FINALLY…... MEARNS KIRK CHURCH SPRING MAGAZINE 2019

I truly hope you all enjoy our Kirk Spring Magazine 2019 —thank you so much for those who contributed—you make my heart “sing”. Till next time...Summer and, hopefully I will have got to grips with our new Magazine software, and new layout! God bless. Alison Mearns Kirk Church, 404 Mearns Rd, , G77 5BU

Alison Berry 0141 563 5142 or 07927 049400 or email: [email protected] MEARNS KIRK (CHURCH OF ) Scottish Charity No. SC007125

36 1 SPRING CALENDAR THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

MARCH Without taking “Choice” accepting the risks and consequences of this, 3rd TEAM “E” Donald Fraser 10th TEAM “F” *John Henderson 17th TEAM “G” Norman Anderson 24th TEAM “H” Elizabeth Harris I would never know the joy of love within a worldly relationship or with 31st TEAM “I” Stewart Cairns my relationship with Jesus. With the help of the negativity of my APRIL father, the positivity of Lynne and the love of Jesus, I have found “ME”. I have found the joy brought by LOVE - given and accepted. 7th TEAM “A” Beth Seymour 14th TEAM “B” *Gillian Eason (PALM SUNDAY) 21st TEAM “C” 9.30am Sandra McKay, Eric Rushworth 10.30am Marshall Wylie, Ronnie Sinclair, Anne Sword, So I agree with Joe! If I was still in the Garden of Eden - there would John Dawson (EASTER SUNDAY) be no darkness! no hard work, no pain, but there would be no “ME”. 28th TEAM “D” 9.30am Anne Kerrigan, Ian Stubbs 10.30am Barbara Bremner, Robert Paton, Isobel God bless. Al Thompson Alexander, Mary Paton MAY 5th TEAM “E” 9.30am Isobel Dawson, Jim Carrigan 10.30am Donald Fraser, Violet Kavanagh, John Revill, Marcus Bremner 12th TEAM “F” 9.30am Fiona Macleod, Stewart Drummond 10.30am Mary Deas, Hamish Cameron, Ramsay MARRIAGE BLESSING Withycombe, John Henderson 19th TEAM “G” 9.30am Anne Sword, Norman Anderson 10.30am Heather Anderson, Christine Milliken, Bill Jenkins, Kevin Cannon 26th TEAM “H” 9.30am Elizabeth Harris, Bryan Robertson 10.30am Liz Ronald, Isobel Alexander, Sandra McKay December 1: Neil Campbell, Mearns and Christy Ballantyne, Susan Fraser New Zealand A. Ramsay Withycombe, Beth Seymour, Mandy Stewart, Clare Wilcock, *Margaret Withycombe. B. Des Young, Roger Eason, Bill Jenkins, Bea Young, *Marie Andrews, Gillian Eason C. Marshall Wylie, Ronnie Sinclair, Sandra McKay, Eric Rushworth, *John Dawson. D. Barbara Bremner, Ian Stubbs, Anne Kerrigan, Robert Paton *Arthur Gardiner, Mary Paton E. Donald Fraser, Isobel Dawson, Violet Kavanagh, Jim Kerrigan, *Marcus Bremner F. Mary Deas, Stewart Drummond, Fiona Macleod, Marje Gillies, *John Henderson G. Heather Anderson, Norman Anderson, Christine Milliken, Anne Sword *Kevin Cannon H. Liz Ronald, Isabel Alexander, Elizabeth Harris, Bryan Robertson, *Jim Reid I. Sandra McFarlane, Stewart Cairns, Susan Fraser, John Revill, *Harriet Reid

(PLEASE NOTE NAMES IN “BOLD” INDICATE TEAM LEADERS)

2 35 THOUGHT FOR THE DAY MESSAGE FROM JOE Dear All, So I said “I love you sometimes,” and she hit me! I know Lynne loved me but I never knew that I loved Lynne. How sad is that?? Incredibly The biggest upheaval in a while is about to take proud of our life together and of our children, but something missing. place! More recently I have found someone that I know I love. It is so easy to say “I love you” but, at times, I wondered if she loves me. I know I The Hall complex is to be closed from late April until September. This will involve quite a bit of offer my love to her but I have been unsure that she accepts this love. disruption and obviously will mean life, as we know

it now, will be put on hold or juggled with in some way, which will include My story showed me a marriage with love; a marriage where I enjoyed Sunday worship. Please listen out for what will happen as we put together love; and now a relationship where I offered love which is beginning to the best possible plan to ensure minimum fuss for everyone. be accepted and returned.

