coracle spring 2013 issue 4/55 FROM THE HOLY CITY: THE UNIFYING THEME OF JUSTICE, PEACE AND THE INTEGRITY OF CREATION Peter Macdonald p1 SPARKS OF THE LIGHT p2 THE IONA COMMUNITY’S 2012 ANNUAL REPORT p3 the magazine of the iona community THE GOOD SHEPHERD: REFLECTION FROM AN IONA ABBEY WELCOME SERVICE coracle Carol Dougall p26

WALK THE TALK BLESSING May God the maker bless you: Annual Repor t God who speaks words of freedom and justice, God who walks what he talks forever. Issue May God bless you, with hope.

May Jesus the teacher bless you: Jesus who speaks of Good News for poor people, Jesus who talks and does the business. May Jesus bless you, with truth.

May God the Holy Spirit bless you: the Holy Spirit who speaks in fire and stillness, the Holy Spirit who dances what she announces. May the Holy Spirit bless you, with joy.

May you walk and talk with God who loves you forever, every step of your journey, every moment of your life. Amen

Ruth Burgess, from Like Leaves to the Sun: Prayers from the Iona Community , Wild Goose Publications, 2013

Cover photo: © Martin Johnstone

coracle The Iona Community, 4th Floor, Savoy House, 140 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow G2 3DH t: 0141 332 6343 f: 0141 332 1090 e: [email protected] w: http://iona.org.uk/media/coracle/ © the iona community 2013/contents © the individual contributors Work and worship, Prayer and politics, Sacred and secular … The Iona Community is: 1 coracle Peter Macdonald My attention was drawn recently to Paul Murray’s book Receptive Neil Paynter spring 2013 • An ecumenical community of men and Ecumenism and the Call to Catholic Learning (OUP), in which he describes information and women from different walks of life and from the holy different traditions in the Christian church ecumenism as ‘ a matter of the heart before it is a matter of the head; a city • Committed to the gospel of Jesus Christ, and From the holy city: matter of falling in love with the experienced presence and action of God in Sparks of to following where that leads, even into the the people, practices, even structures of another tradition’ . unknown • Engaged together, and with people of goodwill This sentiment lies at the core of our life in community. Many of us have across the world, in acting, reflecting and the Light the unifying found the Community to be more affirming and inclusive than our own praying for justice, peace and the integrity denominations. It has opened our eyes to the failings and false of creation ‘The Iona Community is both a • Convinced that the inclusive community we theme of justice, perspective of our own traditions and to how much we have to learn worldwide movement – with seek must be embodied in the community from one another and indeed from other religions. members and groups everywhere we practise At the Ecumenical Conference of Church Leaders held on Iona in 1984, from Malawi to Michigan, from So we share a common discipline of: Cardinal Thomas Winning advocated ‘a continual series of creative Cumbria to Cuba and from Perth, • Daily prayer and bible study peace and the Scotland to Perth, Australia – and a • Mutual accountability for our use of time experiments born of goodwill and with a vision of the future which we are movement rooted in local realities.’ and money building together’. This is precisely what we are engaged in as a • Spending time together integrity of movement and organisation in worship and protest, through (Kathy Galloway, Coracle ). • Action for justice and peace programmes and projects grounded in the whole of life – a foretaste of I always feel inspired and energised And are, together with our staff, the unity Jesus wills for his Church and for all creation. l when I think about that: Folk responsible for: creation working at what they are called to • Our islands residential centres of Iona Abbey, PRAYER the MacLeod Centre on Iona, and Camas do in their own community – Adventure Centre on the Ross of Mull. Denominational allegiances rarely figure in my conversations with Iona With the eye of a weaver everything from collecting door to And in Glasgow Community members and associate members. Recently, however, you have chosen us – door for Christian Aid to protesting • The administration of the Community conversation and communication have centred round denominational such different threads – non-violently at Faslane. ‘We all • Our work with young people concerns. Anglicans, especially women, have expressed their continuing • Our publishing house, Wild Goose Publications to be gathered into unity have our gifts,’ wrote Saint Paul. ‘We • Our association in the revitalising of worship distress at the outcome of the vote on women bishops. Roman Catholics that the world might believe. are all members of the Body.’ ‘We with the Wild Goose Resource Group have been shocked and saddened by the sexual behaviour and So may we not serve your purpose are all sparks of the Light,’ I once hypocrisy of priests and bishops and cardinals. Presbyterians grow ever The Iona Community was founded in Glasgow in unless we are open to each other; heard an Iona Community member 1938 by George MacLeod, minister, visionary and more apprehensive about possible schism as a consequence of the not care for each other say at a plenary. prophetic witness for peace, in the context of outcome of the debate on same-sex partnerships and ministry at the the poverty and despair of the Depression. Its unless we reflect your love; forthcoming Church of Scotland General Assembly. And so I think of different original task of rebuilding the monastic ruins of nor dare to love like you members, associates and Friends of Iona Abbey became a sign of hopeful rebuilding We are known as Christian sisters and brothers by our pain, a pain that is unless we are glad to accept of community in Scotland and beyond. Today, we the Community and some of their often compounded by our lack of understanding of each other’s are almost 250 Members, mostly in Britain, and the cost and joy of discipleship, work past and present: Israel 1500 Associate Members, with 1400 Friends dilemmas. Many of us struggle to remain faithful and loyal to our own as friends and followers of Jesus, Nelson, a retired substance abuse worldwide. Together and apart, ‘we follow the tradition and to be a critical voice arguing for change from within. in whose name we pray. counsellor in Alaska, campaigning light we have, and pray for more light.’ Perhaps we are suffering the effects of an ‘ecumenical winter’ as our Wild Goose Worship Group, for decent, humane housing for a Coracle is the bi-monthly magazine of the Iona respective denominations huddle in ever-closer circles whilst the vision from Present on Earth: vulnerable friend and his family; Community. Views expressed in it are not of the oikoumene , which inspires the ecumenical movement, fades like necessarily the policy of the Iona Community, but Worship Resources on the Life of Jesus, June Walker working at the the memory of summers past. Here is climate change for which we long. the Community seeks the exchange of thoughts Wild Goose Publications, grassroots, promoting and ideas as a basis for finding common ground. I caught the ecumenical bug through my first contact with the Iona www.ionabooks.com permaculture in Malawi; John Letters are welcome, but may be edited because Community in 1980 and this went viral after attending the World Council Harvey hosting meetings and SPECIAL ECUMENICAL PROGRAMME ON IONA, 2013 of space restrictions. For advertising or of Churches Assembly in 1983 in Vancouver. Lesley was there as a Church enabling folk to participate in the photography specifications, please contact the Poverty Truth Commission; Katy editor. Unsolicited material is welcome (by e- of Scotland Youth delegate and I had observer status representing the As part of the Iona Community’s 2013 Islands Programme, the mail or on disk) but cannot always be included. Student Christian Movement in Britain. It was also our honeymoon. Community is hosting a Special Ecumenical Programme for invited Owen volunteering at a foot clinic groups and others at the Abbey and MacLeod Centre, May 18-24. for the homeless in Glasgow; next copy dates: It was a life-changing experience. We returned inspired by a vision of the Reinhild Traitler working at the please contact the editor ecumenical movement, not as an exercise in ecclesiastical joinery, rather Peter Macdonald is the current Leader of the Iona Community. European Project for Interreligious contact details: as the engagement of the Gospel with the whole of life. We returned C

The Iona Community, 4th Floor, Savoy House, St Martin’s Cross © David Coleman Learning in Zurich; Chris and John o

deeply moved by our encounters with Christians from every continent n 140 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow G2 3DH Polhill welcoming pilgrims to their t

and by their stories of faith in the midst of poverty, conflict and i t: 0141 332 6343 f: 0141 332 1090 beautiful and challenging n

e: [email protected] oppression. We returned not only with songs from the World Church, u

Reflection Gardens in Cannock e w: http://iona.org.uk/media/coracle/

many of which are familiar to us all now, but with an agenda: the d Wood; Ian Fraser still ‘hammering

editor Neil Paynter unifying theme of justice, peace and the integrity of creation. o

out theology at white heat in the fire n administration Karen Turner

template design Wendy Ball, 2ND STOREY Alas, the only ecumenical nurture and growth I have experienced since of experience’ and digging his p a formatting by Neil Paynter then has been as a member of the Community. As a parish minister for vegetable garden at his but-and- g

printed by Montgomery Litho, Glasgow twenty years rarely did local initiatives receive any acknowledgement or ben in Gargunnock; politician Ewan e

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support from the appropriate ecumenical bodies. Denominational Aitken working for peace and 0 Coracle is the magazine of the Iona Community, a

charity registered in Scotland No: SC003794 interests nationally and locally have frozen out ecumenical vision and justice in the City of Edinburgh; … Company No: SC096243 challenge. scholar Rosemary Power leading A

2 the way everyone looked out for section, three groups were from care is taken to form lasting n 1 each other; of the beauty of the special needs backgrounds; and working relationships with them. n 0 The Iona Community’s u 2 Hartlepool College sent a group of Camas staff spend the winter

island and of the story of the Abbey. a t A mother shared her surprise at how young people who had been months visiting groups and l r R o religion on Iona was about ‘the excluded from or had other ensuring that financial constraints e p 2012 Annual Report p e ordinary things – I expected it to be difficulties within the education do not prevent anyone from o R

Membership in the Iona Community is renewed annually with members Papers reflecting international all holy!’ A single mum, who had system. coming and enjoying the Camas r l t

initially been quite cautious about experience. a accounting to one another in Family Groups for their keeping of the Rule expertise and new developments The overall focus of the Camas 2 u of the Community. In so doing, members also renew their commitment in research were presented on the the holiday, shared how she 0 n programme was development of The second week of July brought a 1

n gradually felt more and more to a wider movement, seeking a more just and equal society, a fairer, archaeology and history of the community through engagement youth group from Provanmill in 2 A comfortable. An asylum seeker said more sustainable way of living and a progressive renewal of the Church island and on the influence of the with guests on an individual basis, Glasgow. We made time for some that it was brilliant to get the and its worship. Columban mission. The conference allowing folk to feel welcomed, climbing feats on the quarry face, opportunity to come here: ‘When you was a great success, and will inform safe and able to explore the leaping off the pier into the deep sea If you oppress the poor, you offend the One who made them (Proverbs are locked in Glasgow, you don't the new visitor facilities to be Camas environment. below, and also an adventure to the 14:31). realise how beautiful places like this opened on Iona in 2013 by Historic tidal island of Erraid, where one of its are.’ ‘It was magic!’ someone else New activities included coast- In most nations today the gap between rich and poor is widening. Scotland. beautiful beaches was treated to a said. eering and rock climbing over at a Across Europe during this recession there is a discernible trend to top-quality football match (as well portray benefits systems as a burden rather than a safety net and In marked contrast, but with equal crag on Knockvologan. Camping success and lasting effect, was a – A Leader at Priority Areas Holiday at Market Bay became a regular as a jellyfish fight!). investment which provides social security for all citizens through contri - Week butions in National Insurance and taxation. Part of this attack has been summer week at both Iona centres feature most weeks. Arts and crafts As if that wasn’t enough, the week to characterise poverty as a matter of individual responsibility and and Camas hosting families from ‘Iona describes how one big family remain a strong part of the culminated in a fiercely contested blame. People living in poverty or with a disability have been priority areas of Scottish cities. This can live in harmony and peace.’ programme. Sessions on raft race, which was a great was a joint venture between Iona improvised music-making also exhibition of the group’s engineering increasingly stigmatised. This has directly affected many of the people – A guest at Priority Areas Holiday Community members and the featured, inspired by a staff and knot-tying skills. Then to round the Iona Community works alongside and a number of our members. Week Church of Scotland Priority Areas training session led by Iona the week off we had a fantastic In this short report it is not possible to give an account of how Iona Team – laughter, fun and ‘Fun-dabadozzie!’ Community member Jane Bentley. celebration, with what can only be Community members act out their commitment and their growing enjoyment were the hallmarks of ‘The bee’s knees!’ There were also team problem- described as a colossal amount of concern about inequality across Scotland and further afield. However, it the week, especially for the solving challenges and games of baked goods – pizzas galore, garlic is hoped that their corporate commitment and concern can be seen in children. – Children describing their stay at hide-and-seek in the bracken. bread, cheesy bread and chocolate- the priorities of the Community’s work. the MacLeod Centre in 2012 birthday-cake sensation. We then put One hundred and eight volunteers Camas was successful in our very well-fed selves to the test It has been a privilege for the Community to work alongside people on came to work at the Community’s CAMAS ADVENTURE CENTRE, fundraising £9350 from the with a series of hilarious games, low incomes and benefits. In many instances we have done so in Iona centres in 2012 – from sixteen MULL National Lottery and £2000 from including ‘Egg’: the object of the partnership at local and national level with the Church of Scotland different countries, including Japan, the Co-op. Grant funding enables 2012 was a fun year with fantastic game being to make other people Priority Areas Team and Faith in Community Scotland. The Community Paraguay, South Africa and Finland. the continued development of the weather enjoyed by guests, laugh by jumping up and down and also collaborates with Church Action on Poverty and Christian Aid in programme and facilities at The Community is grateful to all visitors and staff – amongst whom shouting: ‘Egg!’ awareness-raising and campaigning for fairer taxation and tax justice, Camas. our Resident and volunteer staff for there was much laughter, an and for effective financial regulation. Further joint initiatives are planned. It was certainly a fantastic week for the warm welcome and generous overwhelming sense of support, The Iona Community was all and the staff were sad to say THE ABBEY AND MACLEOD CENTRE hospitality shown to guests who and the sharing of ‘that special fortunate to have had a very goodbye to the hours of table tennis Although 2012 was a year of deepening economic crisis and austerity come to share the common life. something ’ which is unique to life dedicated staff group at Camas in and epic banter. across Europe and in many other parts of the world, people are still at Camas. 2012. Volunteers came from ‘People spoke of the unique travelling to Iona in great numbers. The Abbey maintained its high Scotland, England, Canada and – From the Camas blog experience of getting away as a The majority of youth groups who occupancy rate, and bookings for the MacLeod Centre were a marked Sweden. family together; of the pleasure of visited were marginalised young ‘Camas was a soul-searching improvement on 2011. getting food put down in front of people and individuals who could A significant percentage of the place that made me feel Two weeks are especially worth highlighting. Early in the season, the them; of the programme for the provide leadership back in their groups visiting Camas come from good about myself.’ Iona Community hosted a joint Iona conference with Historic Scotland. children which gave them ‘time off’; of communities. Within the schools poorer communities and much – A guest at Camas in 2012 A

