March 2013 Volume 16 Issue 1 Easter Tidings from Killearn Kirk

Hallelujah ! Jesus has Risen ! What’s so special about Easter? I guess this depends You could argue, and rightly, that the gospel stories were on your perspective. From one view point it signifies an not the earliest documents which deal with the resurrection. extra holiday, a welcome break from work and all that Paul’s earlier letters, written about 20 years after the responsibility. Another response might be time for family resurrection event, record the traditions surrounding this get togethers; someone else might speak about a welcome story that were received by him. Paul also had a very excuse to indulge in chocolate. All of these explanations personal encounter with the risen Jesus through a visionary could well be true and certainly could be classed as ‘good experience, again however for many, such an experience fun’. Yet from the Christian Faith perspective, Easter is a would be classed as questionable. So if we can’t prove that real mixture of uncertainty, pain, emotional lows and highs, Jesus was raised from the dead, why do people still believe and an extraordinary, out of this world experience which has this story as having actually happened? Are Christian people left people divided as to whether a man dead for at least today still perpetuating a myth, a delusional belief that has 24 hours could be possibly brought back to life, and yes, no significance, other than being make belief? all this without medical intervention. It seems a tall story and what is more there is no way of confirming this event, I suppose, my simple answer, to all of this is the honesty without the use of a Time Machine. of the gospel stories as they record, doubt, uncertainty, disbelief, a sense of confusion and all the discrepancies If this is the case, then surely Christianity has been built around the resurrection event. There is no committee that upon a very flimsy structure, with no real foundation other conflates and ties down and corrects all the differences, there than what has been recorded in the gospel narratives. is no careful editing of the sources so that they are made to Even if we were to take the gospel stories as having some speak with one voice. Instead you follow the story of unbelief historical bases, we are still dealing with documents that through the different stages of doubt to certainty, arriving at were written at least 35 years after the event. This surely a group of disciples who hold a profound message but are would indicate a high degree of error in remembering all the not sure how to handle it! From denial to certainty comes details and accounts of a man being raised from the dead. It the beginning of a movement that survived persecution, certainly would account for the fact that each of the gospel indifference and intolerance to become a worldwide Faith stories dealing with the resurrection are different in their that still manages to attract doubting Thomas’s who take details. Some of the discrepancies are one or two angels; that step, from cold unbelief to a rich hope, which speaks the number of women present; only Peter running to the of a life with God. So yes, although I am heavily biased, I tomb; a non appearance of Jesus; personal encounters with believe that the Easter story offers so much hope, in a world the risen Jesus; fear and an explosion of joy. These are just where hope is often in short supply. to name a few differences. Lee Messeder

Come and celebrate with us this March at our Easter Week services Wednesday 27th & Thursday 28th at 7.30pm & Easter Sunday 10.30am (Killearn Kirk) Good Friday 29th at 7.30pm ( Church) Details of regular activities and forthcoming events are on page 5 Page 2 Easter Tidings from Killearn Kirk Killearn Kirk People Personalia

Minister Rev. Lee Messeder FUNERALS January 2013 2 The Oaks 550045 James Gemmell [email protected] Angus Macdonald Family Worker Amanda McCall December 2012 Douglas Davies [email protected] Sidney Parrott Youth Worker Tim Burnham Irving Cole February 2013 [email protected] Matilda Gourley Helen Loudon Session Clerk Chris Williams Margaret Bishop Blair House, 660020 Treasurer Bob Ballantyne Kilmorie Cottage 550310 Church Officer Iain Sinclair Cover Picture 18 Crosshead Road 550204 Roll Keeper Kirsty Smith Guess the Parish ? 26 New Endrick Road 550654 The dramatic coastal sunrise on the front cover was photographed just along the road from a Church of - can you guess where? Here’s a clue, it’s not North Berwick Worship Group or St. Andrews.

