in 12 of Scotland’s 16 prisons including Scotland’s newest prison, HMP Low Moss. PF Scotland has been working in the Prison system for 30 years and encourages men and women to explore the message of Jesus – the Good News – as an opportunity for a better future and a changed life style. We use a variety of methods to create discussion and provide food for thought – people’s stories of faith, video, drama, music, Bible study – depending on the particular group and their needs. Our volunteers are Christians who make application, are interviewed and trained to equip them for the work in a very specific environment. We work under the authority of the Chaplains and Governors and are bound by the regulations and procedures of the Scottish Prison Service.

‘Recovery of sight to the blind’ – Sycamore Tree Many offenders are not aware of, or choose to ignore, the effects of their crimes on their victims, their communities and their own families. Governors and Chaplains are inviting us into prison to deliver our Victim Awareness / Restorative Justice course, ‘Sycamore Tree’, based on the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19. The course lasts 6 weeks and encourages participants to take responsibility for their behaviour and to make restitution for the harm they have done. One Governor remarked ‘I wish to emphasise how impressive and indeed humbling I found the experience of listening to the feedback of the course participants’.

The year of the Lord’s favour – Angel Tree A major problem with imprisonment is the fracturing it causes to families. Wives husbands and children become innocent victims when a loved one is sent to prison, with all the emotional turmoil, financial hardship and daily stress caused. The Angel Tree project aims to help strengthen family ties wherever we can and consequently we will, with the help of donations from individuals and church groups, provide gifts for parents to share with their children at Christmas time. Also, in the summer time, in collaboration with the Family Support Unit Scotland (Circle) and Scripture Union, in the last two years, we have sent 52 children, of parents in prison, on an SU adventure holiday, which they have been able to plan and organise with input from parents and Social Workers. The feedback from both Social Workers and young people was exceptional.

Here are one young person’s comments (not corrected for spelling!): ‘I went on an SU Holiday. We all went to Glasgow to get the bus. It’s the first time my gran let me go without a big person. When I got there I felt like a prinses going into a castle. We got a room 4 of us it was good fun Ruth was great. We walked to church on Sunday the deer were big. We talked about god and sang a lot I liked singing and storeys I made a lot of friends and did a lot of fun things like climing a big tree with a blindfold on. I also did go carts bungie jumps swimming and camped all night at the end of the week we could hear the music from T in the Park – I love to sing – I think my gran had a good time without us all.’

A Circle worker reported of one young person: ‘Since her return it has been noted by a number of professionals who work with the family that she has more confidence, self-esteem and pride in her appearance. Before the trip Caitlyn’s parents had to encourage her to wash and keep her room tidy but now she is enjoying completing these tasks with no prompting. Caitlyn has also started reading bible stories and has asked her parents if she can get christened, which they are fully supporting her through that process.

Freedom for the Prisoners: Caring for Ex-offenders Men and women who leave prison often find it very difficult to get back into being productive members of society. They find themselves shunned by their communities. Employment, housing, finance, positive company, a ‘spiritual home’ can all be major problems for someone released from prison. The Christian community believes in forgiveness, redemption and a changed lifestyle – Real freedom! Prison Fellowship is working with Caring for Ex-offenders Scotland to identify Churches who are willing to respond to Jesus priorities as laid out in Luke 4, and to train these churches in the practicalities of supporting those who have asked for help and for those who have come to faith and need a ‘family’ to help them stand on their own two feet and grow and mature.

If you are reading this article and think the Spirit is prompting you to become a volunteer with Prison Fellowship, or that your church would want to be trained to care for those leaving prison, please get in touch. Our email address is prisonfellowship@lineone.net and our telephone number is 0141 552 1288 or 07799 331388 10

Hope and Strength

Rev Alexander Ritchie Farewell (Lossiemouth)

Rev Alexander Ritchie Induction (Erskine-Burntisland)

By Jane E. Sandell

By Ron Blanchard – Session Clerk

Then I heard the voice of The Lord saying: ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, Here am I, Send me!’ Isaiah 6:8

for the People of Iraq

Saturday 20th October dawned dull, damp, drizzly and dreich but, well in time for the Induction at 2 o’clock the clouds lifted and the town was covered in glorious autumn sunshine. Inside the church there was a wonderful warm glow generated by the gathered throng there to celebrate this momentous occasion in our Church’s history.