The purpose of the closure is to refurbish the Hall and make it better The second story is one of my belief. I used to go to Church equipped for what lies ahead. This is what we need to keep in mind sometimes. My life had become directed by Christian values, but as we plough through the next few months. We want a better Hall for our when we discovered Lynne had cancer, I began to move away from Church members and we want to be better equipped for our mission. Jesus. Christian values appeared to have so little meaning to us then. An honest appraisal of what’s there at present would recognise that we How could a compassionate God allow this? need to modernise, improve reconfigure the Hall complex which has been there since 1971. This will allow us to do Church better and surely Slowly I discovered choice. I cannot know ME with choice. Choices that’s what we should all be wanting. defines “ME”. If I expected God to deliver the “Garden of Eden” to me then “ME” does not exist. Just like my life when my father led it. No I am excited at what is going to be created in our midst. I am already room for “ME”. No room for my love. With this emergence of choice thinking about how we can use new spaces. Also, I am hoping that we came the emergence of my Faith. Jesus is not there to ensure my life will be able to serve Jesus more with what we shall have, which is the is perfect - he is there to offer love, always! As I felt this love; this reason for this. compassion; this support for my life I was able to choose that love from Jesus. I found choice. I found His love. I was able to be so As a Church, we are indebted to Martin Sullivan who left us an much more; to choose so much more; to be ME so much more. Josh unexpected legacy which, for the most part, will finance our new Hall. Groban sings “You raise me up” - such meaning now. “Footsteps in Could I ask we give of ourselves, in whatever way, to what lies ahead of the sand” means so much more “being with” encourages so much us, to ensure that we make the most of the new mission opportunities more! offered by our new Hall.

Bless You Joe .

34 3

HALL REFURBISHMENT THOUGHT FOR THE DAY The much needed upgrade/ refurbishment of our busy Church Hall moves closer with the approval of the works by The Glasgow Presbytery Property Committee and the submission by our Today - Sunday 27th January 2019, I listened to Joe talking about the architect of our planning application to the Council’s Planning and Garden of Eden, darkness and light, pan and hard work or a “perfect Building Control Division. life” which was provided by a greater being. It set me thinking about my love just now; the pain, the darkness, the exhausting work. But Robert Paton, who chairs the Project Group said “our Church Hall then I thought about the love I have lost and the love I have found. has served us well over the last 48 years since it was built (1971), however it is really showing its age, so our project plan for the Perhaps I can take you back many, many years. My father was a dour building will see a number of much needed works being carried out: man from Scotland. He knew how life should be lived. Not much room for love to be expressed. Not much room for me to find “ME”. • Complete new heating system Something in there reminds me of omnipotence, of a God-like belief in • New gas supply from Road, replacing oil boiler “the way to live”. system • Much needed new kitchen My father was a GP and, as expected, I became a GP and joined his • Improved entrance area to improve disabled access. practice. But, meeting all those people, listening to their life stories - • Replacement windows to improve heat retention the pain, the pleasure, dark times and joy, a real ME poked a head • Additional insulation to improve heat efficiency out. Not surprisingly, it got hammered back quite a few times, but this • Rewiring and improved lighting head still began to emerge! Oddly, it was the discovery of love that • Creation of flexible cafe/meeting room area became the vehicle to my metamorphosis. Painfully, it was the lack • Improved meeting space given increased activities of love that destroyed my first marriage. Then I saw the light, my • Improved sound and hearing aid systems second marriage, and fond someone who loved ME, and my children. • Improved office area We had 30 years of what I believe was a wonderful marriage. Then Lynne died of a brain tumour some 8 years ago.

all of which to make the building “fit for purpose” for the next 45 At this point I will tell two parallel stories about love. One is about my years!” belief in Jesus, the other is my story - my discovery of love. Since Lynne died I have explored many different relationships and reflected on what love means to me within a relationship. I do not remember telling my first wife that I loved her. I do remember my father approving of this marriage but, perhaps, it was not the choice of “ME”. In my second marriage Lynne once said “why do you not say you love me sometimes?”

4 33

THE FOUR CALLS OF THE HALL REFURBISHMENT

The Spirit came in childhood SPIRIT (Gen. 6:3) and pleaded “Let Me In” “Strict control is being exercised over the design and spend allocated But, no, the door was bolted for the works by the Kirk Session”, continued Robert, “our by heedlessness and sin architect and cost consultants know they have to keep within budget “Oh, I’m too young” the child said with them hoping to put the detailed plans out to tender to a number “My heart is closed today” of construction companies at the beginning of March, all with the Sadly the Spirit listened intention of starting work on site for the fist week in May. If it appears Then turned and went away the costs for the works are above budget, we will revisit the Again He came and pleaded specification for the works and amend this to keep within budget”. In youth’s bright happy hour He called, but found no answer The Kirk Session and The Glasgow Presbytery Property Committee For, fettered by sin’s power will need to approve the final specification and contract appointments The youth lay idly dreaming before any works commence on site. “Go, Spirit, not today Wait till I’ve tried life Robert Paton

