CONTACT December 2015/January 2016

WISHING YOU A HAPPY CHRISTMAS

AND BLESSED NEW YEAR! www.dundonald-parish-church.com

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FROM THE MANSE December 2015

Dear Friends,

By the time you’re reading this, the first, maybe even the second, of our Advent Candles will have been lit, so continuing a tradition that began at an undetermined date in Germany. Recent research, however, suggests that the Advent Wreath, with four

candles on it, was invented by Johann Wichern, a pastor in Hamburg, in response to children who kept asking him when it would be Christmas. In 1839, he hung up a cartwheel with four

white candles around the rim which had to be lit on the Sundays leading up to Christmas. In between he put red ones for each day of the week.

As time went on, the cartwheel evolved to become a wreath with only four red candles. In the 1920s, the Roman Catholic tradition adopted purple candles representing repentance, except for the

third Sunday, when the candle is rose-coloured. Then a fifth candle, this time white, was added for lighting on Christmas Day.

There are several themes associated with the lighting of each of the candles, but with the lighting of the white candle on Christmas Day, we are reminded of Jesus coming to be the Light of the world. Before that, nearly everybody knew nothing of eternal life. But Jesus brought the Good News that God loves us and wants to forgive us for putting ourselves before Him in our lives, and wants us to share eternity with us.

Jesus said, “I am the Light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness again but will have the light of life.” So

every time we light one of our Advent Candles, we should think of just how much brighter and happier life has been since God came to us in Christ Jesus. We hope you manage to share in all our

Advent Candle Lighting Services this year.

Have a very Happy Christmas and a faith-filled New Year,

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Always Say A Prayer...

Tues 1st December WORLD AIDS DAY Today we remember the 78 million people who have been infected with the HIV virus – almost 40 million dying as a result. Give

thanks for the progress in defeating this epidemic and pray that ongoing research, treatment and care will touch many lives. Thurs 3rd December INTERNATIONAL DAY OF DISABLED PERSONS Pray that today will raise awareness of how people with disabilities deserve to be included and more empowered to play their full part

in society – having access to work, transport, leisure and other activities. Fri 11th December INTERNATIONAL MOUNTAIN DAY:

Promoting Mountain Products Pray that mountain dwellers who produce coffee, cocoa, honey, herbs, spices and local handicrafts, as well as those providing tourism services, will be increasingly successful in these businesses and provide for the needs of their

communities. 25th December CHRISTMAS DAY THANKSGIVING: Lord, our Emmanuel, we celebrate Your coming as a human

being: to live and die, to rescue us from the consequences of our sin. We rejoice with the angels and all the company of heaven, worshipping and praising Your holy name! Amen. Pray for families spending time together this Christmas, especially where there are tensions and anxiety affecting people’s relationships. Ask the Holy Spirit to deepen their love and understanding, and enable them to

share both joys and difficulties. Ist January NEW YEARS DAY Lord of all time and space, we commit this New Year to You and

offer our lives afresh to serve You. Lead us into a deeper relationship with You and help us to worship and pray in ways that please and honour You. Amen.

Thanks to Care Prayer Diary online

Pray for all those affected by terrorist attacks and their families, those traumatised by what they saw and experienced – that they would know the powerful, strong, loving arms of Father God around them in the days to come, pouring His love and healing power into their bodies, souls and spirits. Pray for our nation, and

every nation threatened by terrorism.

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BABY’S FIRST CHRISTMAS This is your first Christmas: and it means

Nothing to you, because you are so small. These sudden gifts, these happy,

enchanting scenes, Your infant's mind bewildered by it all.

But we, who understand, will cherish you More tenderly than ever, for we know We should not have this lovely festival But for another Babe, born long ago.

Prayer for Christmas Presence

Generous Father, at this busy time of year, help us to remember the important things. In all the

rush of sending cards and giving presents may we make time to be still, to acknowledge your sending and giving of the greatest gift of all, Jesus. Thank you that He didn’t stay in the stable

in Bethlehem, but lived and died and became the Saviour of all who put their trust in Him. May we receive afresh the gift of your presence with us in

Jesus, now and forever, with great thankfulness. In His name, we pray. Amen

Loving Father, at the start of another Christian Year, we look forward with anticipation and hope despite the huge problems

that beset our world – Forgive us Father and hear our Cry! Advent –

Thrills with expectation Excites with anticipation

Keeps us busy with preparation And fills us with longing – for deliverance of the evils of the world. Father, hear our cry!