The Worship Group takes part in the Sunday morning in fact, the picture was taken on the Costa del Sol and the service most weeks. They are always on the lookout for nearby congregation (strictly speaking it’s not actually a more instrumentalists and singers. Please contact Karen parish) is the one at Fuengirola. The minister, Rev Morris (550380) Dutch, and his wife Maggie, are from and many of the congregation are Scottish so you can be assured of a warm welcome. It’s a popular holiday spot so if you’re over Christian Aid there why not go along to the Sunday service? Full details on their website: www.churchofscotlandcostadelsol.eu. This year’s Christian Aid Week will be 12-18 May 2013 and donation envelopes will be distributed to houses in the PS Pity the poor presbytery elder, the meetings rotate village and subsequently collected - please support this around the presbytery churches in the usual fashion - Malta, worthwhile cause. Bermuda, Geneva, Colombo . . . it’s a tough job but someone has to do it ! Editorial Leprosy Mission

The next edition (Autumn) of Killearn Kirk Tidings will be Jim Fallas tells us that as a result of eMail, facebook, etc, published at the end of the summer holidays. Articles are there are fewer letters being sent and consequently the always welcome and can be on any aspect of our Church value of used stamps is rising. He was able to take a good life. In particular we would like more photographs so please quantity to aid the work of the Leprosy Mission as a result take out your camera or phone and snap away at Church of the Christmas post but the collection box for used stamps events. is in the hall foyer all year round so please keep up the good work. Please eMail contributions to the editor in plenty of time. Text should if possible be a Word document attached to an eMail. Pictures & graphics should also be separately attached, Sermons please do not embed pictures and graphics within documents or eMails, it can be difficult or impossible to extract them. If If you can’t manage to Church, or indeed you wish to hear in doubt contact the editor beforehand. Thank you. them over again, the weekly Sunday sermons are recorded and can be listened to or downloaded from the Church It is sad that so many have passed away recently, however website. If you’re not able to do this the sermons can be our thanks to the Killearn Courier and its contributors for brought to your house on a portable player. Andrew Weir assistance with obituaries and photographs. can arrange this (550779).

Visit us online at www.killearnkirk.org.uk or visit our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/pages/Killearn-Kirk/116334885136784

Killearn Kirk is a Charity Registered in Scotland No SC012140 Killearn Kirk Tidings is edited by: Scott Macintosh (tel 550794) - [email protected] and printed by The Macintosh Partnership Easter Tidings from Killearn Kirk Page 3

The Discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls

In the spring of 1947 Bedouin goat-herds, searching the sold three of the scrolls to Eleazar L. Sukenik of Hebrew cliffs along the Dead Sea for a lost goat (or for treasure, University, and four to Metropolitan Mar Athanasius Yeshue depending on who is telling the story), came upon a cave Samuel of the Syrian Orthodox monastery of St. Mark. Mar containing jars filled with manuscripts. That find caused a Athanasius in turn brought his four to the American School sensation when it was released to the world, and continues of Oriental Research, where they came to the attention of to fascinate the scholarly community and the public to this American and European scholars. day. From there, Dr. John C. Trever, of the American Schools of The initial discovery, by Bedouin shepherd Muhammed Oriental Research (ASOR), compared the script in the scrolls Edh-Dhib, his cousin Jum'a Muhammed and Khalil Musa, to that of The Nash Papyrus, the oldest biblical manuscript took place between November 1946 and February 1947. then known, and found similarities between them. In March, The shepherds discovered 7 scrolls housed in jars in a cave the 1948 Arab-Israeli War prompted the move of some of at what is now known as the Qumran site. John C. Trever scrolls to Beirut, Lebanon, for safekeeping. On 11 April 1948, reconstructed the story of the scrolls from several interviews Miller Burrows, head of the ASOR, announced the discovery with the Bedouin. The story is as follows:- of the scrolls in a general press release.

Edh-Dhib's cousin noticed the caves, but edh-Dhib himself It was not until 1949 that the site of the find was identified was the first to actually fall into one. He retrieved a handful as the cave now known as Qumran Cave 1. It was that of scrolls, which Trever identifies as the Isaiah Scroll, identification that led to further explorations and excavations Habakkuk Commentary, and the Community Rule, and took of the area of Khirbet Qumran. Further search of Cave 1 them back to the camp to show to his family. None of the revealed archaeological finds of pottery, cloth and wood, scrolls were destroyed in this process, despite popular rumor. as well as a number of additional manuscript fragments. It The Bedouin kept the scrolls hanging on a tent pole while was these discoveries that proved decisively that the scrolls they figured out what to do with them, periodically taking were indeed ancient and authentic. them out to show people. Between 1949 and 1956, in what became a race between the Bedouin and the archaeologists, ten additional caves were found in the hills around Qumran, caves that yielded several more scrolls, as well as thousands of fragments of scrolls: the remnants of approximately 800 manuscripts dating from approximately 200 B.C.E. to 68 C.E.

