CONTACT
FEBRUARY 2016
www.dundonald-parish-church.com
FROM THE MANSE
February 2016
Dear Friends,
You may remember we wrote in the December 2014 Contact that
we had hoped to buy a pup over Christmas. Well, it never
happened. But just recently, we bought two Border collie pups!
Initially, we’d looked at some names. I mentioned several back
then, with Midge coming foremost. My daughter Maggie thought
that we could add Cleg as a name for the other pup. Cleg and
Midge - appropriate names for dogs that bite. Even so, hoping
they learn not to bite, we’ve gone for Enya and Gruadh
(pronounced Grew-ach).
I know, I know! Why did we pick names like that? Well, let me
tell you. Gruach was the name of Lady Macbeth, Queen of Scots,
and absolutely no relation to the character who featured in a play
written by some Sassenach punter called William Shakespeare.
Little is known of Gruach, but a set of documents from the Priory
of St Andrews, charters of land donations between 1040 and
1057, provide her name and lineage: “Machbet filius Finlach…et
Gruoch filia Bodhe, Rex et Regina Scottorum.” (Macbeth son of
Finlach… and Gruoch daughter of Bodhe, King and Queen of
Scots). Gruoch is the Latin transliteration of Gruach. She was a
queen in her own right and a deeply religious woman. Over the
years, she and her husband gave much land and benefice to the
Culdee Church, and maybe even joined him when he went on
pilgrimage to Rome; A brave move leaving his kingdom vacant in
those days.
Enya, (not named after the Irish singer although they share the
same Gaelic name root Eithne) was the Scottish mother of St
Columba. Not many people know that (as Michael Caine has often
been misquoted)! Although Eithne is her name, we decided to
stick to Enya by way of spelling since Eithne looks too much like
Ethny. Enya never achieved the prominence of motherhood that
Elizabeth, mother of John, and Mary, the mother of Jesus, did.
Nevertheless, being the mother of St Columba, probably the
greatest saint in Scottish Church history, her name should at least
be remembered. Her grave is on Eileach an Naoimh, an island
about 20k due west of Melfort if you wish to visit it.
1
It’s the same with many of the names we come across in the
Bible. They have long been forgotten and lost with the passage of
time. How much do we know about people such as Chloe, a
leader of a house group (?), Timothy’s mother, Eunice, and
granny, Lois, to mention only three. Real people of their day, but
just names now. Yet they contributed to the story of the Gospel
of Christ’s mission to the world. We should never lose sight of
those people from the past. As the story of God’s mission
progresses, perhaps our names too will be remembered as part of
God’s Christian story. God knows.
May God bless us on our way,
------------------------------------------Always Say A Prayer...
Rosa George has written a number of books on prayer (Pocket Book
of Prayers for Women, for Everyday. for Now, for Anytime). She
describes herself as someone in love with God and with people.
These little books of prayers are the fruit of that love.
Lord, I am no longer my own, but yours. Put me to what you will,
rank me with whom you will, put me to doing, put me to suffering,
let me be employed for you or laid aside for you, let me be full, let
be empty, let me have all things, let me have nothing. I freely
give all things to your pleasure and control. And now glorious and
blessed God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, you are mine and I am
yours. So be it. And the agreement now made on earth let it be
confirmed in heaven. Amen.
Let us remember in our prayers this month all those who are
suffering, those who are unemployed, those who feel empty and
useless, those who feel they have nothing.
From Contact 1995 Magazine
Be not weary of me Good Lord. I am all weakness, but Thou
art Almighty and can put forth thy strength perfectly in my
weakness. Make me truly to hate all which Thou hatest,
fervently to love all which thou lovest, through Jesus Christ
Amen FB Meyer
2
TUES 2ND FEBRUARY WORLD WETLANDS DAY – ‘Wetlands for
our Future: Sustainable Livelihoods’ Pray that today’s special
events and resources will help adults and children to understand
more about our wetlands’ vital role for the future of humanity and
their contribution to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals
tackling global poverty, climate change and inequality.
Kingfishers eat mainly freshwater fish. They are vulnerable to
waterway pollution, but many local councils and conservation
groups are now working hard to revitalise rivers and other wetland
environments. A kingfisher hunts from a perch a few feet above
the water. Once a fish appears, its head bobs down to gauge the
distance and then in a flash of iridescent blue and orange this
diminutive bird plunges steeply into the water. This shining jewel
of God’s intricate and beautiful creation and His care for even the
smallest of creatures is a reminder of His unending love and grace
to us as we ask for help.
FEB 7-14 is MARRIAGE WEEK:
Marriage Week is a time for couples to pause and learn some new
skills to make their marriages even better. It is celebrated in the
UK and eleven other countries. (www.marriage-week.org.uk)
FEBRUARY 29 - MARCH 13 is FAIRTRADE FORTNIGHT
Lord, the scale of global poverty is beyond our understanding.