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CHRISTMAS REFLECTIONS

About 500 years ago the German theologian Martin Luther was walking through some woods near his home. It was the week before Christmas. He was

thinking about the Coming of the Christ-Child Jesus and wondering how he could celebrate the Saviour’s birth at Bethlehem. Looking up at the beautiful fir trees laden with

sparkling snow, Martin had a wonderful idea! He would chop down a little fir tree, take it indoors and decorate it with candles, in honour of JESUS the LIGHT of the WORLD; and so originated the first decorated Christmas tree.

Church candles remind us of the Light of Christ. In some churches we see them shining on the altar each Sunday. At Baptism services a lighted candle is often given and we say “Shine

as a light in the World, to the Glory of God the Father.” A prayer used at Sandringham Church is “The candle is a sign of our prayers and the offering of our lives in the service of Christ, of

our prayers for others that they too might be strengthened in their faith and love of Our Lord. The candle is a symbol of all those who, through the ages, have shone as lights in the darkness of the world and of their prayers for us. The candle is a witness that this is a place of prayer, a place

where people have knelt in worship through the centuries – to acknowledge that the child of Mary is the Son of God. O God, our Father, source of eternal life, fill the hearts of all

believers with the light of faith. Amen. Grace Magazine

We all look forward to the season of Advent for the time spent

with family and for giving and receiving presents, because God first presented us with a son born to a teenage girl in a cold, dirty stable; this baby that had overlooked the universe and

used the earth as his footstool; His clothes glowing of eternity exchanged for swaddling bands; His glorious gold throne room replaced by cattle bedding and shepherds instead of angels

worshipping him. Put Jesus FIRST this Christmas; in the midst of all the preparations stop and look to Jesus and give TIME to worship him this year so that you will be blessed throughout the year.

God bless you. For God will keep in perfect peace all who trust in him. LS

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BOARD MATTERS The Congregational Board on 17 November in the

Church Hall with Rev. Mayes presiding. The Minutes of the meeting of the 15 September 2015 were approved. MATTERS ARISING: - Short-term working group update. Mrs. Mayes updated the Board on the decision made at the last Kirk Session meeting. The minor changes will be incorporated into the document and forwarded to Board Members. The agenda and any

Minutes/reports are to be in the hands of Board Members one week before the scheduled meeting. Mrs. Easton provided a sub-committee report on “Resources for Worship”. Admin support for

the Minister is not required at this time. Mr. McMillan provided a report on a recent Finance Committee meeting giving details of th proposals funding the outstanding Fabric works and future works.

FINANCE REPORT: - The bank balance stands at £16103.33. The offerings for September and October were £4068.55 and £4702, £4484.10 down on the 10 month period compared to last year. FABRIC REPORT: - The boundary wall at the disabled ramp and along that side has been repaired by Mr. Smith at the cost of materials only; however an M&S Gift Voucher of £25 for Mrs. Smith was suggested and agreed. Broken guttering at the Hall requires attention and the outside light at the Church porch is broken. The carpeting inside the Church requires replacing but there may be suitable pieces in the loft. The Bible ribbon

markers on the lectern are in poor condition and the B.B. are to be asked if they wish to get them replaced as they provided them originally.

SOCIAL ACTION COMMITTEE: - Tea/Coffee will be provided on Sun 6 Dec and there will be a “Two-spoon Lunch” on Sun 13 Dec. LOANS SERVICE: - The next service will be on 20 Dec when Mrs. Zorget will play the piano. AOCB: - Christmas cards of folded A5 size are to be purchased and delivered around Dundonald, Loans and surrounding area.

Mr. Docherty’s suggestion to form a small committee to look at the installation of video screens in the Church was not supported. Various ideas to assist people who can’t presently read the praise sheets were suggested and it was agreed to increase the font size

on some of the praise sheets. NO ball games to be allowed in the Hall while the Christmas tree is there - this applies to all organisations. The Guild requested the Hall for their Christmas

Lunch on 14 December. The Christian Aid Coffee Morning will be on 21 May 2016 from 10 am until 12 noon.

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What Does God Want For Christmas?