The manuscripts of the Qumran caves include early copies At some point during this time, the Community Rule was of biblical books in Hebrew and Aramaic, hymns, prayers, split in two. The Bedouin first took the scrolls to a dealer Jewish writings known as pseudepigrapha (because they named Ibrahim 'Ijha in Bethlehem. 'Ijha returned them, are attributed to ancient biblical characters such as Enoch saying they were worthless, after being warned that they or the patriarchs), and texts that seem to represent the might have been stolen from a synagogue. Undaunted, the beliefs of a particular Jewish group that may have lived at Bedouin went to a nearby market, where a Syrian Christian the site of Qumran. Most scholars believe that the Qumran offered to buy them. A sheikh joined their conversation community was very similar to the Essenes. and suggested they take the scrolls to Khalil Eskander Shahin, "Kando," a cobbler and part-time antiques dealer. and if your interest has been sparked by this article, why The Bedouin sold seven of the scrolls to Kando. He in turn not consider this pilgrimage . . .

Sunday Morning Coffee Pilgrimage to

It has been encouraging to see that over the last year the the Holy Land numbers staying on for coffee and fellowship has been growing. The donations given for the coffee have grown A small group of folks from the Killearn/ area are too as we have received £530. This has enabled us to send planning a trip to Israel this autumn but to make it viable £350 to Traidcaraft who supplies the tea, coffee and sugar. a few more folks are necessary. The projected dates are We have in the past also supported Ballikinrain and their 10-17th October. Travel would be by scheduled flights and trip to India, Parkinson’s Society and the Pakistan Appeal. If hotels would be 4/5 star Ramada etc. The projected cost is anyone would like to suggest other charities that we could c£1500 half-board and this includes extensive sightseeing support in the future please let me know. in an air-con ditioned coach with English speaking guide, entry to various sites etc. We have a great group of volunteers who work in pairs on a rota so they are only doing the coffees about once every One of the proposed party has been several times before four months. I would like to thank them for their time and and “knows the ropes” and this is a “once-in-a lifetime” support. If anyone would like to join this group please opportunity. For further details contact the Macintoshes contact me. Sue Beck (550794) Page 4 Easter Tidings from Killearn Kirk Congregational Accounts

The congregational Accounts for the year to 31 December 2012 have now been examined. These accounts were approved by Session and presented to the congregation on Sunday 17th March 2013. A summary of the accounts is given below.

Income Actual Actual Budget Expenditure Actual Actual Budget 2011 2012 2013 2011 2012 2013 £ £ £ £ £ £ Freewill Offering 4790 11787 7500 Ministry & Gift Aid 57145 54519 60000 Mission & Wider Tax Recovery 14171 13457 15000 Work 59348 58423 57677 Open Plate 5222 5149 5250 Local Costs 9871 10296 10560 Donations 499 2534 500 Building Costs 26485 30399 30313 Use of Hall 5548 6544 6000 Youth Project 10609 - - Other Income 4102 3434 3650 Other Costs 4274 6387 5850 91477 97424 97900 Deficit 19110 8081 6500 Total 110587 105505 104400 Total 110587 105505 104400

With income up £5947 on last year and expenditure down £5082, the deficit in 2011 was reduced by £11029 to £8081.

Income Gift Aid was actually down £2626 due to a number of donors being no longer eligble to claim tax recovery. The offerings of those no longer able to claim Gift Aid contributed to an increase in Freewill Offerings of £6997. With increased income from hall lettings partly as a result of the village hall being unavailable for most of the year due to refurbishment and a donation of £2000, overall income increased by £5947 – quite an achievement in these difficult times.

Expenditure The costs of the Youth Worker and the Family Worker are now paid out of the Helen Jamieson Bequest and this reduction of £10609 was the main reason for the reduction in overall costs of £5082. The increase in Building Costs of £3914 was a result of catching up on maintenance & repairs while the increase in Other Costs included an increase in magazine costs arising from an increase in distribution from members only to each household plus some costs related to 2011.

Budget for 2013 We already know our commitments to the for the Ministries and Mission Allocation which is down slightly on 2012.We hope to try and persuade the donors of Freewill Offerings to complete Gift Aid forms if at all possible as we can claim 25% tax recovery on such donations. However overall we are budgeting pretty much the same level of income as in 2012. Overall expenditure is again predicted to be similar to last year resulting in a projected deficit of £6500. The Finance Committee continue to look to see if there are any ways of getting to a breakeven situation and any suggestions would be welcomed and examined.