Give bread to those who are hungry and a hunger for justice for
those of us who have bread. In Jesus’ name. Amen. (Tearfund
prayer)
98 per cent of the world’s 843 million malnourished people live in
developing countries. The highest number – 553 million – live in
Asia and the Pacific, 227 million are in sub-Saharan Africa and 47
million in Latin America and the Caribbean. Most of these hungry
families live in rural areas and widely depend on agriculture to
survive.
6 March MOTHERING SUNDAY
Heavenly Lord, Your never-failing tender compassion is greater
than the love of any parent. Please strengthen and encourage
every woman who has a mothering role, whether to her own
children and grandchildren or to others who need her care. Amen.
Tues 8 March INTERNATIONAL WOMENS DAY
Intercede for women who suffer because of discrimination and
appalling poverty, notably in sub-Saharan Africa and in city slums
throughout the world, where they experience the worst maternal
health, education and life opportunities.
3
The Gate of the Year
I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year - give
me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown. And
He replied, go into the darkness and put your hand into the
hand of God. That shall be to you better than light and
safer than a known way.
From the poem “God Knows” by Minnie Louise Haskins
(1875–1957) British poet and academic in the field of sociology,
her poem from a collection ‘The Desert’ was quoted by King
George VI in his Royal Christmas Message of 1939.
THE SPIRIT OF THE SEASON
It’s lovely to have something new, a hat, a book, or something for
the house to give a room a different look. And now a new year
comes to us, how wonderful it seems, in our present mood of lofty
vows and rosy dreams.
Let us try to keep the newness of the fair young year,
remembering its first glad message, gay with hope and cheer.
Just like other years it will grow weary and depart, but let us hold
the memory of its promise in the heart.
God is giving unto us a new year, fresh and bright. The whole
world seems to glow and glitter in its morning light.
So keep the shine on life and never let it disappear, make the
spirit of the season live on through the year. Contact 1995
==============
Thank you
I wish to thank all the people who sent me
get well cards, flowers and gifts during my stay in
Crosshouse Hospital. I am now home but still
very weak, hopefully on the mend.
Once again, many thanks to all.
Cissy Parker.
4
CHRISTMAS FAYRE
HAPPY New Year to everyone!
The Christmas Fayre raised £1913.67p . A very big thank you
everyone for raising such a large amount - to all of the
stallholders, the people who came on such a wet day and those
who gave donations. An enjoyable day was had by all. Thank
you to the men for moving the heavy goods.
Well done to all the winners of the Children’s Art Competition
Under 5 years – Carter and Ellie
Ages 5-6 - Ailsa and Ethan
7-9 years - Louise, Jonathan, Rachel
10-11 years - Callum
Christmas Sponsors 2015 were Gills Convenience Store,
Hunter Group Scotland, Key Store Dundonald,
Lamar Group Ltd, Maharani Troon, Pharmacy Dundonald,
Rankins Butchers, Shear Genius, West Coast Capital.
THANK YOU!
Thank you every one for your support and for the help
given to me in organising the Fete and Fayre. I have now
resigned and we are looking for a younger, energetic
person to carry on this enjoyable job, meeting many
different people in the community. Please contact Rev
Mayes if you are willing to take over or phone me for
advice. Liz Shakespeare
Thank you Liz for all your hard work over the years.
You have done a wonderful job organising the Fete
and Fayre together with your helpers and raised a
fantastic amount for both Malawi
and the Fabric Fund.
5
TRIBUTE to JIM PENNINGTON (24/4/44- 21/1/16)
Elder at Dundonald Church 1974-2016
Over his 71 years, Jim touched the lives of many people, in so
many good and beneficial ways and this tribute to his life can
never cover the half of it.
Jim and his late brother Billy were born and bred in Springburn,
Glasgow. When Jim left school, he worked in a painting shop for
a year until he secured a job with British Rail as a Clerical Officer.
Jim had always been involved in his local church, and it was at
the Martyr’s Church he first met Margaret. They had to perform
together in a play called ‘Salmon Sandwiches’ as boyfriend
/girlfriend – a role that quickly became real life. Six years later
they were married, on 29 March 1969 – the day “Highland
Wedding” won the Grand National.
He and Margaret were
involved as officers in the Boys Brigade at Martyrs Church and
some of the boys lined up to form a guard of honour at their
wedding.
Not long after he was married, Jim was given promotion and
transferred to Ayr as a store man, and he and Margaret moved to
Dundonald, joining the Church here in May 1971. Six months
later Jim enrolled as a Lieutenant, Junior Section under Hugh
Phillips, Officer in Charge. When Hugh left two years later, Jim
became the o/c in his place. On the 23 June, 1974, Jim was
ordained to the Eldership, only 30 years old – very young to be
an Elder in those days In February 1981, he was appointed
Captain of the Company at Dundonald by the Kirk Session, a
position he resigned three and a half years later, only to return as
Officer in Charge of the Junior Section in June, 1986. Even after
he retired a few years later, Jim continued to liaise between the
Kirk Session and the Company for the many years that followed.