George asked, “I don’t know what to get my Dad for Christmas. What do you give somebody who has everything?” Harry replied, “A burglar alarm!” Presents can be a

real problem when we want to give those we love something they really want. But what about God? What would He want from us this Christmas? What’s a suitable gift

to celebrate the birthday of Jesus? What do you give someone who not only has everything, but who actually made everything. The answer can be found in Micah, a prophet who lived about 700 years before the birth of Christ. He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. (Micah 6:8). This Christmas, God is looking for the gift of lives characterised by justice, mercy and humility. Justice – God is just – He is absolutely fair and righteous in all His dealings. Justice means treating people right because you

know God. In the Bible it means caring for the poor, speaking the truth and refusing to take advantage of the less fortunate. For us at Christmas, justice means doing right for those less fortunate

than ourselves. Mercy – This speaks of sharing God’s heart by loving the unlovely even when they don’t love us back. How has God dealt with us

this year? If He has forgiven us, then forgive others. Has God lifted us up when we were down? Then let’s seek to lift others. Where God has overlooked our faults, let’s overlook the faults of others. If God has been merciful to us this year, Christmas is a time to show mercy to others. Humility – Humility is the opposite of pride. It reminds us that everything we have in life is a gift from God. Although some may have more or less than us, we can still thank God for what we have and do the best with what God has given us. This is the attitude we can reflect at Christmas, when we invest so much time

in the presents we give. God is looking to all these actions arising genuinely from our heart. As the carol written by Christina Rosetti says –

What shall I give him, poor as I am If I were a shepherd, I’d give Him a lamb

If I were a wise man, I’d do my part

What shall I give Him, I’ll give Him my heart.

The Beacon, St Mary’s, Caterham, Surrey

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DUNDONALD CHURCH GUILD Eileen Docherty

After opening the meeting on 2 November, Mrs Grant did the reading, prayer and introduced Janette Cousar and her assistant who demonstrated making tray bakes, muffins and loaves. The

cakes were then shared to ‘taste and try’. The remainder went home with delighted members who had a lucky ticket in the draw. Mrs Anne Young thanked Janette on behalf of the Guild

The coffee morning raised £213 on behalf of Guild Projects.

On 16 November Mrs Grant welcomed members and Guests and asked Mrs Margaret Miller to do the Reading and Prayer. She then introduced Jane Brown from the Globe Inn, Dumfries who is no stranger to the Guild. Jane’s talk was entitled ‘Burns and Russia’. She is Past President of the International Burns Federation and during her year in office was invited to Russia with a delegation to give the Immortal Memory at a Burns Supper in St Petersburg. The Federation have links with schools and orphanages in St

Petersburg and have set up a competition for students to write an essay on a given topic on Scotland which the delegates then judge. The 3 winners’ prize is a trip to Scotland hosted by the

Federation. The knowledge of Scotland and Burns shown by these young people was inspirational. Every minute of the week in Russia was filled and was an experience never to be forgotten.

Mrs Pat McLaren thanked Jane on behalf of the Guilds for a most entertaining evening.

Donations of non-perishable goods and toiletries for Glasgow City Mission are still being collected until early December.

The Christmas Party and Dutch Auction will be held in the

Church Hall on 14th December Members are asked to bring

along a wrapped parcel worth approximately £3 to be

auctioned and proceeds will go towards the Guild Projects

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1st Dundonald Company -

Boys’ Brigade Kevin McAulay

Battalion, and National events have started and the Boys are in the thick of it as usual. Anchor section have taken part in their Halloween Parties, hosted at 1/6 Kilmarnock and 1st Dundonald. We celebrated Bonfire night with some colourful sparklers, and have been busy lately making Christmas cards. All this mixed up with the usual fun, games and bucket loads of mischief making with Mr. Keenan and all of the Anchor Section Staff.