Once more He came in mercy In manhood’s vigorous JARS OF GRACE He knocked, but found no entrance “The merchant had no time” “No time for true repentance” Just a reminder that our chosen charity this year is Cancer Research. No time to think, or pray” So fare we have collected £140 - so we have a long way to go to And so, repulsed and saddened reach last year’s total of £460. Again He turned away Yet once again He pleaded If you have not previously participated, please think about joining in. The man was old and ill All you have to do is collect your small change and when your jar is He hardly heard the whisper full, bring it to Church and leave it in the box in the vestibule. When His heart was sear and chill the money is all added together - it really can make a difference! “Go, leave me! when I want You I’ll send for you” he cried Thank you in anticipation for another good response. Then, turning on his pillow Without a hope, he DIED Mary Deas Jim McKellar

32 5 FUNERALS AT REST: Jesus said “ I am the ALISON’S 2018 REFLECTIONS Resurrection and the Life” LOVE AND COMPASSION November 19: Doreen Fleming, Mearns One of my favourite pastimes (apart from Church Magazine!) is to November 27: Alasdair Hamilton, Mearns December 10: Chris Hyndman, Mearns read and I normally get through about 5 novels each week! December 11: George Weir, Mearns As I know there are avid readers within our Church family. One book December 12: Robert Campbell, Mearns I would highly recommend, for so many reasons, is The Tattooist of December 18: Pat Gammie, Mearns Auschwitz by Heather Morris (a true story about two young people January 4: Jill Dickie, Mearns (Lale Sokolov and Gita). January 16: Ian Murray, Mearns January 17: Said McGarva, Mearns Gosh, don’t have enough room to highlight what makes this book so February 1: Fulton Lamont, Mearns special. Yes, we all have read the history about the atrocities of the February 4: Andrew Watson, Mearns Holocaust but, this was personal. This was about enduring faith. This was about humanity even in the darkest of times and, despite BEREAVEMENT GROUP what was witnessed and endured love and compassion for others was still put first!. Eastwood Bereavement Group meet in the Church Hall at 7pm on the 1st Tuesday of each Month. If you are I would encourage folks to check it out—best book I have read since struggling with the loss of a loved one, please join us in The Shack by William P Young. Would be delighted to hear from the Small Hall, where you will be made most welcome. folks who have read it!. Aka Church Book Club?, just a thought! This Community Group is for ALL people trying to cope with the pain of Lastly, unfortunately, my beautiful sister Anne’s health condition is a bereavement and our aim is to try to offer support at this very difficult time. worry. Bless her, never complains, spends on average 27 days 4 Please note that from 1st Tuesday in May—due to our Church Hall renovations, we will be meeting at the Mearns Parish Church at the Cross. times a year in hospital and still maintains her stoic, spiritual, and continued Faith. She is, undoubtedly, the strongest lady I know. Christina Shafi Never once has Anne spoken those words “why me” - she accepts God’s journey for her and lives as He would want—having love and PASTORAL CARE having compassion for others first. The Pastoral Group makes visits to the elderly, infirm, housebound, those in We thank God for our NHS system; for all the kind, lovely, caring care homes etc. Please call Alwyn Landman on 07704 238318 if you know of folks who visit Anne each week, trying to avoid admission to hospital anyone who should be on our list. We will be delighted to visit them. too soon. We applaud you and thank God we live in a country with such amazing services available. Alwyn Landman (Convener) Please inform Joe if you are ill, in hospital or facing particular difficulties. Count your blessings; encourage everyone in your life to have If he knows about your needs, he will endeavour to offer every possible “pockets of memories”, and thank God for each day. assistance. Contact him at the Manse or by phone on 0141 384 2218 Alison Berry

6 31 ALISON’S 2018 REFLECTIONS PRAYER POINTS LOVE AND COMPASSION Please pray for:-

When we enter a New Year, it encourages me to reflect on personal, • Joe and his family that God would be in the spiritual and family journeys. foundation of all areas of their lives. • Alwyn and his family that God continues to 2018 was such a challenging year for my wee family. We lost, as you support and guide each of them in their all will know, one of our closest friends Timmy Matley. He was the plans for their future. man who encouraged my sister Anne to travel; to meet up; to “live”. I • That God be in the foundation of all the planning to redevelop know God brought Timmy into my sister’s life , yet as I have said our Church Hall. May these changes enable a reaching out to before, why did God take a young man who brought so much joy to so the wider community. many at the young age of 36? (guarantee there are so many of you • Support and guidance for each of our Church groups. who can relate to this!). • Support and encouragement for each of our Elders as they I kind of have a “coping strategy” to everything in my life!. work for God in supporting our Church family. First, and foremost, I believe God has a plan for us all! Yes, we can • The homeless during the cold winter months. believe what career, house, relationship, family we are in control of, • Those, in our midst, going hungry through poverty. BUT to me, God has already got it sorted! • God’s wisdom to be with those governing our country ad for God to be in its direction. For an amicable agreement for the Over the past year (or lifetime!), I have been in many a position to Brexit negotiation. “justify” my Faith. • Youth of today that they respond to God as He reaches out to As the very pragmatic person I am—it is really easy. God brought me them. into this world; and only asked that I have love and compassion for • Wisdom for all world leaders. others first. How little did He ask from us? How sad and • God’s protection against terrorist attacks across the world and disappointing that people don’t understand. Folks believing that for those, who work to keep others secure, to be especially materialism and personal gratification is what life should be about! vigilant. Normally, every Saturday morning I travel into Glasgow, transfer the Mary Paton limited cash I have into £1 coins, buy coffee, sandwiches and walk along Argyle Street and Sauchiehall Street, stopping to talk to our vulnerable folks, give my small donations. It is a truly humbling experience. Gus Smeaton from Lodging House Mission in Glasgow told me once that if folks could just stop to talk to the vulnerable; just to show we care; to show love and compassion for others first it would mean so much.