Interview: Nabil Omeish

Nabil Omeish works for the Bible Society in Iraq. He is a man with a passion for his own countrymen and he helps those who live in constant uncertainty, particularly fellow Christians who endure persecution and suffering. Churches across Scotland recently had the opportunity to learn more about the situation and thanks to the Scottish Bible Society, we now have the opportunity to help. Members from Stedfast met Nabil to hear how God and the Bible is changing lives in Iraq.

The much talked about Arab Spring has been more of a Muslim spring, with Islam becoming more radical. There is great need and the Bible Society is endeavouring to meet these needs by giving out packs of food, blankets and clothes but always including Bibles. Iraq has indigenous Christian churches which have been there since the beginnings of Christianity. These are Syrian Orthodox, Syrian Catholic and Assyrian counterparts but also a strong Presbyterian church. These are “official” churches recognised by the state. There are also the unofficial churches which are tolerated by the state, many are house churches. These unofficial churches are attended by Muslim converts who cannot attend the official churches because their lives are at risk. To convert to Christianity can incur a death sentence, from the person’s own relatives. This is what happened to Mohammed.

However, the story doesn’t end there. As well as Mohammed being saved, his wife also became a Christian and is continuing to work amongst the women in her neighbourhood. This is by no means a unique situation. Another woman, whose husband was also killed because of his Christian faith, but she was still a Muslim and was very depressed after the murder of her husband and wanted to die. Mohammed’s wife comforted her and said, “I have hope to see my husband again, I know where he has gone. You don’t have this hope because you are still a Muslim.” Later the woman saw a vision of her husband holding out his hands to her, she wanted to hug him but he said, “No! There is someone better” and she turned and there was Jesus standing! We rejoice as both these women have found Jesus in adversity and continue to persevere with God’s work in difficult situations.

Going through airport customs on one visit to Iraq, Nabil had two children’s Bibles in his luggage. He was stopped and told to wait. This was usually a very ominous sign! After everyone had gone through Nabil was taken by the custom officer through the airport corridors and into an office. Nabil was asked what he was doing, who he worked for. He told the customs officer that he worked for the Bible society. The customs officer, a man called Mohammed, closed the door and then shared a story with Nabil. One day Mohammed’s son came home with a children’s Bible. He had been given it with a parcel of food by a church. Mohammed asked himself, “Why do these Christians do this?” He started reading the Bible then managed to get a full Bible from one of the churches. He read it and listened to Christian radio broadcasts. He became a Christian. As they parted Mohammed whispered to Nabil, “We are brothers in Christ.” A friendship was started up between them and they kept in touch by e-mail. However, some time went by with no contact and then one night, Mohammed’s wife phoned Nabil. Mohammed was dead. His relatives had given him two days to recant his faith or be killed. He would not give up his belief in Jesus so was shot several times, by his own relatives.

All this started out with a children’s Bible given in a food pack by the Bible Society in Iraq demonstrating how God can use every situation to raise up followers of Christ. Nabil has teams which go to schools, hospitals and orphanages to do drama and tell Bible stories (there are 1,800 orphans in the Greater Baghdad area alone). He has good relationships with the official Churches and the government, and works with them also. Nabil stressed that help is needed. They need more resources because the need is so great. Not least is the need for prayer. Please will you remember Nabil and the Bible Society in Iraq in your prayers.