Junior Section have been busy with achievement badge work and have also been taking part in the battalion activities recently visiting 1st Cumnock enjoying the crafts evening. Mr. McGavin

amazed himself with his sewing skills, making his very own felt Christmas stocking. Mr. Miller and Mr. McGavin were the taste testers when the boys went to take part in the cooking event 1st

Stewarton. Chocolate crispies, Malteaser cake, pizza and biscuit decorating were on the menu. Mr. McGavin is well known for his cooking skills, so he was in charge of colouring in… The Company Section team unfortunately didn’t go through to the second round of the National Badminton Competition this year, despite a valiant effort by all the boys who took part. But we

will be back again next year ready to go. The Chess team travelled to Cumbernauld and made it through to the 3rd round, and the Senior five-a-side team have the made it through to the 2nd round of the national championships. Next was the Battalion

Swimming Gala. 5 boys took part in this event and won 3 Gold, 2 silver and 3 Bronze Medals; a great team effort and well done to the boys.

The Boys took part in Boys Brigade Flag Week. This is a designated week of the year that Boys’ Brigade allows the companies to do a door-to-door collection within the village. The boys went out in some horrendous weather and raised the fantastic amount of £822. I would like to thank the residents of the village once again for their support with this fundraising event.

A group of the Badminton club boys attended an event at the Inverclyde National Sports Training Centre for an afternoon of coaching from the National Team Coaches, and picked up a few

new skills during the visit. The boys were put through their paces by Mr. John Kent, and Mr. Bill Rae, and finished of the day with a tournament.

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Halloween saw the boys and officers of the Company Section dressing up, and getting into a real mess with fun, games and strawberry sauce at their party. The boys always like a project, and this month they tried their hands at some woodwork. Mr. McAulay helped the boys to make

an Adirondack Chair. This was a popular project, and we hope to make some more. Coming up. The Company Section will be going to the Kilmaurs

Young Farmers Christmas Concert. The boys always look forward to watching (and shouting at) Mr. McGavin, and Mr. Francis treading the boards. Then they will have the annual Christmas shopping trip to Silverburn. More news next time.

A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all from

1st Dundonald Boys’ Brigade!

To all our friends in Dundonald,

from Willie and Christine Stewart

William and I would like to wish you all a very happy Christmas

season, and one in which you find that the joy of the Lord is your strength. As most of you know, I am currently looking after Castlehill Church during this period when it has no minister. This is a real privilege, but I am also missing the fellowship of my home church and I think of you all with fondness.

However, we have decided this year to make a donation to the work of Operation Mercy in lieu of sending out Christmas Cards. Our good wishes for you all are none–the-less sincere and I would leave you to ponder the words of this beautiful hymn (written in

1921 by William Booth – grandson of the founder of the Salvation Army):

Down from His glory, ever living story, My God and Saviour came, and Jesus was His name.

Born in a manger, to His own a stranger,

A Man of sorrows, tears and agony.

Oh how I love him, how I adore him,

My breath, my sunshine, my all in all, The great creator became my Saviour, And all God’s fullness dwelleth in him.

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I heard the bells on Christmas Day Their old familiar carols play, And wild and sweet the words repeat Of peace on earth, goodwill to men.

And thought how, as the day had come,

The belfries of all Christendom Had rolled along the unbroken song Of peace on earth, goodwill to men.

Till ringing, singing on its way, The world revolved from night to day, A voice, a chime, a chant sublime Of peace on earth, goodwill to men.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807-1882) American poet and educator whose works include "Paul Revere's Ride", The Song of

Hiawatha, and Evangeline.

’Tis winter now; the fallen snow Has left the heav’ns all coldly clear;

Through leafless boughs the sharp winds blow,

And all the earth lies dead and drear.

And yet God’s love is not withdrawn;

His life within the keen air breathes; His beauty paints the crimson dawn,

And clothes the boughs with glittering wreaths.

And though abroad the sharp winds blow, And skies are chill, and frosts are keen,

Home closer draws her circle now,

And warmer glows her light within.

O God! Who giv’st the winter’s cold

As well as summer’s joyous rays, Us warmly in Thy love enfold,

And keep us through life’s wintry days.

Samuel Longfellow (1819 -1892) - brother to Henry - youngest of eight children and studied at Harvard Divinity School, where

his classmates included Thomas Wentworth Higginson and Samuel Johnson, with whom he would later collaborate in his hymn writing.

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BIBLE READING

ROTA

Linda Zorget will be coordinating the Bible

Reading Rota from this month – thank you to everyone who

reads each week in

Church and contributes to our worship.