30 7 HALL CLOSURE SUNDAY CLUB AND LITTLE STARS The Church Halls will close for use by groups and Church members on 18th April 2019 After this date, the contents will be packed up for storage. Once we have handed the halls over to the contractors at the We finished up the year with a Sunday Club Family Christmas Party, start of May, there will be no access to the building for anyone; it will which went down a treat, both with parents and children! be fenced off for safety reasons. This will be the case until we have The afternoon consisted of a disco, dancing, party games, human our refurbished halls handed back by the contractors, hopefully at the Christmas tree decorating, food and, of course, a Christmas Party end of August/start of September. wouldn’t be a party without a visit from Santa who, like normal, was a hit with the children. Our Church Office and the Mearns Kirk Helping Hands Office will both remain open in the halls until later in April. Andrea, our Church A New Year, a new term and a new Programme . For all of you who Secretary, will be based at Broom Church from 1st May until 31st were at Cafe Church, you may remember a very catchy song that we August (with the same email address and phone number - 0141 639 sung “GOD SUIT” 6555) and similarly Vicky and Laura from the Mearns Kirk Helping Hands Office will be based in the Vestry within our own Church (again We have taken this as our theme for this term. Ephesians 6:10 - 18 with their usual phone number and email addresses). Armor of God

The Church itself will have a few changes over this period as we will We will be exploring with the children how the Armor of God is be moving the photocopier into the Church to under the West Gallery important to wear/use in our daily lives. This will be done in our (where the chairs are). Here, there will also be a table and possibly normal creative Sunday Club style, in which our “Little Stars” can also other items. This means that it may not be possible to use this area for be involved. seating for Church services over the Summer. It has been lovely and encouraging to see all the children coming along to Sunday Club, building relationships with one another as well as with the helpers.

Please remember to pray for Sunday Club and the young people.

SAM BROOKS

8 29 DATA PROTECTION HALL CLOSURE

As part of the new Data Protection/GDPR Our children normally finish Sunday Club for the Summer in mid June legislation, a copy of a Privacy Notice about how we and will do so this year. From mid April until then we will be holding keep your personal details is enclosed with your two Services (9.30am and 10.30am) and after Sunday Club stops for Magazine. the Summer, we will return to our usual one Service at 10.15am.

By the time of the June Communion, we will not have any access to Marje Gillies the dishwasher in the Halls, so we will be using plastic glasses at the Communion Service - as a one-off.

DISTRICTS We may ask for volunteers to help with various things - more nearer the time!. If you have any questions in the meantime, please contact We have had to make a few changes to Districts so a small number of the Church Office. people have a new Elder, who will make contact with you. Marje Gillies

Marje Gillies MRS NECIA IRIS EASON MBE CONTRIBUTIONS TO MINISTRIES & MISSION 2018 Mother celebrated her 105th. birthday on January Each year every Church gives a contribution to the Church of 15th. and received a lovely card from Her Majesty the Scotland (Ministries and Mission). Our total contribution for 2018 was Queen which was delivered by special messenger, so £123,730. This is split into Ministries which receives 83.5% and needless to say she was much impressed. Mission which receives 16.5%. The Ministries contribution goes . towards to cost of providng over 750 Ministers and other parish We took her out to lunch a few days later to the restaurant she workers including our own Minister. The Mission contribution is used enjoyed last year. to support the Church’s work in, for example, Christian Education and Outreach, Social Care Services, providing central day-to-day work in She is still as talkative as ever and is especially pleased when the administrative, financial and legal matters and in planning the General grandchildren come to see her. Assembly and ensure the Moderator represents the Church. Roger Eason

Marje Gillies

28 9 EAST MEARNS KIRK HELPING FOODBANK HANDS

The main thing to report about the Food- bank is that there has been a 20% rise in On Mondays from 11th March to 15th April we will be running the 6 the number of people using in the last few months. This is a very big Session Introduction to Mindfulness programme again, in rise and it is worrying. After a very busy Christmas this year, where partnership with RAMH (Recovery Across Mental Health). This more parcels than ever were handed out, volunteers have been kept programme was oversubscribed last year, so if you are interested busy. please contact Vicky as soon as possible for a space!