If you would like to find out more about the work of the Bible Society in Iraq and to give financial support, please contact the Scottish Bible Society on 0131 337 9701 or visit www.scottishbiblesociety.org

The service was led by our Interim Moderator, the Rev Andrew McMillan who preached the sermon with great passion. Pastor Frank Hartley (Moderator of the Presbytery of the East) conducted the Induction ceremony which was followed by the Aaronic blessing which was sung with great fervour. The right hand of fellowship was offered by the members of the gathered presbytery. The formal part of the Induction was concluded by Pastor Gladys Robertson who gave the charges to the Minister and congregation. Farewell socials are odd things, full of mixed emotions and perspectives. And so it was on 10. October when the congregation at Lossiemouth and friends met to say goodbye to Alexander Ritchie and his family. We had had a long time to get used to the idea that the Ritchies would be leaving Lossiemouth for the delights of Burntisland but, even so, there were difficult moments. Lossiemouth was Alexander’s first charge and so the congregation had a particular responsibility for him. Many people (although not this writer) have been in Lossiemouth for the ten years of his ministry and have seen him change and develop. He will be greatly missed for his preaching and teaching. Many have mentioned his excellent Bible studies and various speakers at the social reminded us of his involvement in the schools, with Moray Fresh Start, at RAF Lossiemouth and at the Youth Café. He will be missed by the wider community as well as the Church fellowship. Life moves on – but not without being marked. And so to the social. Over a delicious meal, prepared by the usual (female) suspects, we all had a pleasant evening, enjoying one another’s company. It was only after the remains of the trifle had been cleared away that the reason for our being together hit home. Presentations were made to Alexander, Fiona and the children by Lesley McKay, the Session Clerk, and tributes were paid to Alexander by members and friends of the congregation, reminding us of the work he has done in the Church and community. Alexander thanked the congregation for its support and encouraged us to be strong and united in the months ahead. And together we praised God and joined in prayer. Change is never easy, even when we know that it comes as a result of God’s plans for us. But it is that knowledge that sustains us. And so, as we say farewell to Alexander and pray for his work with the people in Burntisland, we can look forward to the new thing that God will do with and for us in Lossiemouth. Exciting times all round!

On completion, Rev Alexander Ritchie met and was introduced to his new Session and finally re-joined Presbytery where he was accepted as our newest member. Rev Ron Thompson gave the vote of thanks to all of those who had contributed to such a wonderful and uplifting occasion. Presbytery, their guests and congregation then retired to the hall for a splendid buffet which had been laid on by the ladies of the church – what a wonderful spread it was, after which, if was back to the church for the social celebrations, speeches of welcome and replies. Entertainment provided by a ‘Story teller’ and a ‘Cauld piper’, presentations and votes of thanks. Everyone then departed for their homes well fed, well entertained and full of joy. Please remember us all at Erskine in your prayers as we set out together on this new and exciting chapter in our history and may the Ritchie family feel cosy and comfortable under this warm coat of love that we as a congregation spread over them.

Moody and Sankey at Balintore

By Andrew Scott When the Apostle Peter wrote:

to God’s elect, strangers in the world, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia (1st Peter 1.1) He could not have known that 2000 years later all these provinces of the Roman Empire would now be part of modern Turkey.

Of course it is not only in the Book of Acts that we read of the church in Asia Minor. The ‘seven churches in the province of Asia’ (Revelation 1.4) are all in Western Turkey. Not much trace of Philadelphia and Thyatira remains, but the locations of the other five churches have left plenty of evidence of their past. At Pergamun the theatre and the great altar of Zeus (‘where Satan has his throne’ [Revelation 2.3]) can be seen. At Smyrna the columns of the agora – it was here that Polycarp was martyred in the city’s stadium in AD 166. At Sardis there is the ancient synagogue (by the village called Sart today). In Laodicea the theatre can be seen: ancient Laodicea had no springs and the water came by aqueduct from hot springs which meant that by the time it reached Laodicea it was tepid (Revelation 3.16).

The narrative, read by Graham Skinner, was punctuated by the choir’s rendering of a variety of Victorian church music. The members of the choir, suitably attired, entered the church singing “Onward Christian Soldiers” accompanied by Geordie Oliver on his accordion, and ended the programme with a rousing rendition of “There’s a Hallelujah meeting over there!” The audience participated as per the programme and also spontaneously, agreeing that “Yes, we’ll gather at the river”. They were very comfortably seated in the church’s new chairs and about 100 stayed behind for tea and goodies afterwards. There was nothing but praise for the evening’s activity. Those who missed it however, are still able to enjoy the music for Kelvin Skinner has produced a DVD of the programme copies of which are available to all. We are always grateful for the support local people give us and we thank them for the encouragement it is to us when they turn out in such numbers. In addition to their support of the choir, donations amounted to £250 which will go to the UF Women’s Home and Overseas Winter Project in aid of “Christians against Poverty”. Thanks to all who supported this venture and made it such a success.