2 WORK WITH YOUNG PEOPLE weekend at St Matthew’s Church, certainly been no lack of good new titles to these formats, in addition WILD GOOSE RESOURCE GROUP Ireland, the US and Canada, John n 1 Perth; and participation in the material to publish. to making sure that new books are travelled to South America where n 0

The Iona Community’s work with Graham Maule continues to be u

2 Priority Areas group week at available in e-book format soon he led sessions in Buenos Aires for a young people centres on schools, As always, several new books were chief catalyst par excellence for t Camas, the Student Christian after publication. Anglican priests. He also visited l r colleges, church youth groups and produced and also some original our monthly Holy City event, R o Movement conference in local projects in Paraguay, including e p events at our centres on Iona and downloads. New books included: One of the year's new books, which began its new season in p e Edinburgh, and the Church of a village from where, for several

Mull. 50 New Prayers from the Iona Dazzling Darkness by Rachel Mann, Glasgow on October 7th, a move o R Scotland National Youth Assembly. Community and Living Letters of the years now, young people have r l

achieved a place in the Church to the first Sunday of each month t

Sessions in schools in 2012 travelled to volunteer at the Iona a In addition to this core youth Word , by Neil Paynter, God in the Times top ten and also created from the last. Holy City’s 2013 2 u included, for example, a workshop Community’s centres on Iona. 0 n work, Laura McAleese, who has Dark , by Peter Longson, Pathways quite a lot of interest online. theme is ‘Promising Lands: Rough at Notre Dame High School in 1 n now moved on from the Youth for Pilgrims , by Chris King, Ready or Another title, God in the Dark , by Guides to Contemporary Faith in a John has worked with the BBC on 2

A Greenock focusing on the Team into teacher training, Not , by Ruth Harvey, The Truth that Peter Longson, obtained a good Small Nation and a Wee World’. experience of asylum seekers and various broadcasts, including a reshaped her workshop material Sets Us Free (songbook and CD), by review in the same magazine, as Through workshops and liturgy refugees in Scotland. At programme recorded on Iona, one for prisons on anti-sectarianism John L. Bell and the Wild Goose did Ready or Not , by Ruth Harvey. we are exploring the roads and Bellahouston Academy a labyrinth of a series of three summer services into a stand-alone pack for prison Collective, A Way of Knowing , by Joy The theme of darkness (in its turnings we need to take on the was created in the assembly hall, exploring the spirituality of islands staff. The evaluation of Can You Mead, Dazzling Darkness , by Rachel various forms) seemed to hit journey to desirable social, enabling all S1 pupils to on Britain’s coastline. Hear the Bigots Sing? has consis - Mann, and The Still Small Voice , by home with a lot of readers this political, ecological, economical experience and learn the value of Members of WGRG facilitated tently shown a significant increase Neil Paynter. past year, perhaps a reflection of and spiritual destinations. taking time in life to reflect. programmed weeks on Iona in in understanding of sectarianism the times we live in. Original downloads published In addition to the regular event, in 2012, including the Church of Work with an English language and a reduction in sectarian during the year included several The Iona Community have a wide November, Irish poet, theologian Scotland Priority Areas Holiday class of asylum seekers at attitudes among prisoners. for Lent and Easter: Stations of the range of worship resources which Anniesland College included their and group worker Pádraig Ó Week and ‘What Is this Place, Who Cross, by Pat Bennett & Kerry can be used for all sorts of different involvement in an inter-college art ‘The Youth Festival on Iona was one Tuama returned for a third year to Are these People?’ with invited Davies, Two Hymns for Holy Week, occasions and situations. These are competition on ‘equality and of the best experiences I have ever lead us in an inspiring week of experts in participative liturgical by Pat Bennett, Love Wastefully and often refreshingly different to the diversity’. The meanings of the been a part of – a place where I met events in poetry, conflict and renovation, looking at the places Save the World, Deniers, Doubters, liturgical and worship resources words equality and diversity were a group of amazing people.’ peacemaking and an urban where we worship and those who Betrayers All and Getting Our available from single denomi - retreat, ‘Angry Jesus and Other explored, translated into the ‘In school, people don’t care about gather there. Hands Dirty, by Sally Foster-Fulton nations. The material is thoroughly Stories’. students’ native languages, then things like ending poverty or Jesus with Ruth Burgess – as well as A ecumenical, and is infused with a New Publications in 2012 included brought to life in a wonderful stuff, but we fit here, ‘cause there are Graham Maule and Jo Love have Service for Candlemas/St strong element of ethical responsi - The Truth that Sets Us Free , community arts banner – the lots of other people who are together and independently led Brigid/Imbolc, by Annie bility. (songbook and CD) and Spare students won first prize! interested in that and I like that.’ Heppenstall & Carey Saleh, The workshops and sings – from Change and Gilt-edged Grace , a – The Arthur Rank Centre A key role of the Youth Team is ‘From being part of the Youth Blessed Path (A wedding/ Dunoon to Dundee, Stirling to liturgy booklet exploring the liaising with groups before and Festival I have fallen in love with the partnership liturgy), by Annie A new publication by Wild Goose Swanwick. Jo completed her relationship between faith and after their visits to the island, the community and working Heppenstall, Eternity Dipping into always catches me by surprise, secondment at Cranhill Church in wealth. May and began some creative Community’s centres. This form of with the inspiring friends, peers and Time, by Kathy Galloway, and some excites me and lifts my spirits. At ‘It was our delight to have you with locum duties with young people partnership-working has been young people that I met there!’ downloads for Advent and points when I am feeling low, partic - us, and everyone was still buzzing at at St Paul’s, Provanmill in June. In particularly successful with the Christmas: An Infinity of Stars, by ularly when I have put God on a Mass on Sunday morning. I am being – Comments from young people the autumn, she embarked on a SiMY community development Jan Sutch Pickard, Advent Candle- back burner, something arrives from beleaguered with requests for more following Iona Youth Festival 2012 project with Girls’ Brigade project in Townhead, and has led lighting Responses & an Advent WGP to remind me that we are all Wild Goose music in our liturgies. Your Scotland, piloting some fresh ideas to the start-up of an Arts Club, and WILD GOOSE PUBLICATIONS Carol, by Pat Bennett, All-Generous part of a bigger picture. The e-books wise words and unique delivery came for exploring spirituality with both with St Paul’s Youth Club, In common with most of the book God, by David McNeish, and The and access to daily readings via the as a revelation which will continue to the girls and leaders. Provanmill. trade it has been another difficult Feast of the Christ Child, by Pat Internet are imaginative feed our community.’ Work with local church groups has year financially for Wild Goose Bennett. developments and show how we John Bell was invited to speak at – Lesley Wright, Newcastle upon Tyne, included a monthly Youth Team Publications, but trading seemed Sales of downloads and e-books can embrace the new to illuminate the Solas Festival, and WGRG again on the work of WGRG presence at Carnwadric Church to improve somewhat towards the are still increasing and work the old. had a presence at Greenbelt. In Youth Fellowship; a worship end of 2012 and there has continues on converting backlist – Simon Villette, associate addition to working in the UK, ‘It was a joy to participate with A

2 Graham and Jo … I felt I could sing to Prayer Circle week. aspects of membership in light of Family Group we are exploring how Our future has both exciting 90% to 92%, and the MacLeod n 1 and sing … Made me think about the challenges of the continuing we may be able to support the opportunities and interesting Centre up from 58% to 73%, albeit n 0

Prayer Circle week is a time when u

2 increase in applications to join the challenges ahead. In the UK we are with a shorter season. Expenditure

how we do liturgy, and I can take struggle for justice for those affected a members of the circle come t back thoughts for our church … Community. The consultation by policy decisions relating to the facing an ‘austerity’ agenda that is was also similar to 2011 across all l r together on Iona, along with other R o Lots of ideas for lay-led worship … process with members and tragedies at Hillsborough and coloured by cruelty. The stigmati - categories. e p guests from a Gathering Week, to p e Loved the sense of belonging associate members has prompted Orgreave. sation of the poor and vulnerable

explore aspects of spirituality and After normal transfers between o R

together in harmony …’ lively discussion and appears to be is a daily reality. It is easy to feel r l prayer, often using the arts. – Philip Jakob, member funds the General Fund had a very t

engendering renewed somewhat powerless against this, a – Post-conference evaluation, small fall during 2012 to £185,847. 2 u Through discussions at Prayer commitment as the Community Juggling training for ministry with but we need to take it on and 0 n

Swanwick 1 Circle weeks, and through the Plans are well advanced for the n looks forward to its 75th the Church of Scotland (a three-year wrestle it down, or try to at least. 2