Many thanks to the continuing work of the treasurers of the various Church organisations and to the help given to me by Gill Smith in my first year as treasurer and for carrying out the independent examination of the accounts.

Bob Ballantyne, Treasurer. Behold the Tax Man Cometh - With a Gift!

The Kirk can claim 25% tax back on donations providing you can complete a gift aid form which asks you to certify that you currently pay tax .

If you currently donate through the freewill offering envelopes and have not completed a gift aid form it would be more beneficial to the Kirk if you were able to complete a gift aid form - I would be happy to supply. Or if you currently donate by putting your gift in the plate, again it would be more beneficial if you were to donate using a freewill offering envelope and completing a gift aid form - Dorothy Dunkinson can supply.

It doesn’t cost you more than your donation and you are not tied to a specific amount - the amount can vary - just whatever you can afford. The freewill offering envelope scheme allows the Kirk to tot up your donations & claim back 25% tax. All very confidential of course. For example if you donate £100 over a period we can claim £25 back from HMRC - a pretty generous scheme for registered charities.

Helen Gee, Gift Aid Co-ordinator Easter Tidings from Killearn Kirk Page 5 Regular Activities at Killearn Kirk

Tuesdays - Fortnightly - The Guild Killearn Kirk Guild extends a warm welcome to everyone who wishes to attend our fortnightly Tuesday evening meetings at 7.30pm in the Church Hall. We enjoy many varied speakers and activities. Do come along, feel at home and have an interesting evening. For more information please contact Ena Macnab on 550385

Wednesday - Fortnightly - Prayer Breakfast An opportunity to meet together for a time of prayer for our Church and village and those further afield. It’s very informal and prayers can be silent as well as spoken - no need to pray audibly. Oh, and there’s usually coffee and bacon rolls afterwards. If you can’t manage but have a prayer request please let us know. For more info ring Scott on 550794.

Thursday - Weekly - Book Group This is a very informal group which welcomes everyone. The members and the discussions are wide ranging and do not demand prior Bible knowledge or indeed church membership. It is an opportunity for people to meet, think honestly together on matters of faith and of course drink coffee and tea. Everyone is welcome to the meetings which are on Thursdays at 10.30am and 7.30 pm. For more information and venues please give Lee a ring on 550045.

Thursday - Weekly - Thursday Club Meets in the Church Hall every Thursday afternoon from 2pm to around 4pm and refreshments are provided. Volunteer helpers drive members to the meetings and home again afterwards. You will have the opportunity to relax and enjoy activities such as card games, dominoes and scrabble and there are various events and outings. Be assured of a warm welcome and time to catch up with old friends and make new ones. Contact Peggy Gardner 550558

Young People Killearn Kirk has a full programme of enjoyable activities for young people and all those in the village are invited whether with or without a Church connection. Full details can be found on the centre pages of this magazine.

Exact meeting dates and venues for the above can usually be found on the Church website.

Malawi Jumble Sale

The Killearn Malawi Group’s annual jumble sale took place on Saturday Feb 23 in the church hall. Preparations had begun weeks in advance to advertise the sale and to leaflet the village. Posters were hung and boards were placed at the roadside. If you did not know there was a jumble sale on you must have been on another planet.

Goods started to trickle in but the biggest stream came on the Friday night before the sale. Because the church hall is smaller than the village hall we had restricted donations to clothes, linen, toys, books and bric-a-brac. By 8.30pm the tables were groaning under the weight of donated goods. Books festooned the hallway as every available flat surface was used. Stands usually holding folded tables became clothes rails. It was time to let the dealers in.