The Church too had always played a big part in Jim’s life. Jim
was a man of faith and principle and tried to live his life based on
such standards. At one time he and Margaret were involved in the
Sunday School, and Jim led the praise while playing the piano. He
could play without music, and it didn’t take him long to get a sing
song going wherever he found himself. In Church as well as
visiting his District as an Elder, Jim was always willing to help out
in any way he could. He hosted the Church Quiz for several
years, and administered the UNICEF Jars of Grace (later Water
Aid.) He also became involved in the Sheltered Housing Unit and
6
helped the Minister in dispensing the elements at the Communion
Services held there.
Jim was unpretentious, very sociable and outgoing, he loved
company and talking and it’s why he loved his job in the Ticket
Office at Kilmarnock Railway Station. With the electrification of
the railway and the decline in diesel engines, his job as a store
man in Ayr had become redundant, and so he was transferred to
Kilmarnock. He was among people, and being very approachable
and obliging everybody came to Jim for information and help with
their train journeys. He knew all the train times, the best routes
and the best prices.
When he had a heart attack at the age of 59, he retired from
British Rail the following year. That left Jim more time for Golf
and he took a job in the Starter’s Office at Troon Municipal Golf
Courses during the summer season, working there for 4 or 5
years. He enjoyed that too because again he was among people
and enjoyed the banter. He also loved the game of Golf with a
passion and played up until about a year ago. He was a member
of Troon St Meddans Golf Club where he was the Hon. President
for a number of years and during his time there he was also Club
Captain, Junior Convener, Handicap Secretary, and the founder of
the Rothesay Match that alternated between Troon and Rothesay
every year. Prize Night at the Golf Club was Jim’s night. He was
the M.C. and was invariably more entertaining than the
entertainment. He loved to joke and enjoyed seeing people laugh
and enjoying themselves - a lot of members knew him as Mr.
Troon St Meddans. He was very proud when the Club bought a
new cup and named it after him.
Even so, Golf wasn’t his first love. His first love was his family.
He and Margaret were blessed with Stuart and Elaine, and two
grandchildren, Callum and Craig. Jim and Margaret enjoyed a
very close relationship and, apart from the golf, they went
everywhere together. They especially enjoyed their holidays
visiting South of Italy, South of France, and Switzerland – even to
Girvan – all by train! Jim had a continental train timetable so
that he could sit down and plan their journeys abroad. When they
stopped the overnight sleeper service to London, Jim was
devastated so they started flying, going on 4 or 5 holidays a year.
then came the cruises with wee bus trips in between. After a few
years of living in Troon, Jim and Margaret moved back to
Dundonald as part of the Sheltered Housing Unit complex. Both
served on the committee of Age Concern until it packed in.
7
Two and a half years ago, life changed dramatically for Jim after
Margaret passed away. His health prevented him from flying, and
latterly, he was forced to give up golf but he could watch it on his
new TV. Despite all his setbacks, he got on with life the best he
could and had booked another cruise for the spring. He and Bill
Thomson became good company for each other and Jim really
looked forward to their days out together. Jim became the
Chairperson of the Sheltered Housing Unit and when he and Bill
turned up together they were known as Jack and Victor; and once
Harry Ullrich and Sandy Parker joined them, they became the
Last of the Summer Wine!
Jim was so pleased to have seen his grandchildren over
Christmas and the New Year before he passed away some two
weeks later. He will be missed by so many people, family and
friends alike. He had a big influence on many peoples’ lives,
especially the young boys in the BB and at golf. He spoke to
everyone and never had a bad word to say about anyone, he had
a joke or a funny quip for every occasion; loved company and
could talk about anything and everything. He was very obliging
and helpful, and would do anything he could for others if he was
able - he had a genuine compassion for those in need.
And so, for all these good and happy memories of a life well lived
among us, we give thanks to God for all that Jim did and for all
that he has meant to each one of us.
WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FRIDAY 4TH MARCH –
St Ninians, Troon, 7.30pm
“Receive Children, Receive Me" – The World Day of Prayer
Service, prepared this year by Cuba welcome you: “We, the
women of the World Day of Prayer Committee of Cuba invite
you to this celebration .
The Republic of Cuba is a beautiful, green archipelago in the
shape of a caiman (alligator). There are 4,195 islands, cays and
islets of various sorts. Many are covered only by mangrove. It
spans a surface area of 110,860 km and is the largest
Caribbean island located at the entrance of the Gulf of Mexico.
It is called “the key of the Gulf.” The oldest cities date back to
the sixteenth century founded during the expansion of the
Spanish metropolis in our territory.
8
Social Action Committee
Since 29 January 2006, when the Social Action
Committee was re-established after a break of a few
years, the amazing sum of £5,312.40 has been raised
by you, the congregation at Dundonald Parish Church,
and given to charity. This has mainly been through
various social events, in particular Coffee after Church,
Sunday lunches and our Scottish Nights. Thank you to
each and everyone who has been so generous - below
is a list of all the charities we have given to over the
past 10 years.