If you would like to take a turn

to read in the service at a future date, please contact

Linda on 850115

WORLD MISSION MAGAZINE

December January

Available in church porch

EMPOWERING INDIVIDUALS AND COMMUNITY

Challenge and Change – HIV issues in Zambia

Christmas in Kolkata,

The City Of Joy

Empowering Ekwendeni’s Women (article about

Malawi)

Bearing Witness in Italy Following God’s call to

Nepal

Proposed Malawi visit May/June 2016

The Presbytery Malawi Partnership Committee are

hoping to send a team to visit our Malawian friends in 2016. If you are interested in being

part of this group or would like more information then please contact Sandy Mavor. Please continue to pray for Malawi as both the price of grain and fertiliser have gone

up. Advance notice of a “Malawi Walk with the Moderator”

along Ayr Promenade on

Saturday 12 March 2016!

Flower Fund

The following people provided flowers for November:

Jim Pennington

Flower Fund Mrs C Parker

Mrs J Gay

Flower Fund also provides for the Service

at the SHU every month. Thanks again – Ellen Gray

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DUNDONALD CHURCH MENS CLUB – WOMEN WELCOME TOO!

If you enjoy a game of bowls, and a cup of tea and fellowship,

please come and join us. We meet every Thursday at 7.30pm. Dougal Gray

DUNDONALD GUILD – 7.30PM Church Hall

14 December- Christmas Party and Dutch Auction 4 January 2016 - The Guild Hymn – Betty Ewart 18 January - Make Over – Caroline Logan 1 February - A Blot in the landscape – Bill Davies, artist

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.

TWO SPOONS LUNCH

On Sunday 13th Dec after Church in Hall – Soup and crusty Bread followed by Scrummy Puddings! Hosted by the Social Action Committee Traidcraft stall will be available at the lunch with Christmas cards etc

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DUNDONALD WI (Rural)

On Thursday 3 Dec we will have a Cake Icing Demonstration by Mrs Moira Gemmell. Come along and join us.

The first meeting of 2016 will be held on Thursday the 7 January at 7.30pm in the Montgomerie Hall Dundonald. This will be a

Scottish Evening to celebrate the New Year. Competition is Tartan Items and will also be our Coins for Friendship. Our February Meeting is our 95th Birthday Celebration and will be held at the South Beach Hotel Troon. There is a coach going to this. If you are a member and have not already booked to attend it is not too late just phone Dorothy Richmond 850050 who will give you all the information.

On behalf of the WI I would like to wish everyone a Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year.

Grace Kenmuir 01563 524824

LOANS WI

(rural)

Friday 4 Dec

At 6.30pm

“Christmas Party” at

South Beach Hotel,

Troon

Santa Surprise £3 gift

29 Jan 2016

Flower Demonstration

With Christian Lamont

Competition

Flower fascinator/Cat

ornament

Hostess – Margaret

Shields

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

HOUSE GROUPS

Look out for a new series starting in

January –

details will be given through

the intimations.

Dundonald

Historical & Archive

Society

in the Castle Visitors Centre Wednesday 10 February

John Messner “Glasgow’s Role in the American Civil War”

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CHRISTMAS WITH DREGHORN

With guest soprano Soraya Mafi and orchestra At the Grand Hall, Kilmarnock

Wednesday 9 December 2015 at 7.30pm. Please see Anne Watts or Anne Young for Tickets £7

Supporting North Ayrshire Women’s Aid dreghornmusicalsociety.co.uk

Magic of Christmas

With Kilmarnock Choral Union – St Andrews and St Marnocks Church, Kilmarnock

Sunday 6 December at 7.30pm £7 includes refreshments. Contact Jane on O7703311764

Ritchie’s Christian Bookshop 40 Beansburn, Kilmarnock 01563 536394

Carols by Candlelight – Friday 4 December at 7.30 pm – for an evening of carol singing and musical entertainment

with Graeme Hewitson and Denise McClung - £2 with festive supper.

Children’s Christmas craft and storytelling morning Sat 12 September 11am-12noon

Marr Cappella ‘Together at Christmas’ In St Meddans Church on Tues 8 December and in Portland

Church Weds 9 December. Tickets £7 from Rev David Harper (01292 312626) or Janice Hardie (01292 312646).

In aid of Ronald McDonald House and Norduff Robbins – providers of Music Therapy

Forever Gloria! The Celebration Choir, Concert Orchestra and Gospel Heirs - Saturday 5 December Newton Wallacetown Church, 7.30pm.