A THE IONA PRAYER CIRCLE many e-mails and letters, it has anniversary in 2013. divinity degree coupled with church Engagement is vital wherever we double celebrations in 2013 become clear that there is a real placements, conferences and small encounter injustice and marking the 1450th Anniversary of The Iona Prayer Circle is part of the The Community mourned the hunger for finding different ways group reflections) and the joyful oppression. We must stand/sit the Coming of Columba and the healing ministry of the Iona deaths of three long-standing to pray, other than the familiar chaos of family life with three with the oppressed. In some cases 75th Anniversary of the Iona Community. Its roots are based in members in 2012. Revd David liturgical model used in so many primary-school-aged children has we also are the oppressed and we Community. The Columban the beginnings of the Community, Levison, who had a varied and churches. Many of the Prayer Circle made me appreciate why accounta - need to be mindful of that. Family celebrations in May will be centred from when people first began to exciting ministry and was weeks of recent years have helped bility for the use of time is part of Groups will need to function at on Iona and are being organised in send in requests for prayers for committed to the ecumenical people to experiment with prayer the Iona Community’s Rule. It has their best in order to support partnership with the island healing to the fledgling Iona movement; Revd Robert Currie, forms from other cultures, faiths been a thoroughly enjoyable few those staring into the abyss. We community and Historic Scotland. Community in 1939. Prayers have who was a faithful parish minister and traditions. The week held at years – finding an aptitude for need to look at the difficult stuff, Celebration of the founding of the continued ever since, and are in Clydebank, Dowanhill, Glasgow, the MacLeod Centre in 2012 was theology I did not know existed and but do that together. There is Iona Community will take place in brought together during a simple associate minister at Paisley Abbey no exception: we explored the finding a rhythm of working that always joy hidden deep within the Glasgow and Govan in June 2013. service held on Tuesday night in and hospital chaplain; Revd Hugh Breath of God, focusing on includes knowing when not to work. difficult places. Wherever we are, Iona Abbey. Intercession is made Drummond, long-serving parish – Robert Swinfen, Support Services embodied prayer, and ideas from Songwriting and poetry have been God is with us. for people and places where there minister and passionate peace Manager the Native American tradition. campaigner with Scottish Clergy blossoming companions, with music is need of healing of any sort. For the next wee while at least, I The Iona Community, Glasgow. Limited Spirit of the living God, Against Nuclear Arms. being a great source of solace and Prayer requests come from people am officially your servant. I’m here Company Reg No. SCO96243, Scottish Charity present with us now, inspiration. visiting the island and from Their names will be added to the if you need me. Blessings, love and No. SC003794. Registered office: The Iona enter you body, mind and spirit, further afield through folk list of those whom we continue to Through it all, the Iona Community peace to you all. Community, 4th Floor, Savoy House, 140 contacting the Abbey by phone, and heal you of all that harms you, has been an uncomfortable encour - remember with thanksgiving. – Morag Balfour Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, G2 3DH. tel: 0141 letter or e-mail. People and places in Jesus’ name. agement, supporting me in many My work as Director of Music for the 332 6343/fax: 0141 332 1090, needing longer-term prayer are ways and continuing to challenge FINANCIAL REVIEW OF 2012 – Prayer from the Tuesday evening Cathedral and Catholic Diocese of [email protected], www.iona.org.uk placed onto lists which are sent me to ground everything I do in love Service of Prayers for Healing on Hallam (South Yorks) is hugely Voluntary income in 2011 was out to the many intercessors that is incarnate and not distant. The Abbey and MacLeod Centre, Isle of Iona, Iona informed by my membership of the substantially boosted by a one-off worldwide. These intercessors pray Argyll PA76 6SN. tel: 01681 700404, Iona Community. It also supports my – David McNeish, member donation from the closure of the faithfully, many choosing to do so MEMBERSHIP [email protected] membership of the Diocesan Justice Alastair Crerar Trust for the Single at 9pm on a Tuesday evening to CONVENOR’S REPORT The Camas Centre, Bunessan, Isle of Mull, Argyll Twenty-one people were hallowed & Peace Commission, my ecumenical Poor. Allowing for this, income be a part of what is happening on PA67 6DX. tel: 01681 700367, into membership at Community position as Chair of South Yorkshire I’ve had an interesting few months from donations was largely the Iona. [email protected] Week in August. Churches Together, and the choice of getting a handle on the organi - same in 2012 as in 2011. An important part of the Prayer There are currently 270 members, music which I deploy at cathedral sation/movement of ours. Most of Publications income and Shop Wild Goose Publications, 4th Floor, Savoy House, Circle is correspondence by letter a slight decrease on last year due and diocesan liturgies. I am currently us love it, but few truly know it. sales on Iona continued to 140 Sauchiehall St, Glasgow G2 3DH. tel: 0141 and e-mail with Prayer Circle to the suspension of the New engaged in the project ‘Listen up’, I’ve been struck by people’s belief perform well given the overall 332 6292, [email protected], Coordinator, Polly Burns; these Members Programme until 2014. which seeks to offer an ear to those in me, and the widespread economic environment, and www.ionabooks.com communications often in In December 2011 the Council who are most affected by welfare expectation that I’ll instantly know bookings income at all the Islands Photos by Martin Johnstone, Jo Love, Andy Murray, Liz response to the theme explored agreed to set up a Membership reform and cuts in services and to everything. I am learning as I go so Centres improved slightly on 2011 Paterson, Ben Raw. Used with permission. in the bi-monthly prayer letter or Review Group to consider all enable their voices to be heard. As a do bear with me. with Abbey occupancy up from Sparks of the Light continued from p.1

2 prayer walks in County Clare … I with God, but living, flowing times Neil Davies: I've just changed my coracle 10 1 Iona Community Income & Expenditure for 2012 think too of our sister communities, when, by His Spirit, we are exercised job within the Probation Service spring 2013

0 news

2 like Corrymeela, and the Open in unravelling the mystery of that from working in a hostel in a t Door Community in America, apex of majesty which is His residential setting with very high- r o welcoming the homeless of Atlanta humanity.’ risk prisoners to Programmes. p

e into 910 Ponce De Leon Avenue, Basically this is working with groups George also, with a mischievous R visiting brothers and sisters in of people to address their offending

l glint, wrote: ‘A mouse can do little, prison. behaviour. So we deliver courses on a but a nest of mice can work great u thinking skills, drug and alcohol n I think of the work of this havoc’ …