Visiting Turkey: the ‘cradle of Christianity’ No doubt many have visited the Holy Land. It attracts pilgrims from all over the world, but in many ways Turkey is the cradle of Christianity. Recently we were part of a ‘classical Turkey tour’ that enhanced our understanding both of the early church as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles, and the subsequent development of the church in the first few centuries after Pentecost.

Balintore UF Choir is led by the effervescent Wemyss Billows and includes singers from all the local Seaboard churches. More than 100 people crowded into Balintore UF on Friday September 28th to hear them present the story of Moody and Sankey in the Highlands.

happened it coincided with the early years of Constantine’s reign as Roman Emperor. The complementary needs of church and emperor led to the meeting of the Council of Nicaea in Bithynia in AD 325. This was the first General Council and it took place in what is now Turkey. Today Nicaea is renamed Iznik and is famous for ceramics.

– a divine Son of God, and a human Son of Man. These issues had to be settled. Once again a General Council was called (the third General Council) and it met in Ephesus in AD 431. The presence of two natures in Christ was agreed but it was held that the Divine and the Human in Jesus never acted independently of one another.

He must be confessed in two natures, without confusion, without conversion, indivisibly, inseparably, without the distinction of natures being taken away by such union.”

South and east of Ephesus on the Mediterranean coast lies Perge, the ruins of an ancient and originally Hittite city that dates back to 1500 BC. Paul passed through Perge on his way to Pisidian Antioch (Acts 13.13). Later he preached in Perge on his way back from Pisidian Antioch (Acts 14.25) before sailing from nearby Attalia on to Syrian Antioch. Today you can fly direct from Glasgow to Attalia! Nowadays they call it Antalya.

The Nicene Creed that churches recite today was not settled at the first Council of Nicaea but at the later Council of Constantinople (the second General Council) which met in AD 381. Constantinople is of course now Istanbul. At both the first and second General Councils Arianism was refuted and it was decreed that ‘the Son is of one substance with the Father’.

“Two whole perfect and distinct natures, the Godhead and the Manhood, were inseparably joined together in one person without conversion, composition, or confusion, which person is very God and very Man, yet one Christ” WCF chapter 8 para 2.

However Turkey is not just the location of much of the story of the Acts of the Apostles and the seven churches of Revelation. It is also the cradle of the formative first centuries of the Christian church. The early church fathers wrestled with the person of the Son of God. In the fourth century a presbyter from Alexandria called Arius argued that while both the Father and the Son were divine, there was a difference between them at the most fundamental level of being. This ‘Arian Controversy’ had to be settled. As it

There were other controversies. A Bishop from Syria denied that Christ had a human soul. The great dilemma as to how the Father and Son could be distinct and yet one God exercised the best theological minds for centuries. It was always an issue as to whether allowing a full human nature with a rational human soul in the incarnate Christ would reduce the incarnation to a special case of prophethood or sainthood. One theologian, Nestorius, was accused of teaching ‘two Sons’

Opposing factions continued to argue. How can this Jesus with all the marks of manhood upon him be the one in whom God saves the world? Could a compromise between those who favoured the one nature of Jesus (his divine nature) and those who wanted to stress a full human nature be reached? A fourth General Council was called. It was summoned to meet in Nicaea. But for reasons that are not clear it actually met in a place called Chalcedon in AD 451.

The best preserved of the seven churches sites is Ephesus. Mark Antony and Cleopatra wintered there in 33–32 BC. In 1970 a colossal head of Mark Antony was found in the upper civic agora. The magnificent theatre where 24000 Ephesians met to protest against Paul’s ministry (Acts 19.23 following) is largely intact.