Children’s Hospice - £291, Malcolm Sargent - £250
Christian Aid - £203, Malawi Projects - £300
Water Aid - £300, Hall Chairs - £500
Ayrshire and Arran Ailsa Hospital - £200
Samaritans - £400, Woman’s Aid - £200
Hansel Village – £200, Cancer Care - £202.40
Alzheimer’s - £286, Ayrshire Hospice - £180
Abergour - £200, Wheels in Motion - £250
Boys Brigade - £500, Parkinson’s - £250
Red Cross - £200, Salvation Army - £200
Finding Your Feet - £200
HOUSE GROUPS
The Wednesday and Thursday groups continue with
fascinating visits to two more of the early churches in Asia
Minor (Turkey):
10/11th February –Pergamum
(‘Where satan lives’)
24/25th February Ephesus
(‘The mark of the beast’)
All are very welcome (if you would like a lift,
please contact Sandy or Frances (850510).
9
1st Dundonald Company Boys’ Brigade
Kevin McAulay
Boys’ and officers have recovered from
the festive season, and are back in the fold again. We are now
working towards the display and prize giving, which is a little bit
earlier this year on April 16th. The Company Section chess team
travelled to Perth to play in the third round of the National
competition. The boys played well, but were out matched by the
reigning champions. We had a good night with 1 st Scone
Company, and made some new friends.
New Session Battalion events have started with a trip to
Bellahouston ski slopes in Glasgow, where 8 of the boys had some
coaching and fun on the slopes. Up and coming Battalion Events
are Quiz Night, and Cross Country both hosted By 1 st Dundonald.
We will also be taking part in the Battalion Drill Competition.
Preparations are under way for the Company Section Camp.
We’re of to Kirkham again for a week camping under canvas with
our Friends at 1st Irvine Company. This has been a popular event
in the past with the boys enjoying outings to Banger racing,
Blackpool Pleasure Beach, Old Trafford, cinema, Bounce Nation,
Adventure 21 to name but a few.
We are fortunate at 1st Dundonald to have a newly formed
Parents and Friends Group. The group’s aim is to raise funds
for Boys’ Brigade by holding various events throughout the year.
They have already been busy with a bag pack at Morrisons in
Troon, a stall at the Christmas lights switch on, and a Christmas
cake fund raising challenge with the boys. If anyone feels that
they can give a couple of hours per month to help with the group,
please contact Mrs. Love, or any of the Officers of the company
who will pass on your interest. Thank you.
We were deeply saddened to hear of the death of Mr. Jim
Pennington. Jim was an ex officer in charge of Junior Section,
and Captain of the Company until 1986. Jim was a regular visitor
to the Company in his retirement, and loved to sit with a cuppa,
sharing his stories and experiences with the boys. I was fortunate
to have been a member of the company when Jim was in charge
of the Junior Section, and remember his “Firm but fair” style of
leadership. I also remember his love of telling stories, playing the
piano for our Drill Practice (The Theme from Z-Cars, and the
Happy wanderer to name a couple of his favourites), and never
letting us win at table tennis. He loved to see the boys gaining
10
awards, and gave great support and encouragement to all of the
boys in his company to achieve Queens Award. He will be greatly
missed by all at 1st Dundonald Company. Our thoughts and
prayers are with his family at this time.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
DUNDONALD CHURCH GUILD
Eileen Docherty
Mrs Grant welcomed members on 30 November and did the
reading and prayer. She then introduced the Messengers, a
group of 5 led by Jane Moran who told the Christmas story with
Puppets. It was an amazing and very effective way to retell the
well known tale. There was also an opportunity to buy crafts which
were sold by the group for charity. Mrs Adaline Finlayson
thanked the group on behalf of the Guild.
The meeting on 14 December was the Annual Dinner which was
enjoyed by everyone. It was followed by a Dutch Auction amid
much laughter. The proceeds go to Guild projects. Adaline and
her helpers from the Bible Class, were thanked for a delicious
meal.
At the first meeting of 2016 Mrs Grant welcomed everybody and
wished all a very happy new year. Anne Young did the reading
and prayer then Mrs Betty Ewart from St Marnocks, Kilmarnock
told how in 1987 she had answered an advert asking for a new
Guild hymn to mark the 100th anniversary of the Guild. There
were over 60 entries from all over the country and her hymn,
written to the tune Regent Square, took the top spot. It was used
last year in the National Service to mark the 100th anniversary of
the Guild and has been used in Guild Services since. Elaine Grant
thanked Betty on behalf of the Guild. After tea and cake (and
chocolate!) the meeting closed with
singing Betty’s hymn.
On 18 January Mrs Grant did the reading
and prayer and then introduced Caroline
Logan, Beauty Therapist who treated 3
ladies to a hand massage and manicure
and two more ladies had a neck and
shoulder massage. All were delighted
with the treatment and Mrs Pat McLaren thanked Caroline on
behalf of the Guild.
The outing on 25th April will be a cruise on Loch Lomond, time at
Lomond Shores and high tea at Caldwell Golf Club, Uplawmoor.
The cost is £29 and anyone who would like to come should see
Elaine Grant or Elizabeth Munro.