Tickets - Revival FM on 01236 721110 /Admin.revival.fm

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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)

DEC 6th WORSHIP Followed by Tea & Coffee in the Hall

13th FAMILY SERVICE with Marr College Brass Band

and a visit from Santa – the Real McCoy! Children (and anyone else) are invited to bring along a present which will be given to underprivileged families throughout South Ayrshire.

Followed by “Two Spoons Lunch”- Social Action

20th FAMILY SERVICE – The Christmas Musical

(featuring young people from our Junior Church)

Loans Village Service (Village Hall at 2.30pm) (including input from our Junior Church)

24th CHRISTMAS EVE CAROL SERVICE - 7.00pm in the Church, followed afterwards by mince pie an goodies in the Hall.

“ 25th CHRISTMAS DAY FAMILY SERVICE – 10.30am and will be followed by the Sacrament of

Communion

“ 27th WORSHIP

JAN 3rd SONGS of PRAISE

Followed by Tea & Coffee in the Hall

“ 10th WORSHIP

“ 17th WORSHIP

Loans Village Service (Village Hall, 2.30pm.)

“ 24th WORSHIP

“ 26th Kirk Session (Church Hall at 7.30pm.)

“ 31st WORSHIP Sheltered Unit Service (2.00pm.)

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THE WAY WE WERE...

Christmas of Yesteryear

Soon the Christmas and New Year Festivities will be

upon us with many people in work looking forward to a break of two weeks in which to enjoy themselves – a far cry from not so long ago when Christmas Day was just another day, mainly for children. Christmas card scenes of jolly passengers

leaving their horse drawn carriages to enjoy the comfort of a roaring log fire in a coaching inn is only one of the many myths we have come to accept as part of our history. The simple truth is that few travellers were found abroad in the winter and if they travelled by coach they would be covered in straw in an attempt to conserve some heat.

Santa Claus did make a visit although occasionally his arrival did not take place until New Year’s Day in many Scottish Households.

Stockings which had been hung up were fairly easy to fill – an apple, an orange; a new penny and a piece of fruit cake were enough to bring a smile to many a young face.

All that was to change; the ‘Big House’ influence found the children of estate workers enjoying the Christmas of early Victorians with Xmas Tree, turkey and all the trimmings. Two

World Wars found Scots men and women among fellow countrymen from South of the Border and elsewhere. The habit caught on and soon we adopted an English custom although a

good number of years were to pass before Christmas Day and Boxing Day were to be statutory holidays.

New Year has always had a place in Scottish history when the average citizen has no inhibitions in celebrating the start of another year. Sport played a major role in the festivities and Dundonald had its fair share. Pistol shooting was a prominent New

Year day’s feature early last century and on Hogmanay the young people of the village were selected for a dance which was held on alternate years in both public houses. Woe betide anyone falling

foul of the committee who would see that admission in the future would be extremely difficult.

In the Main Street (which was the entire Village) every door was an entry to an open house but that custom fell by the wayside with the advent of television and, sadly, violence. Until Auchans

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House was demolished the Eglington Hunt would meet on New Year’s morning and spectators were invited to join in a ‘dram’.

No longer do we have a Watchnight Service at New Year but the Christmas Eve Service has become a popular event when many people make their way to Church.

Bobby Kirk (from an addition of Contact in the 1990s)

TAKE MY HAND

I cannot ease your aching heart, nor take your pain

away, But let me stay and take your hand, and walk with you today. I’ll listen when you need to talk, I’ll wipe away your tears, I’ll share your worries when they come, I’ll help you face your fears.

I’m here and I will stand by you, each hill you have to climb,

So take my hand let’s face the world, live one day at a time. You’re not alone, for I’m still here, I’ll go that extra mile, And when your grief is easier, I’ll help you learn to smile.

I bring you good news of great joy! Luke 2:1-14

Corrections to a Thriving Village article last month.

a) John Chambers did not live in the railway carriage, but he still made and mended shoes in it up the Smiddy Close.

b) The old man with the fruit van was called Fitchet not Titchet.

If you take Christ out of Christmas, all you are left

with is M & S... Paul Wilson

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Two Christmas poems by Patience

Strong...

WHAT IS CHRISTMAS?