One thousand, two hundred years later the authors of the Westminster Confession of Faith 1647 took up the Chalcedonian terminology:

Yes, the Holy Land is absolutely unique but Turkey too is incredibly rich in the history of the church of Jesus Christ.

Where is Chalcedon? Today it can be found in a district of Istanbul on the east side of the Bosporus called Kadikoy. The Council of Chalcedon drew up the famous “Chalcedonian Definition” which stated in part: “We teach with one voice that the Son and our Lord Jesus Christ is to be confessed as one and the same, that He is perfect in Godhead and perfect in Manhood, very God and very Man.

Interview with Gordon Mackenzie

Interviewer: Rev Ian Lloyd

By Rev John Fulton

Can you tell us a little about your personal background?

What impact has your time of studying this far had on you?

I grew up as the eldest of three in a Christian home. I grew up around the church with my Dad being a minister and after my schooling and a very brief spell in the army I began my apprenticeship as a motor mechanic. Having served my time I spent the next four years working in a garage. I eventually gave this up to go travelling for 5 months in Australia before returning and getting engaged and eventually married to Laura. I then began to train and work as an outdoor pursuits instructor as well as working in the café at Wesley Owen Glasgow. This leaves me with a very varied CV and in many ways this was a period of running away from what God had planned for my life. I now believe that I am doing God’s will even though at times it seemed liked the last thing I would be doing. God has been very gracious during this period in my life but I now have the peace of knowing that I am being obedient to what God has called me to do.

For me the studying has made me more aware of the importance of God’s Word and the need to know it, study it and apply it. It has certainly been a learning curve returning to studies after so long but it is so much easier to study when it is something you are passionate about. God has been faithful in allowing me to get to grips with academic studies after such a period away and allowing me experiences that I can bring into my studies.

You’re also working at the Living Room. How has that connected with your theological studies?

What were your first recollections of church, and your earliest thoughts about God? I suppose the first recollection about church was the big building in our garden. The first experience is difficult as I never remember a time I wasn’t around the church but I suppose Sunday School stands out with all the stories we heard and the choruses we sang. I never really had a problem believing in God but as I grew older I probably struggled more with how that affected my life. I was very blessed to grow up in a Christian home where the things of God were talked about and lived out.

Was mechanicing a hard place to live out your beliefs in God? It certainly wasn`t an easy environment to live out your beliefs and to be honest I probable struggled to be different in the workplace. At that point I was probably more keen to fit in rather than be obvious about what I believed. I started in the garage at a fairly young age and I suppose the world of work was fairly daunting place to be.

What prompted the Australia journey, and how did/does that impact your life? I think the Australia trip grew out of a growing uncertainty as to what I should be doing with my life as by then I felt it wasn`t working in the garage. I thought it would give me time to consider what I should be doing but whilst I was out there I got caught up in the outdoor sports scene and continued to do that on my return home. I suppose looking back this was just another period of getting side-tracked from what Gods calling was on my life. 15

Scottish Government Introducing Legislation on Same-Sex Marriage

You spoke about belief in God – would you have described that as real faith in Jesus Christ; and if not – when that gripped you? Although I would always have said I believed in God I wouldn`t have said that this would have been a real faith in Jesus Christ. For me this was a gradual process of the pieces coming together for me to a commitment in my early twenties although in the early days my life was not as different as it should have been but the Lord has been faithful over the years and worked in and changed my life to the point where I am now.

That ‘now’ point is training for the ministry – how did that call develop? For me it was a gradual process in that I knew I wasn’t doing what I was supposed to be doing with my life and as I mentioned I was certainly running from the thought of it being ministry. But I believe God allows you to experience situations, meet people and open doors that confirm Gods calling and for me that was ministry. I sought the advice of other Christians I trusted to help me and continued to seek Gods leading as to how this was to happen. One of the things that really confirmed it for me was the sense of peace that I experienced once I surrendered to the plan God had for me. There continue to be things along the way that confirm this call especially when things get difficult. I am abundantly aware of Gods hand in my life as I look back over the years.