11
DUNDONALD CHURCH MENS CLUB –
The Men’s Club held their Annual Pairs Bowling Competition
on the 17th December. The winners were:
Jim Gilmour, Dougal Gray
Runners Up:
Gordon Baird, Hugh Dunlop
On 21 Jan we welcomed 10 Guests from Symington Indoor Bowling
Club to the Church Hall. A good evening was had by all!
DUNDONALD CRAFT & SOCIAL CLUB
The club meets on a Thursday afternoon in the Montgomerie Hall from
2.00 – 4.00pm. We have carpet bowls, pool and a craft section.
It is open to everyone over the age of 50 so come
and join us. For further information call
Douglas Munro on 01563 850125
BADMINTON
All are welcome to join the Badminton Group held in Church Hall every
Tuesday and Thursday 10am -12noon. Please contact Anne Picken for
more details.
DUNDONALD GUILD –
Monday 7.30PM Church Hall
15 February - Rev Scott Rae – Naval Chaplain
29 February - Street Pastors – Guild Project
Friday 4t March – World Day of Prayer
Sunday 6 March – Mothers Day lunch after Church
14 March - AGM with the Blend
12
DUNDONALD WI (Rural)
LOANS WI (rural)
Dundonald SWI will meet on Thursday the
3rd of March at 7.30pm in the Montgomerie
Hall Dundonald. The speaker will be Fiona
Leitch from The Ayrshire Hospice which is
the charity our SWI is supporting this year.
This will be followed by a Coffee Morning on
the 12th March in the Montgomerie Hall
10am-12am. There will be a Tombola and
Sales Table. All the money made at the
Tombola Stall will go to The Ayrshire
Hospice. Tickets for the coffee morning can
be bought from SWI members or pay at the
door. Cost £2.50pm. We look forward to
seeing you there.
“Travel Show”
With May and Dan
Renwick
Competition
Knitted or Crochet
Cushion
Holiday Photo
Hostess
Marjorie
Catchpole
Presbytery of Ayr’s Health and Healing Group
invite us to attend a Conference on Saturday 20th February from
9.30am – 1230pm in Kingcase Church Hall, Prestwick. May Nicholson
of Preshal Trust will speak on problems of poverty, drug and alcohol
addiction, depression and low self-esteem.
If no room in Church car park please do not use Aldi’s car park, but
use the north (Prestwick) end of Sainsbury’s instead.
A donation of £3 is welcome.
Please let Minister know by Mon 8 Feb if you hope to attend.
Flower Fund
The following ladies provided
flowers for Church.
December – Mrs Seton and
Mrs Munro
Two Sundays and Christmas
Services – the Flower Fund
January – Mrs McDonald and
Mrs Mavor
Three Sundays and Sheltered Unit
– the Flower Fund
Thank you all very much –
Ellen Gray
Dundonald Historical
& Archive Society
in the Castle Visitors Centre
Wednesday 10 February
At 7.30pm
John Messner
“Glasgow’s Role in the
American Civil War”
13
THE YOUNG MAN AND THE STARFISH
A wise man was taking a sunrise walk along the
beach. In the distance he caught sight of a young
man who seemed to be dancing along the waves.
As he got closer he saw that the young man was
picking up starfish from the sand and tossing them
gently back into the ocean.
“What are you doing?” the wise man asked. “The sun is coming up
and the tide is going out, if I don’t throw them in they will die.”
“But young man, there are miles and miles of beach with starfish
all along it, you can’t possibly make a difference.” The young man
bent down, picked up another starfish and threw it lovingly back
into the ocean, past the breaking waves. “It will make a difference
for that one”, he replied. That young man’s actions represent
something special in each one of us. We are all gifted with the
ability to make a difference. Each of us can shape our own future.
Each of us has the power to help our organisations reach their
goals.
Contact magazine 1995
God is love
Love is patient and kind, love is not jealous or boastful. Love is
not proud or rude, love does not demand its own way, love is
not irritable, love keeps no record when it has been wronged,
love is never glad about injustice, love rejoices when truth wins,
love never gives up, love never loses faith, love is always
hopeful, love endures through every circumstance, love will last
forever.
1 Cor 13:4
This is how God in some ways shows his love for us
A adopts us, answers prayers, B blesses us,
C comforts us, we are his child, D delivers, E eternal life
F father, friend, faithful, forgives, forgets
G guards, guides, giver of all good things, H helps, heals,
I instructs, J Jesus, justice, K keeps his word, L love, leads,
M merciful, N nearness, O open arms, doors, home,
P promises, protects, provides, Q quietly, quickly
R rest, resurrection, S safe, spirit with us, sacrifice
T truthful, U universal, V values as a person, W walk with us,
Z zealous
How do you show your love to him? LS
14
CHURCH DIARY
MORNING WORSHIP
Every Sunday at 11.00 am.
CRECHE
Every Sunday from 10.45 am. (Hall)
SUNDAY SCHOOL
Every Sunday at 11.00 am. (Church)
FEB
7th
9th
WORSHIP
(followed by tea/coffee in the Hall)
Audit of Organisation’s Accounts (Tues)
(Choir Room 7pm.)