n misuse, domestic violence, sex- community of wonderful,

A Here is what a ‘nest’ of members offending. It’s really challenging but committed people (and others) – were working at at the time of very worthwhile. Mind you, if the all of them in their own particular, writing. I’ve concentrated on Justice Secretary has his way, there passionate, dogged way helping to members here (last spring Coracle I won’t be a Probation Service. Family build Christ’s Kingdom; work included the work of members, Group have been looking at our sustained by a daily discipline of associates and Friends). I know how carbon footprints – very interesting. prayer and reflection. committed associates and Friends Rosemary Power: I’ve been working Occasionally, folk, both inside and are – how much they contribute to in pioneer ministry (international, outside the Community (maybe the life of the Community – ecumenical) in recession-hit west of you’ve heard it too), say that the something that always inspires and Ireland; setting up prayer walks Iona Community has lost its ‘cutting challenges me. edge’. Hmmm, I don’t know about between early Christian sites; writing The Iona Community has 270 that. Maybe we’re just not aware of on sites, saints, pilgrims, the Book of members and around 1800 what everyone is doing – the Kells. Columnist on social justice and associates and 1600 Friends: the heartfelt depth of it and the spirituality for local newspaper. following piece is a very small incredible range. I’ve included a representation of the Community’s Colin Douglas: I’m on the Board of representation of that here. Friends of Sabeel UK, the Palestinian work and witness. (Neil Paynter, Ed.) And are we really looking to be Liberation Theology Centre in East Will Spangler: This week I’m at ‘cutting edge’, or are we looking to Jerusalem. Their biennial conference, Glasgow City Mission on Thursday feed the hungry, welcome the ‘The Bible and the Palestine-Israel and Friday. On the Thursday we run stranger, shelter the homeless, care Conflict’, is being held 19-25 a young men’s club to encourage for the sick, visit the prisoner? November 2013 in Jerusalem. I was men to meet and relax, network, (Matthew 25:35-37) at the last one. It was mind- have a laugh. Part of this is a jobs bogglingly good! Personally, I don’t think we should club, which I am particularly worry about being, or ‘getting back’, interested in as so many of this Ben Broadbent: I’m currently our ‘cutting edge’. I think we should group are badly employed, or involved in PhD research on ‘The continue striving to be out on the unemployed altogether. Legacy of St Adomnán – the edge – with the poor and margin - Illustrious: the power and prestige of Yvonne Morland: For health alised. Listening and working and the Columban Church’. Reviewing reasons I have been a ‘weak link’ in remaining there. Maybe that’s and interpreting Adomnán’s role in the membership chain for the past cutting edge. Or is that being more the 8th-century Columban Church. couple of years. The knowledge fully human? that through my Family Group and Susan Dale: A few words from George MacLeod wrote about the prayer discipline I am still Machynlleth: This is not a normal being ‘on the knife-edge ’: ‘There are included in the rhythms of the time for this quiet market town; April evenings when our prayer life is Community strengthens me when Jones is still very much in the hearts refreshing: but, analysed, they turn times are tough. and minds of all of us. We try to carry out to be the times when the on as normal, the Christmas pressures have been so weighty that Tim Gorringe: Writing on the decorations went up, including a you have simply had to go with them Transition movement, and on how beautiful bow for April, but there is to God. But this is precisely the we avoid social collapse, and still something missing. With April’s recovery of the knife-edge. The farming. family we still wait, and as I write the religious moment flowers from the Scott Blythe and Liz Johnson trial of a local man approaches. A practical … In the true life of prayer Blythe: Co-pastors of the young woman I was talking to we are forever on the knife-edge. We Presbyterian Church of Morris recently said: ‘It’s as if the colour has move in the light and shadow of Him Plains, NJ, USA. We are very excited drained out of Mach, and it is just who is born Son of God and Son of about the upcoming birth of our grey and cold and never-ending Man. Manifestly there is a new prayer first baby sometime towards the waiting.’ Many members of the Iona life demanded: not stationary times end of August! Community have supported the 11 coracle Churches Counselling Service in Jim Black: Retired from paid work TV this year. I composed the music barbed wire. Prayer concert: a medium different from the coracle 12 spring 2013 Wales project here (where I am but preaching, seeking equality for a short animation, Chevron: a demonstrations and public protests. spring 2013 news We believe in a with-us God who sits Living God, news Director of Counselling), which was and justice via the Labour Party, Journey , that member David down in our midst to share our like leaves that turn to the sun So, we continue to meet, pray, eat set up to provide support for the attending the Family Group. Coleman made. It has just been humanity. so we turn to you, and discuss together and to community by way of a drop-in shortlisted for the 2013 Insight Film Katy Owen: We’ve just achieved the source of all life: strengthen each other in the centre, a telephone helpline and Festival. LGBT support where I can, We affirm a faith that takes us our first Eco-congregation Scotland for your love to sustain us, process. And by the way, there is counselling, and I have felt and work in deprived school. beyond the safe place: into action, award. Keep flying the flag, all you your will to strengthen us now a regular Iona service in one of humbled by the incredible support. into vulnerability and into the streets. Iona Community eco-activists. Alan Smart: I’m currently President and your wisdom to guide us. the Zurich parishes! Thank you all for your prayers, of the Rotary Club of Burntisland & We commit ourselves to work for Amen inspirational readings, donations Joyce Muir: Spending my last few Molly Harvey: I am involved, among Kinghorn. I’m also involved in change and put ourselves on the line; and for being part of all that we do months in SE Asia trying to – Chris Polhill, from Like Leaves to other things, with Children's Panels. helping lead walks for our two local to bear responsibility, take risks, live here. It feels as if you stand motivate Gordon to study for his the Sun , Wild Goose Publications primary schools, and in promoting powerfully and face humiliation; to John Harvey: At the moment, there alongside as we wrestle with the final exams! Moving my furniture and supporting local community stand with those on the edge; to John Polhill: I’m Chair of Trustees are two projects which occupy a bit gloom and this gives me the hope back to the UK and then I’ll join organisations. choose life and be used by the Spirit for a small charity that offers of time. Molly and I have been and resilience to keep going. Ken in Burma in September. I’m for God’s new community of hope. mental health services. We’re just planning a reunion on Iona of as hoping to teach English in Mary Duncanson: I retired from the A listening prayer Amen. starting a lovely project at an many folk as we can contact who Rangoon and find some voluntary NHS last year and have almost organic farm with a range of indoor worked with us when we lived in the Listen with me, Lord, at this time, in work there. completed my training to be an OLM – Affirmation from Iona Abbey and outdoor activities. Most of our Abbey from 1971-1976, and of this space, with this person. (Ordained Local Minister) with the Worship Book (written following a Liz Dowler: Working with the Food service users are in deep anxiety others who have worked with the Church of Scotland and hope to be demonstration at Faslane) Help me to hear both the words that Ethics Council and others to help about the effects of the change to Community on Iona. Over thirty are ordained just after Easter. I am to be are spoken, and those that are not. us move to fairer, more sustainable Peter Cope: I’m currently spending Universal Benefit. coming at the last count – from far employed part-time with our ways of eating which do not a fair amount of time on Knighton and wide – and we’re getting into Speak through me, Lord, at this time, presbytery, helping with two new Jim and Aileen MacEwan: Ex-pat exclude those without much Food Bank, which was set up by the the detail of the week now (in in this space, with this person. triple linkages. Exciting! (for one year) members of money, in the UK and elsewhere. local churches. I’d be interested to October at the Abbey), which is very Highland Family Group doing Help me to find the words that And those having hard times Liz Gibson: In late 2012 I had a great hear from other members or exciting! The other project is our grandchild-minding near Sydney, enable, rather than those that should not have to use charitable couple of months study leave associate members involved in local Gorbals Community Musician Oz. Also involved with local Uniting disable. food handouts to feed themselves looking at arts and crafts in ministry food banks in their own areas project, Givin’ it Laldie, sponsored by and their families – we urgently and worship. A ‘Meet the People’ tour Church and Amnesty International. Stand with me, Lord, at this time, in about how much demand there is Gorbals Parish Church – we have need to talk about different ways of in Peru was a great experience, and this space, with this person. for emergency food, and about Gerry Aiken is the founder and seven choirs up and running, and I’m eating justly. taking part in the Gathering of what attitudes the project coordinator of County Durham on the Board of Trustees – a very Help me to find the strength to stand Artisans in North Carolina was also Colin Ball: I chair the North generates in the churches and local Green Party and is busy preparing encouraging project indeed: alongside, when all within me is inspiring. I look forward to Lichfield Initiative. This is a community. for the local elections on the 2nd of www.givinitlaldie.org.uk trembling and fearful. developing this interest further. I community organisation aiming to May. His day job is as a researcher Prayer continue to work in two large rural Chris Polhill: I sort out spiritual See with me, Lord, at this time, in this make North Lichfield a better place on/with community responses to parishes, mostly in Argyll but also in companionship for those staff on Our trouble, Jesus, is that ‘the poor’ are space, with this person. to live, work and study, covering environmental issues. Stirlingshire. The Family Group Iona who wish it. I also give seldom ‘with us’. the three most deprived wards in Help me to see your face in their face, continues to be a good source of spiritual companionship/direction The Swiss Iona Group, from Lichfield District. We run a work Too often, we keep people who live in your view of them rather than my sanity, support and fun. Martyn and I to a number of people in the Reinhild Traitler: We still meet on club, mother and toddler groups poverty at arm’s length: in sink estates, own. recently celebrated 25 years married. Lichfield Diocese, including visitors the 9th of every month, as we’ve and toy library, host the local Credit in ‘developing’ countries, and think of Going for gold now! Paul and to the Reflection Gardens, which been doing for the past eight years. Be with me, Lord, at this time, in this Union and CAB, as well as them as victims, or a burden, or worse. Hamish are both well and busy. Love John and I designed and run: Members of the group are involved space. Amen organising local community events, to all. www.reflectiongardens.org.uk in, e.g: a network of women By your solidarity with the outcast and such as the annual Lantern Parade – Susan Dale, from Like Leaves to the Despite the snow currently on the theologians from Switzerland and the rejected you honoured their and Environment Day. I also chair Brian Quail: Active on the Executive Sun , Wild Goose Publications ground, I have started some of the various African countries which humanity and released their potential. the Lichfield Labour Party Branch of Scottish CND and working for greenhouse work for vegetables explores the consequences of John Dale: Community car driver Forgive us our arrogance and our and am on the Board of the nuclear disarmament within the SNP and flowers for the gardens, in the globalisation on the lives of taking the elderly to hospital stupidity; open our hands and our Housing and Regeneration also; correspondent for newspapers. propagator of course. I am soon to women; Christian-Muslim dialogue appointments. Member of the Iona hearts to receive the gifts they bring; Company of the East Midlands For me, right now it’s all systems go give a lecture in Birmingham and intercultural issues as an Community’s Membership Review and show us how to work together so Housing Group. for the Scrap Trident weekend of Cathedral on liturgy about the urgently needed contribution to Group. Community Carbon protest and action April 13th and that the curse of poverty may be Kathy Galloway: I’m preparing to environment. I am also much peace; work with the wives of gay Coordinator – and that is getting outlawed from the earth. mass blockade on Monday, April exercised with the women as men, which we understand as interesting as we approach the first go to Israel and Palestine for a joint 15th. Pax bishops difficulties in the C of E. peace work at a very intimate level. – John Harvey, from 50 New Prayers time of carbon accounting within Christian Aid Scotland/Church of In short, a variety of issues. from the Iona Community , Wild the ‘With us’ process. My first report Scotland/Scottish Episcopal Church Prayer In the West Midlands Family Group visit. We’ll be meeting both Goose Publications will come out after all members’ We believe that God is present in the we have started to plan the At the World Economic Forum in Palestinian and Israeli partners figures are in, and (according to darkness before dawn; in the waiting regional autumn plenary, and have Davos 2013 a member of the Kathryn Potts: Greetings from the while we are there. Council decision) this has to be and uncertainty where fear and plans for another welcome day for group, a lawyer who defends north Northumberland coast – and if both reported to them and Pat Livingston: I’m taking an courage join hands, conflict and caring asylum seekers and refugees at the migrants and who is also a writer of you are visiting, try to make it on the published in Coracle . MMus in Composing for Film and link arms, and the sun rises over Beaudesert campsite. very funny political songs, gave a last Sunday of the month: I’m part of 13 coracle an ecumenical group leading Iona- Council of Churches, who took the she co-convenes Glasgow Refugee International Criminal Court Alan Watt: Working hard in Prayer coracle 14 spring 2013 style evening prayer at 6pm at St initiative, were inspired by the Asylum and Migration network at (Scotland) Act 2001 despite it being retirement doing supply preaching, spring 2013 news Beloved God, when I am in adversity, news Aidan’s, Bamburgh. mission and work of the Iona the University of Glasgow –a party policy to do so. Among amongst other things. Family remind me of Your Power. Community. network of 500 members and 40 several other significant benefits Group are sharing ‘what makes us You can find good places to eat organisations working for justice for this amendment would demand tick’. Let’s celebrate this special When I am wandering, remind me of locally produced food in the Next week, a group of 30 of us will asylum seekers, refugees and the approval of the Lord Advocate anniversary year for the Your Forgiveness. Northumberland Coast Area of start reading Pathways for Pilgrims: migrants. She is also involved in a before any Scottish military Community. Shalom! Outstanding Beauty Visitor Guide Discovering the Spirituality of the When I am lonely, remind me of Your project developing a structure to personnel could be involved in any and find out where you can buy Iona Community, by Chris King Raymond Young: I’ve become a Companionship. support lifelong learning in future wars. I also persist in efforts direct from producers in the 2013 (Wild Goose). We will read it in four General Trustee of the Church of Palestine. She and Robert offer to support those who seek to When I am sorrowful, remind me of leaflet giving details of farmers’ sessions, and then decide what the Scotland and as such am involved hospitality to destitute asylum amend the 1959 Agreement Your Comfort. markets in NE England, which I group can do/be in the future. This with the Priority Areas Team on a seekers and have fostered a young between the World Health have been working on since the year I am also planning to study project called ‘Chance to Thrive’, an When I am above myself, help me to asylum seeker from Eritrea, who was Organisation and the International new year: www.neefm.org.uk the writings of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, innovative and creative see You above me. the focus of a successful campaign. Atomic Energy Agency which especially around community- programme designed to develop We are planning for the last new severely jeopardises the ability of When I am beneath myself, help me building. If anyone would like to Prayer and deliver major new and members meeting in May, and the the WHO to protect the public from to see You below me. share thoughts, please e-mail: sustainable church-based service of blessing and (written while waiting for asylum the many and complex dangers of When I am beside myself, help me to [email protected] community facilities in some of commitment on June 9th in Govan seekers to sign on at Brand Street nuclear power. see You at my centre. will be a momentous step in my David McNeish: I’m nearing the Immigration Reporting Centre, Scotland’s very poorest Anikó Schuetz: In my training for journey of faith. end of my Divinity degree and start Glasgow) neighbourhoods. It takes a When I am inside myself, help me to ministry, I am immensely grateful as a trainee minister in southeast community development see You beyond me. Pat and Barry Cummings: Pat Loving God, who counts us for the support of my fellow approach, helping the congre - Edinburgh in October. My disser - When I am feeling unloved, remind currently part of the Oxfam book with compassion, numbers us Community members. In my work, gation to work out its role in the tation is on beauty as route to God. me of Your Presence. team at the shop in Ilkley, helping as friends and invites us especially in the varied context of There are more links between regeneration of its community and to raise £1500 plus each week by to sit down and eat with you, grant us my placements, the importance of When I am feeling lost, remind me of beauty and social justice than is the kind of facilities it can offer. the sale of books alone, and the courage to be generous the Community’s bias for the Your Way. often assumed. One of my favourite together we are settling in a 12- and practical and release us from the disadvantaged and its aim to find Stephen Wright: I’m a Spiritual quotes, from Alex Garcia Rivera, When I am feeling all-knowing, year-old Beardie ‘rescue’ dog who tyranny of numbers … new ways to touch the hearts of all Director for a Cumbria-based sums up the delightful disruption remind me of Your Mystery. has been badly neglected. Good are reaffirmed for me again and charity, the Sacred Space beauty can broker: ‘Our hearts are God who waits with us and is always wishes to all. again; no matter if that’s in a Foundation. Most of the work is When I am feeling hopeless, remind moved towards God when our the one who walks beside us, grant us middle-class Edinburgh suburb, in one-to-one with ‘seekers’ and those me of Your Gift. Amen Teun Kruijswijk Jansen: Four years “names” for God are shattered by the the courage to wait with those who Jerusalem, or currently in in crisis who are trying to make ago I started a little local reality of God.’ fear. – Stephen Wright, from Like Leaves Craigmillar, one of the poorest sense of things such as work or ecumenical group. Around 50 – Alison Swinfen to the Sun , Wild Goose Publications Robert Swinfen: My major communities in the country. relationship problems, dying and people now participate from inside, commitments include continued Maire-Colette Wilkie: Having been bereavement, chronic illness, The New World Foundation, from and sometimes outside, the local Rachael Yates: I’m in my first year family support to Rima, and now to clobbered by illness this last year I cancer diagnoses and so forth. I John Dillon: Greetings and happy churches. Every year we sponsor a as an NQT English teacher in a large her family in Sudan; serving on the am now adopting armchair activism facilitate retreats around the 75th anniversary to one and all from linked activity, this year connected comprehensive secondary school. I committees of Positive Action in by educating our daily carers about country and also work with NHS the New World Foundation! The with the local food bank. love my work with young people, Housing (Glasgow-based charity Trusts and the University on some Board (John Dillon in Illinois, Scott the justice and peace issues that and the opportunity to live my In 2010 and 2012 Dutch groups working on housing issues radical approaches to leadership Blythe in New Jersey and associates most concern us: nuclear peace and justice commitment from the Protestant parish of affecting ethnic minorities, partic - and compassion development, Paul Masquelier in California, Bill disarmament and Independence. We every day. This year, through the Doorn went to stay on Iona. One of ularly refugees and asylum seekers) drawing on the heart of the Klein in Virginia, and Tillie Chase, can claim two converts and two ‘Oh I texts we study, we’ve discussed the group was so touched by life at and National Coalition of Anti- contemplative tradition. I’m a