Well it has certainly kept my feet firmly on the ground. The Living Room really helps me connect my theological studies to real life. What I study in class in the morning I may have to apply in reality in the afternoon which at times can be challenging but equally at times hugely exciting. It really helps to cement what you believe as the people that come into the Living Room will not be shy to ask you what you believe and why you believe it. It certainly has helped me on many levels to think about issues that I have experienced through my time at the Living Room and about how God wants us to address these issues.

You visited South Africa and Botswana (what – 3 years back?) with a team of young folk. What impact did that have on your life and thinking? It was certainly an experience I won’t forget in a hurry, especially being asked to preach at short notice with a translator. For me it was another link in my journey to ministry. The experience helped me to see the world and the church outside my own setting and it showed me the importance of mission not just at an international level but also at the local level. I thank God for those that I met that were ministering in difficult situations with such joy and enthusiasm for the Lord’s work. I believe I have been very blessed in being part of the mission team and all that God allowed us to be part of.

I thank God for the support of those he has placed around me, my family, my minister, my church and all the Christian friends that have been there on my journey so far.

Some months ago the Scottish Government announced that they intend to introduce Same-Sex Marriage in Scotland and that it will be possible for these ceremonies to be conducted in churches by ministers. The UF Church General Assembly in June made our position clear when it re-affirmed ‘that marriage is the union of one man and one woman’. The Assembly also agreed ‘that no minister, or anyone whose ministerial ordination is recognised by a Presbytery of the Church to solemnise a marriage, may solemnise, bless or in any other exercise of ministry participate in any way in marking any other form of marriage other than that of the union of one man and one woman.’ Representatives of our Church & Society Committee met in October with a senior civil servant who is involved in the introduction of this legislation. Disappointment was expressed that despite the clear outcome of the previous consultation, the Government had decided to go ahead with this legislation. There is a further consultation on some details of the proposed legislation. This legislation will make it possible for denominations or individual ministers to ‘opt in’ to the new system and be permitted to conduct such ceremonies. The Scottish Government believes that the UK Equality Act already safeguards a Church which does not opt-in (which will obviously be the position of the UF Church). Concern was expressed over the impact this legislation could have on Christians serving in positions such as healthcare chaplains and teachers where there are fewer safeguards than there are for ministers within the Church. The Church & Society Committee will be responding to this latest consultation and anyone is able to make a submission to the Government. The actual Bill to introduce this legislation is expected to come to the Scottish Parliament around June 2013. A committee will then take written and oral evidence over a 12 week period and the process of the bill could take 7 or 8 months. Sadly, all the main political parties support this legislation and same-sex marriage is likely to become a reality in Scotland by 2015.

105 Pupils in One Class!

‘I see commitment and perseverance and love for the people ... I am inspired and given courage to take up my own cross’ Mez

Southeast Asia

Teaching in MALAWI is a bit different from Glasgow By Catriona Brown, Principal Teacher and Cathcart Church member

29 June -24 July 2013

Bright and Ethel with Chichewa coins

Costs £650 + flights*

This includes accommodation, food and all transport [excluding flights].

Are you ...

ia SE As Trek

passionate to help children learn about God? willing to engage with other cultures? ready to do what ever it takes?

Nyambadwe Lions Primary School’s first ever meeting of the Pupil Association

Me handwriting the minutes of the Pupil Association

Thank you for supporting me as a Malawi Leader of Learning (MLOL). And you ALL did whether as individuals, from a church, or through Overseas Committees of the Church (General and Women’s). The five week trip was at times arduous and challenging but full of lifetime memories. Primary Age Pupils? It is the project’s aim for colleagues in Scotland and Malawi to share good practice with each other. Being placed in Standard 7a and 7b (93 and 105 pupils respectively). I taught many lessons for the teachers to observe Teaching for Effective Learning Strategies. Since children repeat the year if they fail the end of session exams my pupils ranged in age from 11 to 18! There were various reasons for this repetition but probably for the most it was because they had missed attending school due to having to help at home or work. On the positive side this meant the children were all working at Standard 7 level so all teaching was delivered as whole class lessons with little differentiation. The lower classes had as many as 200 children per class. I feel the most beneficial aspect of working with the Malawian teachers were our informal chats reflecting and discussing teaching techniques.