What is Christmas without the child to make the message plain?

When the children sing their sweet old carols once again – the echoes of forgotten faith

return to us through them – as they lead us back along the road to Bethlehem.

What is Christmas without a baby in a manger laid? Nothing but a merry farce, a foolish masquerade. What is Christmas without the magic and the mystery that surround the drama of our Lord’s Nativity? What is Christmas without the Christ? A throne without a King, He turns the tinsel into gold and hallows everything ….. Suffer the

child in you to live and joyously to say “Glory to God in the highest on this great and holy day.”

THE TOY CUPBOARD

Look into the cupboard where the broken toys are put – the engine with a missing wheel, the doll without a foot – the story

book no longer read, the fairy with no wings, surely something could be done with these discarded things. Couldn’t they be mended well enough to give away? Empty stockings they would help to fill for

Christmas Day. Brush that shabby teddy, paint the bricks and clean the swan, bring the old toys back to life.

Don’t keep them. Pass them on.

No matter how carefully you stored the lights last year, they

will be snarled again this Christmas. Robert Kirby

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Cookery Corner

Mango Cheesecake 150g oaty biscuit crumbs (plain or chocolate)

40g butter, melted, 425g can mango slices in light syrup Finely grated zest and juice of 1 lime 300g white chocolate, broken into pieces 280g Philadelphia original, 150ml double cream, lightly whipped

Stir the biscuit crumbs into the melted butter until coated and press into the base of a 19-20 cm loose bottomed cake tin or

spring form tin. Drain the mango slices from their syrup and puree the fruit in a liquidiser or food processor with the lime zest and juice. Melt the chocolate by placing it in a basin over gently

simmering hot water. Whisk the Philly until soft then whisk in the cream and chocolate. Fold about half the mango puree into the Philly cream and spoon over the prepared base. Immediately swirl the remaining mango puree on to the surface of the cheesecake to

give an attractive pattern. Chill for at least three hours before serving to allow the cheesecake to set.

Chicken Provençal 3 Large good quality pork sausages

25g chopped and stoned black olives, Finely grated zest of lemon 1 tablesp mixed herbs, Salt and pepper

8 chicken thighs, skinned and boned, 25g grated Parmesan Chopped parsley to garnish SAUCE: 2 tablesp dark soy sauce, 1 scant tablesp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablesp runny honey, 2 teaspoon grainy mustard, 1x 400g chopped tomatoes

Slit each sausage and remove the meat. Put into bowl with the

olives, lemon zest, herbs and S&P and mix well. Unfold and lay out chicken thighs, smooth side down, season with S&P. Fill with a tablesp of stuffing mix, bring each edge of the chicken towards the middle over the stuffing. Arrange in an ovenproof dish join side down and season. Blend the sauce ingredients in a bowl, pour over thighs and sprinkle with Parmesan.

Cook in preheated oven, 190c/375f/ gas5 for 30--40 mins till chicken is tender. Garnish with parsley and serve with mashed potatoes. Serves 4/6 Any leftovers are delicious cold.

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A four year old boy was asked to give thanks before Christmas dinner. The family members bowed their heads in

expectation. He began his prayer, thanked God for all his friends, thanking them one by

one. Then he thanks God for his Mummy, Daddy, brother, sister, Grandma, Grandpa and all his aunts and uncles. Then

he began to thank God for the food. He gave thanks for the turkey, the stuffing, the gravy,

the mince pies, the Christmas pudding. Then he paused, everyone waited. After a long silence, the young boy looked up at his mother and asked, “If I thank God for the sprouts,

won’t he know that I am lying?” From Bucket of Surprises,

Monarch Books

You Look Lovely, Dear ….

Does that outfit you are planning to wear for Christmas Day suit you? Really? No use asking your partner – he will most likely be too scared to tell you the truth. Yet it seems that nearly three

quarters of women own clothes which make their partners wince when they see them. Some offending garments are thought frumpy. Others are considered simply too tight, low cut tops,

mini-skirts, skinny jeans and leggings are the worst offenders. Men look, and wince – but they keep quiet. Nearly half the men questioned by the British Heart Foundation admitted that they

dare not tell the truth – for fear of causing domestic unhappiness.

The Beacon, St Mary’s Church – Caterham, Surrey

21

CHRISTMAS CRACKERS

What did the sea say to Santa? Nothing it just waved!