Sorting out food by date stamps, and getting rid of out-of-date food On Wednesday 27th February from 2pm to 3.30pm, we will be holding which cannot be handed out, takes time, before packing the bags of the first of our monthly Cancer Support Groups. Anyone with a food which are given out to recipients. The bags contain three days current or historic cancer diagnosis who would like to access a peer supply of food, which is all canned and packaged, as fresh food cannot support group with input from professionals is most welcome to join us. be stored at the Foodbank. Vouchers are obtained from Citizens’ We are delighted to be welcoming a speaker from the Cancer Support Advice Bureau, doctors and health-care professionals, and are Network for our first meeting. exchanged for food at the Foodbank. A very careful note is kept of the quantity of food received by the Foodbank, the quantity of food which And finally, no Magazine article would be complete without a huge has to be discarded because of being out of date, and the quantity thank you to every who volunteers with Mearns Kirk Helping Hands. given out to clients. Your generous contribution of your time and skills is really appreciated and makes all that we do possible. As most of you will A reminder of the goods required is as follows:- know Laura and Vicky are holding a Spring Volunteer Coffee Afternoon on Friday 8th March at 2pm; we do hope you can join us. Canned soup, vegetables, spaghetti, baked beans, fruit, rice, custard, You can find all the information above on the website; there are also meat, fish, cereal, pasta, sugar, jam, biscuits, tea, coffee, long-life milk posters in the Halls and in the Church with details of dates and times and fruit juice. of all activities and how to get involved. If you want to get in touch for any reason, Vicky’s contacts are here. Or pop into the office and say We are grateful for all your donations, and you can be assured that HELLO! they will be well used and appreciated. Vicky Attwood, Project Manager Mearns Kirk Helping Hands [email protected] Elaine MacNiven Tel: 07585 5227667

10 27 MEARNS KIRK HELPING THE PRAYING HANDS OF A GRANDMOTHER HANDS by Ruth Lennard There were tiny flutters of a heartbeat before each child was born She prayed with Joy The Lunch Club for People Living with Dementia restarted after a As the little fingers clasped her hand She prayed short, well earned Christmas break on the 10th January. The Club is She asked for strength, She gave her thanks currently running at full capacity though we are still taking referrals for She unburdened her fears and worries our waiting list. The Friendship Club restarts on Tuesday 15th Her children were unaware January at 1.45pm and you will see the wonderful new syllabus Of her many times of prayers: elsewhere in this Magazine. The Bereavement Group continue to For their safety and protection, provide invaluable support on the first Tuesday evening of every For their health, For their education month at 7pm. The Blether and Brew restarted after a short break Her most important prayer - was that they on Tuesday 8th January and will run every other Tuesday throughout Would love God the year at 2pm. In the stressful periods When she couldn’t find the words On Monday from 21st January we are running a 5 Session God understood her heart Introduction to Tai Chi group. The group is currently fully booked, And her voiceless prayers were heard but if you are interested in the activity, please get in touch with Vicky Her children moved away who can advise about possible future dates etc. They led their own lives On Wednesdays from 6th February to 27th March, in partnership with From a distance - she prayed RAMH (Recovery Across Mental Health), we are running a Fit 4 Times when the family Sport Group, a free, gentle introduction to people who would like to Came together for celebration become more physically active focussing on low level sports and Were always special activities in a safe setting. To find out more about this group, please She rejoiced in her grandchildren contact Graham on 0141 881 8811 or email She blessed them [email protected] She asked about their lives They waved as they said goodbye On Fridays from 1st March to 5th April from 10am to 11.30am, we are She remembered what they had said running a 6 session Tablets for Beginners group, in partnership with And she prayed Culture and Leisure Trust. Here you will be able Today, if you look at her hands to learn all about using a tablet for emailing, using the internet, online They are lined and worn shopping, accessing information, books and magazines and much But from the time her infants were born more. To book a place, please get in touch with Vicky. She continued to pray

How precious are The Praying Hands of a Grandmother 26 11 CARING FOR THE YOUTH MEARNS KIRK HELPING HANDS OF TODAY