14th WORSHIP
16th Congregational Board (Session Room, 7.30pm.)
18th Audit of Organisation’s Accounts (Thurs)
(Choir Room 7pm.)
21st WORSHIP
Loans Village Service (Celebrating the Sacrament
of Holy Communion – Village Hall at 2.30 pm.)
28th WORSHIP
Sheltered Housing Unit Service (S.H.U., 2pm.)
MAR
6th
WORSHIP
(followed by Mother’s Day Lunch hosted by the
Guild)
AUDIT OF CONGREGATIONAL ACCOUNTS
Organisation Treasurer’s please note that the Audit of
their accounts will take place in the Choir Room on
Tuesday 9th February and Thursday 18th February at 7
pm. To comply with the legal requirements of OSCR
and to maintain the charitable status of our Church,
the audit of accounts of every Church organisation is a
compulsory and timely necessity.
15
MALAWI THANKS
Since Rev Bordingtone Singini’s visit, he has been doing a lot of
work behind the scenes in response to our requests for
background details and quotations. In fact he had done so much
that the size of the attachments to his email resulted in the
email not getting through (without electricity and his own
computer, he has to rely on visits to the nearest town’s internet
cafe etc to type, scan and then send ... and he may not realise
until his next visit to the town that the email did not get
through)!
From the emails that he eventually succeeded in sending, the
following projects should be underway shortly:
Electricity – the Mdyaka manse is one of the few that do not
have electricity and the full cost for wiring, materials and labour
for the manse, church and nursery is just over M.Kwacha 600k
(previously this would have been about £1.000 but now may be
£700 with a more favourable exchange rate - with special
thanks to the Christmas Fete). There may be some additional
costs depending on negotiations with the national electricity
supplier ‘ESCOM’.
Motorbike – thanks to the generosity of the Boys Brigade, they
have raised £500 for the purchase of a small 2nd hand
motorbike. This will make a huge difference to helping Rev
Singini move around his extensive congregation, prayer houses
and nurseries.
Studies – Rev Singini has achieved Diploma level in his
theology studies and needs to complete these studies to degree
level through the University of Livingstonia over a two year
period. These will cost MK 250k per annum (about £300).
Secondary School Fees – whilst primary school is free, pupils
who pass the necessary entry requirements for secondary
school have to pay fees and for many, this means that they
cannot attend. Thanks to Dundonald sponsors, two children are
now attending secondary school with a possibility that a third
orphan from the Mdyaka area may be able to join them. For us
the fees of less than £100 per term (including boarding costs)
are amazing value for money and will transform the lives of
those now able to attend.
16
Please note the Parish Register will not be included
in the magazine until there is clarification regarding
the Data Protection Act
SHOW YOU CARE
Thank you to everyone who supported the Show You Care
campaign, which increased the sales of Christmas cards and
gifts. Church Charities including Christian Aid, CAFOD and SCIAF
- all benefit from these sales.
Sales of the Real Advent calendars also raised £15.000 for the
Funzi Bodo clinic in Kenya which provides low-cost medical care
for mothers and babies. For a one-off payment of £1.00 patients
receive a free consultation and all the medicines which they
need
Fairtrade Fortnight will be from 29th Feb -13th March and there
will be a "Big Brew" event around that time. This year we will be
focusing on helping vulnerable farmers to thrive and support
their families.
Best regards
Val Gwynne
WORLD MISSION MAGAZINE
Available In the Front Porch
Featuring articles about Fair Trade.
Fairtrade Fortnight
One World – an article about the One World shop in
Edinburgh and two Fairtrade producers who are coming to
Scotland in Fairtrade Fortnight – Fatima Ismael from
Nicaragua who grows coffee and Tania Jiminez from
Ecuador who produces coffee and honey.
Stand up for farmers in Israel and Palestine
Cuba – World Day of Prayer comes from here this year.
Glasgow Presbytery’s visit to the diocese of Hyderabad,
Pakistan.
Plus a recipe for Banana Pancakes with chocolate!
Don’t Look Now!
The Sunday School teacher was
describing how Lot’s wife looked back and turned into a pillar
of salt, when little Jimmy interrupted. “My Mother looked back
once while she was driving,” he announced triumphantly, “and
she turned into a telephone pole.”
17
THE WAY WE WERE...
The Road to the Kirk
The Kirk on Sunday was serious business with parishioners
walking miles to be there and if not, to be called into question.
It could be a long walk for some; the Fullarton district of Irvine
and Troon were all part of Dundonald Parish until well into the
19th century. From Irvine the road led through Shewalton Moss
by Old Auchans to Winehouse Yett and from Troon by Loans,
Collenan and through the glen to the village. Until a few years ago
steps were still to be seen in the wall at the entrance to old
Auchans marking the public right of way. The right of way to
Irvine was walked every Communion Sunday by Messrs Chisholm
and Goldie to ensure its continuation but the passage of time has
almost extinguished the contour.