Jean Richardson and Kathleen had never thought about that’ on racism, homophobia, gender the Community’s centres that he Deportation Campaigns (what it journalist also, with regular Roney all based at or near Kirkridge whom we continue to operate! stereotypes, poverty and class was inspired to start a community says); and informal support to columns in professional journals on in Pennsylvania) are constantly Following my recommended issues and religious intolerance. I’ve home for people of all ages and various individuals with spirituality and health matters. searching for new ways to better workouts (arghh!) I settle back to re- also had lots of opportunities to circumstances who are isolated, immigration status problems in connect all our US associates. To reading Christopher Rowland’s practise conflict resolution! I’m My new member project this year and who together can share a Glasgow and further afield. Our that end we have decided that this Christian Origins (SPCK,1985). Now fundraising for and planning to go will be to walk and sail from Iona to common life: www.beeliving.nl Family Group is generally quite year we will hold our Annual being blessed with more time for to Camas in June with a group of Govan, perhaps as a timely concerned with refugee and Meeting and a celebration of 75 On September 14th there will be a personal prayer I thank you for all young people with social, reminder of the origins of our asylum-seeker issues, through my years of community at Kirkridge special cycle tour in Doorn. The yours and for all that you are doing emotional and behavioural issues – community not on the gloriously efforts and those of Sally, Alison during the week of October 7th, project, ‘Doorn Pearl of the in Christ’s name. a new link for the school. I would beautiful island but in the grittiness and Katherine. The others provide when John Bell will be the Heuvelrug’, is about making places Alan Wilkie: Whenever energy levels not have had the courage to of a working-class community of us with vital emotional and programme leader. We hope that by and people who are active in permit I continue to work by change career without the love and the 1930s. I will set off on May 28th spiritual support, as well as working advertising and invitation we will guarding humanity and the letter/e-mail on two justice and support of the Community, from Iona and hope to arrive in hard on their own particular issues gather a significant number of environment and culture more peace issues.The SNP government is especially through my PGDE year, time for the hallowing on June 9th. of concern. associates and members together visible. Projects involving asylum still blocking attempts to so a message of huge thanks for all Please wish me luck and strong on that occasion. seekers, bio-organic gardening, fair Alison Swinfen lives and works in incorporate the definition of the the prayers, messages and legs, and any suggestions for the trade … are highlighted. The local Glasgow where (as Alison Phipps) Crime of Aggression into the hospitality given. walk would be most welcome. On a personal note, it does not 15 coracle seem like 25 years since our 50th their voices to be heard. As a Family come together regularly to who see the earth as good and Cross of Nails, based at Coventry vulnerable workers, including coracle 16 spring 2013 anniversary celebration, which was Group we are exploring how we exchange news, discuss, share a meal precious and full of wonder and who Cathedral. advocating for legislative changes. spring 2013 news news also the day I became a full may be able to support the and a short worship service. In April use it wisely to help preserve it. We’re planning more projects to Eurig Scandrett: At work I teach member. ’Where will we be in 25 struggle for justice for those one of the groups attended a vigil involve churches and their members We pray for the earth: that it may not sociology, social movements, social years? Will any of us be at the affected by policy decisions near the detention centre for refused in thinking about money choices be exploited by a wealthy elite but be justice and gender justice at Queen 75th?’ was one conversation I well relating to the tragedies at asylum seekers in Zeist. with regard to banking, pensions and respected in all its richness by all who Margaret University, Edinburgh; remember. Little did any of us Hillsborough and Orgreave. other investments, believing we can Recently we launched our second dwell and dance upon it. research into environmental justice know where this wonderful all make a positive difference Ruth Burgess: In June 2012 Ruth ‘Iona glossy’. The theme of the movements, and am Branch community would be or lead us? We pray for imagination and through the daily decisions we make: Burgess and member Michael magazine is ‘Singing with the Iona President of the University and Here’s to the next 25! creativeness: for those who work for www.eccr.org.uk Marten , along with representatives Community’. In it you will find contri - College Union. Outwith work I am peace and reconciliation. Richard Sharples: Struggling to from five other religious butions on what makes a song ‘an active in Friends of the Earth, Zero Jean Oliver: I am a member of adjust to the constant changes and communities, attended a Iona song’, a report on a sing in May we feel again the joy of your Tolerance and Trident Ploughshares Trident Ploughshares and involved in reducing resources of Methodist conference on Healing Justice in Noordwijk, on a Holy City service in liberating love. and solidarity work with Bhopal ‘Scrap Trident! Let Scotland Lead the Circuit life whilst at the same time Winnipeg. It was organised by Glasgow and on an urban mission Strengthen our determination – you and Palestine, including San Way to a Nuclear-free World!’, 13 -15 feeling that the Spirit is breaking Jarem Sawatsky as a follow-up to congregation in Utrecht, an have shown us the path that leads to Ghan’ny Palestine solidarity singing April: on the Saturday, a national things open … collaborative his book The Ethic of Traditional interview on the value of singing in full life . group. demo in Glasgow; Sunday, training Communities and the Spirit of Frysian (a minority language in the and workshops in non-violent direct ministry, the Church in the Arts and Aileen Macdonald-Haak: I work as Healing Justice: Studies from Hollow northwest part of the Netherlands) – – Teun Kruijswijk Jansen, Jan action and other related topics; and a community garden project … Volunteer Coordinator for Lambhill Water, the Iona Community and and a few brand new Dutch Maasen and Desirée van der Monday, a Big Blockade of the these are the Kingdom things Stables, community hub and Plum Village (Jessica Kingsley) . It is translations of songs by WGRG. We Hijden, members of the Dutch Iona Faslane Naval Base. Trident about which I am excited at garden in North Glasgow, looking hoped that a DVD of the have chosen the theme of songs Group, translated from Dutch, from Ploughshares is a member of a wide- present. for ways to get local people to conference will be available soon. written by WGRG because in May a Like Leaves to the Sun , Wild Goose ranging coalition of politically active Biddy Sharples: Having chosen to connect with their community, new hymnary of the Protestant Publications groups and individuals who have leave diaconate training realising Swedish Iona-inspired Network, learn new skills, do something Churches will be presented with come together to organise this event ordination was not for me, I am still from Helene Egnell: The Swedish Keith Argyle: I have been useful and feel part of something quite a few of their songs in in the hope of creating a mass anti- doing my MHA chaplaincy part- Iona-inspired Network has some 50 spearheading locally, and especially bigger. I also promote Gaelic translation. nuclear movement. time and slowly taking up lay members. There are currently two in my church, the Church Action on Medium Education and the ministry in the circuit, with a feeling Family Groups in Stockholm, and a On 10-12 May we will hold our Poverty ‘Trace the Tax’ campaign. benefits of bilingualism. Mike Smith: Last year, as Chair of the new one just started in Sörmland. annual spring conference in Schoorl My Church and Society Group sent local Churches Together Group, I got of ‘this is where I belong’. Family all Richard Moriarty: After a lot of We have an annual 1-day ‘business on ‘the freedom of rules’. We’ll reflect protest letters to Unilever, them to take on the challenge to at school, years 7, 9 and 10. years working in various charities meeting’ where members also can on the five-fold Rule of the Iona Vodafone and TUI Travel, and I raise £5000 for a Christian Aid project supporting people having sensory Joan Miller: I visit elderly friends in make their annual vows, and a 4-7- Community. A forum is planned with wrote to our MP, Paul Goggins, in Sierra Leone. If we do this by loss I have just taken a step into care homes and take them out if I day summer meeting with an Iona Community member, a asking for a full inquiry into tax January 2014 it will trigger a grant of something closer to my heart and can. I am disabled now with post- workshops, lectures and other member of a Protestant community avoidance by major corporations. £15,000 from EU funds. We are over will be working for the next 12 polio syndrome but can still drive! activities. Sustainable living and and a Benedictine abbot. David Gauke, Exchequer Secretary halfway there and I am 100% to the Treasury, sent a detailed months without pay as an intern Malcolm King: I’m currently Team peace activism are important areas confident we will reach the target! Prayer reply. He said an extra £77 million with the RSPB. Rector of Stroud, exploring with a of concern. Highland Family Group, from God of all life, we lay our lives – with was put into HM Revenue and The RSPB is one of the foremost town-centre church new ways of This summer we will host the Iona Marlene Findlayson: Greetings from their very many ups and downs – Customs in December to focus on conservancy organisations in the being church and being a seven- Continentals meeting, 16-18 the Highland Family Group. We are in your hands. offshore tax evasion, and expected UK and well worth supporting but days-a-week building. August. The theme will be ‘Peace by more dispersed than ever just now, as it to yield £2 billion per year in tax this is only part of a whole lifestyle Peace’. Those interested in Here we stand with our faith and our Jim and Aileen have gone to Australia Susan Miller: I teach courses in that would otherwise have gone change to reduce my personal attending, please contact Simone doubts, our joy and our sorrows, for a year to visit family. Because of New Testament at the Centre for unpaid. He also promised what has impact on the planet and do Allertz: [email protected] our hope and our despair. the large geographical spread of our Lifelong Learning at Aberdeen just happened: that at the G20 something worthwhile, which members – holding a Family Group in University. At the moment I am Norman and Ruth Shanks send meeting early in 2013 Britain would includes changing from a car to a Here we stand with our wounds. And a member’s home can necessitate a writing a book about women in greetings and very grateful thanks secure agreement to strengthen less polluting motorcycle and even the wounds we have inflicted on six-hour round trip for some – we John’s Gospel and also writing for all the support received international tax standards to deal using a pushbike and public others. have been looking at different ways short articles developing ecological following Ruth’s recent surgery. with the problem, not only in the transport! In faith and doubt, in joy and sorrow, of fulfilling our commitment to readings of the gospels. Their local congregation West but in developing nations in hope and despair, we are connected Helen Boothroyd: Church and meeting with each other. We have (Wellington), the Greater Glasgow (where scandalously more is lost in Philip Jakob: Director of Music for with the faith and doubts, the joys and Membership Relations Officer for decided to try meeting fewer times a and Clyde Health Board (Norman), tax evasion than they receive in the Cathedral and Catholic Diocese sorrows, the despair and hopes of our the Ecumenical Council for year, but for longer, probably hiring a Lodging House Mission foot clinic total aid). Our group will watch for of Hallam, member of the Diocesan sisters and brothers … Corporate Responsibility. We’re hostel and staying overnight so that (Ruth), alongside family, friends, etc, results like hawks! Justice & Peace Commission, Chair looking to the future in ECCR with a we can spend our time concentrating keep us occupied in ‘retirement’. We pray for powers of endurance: of South Yorkshire Churches Ruth Sillar: I am very involved with new Executive Director in place on each other and not mainly on Love from us both. for those who have been victims of Together. I am currently engaged in St Martin, Coney Street, York, a and a Strategy Review underway. travelling. At our last meeting we violence and injustice in the world. the project ‘Listen up’, which seeks Dutch Iona Group, from Jan church partially restored in 1968 We continue to focus particularly stayed overnight at Ratagan Youth to offer an ear to those who are Maasen and Desirée van der We pray for stamina: for those who with a dedication to peace and on the impact of extractives Hostel. Our locations may be most affected by welfare reform Hijden: We have five regional devote themselves to the cause of reconciliation. We recently became industries, and on the policy and splendid, but don’t think that we and cuts in services and to enable groups in the Netherlands, who environmental sustainability: for all a Partner in the Community of the practice of big companies towards spend all our time contemplating the 17 coracle gorgeousness of Highland scenery, of Palestinian Christians for a just increasing in these hard economic activities, justice and peace groups, local wealth per log than the large- Lindisfarne Gospels to Durham. We coracle 18 spring 2013 as country life is as busy as life in peace. Over Easter I’ll be in times. counselling and pastoral care, scale factory forestry. have been asked to put on six spring 2013 news news the city – and we have plenty to do Australia, meeting the Wellspring community councils and care- exhibitions, which will be seen in a John and Pauline Fowler: John: Also, using funds from the social when we are not meeting Community and talking about our related groups; largely non- number of different venues across University Chaplain, member, enterprise to help fund research together! own Community’s Rule, our Justice ordained membership –a the region. Convenor Marches Family Group. into the inequality of land and Peace Commitment – and reputation for top-notch Christmas Arthur Chapman: Have run one Pauline: associate. We have a joint ownership and the devastating If members are on Iona for the Kairos as part of that; I’ll learn a lot, parties and summer picnics! Carbon Conversations course this ministry. effect that has on Scotland. celebrations of the 1450th too; then reflect on it while year – looking to do more in 2013. The East Midlands Family Group, anniversary of the arrival of Saint connecting again with my local We are mentoring Elizabeth, who Fiona Fidgin: I’m currently working Still active in various ways with from Margaret Tuffin: Last Columba, could they please e-mail community in Mull. recently became a Christian. She as the outreach worker at a retreat justice, peace, environment and October we organised an open me some photos?: I am also suffers from bipolar disorder. A centre in Durham. This is a new economics issues – remember all Moira Copeland: Hello all, my work meeting where we considered the attempting to make a video for our mature student, she graduated last post taking quiet days, prayer, are connected. Working with at the moment is enjoying ethics of our food. Member Liz church about the Celtic Church, year and moved accommodation in stillness, spiritual direction out into Edinburgh Peace & Justice Centre retirement and becoming more Dowler came to lead the event, and beginning with Columba, going on to preparation for employment. Her local communities. I’m developing and church group on some of involved in my new church. I have worship was led by member Tony Aidan and Lindisfarne, ending up at landlady, on learning she had some interesting work with people these issues. Solar panels working been asked to resume my Phelan . Villagers who came the monasteries of Jarrow and mental illness, evicted her. The joy of who identify themselves as being well – when the sun shines! eldership. It is a very busy church thoroughly enjoyed the meeting. Sunderland, followed by the the response to our hospitality from in exile from the church –a with lots going on. In my personal And it was an opportunity to tell celebrations in Iona and Glasgow. Prayer her new-found faith has been as growing community it seems! life I am doing OK but have an others a little more about the Iona joyfully enriching to our lives as to Madron Osborne: Having retired God, Creator of all that is, we use your infection in the hip operated on in Community. St Antony’s Priory is a great space from work at FE College I am leading world – no, if we are honest, 2010 and a fracture to my right those others her life has touched. for retreat, workshops, quiet days. Austrian Iona Group, from Evelyn a group at U3A, helping members to we abuse your world. shoulder due to a fall: very limiting. (Elizabeth is not her real name.) It’s in the heart of the city and if Martin: Having experienced Iona use computers for communication, I hope all of you are well and Edinburgh Leith and North Family you are ever in the North East, We abuse natural resources without liturgies – and after two holiday information and recreation. Also still a continuing the work of the Group, from Ewan Aitken: We have please call in and say hello: much thought about the weeks at the MacLeod Centre in Reader in C of E, leading services and Community as we all promised. been spending a lot of time www.stantonyspriory.co.uk consequences. We ignore the summers 2007 and 2010 – a group helping with groups (sometimes in reflecting on the idea of scientific warnings and the protests Northumbria Family Group, from of some 15 women started the Malcolm May: Given advancing Methodist Church). of our far-off neighbours, who are Sarah Moon: We are exploring membership, especially focusing on Austrian Iona Group. We all come years I’ve withdrawn from Scottish Mitchell Bunting: I am helping a suffering right now from the effects what it means to be members of Kathy’s book as a key tool ( Living the from different Church backgrounds Churches Housing Action and group from SCANA (Scottish Clergy of global warming, and we keep on the community in the North East of Rule , Wild Goose). We also had a and denominations, more or less. Includem, but seem to have got Against Nuclear Arms) prepare the spewing out unnecessary carbon England, finding ways to support good discussion about the drawn into our local church in We meet every other 17th of the third annual gathering at Faslane on emissions as though there is no each other in our various strands of Independence referendum and Milngavie. I’m treasurer for month, inviting each other into our the Saturday before Palm Sunday. This tomorrow. justice and peace work, from green have managed a wee social or two Milngavie Christian Aid Committee homes (we live in different Austrian act of witness highlights the voice of politics to refugee welcome, as well. The membership and I am trying to get an Amnesty Creator God, help us to examine our regions: this gives us the chance to Churches across Scotland proclaiming engaging with the interface discussions have helped us think Group going in the church. The lifestyle and to make all the travel around the country). Each that nuclear weapons are wrong and between science and faith, art and about other members and their Family Group continues to offer necessary changes,thereby showing time we celebrate with an Iona Trident should not be replaced. regeneration, working to challenge situations, and the Independence support and encouragement. our love and care for your people liturgy, and share joys and personal systematic poverty in our own debate focused our minds on the In my day-to-day work as the United throughout the world. problems in this very private Debbie Chaloner: I recently retired neighbourhoods, and addressing need for safe space to disagree – in Reformed Church Synod of Scotland atmosphere. Last year each from the NHS and am in the – John Dale, Iona Community global poverty and injustice. both cases appreciating our Ecumenical Officer, I am involved with meeting focused on one of the process of building a new life, Carbon Coordinator, from Like dependence on the life, work and helping Christians of different Anna Briggs: I continue to be Rules of the Community – always a which includes a part-time Leaves to the Sun , Wild Goose commitment of our fellow denominations work together at local involved in shawl ministry and to good basis for our discussions. practical theology degree with the Publications members, associates and Friends – encourage others all over the UK to Congregational Federation, and national level. I also represent the without whom we would have no At least one or two of us will Linda McDonald: I’m an associate take it up. It is really a great way to volunteering at the local Churches United Reformed Church in relating to community to be part of! participate in the Iona Continentals and part of the Tayside Family let people know that they are in Together counselling service and other faith communities in Scotland. meeting in Sweden this August. Group. Within the Iona Community our prayers and are not alone, and Stewart Smith: Since retiring from being a street pastor. I am part of Prayer I’m amongst kindred spirits who is appreciated by the recipient. In parish ministry I’ve been involved as We send our best wishes to all the Churches Together Justice and With the eye of a weaver, you have both nurture and