It is 2019 and we are moving through winter quite quickly. It is our 1st Laura, our Volunteer Co-ordinator will be out and about in local winter in Scotland and so far it has shopping centres and supermarkets spreading the word about all been an interesting one. The snow the volunteering opportunities we have available and we will be finally arrived after we were looking for it to come sooner! The sound in local media too. that your footsteps makes on the fresh fallen snow was most At present we are particularly keen to recruit intriguing. As you may have gathered - we are not used to snow! We, as a family, make time to experience new things - like the snow. • Minibus Drivers My youngest son, Werner, ran out with bare feet when the snow • Volunteers with Experience of Leading Groups came down for the first time. He came into the house very quickly • Male Volunteers after that. It will be a memory treasured for the future. • Volunteers to Help in the Kitchen • Volunteers with Administration or IT skills. That made me think of the challenges and struggles our young ones are faced with every day. The sheer variety of challenges and the Anyone with a couple of hours to spare each week is welcome to get lack of guidance experienced by so may of the youth is mind in touch; there are lots of different ways you can help. You can email boggling. What we as adults may have a suspicion of, is the huge Laura at [email protected] or phone changes that took place within the world of the adolescent in recent 07858 552767 times. We are not quite sure what it really means, but we get some On the 5th December we hosted “THE BIG CHRISTMAS LUNCH” , glimpses when we pass them on the street or talk (rather try) to an opportunity provided by the Self-Directed Support Forum for them. I purposefully use the word “to” and not “with” them because people from across East Renfrewshire to come together to find out they will seldom let you into their real world. about lots of different services available to them, try some health and wellbeing activities, share lunch and enjoy entertainment. Over 150 The main concern that we need to look at is that the adolescents feel people attended on the day; 29 people made enquiries or referrals in abandoned. The systems in place are letting them down to organisations who were present on the day, including the Money spectacularly. I watched with horror a programme about Scottish Advice Team and the Scottish War Blinded. MKHH will continue to be children with mental health problems who had to wait for three weeks involved in the organising committee for future “Big Lunch” events. for an appointment to get help. The disintegration of the family Our thanks to everyone who supported in the event. structures through divorce, no marriage or unexpected pregnancies are taking a heavy toll within society. The traditional family (although And so to this year...... recognising it has problems) is still the best place to rear children - that has been proven all over the world through decades.

12 25 MEARNS KIRK HELPING HANDS The family offers security, a CARING FOR THE YOUTH certain amount of feeling loved OF TODAY and providing shelter and HELLO and a HAPPY NEW YEAR to all!! food.

If we want an excellent example of changes - take a look at sport. 2019 is shaping up to be a busy and exciting year for Mearns Kirk Sport was meant to be a way of exercising, relaxing, enjoyment, Helping Hands as we grow and develop, We have some new groups physical development and developing social skills. It has and activities starting up this year, all of which fit with our charity’s key become a toxic arena of fierce competition. Just watch the fist theme of “improving health and wellbeing, reducing isolation and pumping and screams by both genders on the tennis court. Each loneliness in our community” point won, even by the mistake of your opponent, is thrown in the

face of your opponent. The celebration after winning the match has We are pleased to report that, following the submission of our annual become embarrassing. Not to the sports world - it is the survival of monitoring reports to our funders detailing all we achieved in 2018 the fittest. This impacts on the adolescent’s development. It is no (including a visit from a Funding Officer) , we have been awarded our surprise that they are not interested in sport. Throw into the mix second year of funding from The Robertson Trust. We have also multimedia (social media in particular), school, peers, sex, ethics, been given the second tranche of our funding from the Voluntary morality and the party scene and you have a melting pot with an Action Fund (VAF), again following submission of a monitoring report awful brew. It is therefore no surprise that young adolescents create demonstrating the successful achievement of targets for the 2018 their own world into which they can escape. They do not trust adults period. We also anticipate securing our continued funding from the because most of the time it will lead to disappointment. Church of Scotland - Go For It Fund. The end results is children really struggle coping with the world. They

seem and are quick to offer a view that they have everything under We are also delighted to say that our Mearns Kirk Helping Hands control. Friendships do not support the teenager because it is not a WEBSITE is now live. You can find the site at question of friendship, but what I can get from you. The problem of mkhelpinghands.org.uk/ Its full of information about the Charity, what self-harming and suicide among teenagers is a real problem in the activities we have coming up and how people can get involved in what . It was just this week that the suicide of a teenage we do. Do visit the site and tell us what you think; there’s a feedback girl made the papers and the news on TV. Her father blames link at the bottom of the home page where you can send any thoughts images on Instagram, a social media platform which is run by directly to us. We are also now on FACEBOOK; you can find us at Facebook. It has a ring of truth but it ultimately shows how www.facebook.com/ MearnsKirkHelpingHands/ . vulnerable our children really are. They seem to have lost the ability

to make sensible choices. Some researchers call it “the death of Please like and share our page! common sense”

So what can we do about it? It is very interesting that, after decades This year will see a big push to recruit more volunteers to support all of research with thousands of teenagers worldwide, the Search the work we will be undertaking over the coming years. Institute in Minneapolis USA, found that teenagers still want to interact with adults. 24 13 CARING FOR THE YOUTH EASTER SERVICES OF TODAY

The interaction needs to be constructive with a good understanding Easter falls on Sunday 21st April this what the teenagers of today are going through. This is a positive start year. of how to help the teenagers and children. As of yet we have no details as to our Professor Chap Clark, after working with adolescents for than 30 midweek services as discussions haven’t taken place with the other years recommend 5 strategies to help teenagers. These 5 are:- Churches.