The Moss itself has many secrets. Evidence of a prehistoric
settlement and other archaeological 'finds' has been made over
the years suggesting that the area has been populated in
prehistoric times. The dense growth, mainly of silver birch has
been put to a number of uses; as a base for the first tramway in
Scotland from Kilmarnock to Troon and during World War 2 as a
base for the wartime runway at RA.F Bogside.
Coming nearer Dundonald we pass the site of the former
Dundonald (Coats) Tennis Club which survived until the late
Fifties. Gifted to the village by Major Coats of Auchans House, it
was designed in a dual role of tennis in summer and curling in the
winter. The court was built of Aberdeen granite stone slabs but
subsidence brought its use as a curling pond to an end but tennis
continued until a new court had been built beside the garage.
The burn, to give its title, 'The Dundonald Burn' which flooded the
court in the winter has had a varied existence and its route has
been altered by man for a variety of uses. Water was taken from
it to fill a mill lade at Kilnford Farm, flood an earlier curling pond
and provide a watering system for Auchans House. Little wonder
that in severe weather it reverts to its old route!
We enter the village by Winehouse Yett, an ancient name in origin
which suggests a wine house for the Castle which also had a mill
and a fish loch, again serviced by the Dundonald Burn.
18
Winehouse Yett was originally a farm of some 17 acres. One of the
families who lived there produced a copious number of sons one
of whom, Dr James McAdam, became President of the Medical
Board of Bombay, India. On his death in 1842 he bequeathed a
legacy of £1000 to be invested by the Minister and Heritors of the
Parish of Dundonald for the poor of the Parish of Dundonald. The
residue of the legacy now forms part of the Church’s Benevolent
Fund which is administered by the Minister.
Behind Winehouse Yett, or laundry cottages as it became known,
lay a small bowling green used until the construction of the
present one. Laundry cottages were demolished in 1914 and the
present houses built. Designed by the Rev. James W. Gillespie
they were planned for the district nurse, a policeman and estate
workers. Mr. Gillespie was the prime mover in creating the
bowling green as he was with many features of the village.
Bobby Kirk
First appeared in Contact magazine - February 1995
JUST A MINUTE
Water into wine – No-one making up stories about Jesus would
have had Him turning water into wine for His first miracle. It
must be true. And it was written for our learning – it’s so true to
the Christian life.
There was an embarrassing problem. The wine ran out at
a wedding reception. Jesus loves dealing with our
problems.
Someone went to Jesus about it. His Mother had learned
how wise that was. She knew from experience that she
could rely on Him.
Jesus told them what to do. He directs those who want His
way.
The solution was a miracle – water turned into wine. Not
by the addition of some drinking powder but by a change
in the nature of the water.
Adding Church attendance to our weekly programme will
not in itself change us.
John says Jesus’ miracles are signs. When we yield to
Jesus He gives us a new, divine nature, which, like His,
inclines to God’s will and ways. A spiritual miracle greater
than any physical one. Jesus performed this miracle in
Cana of Galilee – He revealed His glory.
John 2 v1-11 NIV Contact Magazine 1999
19
DRIVING AMBITIONS
1.
IGNITION
This speaks of the Holy Spirit, which ignites us
to follow the Lord Jesus.
2.
ACCELERATOR
When we trust the Lord, we should then start to serve Him and
worship Him.
3.
FUEL
We cannot go anywhere without this. Our spiritual fuel is reading
the bible and prayer.
4.
CLUTCH
Grasp tightly to the Lord every day of our lives.
5.
GEARS
If you are not a Christian, you cannot stay neutral, you must
make a decision to trust the Lord or reject Him. We must not stay
in low gear, but progress up the gears in our Christian pathway.
6.
INDICATORS
Let others know where we are going. Give a clear indication of
our direction to others who are not saved.
7.
BRAKE
Put a stop to things before it’s too late – unforgiveness to others,
gossip etc. Taking a stop, time out of our busy lives to pray, and
keeping touch with the Lord.
8.
LIGHTS
Let your light shine before men that they may see your good
works and glorify your father in heaven. Matt 5 v 16.
9.
DEMISTER
When the road is not clear and we are not able to see clearly, turn
to the Lord for guidance and to show us the correct paths for our
feet.
10.
MIRRORS
We are made in God’s image, let’s mirror Him In compassion,
love, caring for all men.
11.
WIPERS
God will wipe away all our sins, if we confess them and seek
repentance. Rev 21 v 4. God shall wipe away all tears from their
eyes and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow nor crying,
neither shall there be any more pain.
Anchored Magazine
20
Cookery Corner
Thanks to Sheila and Kathleen
FRUITY DATE FLAPJACKS
75g packet pumpkin seeds,
75g packet dried sultanas, 200g unsalted peanuts,
300g stoned dates, 400g Alpen, 100g pecan nuts chopped
150g dried red cranberries, 2 oz marg or butter
300g light brown muscovado sugar, 6 tablespoons syrup
Cup of water, 200g white chocolate chunks or chips
TOPPING
100g good milk chocolate, 100g good dark chocolate
Preheat oven to 180degrees, Line a large tray bake tin with
foil. Chop up the dates small and place in a pot with the
sugar, syrup, butter and water. Soften to a consistency of
double cream, mash out any lumps and leave to cool
Put all dry ingredients into a bowl and add the cooled date
mixture--- sometimes easier to use hands
Put into prepped tin and bake for around 40---50 mins
Remove from oven, cool and then flip the tin over to remove
the foil. Melt the chocolate together and drizzle over top.