challenge me. A many ways the shawl becomes a Christian Aid volunteer speaker members, associates and Friends all Peace group and try to help to chosen us – such different threads – to major faith-in-action commitment part of their healing and the and organiser for our congregation, over the world! keep the injustice in Palestine in be gathered into unity that the world for me over the past decade has blessings extend to the shawl- currently doing what I can to people’s consciousness. I recently Maggie and Jim Birley: Our main might believe. been to bring Angus Credit Union makers as well: further the IF campaign (Enough stayed in Beit Sahur and took part justice issue here at Scottish Wood into being and help it grow. www.shawlministry.com Food for Everyone), including in the JAI Initiative to plant olive So may we not serve your purpose (www.scottishwood.co.uk) revolves lobbying our local MP. East Kilbride trees in fields in the Bethlehem unless we are open to each other; not Jan Sutch Pickard: Having been an Viv Davies: My main justice and around the marketplace, timber is a Fairtrade Town, and I’m the district: www.jai-pal.org care for each other unless we reflect Ecumenical Accompanier in Israel peace work is, as always, trying to and forestry. In particular, accepted treasurer for our Fairtrade group. your love; nor dare to love like you and Palestine (like several other help people who are homeless. I economics that large-scale Marion Toy: A lot of my time is unless we are glad to accept the cost Community members), I was am the liaison between our church, South Edinburgh Family Group, production is more efficient. Just spent working on projects for the and joy of discipleship, as friends and involved in planning and which collects items for rehousing, from Stewart McGregor: Current now promoting that small-scale East Durham Arts Organisation: followers of Jesus in whose name we supporting the Kairos Week in Iona and a hostel where I volunteer on involvement of individual members: local production is a more efficient www.edan.org.uk We are at present pray. Amen last year, and now the follow-up – Reception. Greetings to all who postholders in political party use of our natural resources – we preparing for celebrations marking urging UK Churches to hear the call help in this area, which is branches, church committees and create more jobs per log and more the return, for three months, of the – Wild Goose Worship Group, from 19 coracle Present on Earth , Wild Goose violence against women. These are hard words for us to hear. Quaker Area Meeting. I volunteer asylum seekers into my home for and seeking understanding, whether coracle 20 spring 2013 Publications And we confess that so often we ignore with Changeworks as an Energy as long as need be. My most recent that be through my art practice or spring 2013 news Neil Squires: I am Chief Exec for news their challenge, preferring to live with Advisor, visiting people over 60 in guest was a middle-aged woman through voluntary work, or through Ian M. Fraser: I have been Harmeny Education Trust, a charity the status quo. their homes. from Somalia who spoke almost no conversations in the flight deck or identifying concerns which which provides residential and day English. She stayed over 11 months. over the PA (I work as a pilot). churches should be addressing. education to primary-aged Zacchaeus said: ‘I will give half my David Coleman: Grassroots I am also involved in the Glasgow Member Gerry Aiken put me on to a Many forms of disinheritance call children with complex social, property to the poor and I will pay back Christian community, Church and Night Shelter for destitute asylum geographer called Doreen Massey, for remedy: gender, laity, world, so- emotional, behavioural needs four times over the people I have Society Committee Convenor for seekers. Love, joy, peace, Sally who talked about how we need called deviants, the poor, for (www.harmeny.org.uk) . Children cheated.’ URC in Scotland, reflective and global sense of the local, a global instance. who have been looked after and campaigning, digital images tying Angelika Schneider: My regional These are hard words for us to hear, sense of place. I find her vision really accommodated in Scotland still it all together. (north German) group is dormant Dietrich Bonhoeffer saw the future asking for our confession to be lived inspiring. have very poor outcomes later in at the moment but I’ve attached of the church to be nourished by a out as practical action that turns the Warren Bardsley: I continue to be life. Society has a responsibility to myself to the North Rhine-Westfalia Jim Robertson: I am currently acting monastic order different from tables on poverty and injustice. passionate about Palestine and support them during and after group, which is older and bigger as Chief Officer of Churches’ Regional previous ones. The Iona especially the present Kairos their time in care so that their – Church Action on Poverty and which I used to belong to Commission in the North East. CRC Community is not thirled to some process in Britain and Ireland, chance of a happy and successful some years ago (before I moved). was set up in 1995 as a joint venture past movement but is more Graeme Brown: Orkney and which began on Iona at Pentecost adulthood is increased. Several of us attended John Bell’s by all the Christian denominations in dynamic than previous ones. In its Shetland Family Group are very 2012. workshop, organised by the church the North East for the more effective development the youngest Ginny Graham: My highlights in widely scattered but we do manage Also campaigning with the music division of the Rhineland promotion of mission and ministry member can call for a re- the last year were the two separate to meet in our homes and members Methodist Tax Justice Network Protestant Church – John’s presen - through ecumenical social action: examination of our Rule and weeks I spent as a Member in teleconference on Skype. We have in against the iniquity of tax tation and songs were a delight as www.northeastchurches.org.uk practice, and in every generation is Residence on Iona, each quite Orkney a strong Amnesty group and avoidance, which is effectively well as inspiring! Interest in the free to do so. different. A low point is my struggle also a lively Orkney Friends of In 2012, CRC organised a workshop in robbing blind the poor both here Community was expressed by with the financial accounting. Palestine, both heavily committed to partnership with the Iona Isabel Sarle: Because of family and worldwide. some of those attending. (Being undisciplined with money fundraising and lobbying. Orkney is Community on ‘Peace and Justice in commitments and my work as a has been a flaw for most of my working towards becoming a Fair Prayer My j & p activities get more the Holy Land’. ‘Wala Qaisiah, a young counsellor, I have very little time for adult life, except when ‘living’ on Trade Zone and a number of congre - sporadic as age increases, but I’m woman from Hebron, facilitated the anything else. At times like this it is God of those who hope against Supplementary Benefit with two gations sell Traidcraft goods. Our still involved with a couple of discussion and her contribution good to know that others are very hope, we pray for the land we call toddlers, when every penny was presbytery has a lively link with groups whose aim is to increase proved to be a challenging and involved in the concerns of the Holy: feeling the weight of suffering precious.) Thyolo Highlands Presbytery in awareness of the situation in moving experience. Wala’s story Community. among its peoples, neighbours in this Margaret Hart: I am heavily Malawi. We are never short of things narrow land, separated by wall and Israel/Palestine and criticism of the helped people to appreciate the Helen Steven and Ellen Moxley: involved in my new job as Director to discuss in our Family Group. fences and checkpoints, and by apparently blind pro-Israel policy of difficulties of living in an occupied Our peace and justice commitment our government. country and the resulting daily of the Institute for Lifelong Craig Gardiner: I teach theology in history, religion and politics, by is in building this community. oppression.’ ( CRC Bulletin , Vol. 1, Is. 2) Learning at the University of Cardiff University and in a Baptist oppression on one side, and fear on What I miss more than anything Helen is deeply involved in the Sheffield, creating opportunities for seminary, where a number of my the other. We pray for all who are else is any local church-related Mike Mineter : My day job is as a Assynt Foundation, which is non-traditional students from courses (including some adult bereaved and dispossessed, for Israeli effort to engage seriously and computing specialist in a team at the dedicated to using the land which Sheffield city region, and partic - education classes) have a justice and and Palestinian children born amid critically with the contemporary University of Edinburgh that studies Assynt bought with the help of the ularly its more disadvantaged peace dimension. I am also part of a tension, and yearn for peace with world situation from a Christian the climate, and the impacts of government for the benefit of areas, to study at the university on collective for Christian Aid, working justice in their lifetime. perspective. At least the upcoming climate change. maintaining wild places, creating a part-time basis. In my early weeks on theology and worship resources, – Jan Sutch Pickard, from Pathways Kirchentag (May 1-5) will provide I’m a Roman Catholic, and over the housing, using Glencanisp Lodge in Sheffield I met members of the and am part of the Baptist Union of for Pilgrims , Wild Goose another occasion to link in with last 12 months a focus outside work for imaginative projects and Ashram Community and have been Great Britain Faith and Society group. Publications Iona friends and interested people, has been on seeking reform of the bringing together our community to visit the work they are and present a day of activity institutional Roman Catholic Church. in useful work. We also try to create undertaking in inner-city Peter Millar: In recent years some of Iain Whyte: Retired Church of related to the Community. I’ve also links into a charity that works a sociable community in Raffin. Burngreave. my energy in terms of peace and Scotland minister who has justice work has gone to supporting researched and written books on Ruth Harvey: Conflict in the with and houses refugees in Bosnia. We garden for the oldies in Ian Cranston: Rather against the the work of the Dr Dorothy Millar slavery and abolition and is church is complex and compelling. Zam Walker: Chair of local Faith in Lochinver for little remuneration. runes as I read them in the Charitable Trust which, in small ways, promoting the work of Anti-Slavery Through working with Place for Throughcare Project enabling We have opted into Dispatches Community I am not quite at an helps various overseas projects International in Scotland. Still Hope, an organisation set up by all support of folk coming out of prison. Worldwide – Amnesty appeals end of commitment to our local involving folk at the margins. I am maintains interest in Africa with the churches in Scotland to Involved in developing a local anti- quarterly. Occasionally we manage church. I am particularly interested also committed to several local committee involvement with the respond to conflict, Ruth has been sectarian project. Convenor of Iona the odd demo against Trident. in local men’s projects at the initiatives which in a variety of ways Britain Zimbabwe Society and trained as a mediator and re- Community Membership Review present moment and have an Jayne Scott: Parish minister at are working to make justice a ACTSA Scotland (successor to the discovers each day the call to be Group. I’m a URC minister in interest to see what the bias to the Culross, which is the birthplace of reality – and this, as we all know, is Anti-Apartheid Movement). New peacemakers within and for Greenock, job-sharing ministry with poor means these days. St Mungo and where St Serf lived often a hard task in our time. book: ‘ Send Back the Money!’: The ourselves, our churches and our David Coleman (member). in the 6th century. Prayer (God of the poor) Free Church of Scotland and communities. Don Stubbings: My focus is on Elaine Gisbourne: I am concerned American Slavery (James Clarke). One of my main involvements is in Jesus said: ‘I have come to be good sustainability. I am carbon Carrie Gooch: I suppose the area for those in my community who addressing issues related to news for the poor.’ Jesus said: ‘Woe to coordinator for my Family Group. I am Sally Beaumont: My main contri - where my energy has gone lately inhabit the night-time, that they may gender justice and particularly the rich, for you have led an easy life.’ involved in a variety ways with my bution to j & p is to take destitute has been in building relationship know peace in their lives – that 21 coracle inspired me to become a street distresses you, does my absence Malawi Partnership (www.scotland- and orphaned babies, teenage mums go on sowing seeds of suspicion, nately I have lost a hive over the coracle 22 spring 2013 pastor. isolate? So, with my heart, if not with malawipartnership.org) are both and destitute pre-school children are seeds of prejudice, against those who winter. spring 2013 news news my hand, I will hold you; heavily involved in the promotion of finding care and new hope’ : are different from ourselves. God I am concerned for those who live With the local Development Trust I for, while you cannot feel your way, I justice and peace and the alleviation www.pottersvillage.org.uk forgive us! in poverty, and in the marginalised am trying to negotiate where we will will not let you journey alone. of poverty in Palestine and in Malawi, societies of our world – that Chris Gidden: I have become Challenge our sense of belonging plant trees in the area, and sorting respectively. As a Director of each, I inspires me to campaign for justice Heal us with your presence, O God. homeless due to local authority until our first allegiance is to the out what plants will be in the village am able to continue my long- through Christian Aid and to failure to allocate the correct human race itself. For your broken pots this year, half of which are to be Alice: standing concern and promotion of promote World Development in my housing benefit: I have found out body still longs for healing, Lord edible: beans, chard and nasturtiums. the needs of the people of the two home diocese. I hold your hand and cradle your through experience about the legal Jesus. countries. I have signed up for the Camas gaze; your eyes penetrate, as your aspects of homelessness. I continue I am concerned that those who are – Brian Woodcock, from 50 New Garden Week and looking forward to soul seeks out that Power, at once June Walker: Permaculture cares for to work as a volunteer for Christian living with life-limiting illnesses, Prayers from the Iona Community, time in the sun or in the new deeply rooted and far distant, to the earth, cares for people and shares CND in their office and on the CND and those who love them, may Wild Goose Publications polytunnel. Special greetings to all draw you out from this heavy sorrow. council. My work on the Iona know healing, wholeness and the surplus. I have lived here in beekeepers, tree lovers and Community Programme Katherine Rennie: I have recently peace – that inspires me in my paid Soon, Alice, you will become like the Malawi since 1957, the last 30 years in gardeners! Committee comes to an end in become involved with the Glasgow employment in palliative care. skylark, breaking free from this the rural areas. The eco-village I am Jim Wilkie: This year my work with earthbound pull, spiralling, rocketing, involved with was started by a family 2013. Advocating for a number of Destitute Asylum Seekers Night Hospice triptych (prayers for our Fresh Start, which helps homeless higher, farther, to become a distant who want to reintroduce the old transgendered people. Shelter. I go to the shelter and help healing) with preparing the evening meal people in Edinburgh become re- dot, yet visible still with an eye of ways of solving problems, growing Jane Bentley: I’m a musician, and anything else I can usefully do. housed, has had to come to an end as These three scenarios are taken from faith. food and medicines and shared developing music work in areas of My legal background has been my carer duties have increased and I the hospice where I work as a physio - living. social need, such as secure mental Heal us with your power and peace, useful in helping to draft a am less fit anyway. I maintain my therapist; the names have been Sarah Dinwoodie: Greetings from health settings, with people with O God. Constitution for the night shelter. interest in Africa and have signed up changed. The encounters Uganda! As I write I am surrounded dementia, and community groups. – Elaine Gisbourne, from Like Leaves And I have just become the for IF (Enough Food for Everyone). demonstrate for me how healing has by beautiful birdsong. Like the swifts Lots of this involves drumming, to the Sun , Wild Goose Publications secretary of the newly constituted many, and mysterious, forms, and and swallows which flit in and out of singing and some mediocre Danus Skene: Retired teacher whose wholeness can be found where management committee of the Yousouf and Mo Gooljary: Bwindi Community Hospital’s ukulele playing ( www.art-beat.info). last two posts were as Acting wellness cannot be achieved. In each shelter. I am also on the Glasgow Yousouf currently sits on a national buildings, my husband Kieran and I I’m currently learning to play the Principal of Tabeetha School in Israel scenario, I also found healing for Destitution Network. vocations strategy group run by have migrated thousands of miles to guitar badly. and as Principal of a school in Kenya. myself: at the edges of life, there is no Founder-chairperson of Kabisa the board of ministry of the Church live here. But how privileged we feel Sheila Woodcock plays the piano John Butterfield: It is an discernible difference between the (www.kabisa.org.uk) , a small charity of England, looking at how we can to have landed here, where this for a new group which the interesting time to be a trustee of caregiver and the care-receiver, and, concerned with schools in Kenya, bring more vocations from the outward-looking hospital is keen to Alzheimer’s Society has started in Action of Churches Together in in my journeying with our ‘patients’, I where the new exemplary Tarnos minority ethnic communities into have us and is supportive of the work her church called ‘Singing for the Scotland as we are trying to am far more often in receipt of their Primary School is successfully open. ordained ministry training. Mo we planned with them over the two Brain’, and is also involved in an reinvent the ecumenical care. So I offer these prayers as a On the home front, a volunteer continues to work through arts and years preceding our move. This interfaith group in Bristol. instrument so that it can celebration of the mutuality, crafts to make the connection includes a project aiming to improve transparently facilitate many Adviser at the CAB, and Chair of complexity and joy of our broken, between church life and the child and maternal mortality, the Brian Woodcock is involved in different initiatives where Shetland Arts, which delivers a beautiful humanity: everyday. development of family planning three interfaith groups in Bristol, Christians work together. In my role significant programme of events, two of which seek to build bridges cinema and education. Still fighting Jean: services and alcohol addiction with FiSCAF (Faiths in Scotland Morag Balfour: I see value in being services, plus clinical work three days between the various faith Community Action Fund) I have political battles … You threw back your head and as well as doing. I am a decrepit, communities in the city, while the per week. We are enjoying the been able to help many churches The East Lothian Family Group, laughed loud bellows, the force of lefty, peacenik feminist who at other group exists to raise community life here and being with working in poor communities to from Tom Gordon: The East Lothian which had us both reeling times is restricted to ‘virtual’ awareness within schools, medical good colleagues at this accountable both bring hope and assist with Family Group continues to be backwards, oxygen tubing pulled activism. Out of necessity I am services, industry … He is also chair and well-run hospital. Your support the practical building of concerned about the effect of the taut, to slump together on the bench. rather focused on anti-cuts, of the trustees of Salt of the Earth: a has been much appreciated. Any community. I am minister of two government’s benefit changes on disability rights and feminism but charity that supports a community Hooting and howling, red-faced and further financial support is welcomed very different churches – each with those in, or on the fringes of, poverty. my heart is in the peace development project in South India teary, we attracted a lot of attention! and will be well used for a much- challenges. In Cumbernauld the As one approach to that, the group is movement. working with 550 villages amid the needed incinerator and another church is in an area of social monitoring East Council’s detailed Heal us with your joy, O God. rural poverty of Tamil Nadu. Alison Adam: Working with 250 hospital ambulance: www.bwindi - housing where the utopian dream ‘poverty strategy’ and is looking for Anne: primary-aged children in two hospital.com Prayer of the planners of 40 years ago has ways to keep decision-makers to Catholic schools every week is a left a mixed legacy. In Kilsyth the account. l Pain radiates around your body, www.justgiving.com/sarahandkierand - Lord Jesus, you have taught us a position of some small influence. I church is without a building but is making you writhe and groan; not inwoodie golden rule: to do for others as we Prayer from the Daily ‘Office’ only the pain of inflamed nerve attempt to model values of love, raising money to build a multi-