Making Circles My class in Glasgow all helped me prepare for the trip and gave suggestions of what the children in Malawi might like to do. One of the suggestions was ‘Circle Time’. So in Nyambadwe Primary realising there was no way 100 children could form a circle inside the classroom (even one without desks or chairs) I took the whole class outside to the dusty hill which was the playground. The circle became so big my voice would not carry. On advice from my Malawian colleague we ended up with a circle inside a circle inside a circle! Even with 3 circles it was a very challenging lesson. The pupils always showed great kindness and friendship to one another sharing their pen or textbook without prompting with those who had none. When I passed round all the coins from home, Bright and Ethel came to me at the end of the lesson and gave me a coin each to take back to Scotland. This was difficult for me to receive as any money to these children was valuable.

For notes from my daily diary, visit: www.battlefield-pri.glasgow.sch.uk (and click Mrs Brown) 17

Coming in next month’s edition: Catriona Meets Godsknows Maseko

Pupil Associations On my first day at Nyambadwe Lions Primary School in Blantyre I found out that each class had a nominated ‘Class Leader’. On enquiring more I discovered they met with the Head Teacher termly so that instructions could be disseminated to pupils. Being responsible for the Pupil Council at my own school back home I was keen to develop these ‘class leaders’ into a Pupil Council. Arranging times and dates became a difficulty but in my 3rd week at the school a meeting was set. I was amazed during introductions that all the children had set ambitions and a goal in life. I then asked, “How do you think the school could improve?” every child answered that they themselves could improve the school by listening more to the teacher, doing what the teacher said or studying harder. It was a humbling experience as they did not ask for more textbooks, pens, jotters, desks or even glass for their windows. The following week another meeting was held with children bringing suggestions of planting more trees and flowers, painting of educational diagrams and even thoughts of more teachers. The meeting ended with the older children writing to the Education

This is a wonderful opportunity to share the gospel with hundreds of children and teenagers from different religious backgrounds. You will visit two different islands where you can expect very warm weather, delicious local food, new friends, and the opportunity to change lives. We are looking for people who speak English and have a heart for children and youth! For the right applicants there is also the opportunity to help with seminars for parents and teachers.

Standard 7a Nyambadwe Primary School

Department in Blantyre with their ideas. It is my hope that their Pupil Association, as they chose to name themselves, will continue and their voices be heard.

Your trek activities involve...

Back Home Children from Battlefield Primary followed my progress in Malawi through my tweet and the exchange of emails. It is my goal to continue to share about the school life and culture of Malawi with them throughout the forthcoming session. This will broaden the children’s understanding of Global Citizenship and help us on our road to becoming a Rights Respecting School.

WEC Trek is recognised by Global Connections as operating under the code of best practice in shortterm mission 2013 and 2014.

>>on the field preparation >>sharing Bible truths in local schools >>helping to run Bible clubs >>opportunity to run seminars for parents and teachers >>learning about local cultural and religious beliefs >>a retreat and debrief on the field

WEC is with you all the way WEC International is committed to seeing Jesus Christ known, loved and worshipped across the globe. As WEC workers, we seek to be servants, learners and friends crossculturally. Join with us shortterm, as part of a WEC Team Trek, working to reach the unreached.

Timetable Orientation at WEC 29 June–3 July Arrive on islands 4 July Return to UK 23 July Debrief at WEC 24 July

Contact trek@wecinternational.org.uk wecinternational.org.uk/trek WEC is a registered charity, nos 237005 & SCO37715 *Terms and conditions apply

Making tea for the teacher at the back of the classroom

I hope my time in Malawi made a positive difference to the people I met because they have made me value and appreciate my own life so much more.

Other Highlights • Going along to an ‘after-school’ Bible Club attended by 300+ children when my own lunchtime ‘Jesus and Me’ club has 5 • Playing with children at a home for rescued street children • Visiting a weaving factory with workers who are deaf (I was able to sign a wee bit with them) • Seeing lots of elephants and hippos