What does Santa suffer from if he gets stuck in a chimney? Claustrophobia!

Where do elves go to dance? Christmas Balls!

What do reindeer hang on their Christmas trees? Horn-aments!

What do snowmen wear on their heads? Ice caps!

What song do you sing at a snowman’s birthday party?

Freeze a jolly good fellow!

Who hides in the bakery at Christmas? A mince spy!

What athlete is warmest in winter?

A long jumper!

Why are Christmas trees like bad knitters?

They keep losing their needles!

What happened to the man who stole an Advent calendar?

He got 25 days!

What is the best Christmas present in the world? A broken drum, you just can’t beat it!

22

BIBLE READING 06/12/2015 Lilian Axford

13/12/2015 Gift Service

20/12/ 2015 Christmas Musical

27/12/2015 Allan Brown

03/01/2016 Yvonne Cain (Songs Of Praise)

10/01/2016 Janette Caldwell

17/01/2016 Ann Ferguson

24 /01/2016 Andrew Douglas

31/01/2016 Janis Harper

07/02/ 2016 David Harrow

CRECHE 06-Dec Linda Zorget+Moira Henderson

13-Dec Jean Gray+Mary Dunlop

20-Dec Libba Fallows+Anne FitzGerald

27-Dec Frances Mavor+ Kathleen Morton

03-Jan Helen Jamieson+Nancy Armour

10-Jan Catriona Mayes+Margaret Rae

17-Jan Linda Williams+Shona Jack

24-Jan Lynne Fagan+Joanne Edgar

31-Jan Linda Zorget+Moira Henderson

07-Feb Jean Gray+Mary Dunlop

With every power for good to stay and guide me, Comforted and inspired beyond all fear,

I’ll live these days with you in thought beside me, And pass, with you, into the coming year.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906-1945) From prison, New Year 1945

23

DOOR DUTY

6/12/15

Mr. W.

Rae

Miss E.

Gray

Mrs. G.

Kenmuir

Mrs. J.

Ritchie

Mr. G.

Baird

13/12/15 Mr. J. Morton

Mr. C. McArthur

Mrs. E. Grant

Mrs. M. Miller

20/12/15 Mrs. E.

Docherty Mrs. E. Munro

Mr. J. Ritchie

Mr. G. Dunn

Mrs. L. Axford

24/12/15

Mr. D.

Harrow

Miss A.

Ferguson

Mrs. M.

Brown

Mrs. J.

Harper

27/12/15 Mr. W.G.

Jack Mrs. H. Harrow

Mrs. D. Richmond

Mrs. Y. Cain

Mrs. A. FitzGerald

03/01/16 Mr. W.

Thomson Mr. S. Mavor

Mr. J.D. Gray

Mrs. M. Gilmour

Mrs. J. Hardie

10/01/16 Mr. R.

McMillan Mrs. F. Mavor

Mrs. E. Shakespeare

Mr. C. Docherty

17/01/16 Mr. J. Kerr

Mrs. S. Payne

Mrs. A . Picken

Miss. S. Wilson

Mr. A. Brown

24/01/16 Mr. W.

Rae Miss E. Gray

Mrs. G. Kenmuir

Mrs. J. Ritchie

Mr. G. Baird

31/01/16

Mr. J.

Morton

Mr. C.

McArthur

Mrs. E.

Grant

Mrs. M.

Miller

07/02/16 Mrs. E.

Docherty Mrs. E. Munro

Mr. J. Ritchie

Mr. G. Dunn

Mrs. L. Axford

CAR ROTA 06/12/15 David Harrow Margaret Rae

13/12/15 Graeme Dunn Maggie Kuczynski

20/12/15 Pat McLaren Moreen Linton

27/12/15 John Morton Maureen Brown

03/01/16 Pam Kavanagh Kate Tweedie

10/01/16 Sandy Parker Janette Caldwell

17/01/16 Angus Stirrat Gemmill Jack

24/01/16 Sheila Wilson Johnann Stewart

31/01/16 David Harrow Margaret Rae

07/02/16 Graeme Dunn Maggie Kuczynski

24

Children’s Page

25

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

February Contact

Magazine

by Sunday 31st January

2016

sandyfrancesm@ hotmail.com