would have them do for us. A golden C a endings, but anguish, tearing your tolerance and justice and instill a For written updates e-mail: purpose church and community Gathered and scattered n d

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certainty in God’s abiding love for [email protected] centre in the town. God is with us. s

heart from your soul; this cruel religions of the world. And yet the ©

each and every one of us. It can be In suffering and hope D disease, wrenching you away from a P.S. We recently visited associate Liz Paterson: I have been sorting v world is still divided unfairly, race i d

God is with us. who you are, and where you want to such a challenge at times! C Jenny Green in Kisoro, who heads out my beekeeping equipment o against race, culture against culture, l e be. Now and always m Walter Dunlop: Palcrafts/Hadeel Potters Village: ‘a child crisis centre in and I am hoping for a better year a

creed against creed. And while every n God is with us. l Though the touch of my hand (www.hadeel.org) and the Scotland South West Uganda where abandoned faith preaches peace and justice we for the bees than last year; unfortu - WILD GOOSE PUBLICATIONS Tribute … Church NEW BOOKS AND E-BOOKS Times Dazzling Darkness: Gender, Sexuality, Illness and God, TRIBUTE TO IONA COMMUNITY said to me, he was not flashy at all – was born, attending school at the hill ceremonies, or picking up hitch- Top 10 23 coracle by Rachel Mann (book and e-book) spring 2013 MEMBER HUGH DRUMMOND, by well, that was an understatement if station of Landour, singing bhajans in hikers and bringing them home for book tribute £9.99 (plus post and packing), e-book £6.80 Murdoch MacKenzie, from a ever there was one: modest and Hindi such as ‘Rajah Isha Ayah’ (‘Come, food. Sadly May died in 2009. And Service of thanksgiving unassuming, a quiet man in whom King Jesus’), until 1933, when he quite recently, in May of this year, Dazzling Darkness is a true story about searching for one’s authentic self in the company of the Living God. Rachel Mann has died many ‘deaths’ in the process, not the least of which was a change of sex, as still waters ran deep. Above all he moved to Edinburgh to live with his Hugh married Jean, a marriage There is so much for which we can well as coming to terms with chronic illness and disability. give thanks to God in Hugh’s life, as was a devoted minister of the grandfather and attended George which was short and sweet. Gospel, deeply immersed in the Watson’s College. Through these experiences she has discovered that darkness is as much a positive place as a negative we reflect on the passage which he Sometimes people say how sad to one, inhabited by the Living God – the Dark God, the Hidden God. This is the God that many of us, because Presbyterian tradition, with a chose for this service, Micah In 1941 he became a member of the die at Christmastime but that’s a we try to make our lives safe and comfortable, are too afraid to meet. This is the God who is most alive in chapter 6, verse 8: ‘No, the Lord has wisdom and a concern for people, Church of Scotland and of the mistake and certainly a mistake as those things we commonly associate with the Dark – failure, loss and brokenness. told us what is good. What he which I first encountered in 1978 Scripture Union, then served in the war far as Hugh is concerned. It was at when he was in Thornton and I was The Christian church has legitimated certain ways of talking about God – male, fatherly, monarchical and requires of us is this: to do what is with the RAF and later with the Royal Christmastime that the angels so on. Many believe these descriptors tell the exhaustive truth about God. In accepting the complexity of in a neighbouring parish in just, to show constant love, and to Scots in Palestine and Malta. 1947 saw sang: ‘Glory to God in the highest her sexuality and identity, Rachel Mann has been able to explore with a greater freedom what God might walk humbly with our God.’ Glenrothes. Having just spent him at St Andrew’s University, and then and on earth peace, goodwill among look like to an ‘unconventional creature’ like her. twelve years in India I was in need for four years training for the ministry all people.’ Peace – on earth! That’s This passionate and nuanced book brings together poetry, feminist theology, and philosophy, and No wonder Hugh chose these of some TLC from someone who words. Here was a man who didn’t at New College in Edinburgh, where he what the Micah challenge is all explores them through one person’s hunger for wholeness, self-knowledge and God. both understood India and could was active in the SCM. In 1953 he was about, that’s what the Iona just stand with a placard but went enable me to come to terms with Rachel Mann is an Anglican parish priest and writer. She is Resident Poet at Manchester Cathedral and out and did things. He didn’t just ordained in the North Kirk in Aberdeen Community is all about, that’s what her work has been widely published in magazines, anthologies and newsprint. the culture shock of the very where he served before becoming an Hugh is all about and that’s what talk the talk. He walked the walk. Working with the Labyrinth: Paths for Exploration, different environment here in army chaplain, first to the Gordons and Jesus is all about and that’s what Although he did stand with many a Scotland. Hugh, who had been by Ruth Sewell, Jan Sellers & Di Williams (book and e-book) placard, whether it was at Faslane, then to the Parachute Regiment, heaven is all about. Which is where £9.99 (plus p and p), e-book £6.80 born and baptised in Rajputana, where he completed the eight jumps we believe that Hugh is now, or with the Morningside Justice This book offers ideas and examples of labyrinths in use in various situations: arts, community and social came to my rescue and we to qualify for the famous ‘red beret’. gathered with angels and and Peace Group, or with SCANA remained firm friends ever since. settings; schools, colleges and universities; a hospice, and a secure hospital; counselling, psychotherapy (Scottish Clergy Against Nuclear In August 1956 Hugh and May were archangels and all the company of and well-being; churches, retreats and interfaith contexts. Both he and his wife May had heaven, and perhaps with the Arms) and CND, or for a just married. His later parishes included Ruth Sewell, Jan Sellers and Di Williams first met in Chartres, France in 2008 on a Veriditas Facilitator always been a great source of prophet Micah, who might just solution for Israel and Palestine, or inspiration and support to Anne Eskdalemuir, Kilmuir Easter, Thornton, Training programme. All three left Chartres with a passion to develop labyrinth work in the UK. They for the anti-apartheid movement, Pitsligo and Sandhaven and finally whisper in his ear: ‘The Lord has told became aware of the need for a book that would focus on the practical experience of those already and myself. But where did Hugh us what is good, and what he or on the Committee of the United get all this from? Balmaclellan and Kells in New working with labyrinths in various contexts. They understand the sharing of such experience is invaluable Nations Association in Edinburgh. Galloway in Dumfriesshire, before requires of us is to do what is just, to for trainee and certified facilitators and for those involved in new labyrinth projects, as well as being of Hugh was indefatigable, and when Behind Hugh’s family there is a retiring in 1991. But as some of us show constant love, and to walk interest to labyrinth enthusiasts everywhere. it came to distributing pamphlets great tradition of missionary work, know, retirement is not exactly a stroll humbly with our God.’ l A Time to Mend: Reflections in Uncertain Times, and addressing envelopes he was both in India and in Scotland. His in the park and so he then served in THE THIRTY-FIRST DAY by Peter Millar (book) great grandfather, Robert Skiell second to none. And it isn’t by various capacities in Barclay Church, in I remember those who have died: £9.99 (plus p and p) Drummond, was Moderator of the coincidence that our offering today Westray, Papa Westray, Stronsay and those who were part of my living, It is easy to domesticate God, but when we do that we disconnect the Christian faith from the struggles, © United Presbyterian Church in o t is for Amnesty International. Eday, in the City Hospital, in Muirhouse hopes and possibilities of the world around us. In A Time to Mend Peter Millar seeks to reaffirm that o those who live on in my life. h