1. Those who work with adolescents (teenagers) should be trained There will be a Maundy Thursday and Good Friday service at 7pm, in in the changing youth culture. They include educators, one of the local Churches and our own Church will be open on Good government agents, counsellors, coaches, youth workers and Friday from 12 noon till 3pm for quiet reflection. Our Easter Sunday employees of youth. service will be at 10.15am with an informal Communion service 2. Those who serve adolescents must work together, Adults in the 6 afterwards. roles mentioned above must realise that, regardless of their resources or expertise, they cannot turn the tide of abandonment There is also to be a joint Lenten Studies Group with Newton Mearns on their own. Group who want to help the youth are still Parish Church and these will be operating apart - they need to combine their forces. intimated in due course. 3. Those who serve adolescents must understand youth and provide boundaries. The basic response demanded by the Look on our Website and follow the weekly Intimation sheet and you issues related to abandonment may feel overwhelming, but it is will get to know all that is happening. actually straightforward, To nurture adolescents we need to understand their changing world and provide boundaries so that their choices have as few serious consequences as possible. 4. Parents need to be equipped and encouraged to parent the changing adolescent. I have found few parents who, once the children enter mid-adolescence, are not on the edge of panic at some level. They see disconnectedness and callousness, “He is not here, He is risen!” Parents feel insecure and alone. Parents need to know what is Is probably the greatest announcement every made in history of happening. Then they can build good relationships with their the world. Let these words assure you that your God is not only children. alive and well, but lives within your heart. (Luke 24:5, 6)

14 23 OUTREACH CARING FOR THE YOUTH OF TODAY The distribution of Christmas presents has become quite an undertaking, thanks to the 5. Communities must make sure that generosity of Mearns Kirk folk and our friends at each adolescent has a few adult Orchardhill Parish Church. We received hundreds of wonderful advocates who know and care for her presents, which were a job to sort and find homes for. The gifts were or him. divided amongst the following organisations: Research has consistently demonstrated that several positive and supportive relationships that offer the same message must be Aberlour Trust present to have an effect on the life of a child. Every adult must Glasgow Care Foundation attempt to add to the cumulative message of protection, nurture, Glasgow Befriending warmth and affection. By far the best way to help our young is by Quarriers Family Centre at Ruchazie, Glasgow being a chorus of support and a choir of commitment. Women and Children First in Paisley To all teenagers or adolescents, the failed promise of intimate Family and Addiction Support Services companionship and nurture is devastating. Unfortunately, an Glasgow and Falkirk Social Services individual does not have the ability to present in the variety of ways an adolescent needs. If a child has a mentor who is gentle, supportive, Each organisation is asked to identify the children they need presents and affirming during a weekly encounter, yet the rest of the week he for and we (the Outreach Group) try to match gifts to each child. hears that he is lazy, stupid and incompetent, the negative voices will Some of you will have heard Joe read the reaction from a Mum who win out. One fan, even a great one, is not enough, received gifts via Women and Children First. She was reduced to We CAN make a difference in a teenager’s life. tears as it meant so much to her to have gifts to give her children at It takes a team to win a rugby match. God called us to be there for Christmas. children. Jesus could not have been clearer: “Do not keep the All the organisations have spoken of their gratitude and I think we can children from me”. be sure that this effort is extremely worthwhile. Speaking personally, I Be part of the team that “ADOPT” a child. It may be your grandchild. have enjoyed the opportunity to work with folks from Orchardhill on It may be your brother’s child. It may even ben that you are his/her such a constructive activity. teacher. BE THERE for them - UNCONDITIONALLY. The Outreach Group is looking at other ways we could help our organisations at different times throughout the year. For example, I I conclude by the words of Garrison Keillor: know that the provision of school uniforms can be difficult for families and we are looking at how we could help with this. “Nothing you do for children is ever wasted. They seem not to Many thanks for all of you who helped. notice us, hovering, averting our eyes, and they seldom offer SUSAN FRASER thanks, but what we do for them is never wasted” OUTREACH GROUP Blessings till next time. ALWYN LANDMAN 22 15 SHOES MEARNS KIRK HOSPITAL MEMORIES by FLORENCE ROWAN The hospital closed in the 1980’s, with the exception of two wings at We often think another’s shoes Mearnskirk House which continued as a long-term care unit. Services, Would make our life complete though, never ceased and continued at Mearnskirk House up until the For sometimes they look better than present day. Sadly, this much need facility is due to close shortly and The shoes on our own feet so all the Churches’ involvement will now cease.

Our neighbour’s shoes may seem to us Congregations involved up to the closure were from Greenbank, So polished and so neat - Busby, Cartbridge, South, Williamwood, Mearns Kirk, But we can’t tell by looking where , Brook and Stamperland. They’re pinching his poor feet A HUGE thank you to all those who have participated over the years - You might suppose if you could wear bring God’s message to the patients. My shoes it would be a treat But, confidentially, I’ve got You - the Sunday singers and musicians may have been the only Some blisters on my feet visitors that some patients may have had!