Cut into slices
TRUFFLES
1 Tin Condensed Milk,
4 oz Drinking Chocolate,
4 oz Coconut,
20 Digestive Biscuits,
4 oz Melted Margarine,
Vermicelli (or Chocolate
Strands).
Crush biscuits and place in a
large bowl. Add coconut,
drinking chocolate then mix in
melted margarine and
condensed milk. Roll into balls
and coat with vermicelli. Chill
in fridge for 30 minutes
BELGIUM LOAF
1 cup Milk, Sugar, Sultanas
4 oz Margarine,
2 cups Self Raising Flour,
1 Egg,
1 teaspoon Mixed Spice
Put milk, sugar, sultanas and
margarine in pan and bring to
boiling point. Leave to cool.
Add flour, beaten egg and
spice. Turn into greased 2 lb
loaf tin or 2 smaller 1 lb loaf
tins. Bake at 350 degrees F/
180 degrees C for roughly 1
hour or until cake tester
comes out clean.
21
Design a CrossReach Christmas card for 2016
The winning entry will be printed as a card and sold through the
CrossReach Christmas Card & Calendar Collection 2016 catalogue
and website. The Winner will receive a certificate and a supply of
their winning design as printed Christmas Cards.
The card must be an original design, not copied from an
existing copyrighted card or clip art
Submit your card design on a sheet of paper/card no
larger than A3 size
Computer generated designs must be original and printed
out as a hard copy
Textures, 3D effects or metallic colours can be difficult to
reproduce in print so are best avoided
Feel free to include a Greeting and/or Bible verse in your
design
If you wish your design returned, please make this clear
to us and enclose an appropriate SAE for its return
This competition is open to all supporters of CrossReach of
any age.
Write the name of the person or group who designed the card,
age (if under age 16) and a contact person’s name, address and
telephone number on the back of each entry. While copyright of
all entries remains with the entrants, by submitting an entry,
each entrant agrees to grant an irrevocable, perpetual and
worldwide licence to CrossReach Trading Ltd to use it for the
purpose of their Christmas cards and any promotional material
connected to that. Closing date: Sunday 27 March 2016
Send your entry to: Christmas Card Competition, CrossReach,
47 Milton Road East, Edinburgh EH15 2SR
HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS
Anyone interested in helping out in
the shop or tea-bar at Crosshouse
Hospital please Contact Mary
Dunlop 01563 852519.
Each shift lasts for two hours.
22
Bible Reading
07/02/2016
D. Harrow
14/02/2016
A. FitzGerald
21/02/2016
G. Jack
28/02/2016
E. Grant
06/03/2016
A. Finlayson
Car Rota
Car 2
Car 3
07/02/16
Graeme Dunn
Maggie Kuczynski
14/02/16
Pat McLaren
Moreen Linton
21/02/16
John Morton
Maureen Brown
28/02/16
Pam Kavanagh
Kate Tweedie
06/03/16
Sandy Parker
Janette Caldwell
Creche
07-Feb
Jean Gray+Mary Dunlop
14-Feb
Libba Fallows+Anne FitzGerald
21-Feb
Frances Mavor+ Kathleen Morton
28-Feb
Helen Jamieson+Nancy Armour
06-Mar
Catriona Mayes+Margaret Rae
Door Duty
07/02/16
14/02/16
21/02/16
28/02/16
06/03/16
Mrs. E.
Docherty
Mr. D.
Harrow
Mr. W.G.
Jack
Mr. W.
Thomson
Mr. R.
McMillan
Mrs. E.
Munro
Miss A.
Ferguson
Mrs. H.
Harrow
Mr. S.
Mavor
Mrs. F.
Mavor
Mr. J.
Ritchie
Mrs. M.
Brown
Mrs. D.
Richmond
Mr. J.D.
Gray
Mrs. E.
Shakespeare
Mr. G.
Dunn
Mrs. J.
Harper
Mrs. Y.
Cain
Mrs. M.
Gilmour
Mr. C.
Docherty
Mrs. L.
Axford
Mrs. A.
FitzGerald
Mrs. J.
Hardie
23
Children’s Page
24
CONTACT INFORMATION
MINISTER: Rev Bob Mayes
01563 850243
SESSION CLERK: Pam Kavanagh
01563 850976
CLERK TO THE BOARD: Bob McMillan
01563 850702
TREASURER: Sheila Tannock
01563 830427
CHURCH OFFICER: Hugh Appleby
01563 851105
ORGANIST AND CHOIR: Mariea Black
01563 851417
Please submit articles to Editor for
March Contact Magazine
by Sunday 28th February 2016
[email protected]
You wake us to delight in your praises; for you made us
for yourself, and our heart is restless until it reposes in
you. St Augustine (354-450)
25