p 1899, just before the Union with and also in May’s birthplace in Islay. So fundamental connection between belief in God and commitment to and awareness of God’s world; to y l i Having said all this, he was the Free Church; and his God of the elements, m affirm God’s justice and goodness in our globalised society where many are marginalised, and where

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d grandfather, Robert James integrity and compassion often seem to be overshadowed by the need for economic growth.

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o was like the old owl who lived in an m Drummond, who was Minister of family and friends and strangers A Time to Mend is a call to recommit ourselves to the way of love in our uncertain times – to reconnect m

u old oak. The more he saw, the less Not only that, he had the temerity to r Lothian Road Church in Edinburgh are at home in me, D

with the depths of our own souls and celebrate the hope which continues to lie at the heart of our

h he spoke. But when he did speak it become a member of the Iona g from 1890-1951, was Moderator of stars and planets u human family. H was to some purpose. As someone the UF General Assembly in 1918 Community in 1953. His Family Group dance in my bones and blood. Convenor told me: ‘I don’t think we had Go to the Ant: Reflections on Biodiversity and the Bible, and active in the great Union of I am me, a Family Group that Hugh wasn’t at.’ I by Ghillean Prance (book) 1929. yet I am more than me; £8.99 (plus p and p) joined the Community much later, in I remember, I learn, I dream, In 1915 Hugh’s mother, Helen Mary 1965, when George MacLeod was 70, Christianity is often accused of asserting humanity’s dominion over nature – an attitude that has led to I touch death and life. Collier, was working as a missionary and he took Ben Sparks and me to so much environmental destruction – and of viewing it as somehow ‘fallen’, instead of teaching that we teacher at Nasirabad, and in 1923 Camas with 20 borstal boys and had us God of eternity, are merely a part of creation and that ‘what we do to the earth, we do to ourselves’. met his father, John Whitehorn swimming at 7am each morning in the comfort your people, In fact, the Bible is teeming with information about plants and biodiversity and different animals and Drummond, both serving with the Sound of Iona! I’m not sure if that was living and dying. their behaviour, revealing that its writers, like King Solomon and the oracle Agur, had intimate everyday United Free Church Mission. They how Hugh acquired his taste for Quicken us with wonder, knowledge of the natural world around them and learned from it. Likewise, Jesus was a close observer of nature and was earthed in the here and now, as his parables show. married in January 1925, and then swimming but an abiding memory for salt us with justice and integrity, worked at all the main mission most of us will be of Hugh heading off welcome us with love. In this book of biblical reflections botanist Ghillean Prance draws richly from his experiences exploring stations in Rajputana, in an area the Amazon and many other regions – from the White Mountains of Turkey to the Hawaiian Archipelago. to the shore for a swim – or playing his Ruth Burgess , from Acorns and 350 miles long, until they returned violin, or cycling, or playing football It is his hope that this book will move Christians to wonder at some of the marvels of nature, and so to Archangels, Wild Goose treat God’s creation with reverence and more respect. Ghillean Prance is Scientific Director of the Eden to Scotland in 1954, having been and rugby – he played for Langholm – Iona Community member Ishbel Maclellan died on Project. instrumental in preparing the way or going with his children youth 13th February, 2013, and member John Williams died for the great United Church of hostelling on bikes across the north of TO ORDER: 0141-332-6292 21st February, 2013. Tributes to Ishbel and John will North India. Scotland, or attending all his [email protected] appear in the summer edition of Coracle. (Ed.) It was within this milieu that Hugh grandchildren’s graduation www.ionabooks.com of their goods goes back into the Soil and Soul: People versus Corporate 25 coracle A touching place: Carol Dougall coracle 26 spring 2013 community. Power (Aurum), and Hell and High Water: spring 2013 a touching place reflection news and letters Climate Change, Hope and the Human ‘That chimes with the Scottish LETTER: ON THE RESIGNATION Condition (Birlinn), among other books. government’s own vision of Scotland The good shepherd: OF CARDINAL KEITH O’BRIEN, as a good global citizen, committed A NEW ST COLUMBA’S DAY LITURGY from member Yvonne Morland to playing its part in addressing FROM WILD GOOSE PUBLICATIONS reflection from an Iona Does anyone feel, as I do, that the poverty. A new liturgy for celebrating and Cardinal’s statement about his ‘Our commitment to that was made marking St Columba’s Day (June 9th) – sexual conduct, albeit well overdue, clear with the recent news that the day when many associate members Abbey welcome service far from ‘undermining the credibility renew their vows – has been composed Scotland has become one of the I live on a croft here, at the north end of Iona. Our lambing finished a few and moral authority of the Catholic by liturgist/member Jan Sutch Pickard. world’s first Fair Trade Nations.’ months ago, in fact they go away to market tomorrow. But back in April, Church in Scotland’ as his temporary It is available as a download from Wild as usual we had a few lambs that needed extra help with bottle-feeding, successor has stated, actually gives – Humza Yousaf, Minister for External Goose: www.ionabooks.com one hope for similar openness and Affairs and International as their mothers didn’t have enough milk. THE IONA COMMUNITY’S NEW humility from other senior clergy in Development, speaking at the Within two days these lambs know the person who feeds them – they WEBSITE the future (and earlier in their reopening of Hadeel in March recognise you from a distance – and they come running. If you call to As you have probably seen, the Iona priesthood!)? VOICEBOX: A COLLECTION OF them at other times, they still run to you. Sheep and lambs on Iona are Community has a wonderful new In my opinion, the credibility and TESTIMONIES AND STORIES generally pretty lucky, they are well cared for. website! If you have any news items for moral authority of the Catholic FROM PEOPLE EXPERIENCING the site, please e-mail: My husband, Iain, used to have a full-time job as a stonemason here at Church has been much more POVERTY, from Church Action on [email protected] . Items for the Iona the Abbey, but every spring, throughout lambing, he would get on his undermined by Cardinal O’Brien’s Poverty Community e-bulletin or Coracle : quad bike and go home during his coffee break, his lunch break and his virulent campaign against same- http://www.church- [email protected] afternoon tea break, to check each sheep due to lamb, and to check each sex relationships and gay marriage, poverty.org.uk/what-we- sheep that already had lambs. We bottle-feed the weaker lambs at IONA CONTINENTALS MEETING, and the Church’s stubborn refusal do/whatwedo/voicebox breakfast, lunch, dinner and supper every day, sometimes more often if to revoke the requirement for AUGUST 16-18, 2013 they are really struggling. On the way to the north end Iain would pass THE 2013 ANNIVERSARY priestly celibacy, the immense This summer the Swedish Iona Group other crofts, and each year there would be at least half a dozen times CELEBRATIONS IN GLASGOW human cost of which the Church will be hosting the Iona Continentals when he would have to get off the quad and jump into somebody else’s AND IONA has been profoundly inept in meeting, 16-18 August. Those interested field: to put a fallen ewe back up on her feet, to deliver a stuck lamb, or to addressing. This year the Iona Community will in attending, please contact Simone drive away crows attempting to peck out the eyes of a newborn lamb. He mark two anniversaries – in May, the Sincerely, Yvonne Morland Allertz: [email protected] didn’t just worry about his own flock, he had an eye for all the other 1450th Anniversary of the Arrival of Bread for the road animals along the road. That is why this parable struck me. Jesus says: HADEEL OPENS NEW SHOP IN Saint Columba on Iona and, in June, EDINBURGH the 75th Anniversary of the Iona A prayer from associate Paul Nicolson, ‘I am the good shepherd; I know my own and my own know me … and I lay Community. For a programme of of Tax Payers Against Poverty: down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold In March Hadeel opened its new events: – I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one shop in Edinburgh, at 123 George This is a prayer which I use when helping flock, one shepherd.’ (John 10:14 –16) Street. http://iona.org.uk/wordpress/wp- impoverished debtors, campaigning,

content/uploads/downloads/2013/02 lobbying and writing to the newspapers: When Jesus told this story, he was talking to people who completely G o

Hadeel is a Fair Trade shop which o understood what was involved in shepherding. They knew what Jesus d

/Programme-of-events1.pdf s Lord give me a mind that thinks clearly, a h aims to provide a sustainable e

was taking on, what he was promising them. Like many of you, I grew up p h

source of income for craftspeople COLUMBA’S DAY EVENT, from heart that loves dearly, and a spirit that is e r

in a town, and until I came here, I had only the vaguest ideas about d

working with social enterprises in associate John Wotherspoon fearless, in the name of Jesus Christ. ©

looking after animals. But when you live with a shepherd, you start to D a v

the West Bank, Gaza, Lebanon, as i Prayer of the Iona Community realise what is involved, and you end up understanding that Jesus is d

The annual Columba’s Day event C o

well as in the Galilee and in the l taking on absolutely every aspect of our lives, intensively, intimately: he e held by the North West Associates O God, who gave to your servant m Negev. Their work also helps to a accepts your foot rot, your maggots, your wilfulness and ignorance, as n will be hosted by the Merseyside Columba the gifts of courage, faith and sustain infrastructures, as many of Associates on Saturday 15 June, well as the times you skip along the sand dunes and lie in the sun. the producer groups also provide cheerfulness, and sent people forth 2013 at Cross Lane United Church, from Iona to carry the word of your It seems to me that we are being told to watch out for everyone – not health, education and emergency Newton-le-Willows. Alastair services in their communities, gospel to every creature: grant, we pray, just our families, our friends, the people in our own fold. There are other McIntosh will lead us in a day on a like spirit to your church, even at this people out there too, and we must care for them too. l which lack any form of local ‘Columba, Adomnán and a government which might do this. present time. Further in all things the Spirituality of Our Times’. In this purpose of our community, that hidden Hadeel is owned by the Scottish address he will ask what St Columba charity Palcrafts. things may be revealed to us, and new can contribute to the spiritual needs ways found to touch the hearts of all. For mail orders and information: of today, and do so with something May we preserve with each other www.hadeel.org of a Russian Orthodox perspective sincere charity and peace, and, if it be on the observation that George ‘Hadeel is helping to provide a your holy will, grant that this place of MacLeod was ‘halfway between sustainable future income for many your abiding be continued still to be a Rome and Moscow’ . Palestinians and their families by sanctuary and a light. Through Jesus ensuring that the profit from the sale Alastair McIntosh is the author of Christ. Amen