The moral that I want to leave Thank you again. Is one that can’t be beat - Let’s be content and happy with Margaret Armstrong The shoes on our own feet! Stamperland Church This was sent to David Arthur almost 25 years ago by Florence Rowan whom, I understand lived in the “old” Mearns Kirk Manse prior to moving to Washington USA.

David Arthur

16 21 MEARNS KIRK HOSPITAL MINI BUS DRIVERS MEMORIES URGENTLY REQUIRED

This is an urgent appeal for additional volunteer mini bus drivers to help driving the bus on a Sunday morning. As long as you hold a current, clean driving licence and are under the age of 70, you will qualify.

It is not an onerous job as the 1st pick up is at 9.20am and currently Mearnskirk Hospital was located in open countryside and opened as a there are 6 collection points. After the Morning Service delivering the Children’s TB hospital in 1930. It subsequently became a general various people home again which takes about 30 minutes. hospital and, at its peak, had more than 500 beds. If you feel you could help in this very worthwhile job, or need any Services led by Churches began in 1933 by the then Minister of further information please contact me at [email protected] or Newton Mearns Parish Church, along with Mr James Rodger of my mobile number is 07769-635573. Maple Evangelical Church. Des Young Mini Bus Co-ordinator Stamperland Church’s involvement with the hospital began in 1958 when two members of the congregation joined in the Services, then WELCOME GRAEME FINNIE the Church became more fully involved in 1960, conducting short services in a number of wards every Sunday. Mr Rodger continued as leader for 40 years until just before his death in 1975 when Mr Alex Muirhead of Victoria Hall succeeded him as leader until he retired in We are delighted to welcome our new organist, Graeme 1981. At that time, the late Jack Fraser of Stamperland took over as Finnie, who started with us at Mearns Kirk on 14th of January. leader. Graeme is an accomplished organist who has many years experience Many local Churches readily joined the rota over the years to regularly playing in Churches. lead services Sunday by Sunday - some also being similarly involved at the Victoria Infirmary. Several Churches such as Clarkston Baptist, Welcome Graeme to our Kirk. Greenview Church, Kingspark Baptist, Newlands South, Newton Mearns, Victoria Hall, Maxwell Mearns, Mearns Parish, Giffnock Park and Crosshill Queens Park played their part, but later dropped out.

20 17 THANK YOU CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

I would like to thank the Kirk Session and congregation most sincerely Under the banner of our charity Mearns Kirk for their very generous gift of Amazon vouchers on the occasion of my Helping Hands, it is hoped to create a support for retirement as your Organist and Choirmistress. people living with cancer. It will be very much centred on the needs I had meant to take a “back seat” when we moved here from Dunblane of those with the illness and whatever programme develops will do in 11 years ago but, when Jean Binning retired, I decided to apply for the relation to their needs and wishes. position. I have certainly not regretted my decision as the last 10 years have been very rewarding and it has been my great privilege The first meeting will be in the Church Hall on Wednesday 27th and honour to play for the congregation, Joe and my wonderful friends February and follow on a last Wednesday of the month basis. in the choir. Thanks are due to Liz Ronald and Jean Duffus for It begins at 2.00pm and runs to 3.30pm working hard to keep the choir together during my absence. Had it not If you think that this would be helpful, please come along; you are been for my illness, I would still have been playing. My family and I assured of a warm welcome. have been greatly sustained and encouraged by your kindness, For further information, please contact Joe 0141 384 prayers, cards and help in so many forms over the last two years - 2218 or Vicky 07858 552767 thank you so much. Unfortunately, I have just learned that I have to undergo more HELPING HANDS A.G.M. chemotherapy as my cancer reading is increasing again. Best wishes to our new Organist, Mr Graeme Finnie The charity’s AGM will be held on Saturday 30th March at 11am in Doris Watson Church Main Hall which will include presentations on a wide range of FRIENDSHIP CLUB activities that the charity has been involved with over the last year and of the excellent work our dedicated volunteers have carried out We meet in the Main Hall from 1.45pm - 3.15pm as to help those less advantaged in our local community. Robert Paton, follows:- Chair/Trustee of MKHH said “we are delighted that Ken MacIntosh MSP, the Presiding Officer at the Scottish Parliament, has agreed to March 12th Music Box: Keyboard/Singer Duo attend and participate in our AGM. We will also be inviting our part- March 26th The Razor Sharps: Barber Shop Group ners in the community who we have worked closely with us over the April 9th Rev Alwyn Landman: My Time with the last year making Mearns Kirk Helping Hands a major charity, working South African Police in the community, helping those less fortunate than us, whether it is April 23rd The Friendship Singers about reducing social isolation or improving our health and wellbeing. May 7th Outing (our last meeting of the session) The Club will be taking a break as usual for the Summer and we look Please put the date in your diary...... it is open to all!. forward to welcoming members old and new when we resume on Robert Paton TUESDAY 10th SEPTEMBER

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