On Saturday morning the Friends of Malawi and friends of friends came to help. At 10 am the doors opened and the sale began. Two hectic hours later it was all over and the big clear up began as the hall was needed in the afternoon for a party. On Sunday the van came from Capability Scotland. They took away the books and the bric-a-brac. On Monday the van from Mary’s Meals took all the clothing and shoes. It was good to know that nothing was going to waste and that other charities could benefit from our efforts. The grand total raised was in the region of £1400. Thanks are due to all those who donated and all those who helped. This was If you would like to serve on the committee of the Killearn a real community effort. The money will be used to support Malawi Group contact Jenifer Barret on 01360 550 508. If on-going projects in Malawi and to give a donation to you would like to become a Friend of Malawi and receive High School to enable young people from Malawi to make our newsletters then email June Thomas: jnethomas@aol. an exchange visit. com. Page 6 Easter Tidings from Killearn Kirk Young People at Killearn Kirk

SU Scotland Forth Valley Weekend Away

We are still enjoying seeing the majority of the P7 class from Killearn Primary attending this – you guys are awesome (even if you are also incredibly loud at times!). Recently we had a quiz and as a bonus question the P7’s had to design a perfect pet for Tim. One was half lion half dragon, who had dreadlocks. He, amongst other things, loved Tim’s hair and did all the housework - definite winner, well done girls! Next task, go and find one! This club runs for those in P7 from 6:30 – 7:30pm on Fridays during term time.

At the beginning of February we went away to Lendrickmuir with 16 children and young people for a weekend away run TFNT is now running from 8:00pm – 9:30pm as a time to by SU (Scripture Union Scotland). We had a great time doing socialise with friends. Once a month there is usually an activities outside, such as archery, a low ropes course etc activity night, this could be something like a quiz, games, inside games and don’t forget the Bond wide game with challenges or even a trip....yes we are definitely doing the those pesky Ninja’s! As with most SU camps/holidays we laser quest one soon!! Really we promise, and what’s more stayed inside and had the comfort of decent showers and I (Tim) am going to win!!! This club is open to all young beds. We also looked at the story of a man named Saul, people in secondary school in the village – you do not need why he decided to follow Jesus and the dramatic change to attend anything else the church runs or follow a particular that happened throughout his life. During this time we learn set of beliefs to come. a few new songs that seemed to be very popular with our group.....apparently the girls could be heard singing them from their bedrooms! This term we have started a series on spiritual gifts and are thinking about the different types of gifts God gives people, which gifts we have and how we can use them. This group is a Bible study and is currently aimed at Christians who want to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the Christian faith, however non-Christians are more than welcome to attend too.

Balfron High School Amanda and Tim both continue to go to on Wednesdays & Fridays. They have been warmly welcomed by the new Head Teacher Elaine Bannatyne. In 2012 Amanda and Tim were approached by pupils in the school and asked to run a club where people can learn more about Christianity. So now at Wednesday lunchtimes in the For those interested there is another weekend away for RME class is the new SU group. Currently the students have the Forth Valley area on Friday 30th May – Sunday 2nd requested that we do a Bible overview – what is the Bible? June. This is open to P5 – S6 ages. Full details are still to And what happens in it, what’s its story? On Friday they be confirmed, but we can guarantee you’ll have a brilliant continue to be available at lunchtimes around the atrium time. and classes. If you see them do come and chat to them. Let them know how your day has been, if there is anything you want to talk about and which teacher gives the most homework!

Volunteers Needed We are in need of volunteers who would like to work alongside our full-time Youth and family Worker and part- time Youth Worker particularly at TFNT. This will involve attending a club, supervising the young people and chatting to them. Both our members of Staff are highly experienced and can offer tips/advice to anyone who is unsure. The need will be greater when we move into the village hall due to the physical layout of the building. If you feel you could take part volunteering on a rota basis (as little or often as you like) please contact Amanda or Tim. Easter Tidings from Killearn Kirk Page 7

Messy Play Last year we had our Champions Holiday Club which was a great success! Fun was had by all our children....and all out We are still having lots of Messy fun fortnightly at Killearn leaders! This summer will see the return of the Holiday Club kirk Halls. Open to all pre-school children and their carers/ – this time Waste Watchers. There will be games, dramas, parents. Alternating between toys and tea sessions and stories, crafts and even more fun than last year! Children in messy play fortnightly. P1 – P7 are welcome to come, even if there are no church connections they are more than welcome. It will be running Through February and March we were thinking about “Love” from 7th – 9th August. As usual there will be limited spaces and we had messy fun experimenting with new and different so do keep an eye out for more details and book as soon as spaces 1. Toy and snack space, 2. Table top crafts and 3. you can to avoid disappointment. Messy water play, sand, playdough, messy foam, mixtures and hidden objects and paint as well as our aqua mats, then we finished with 4. Our song time out in the foyer before going home with all our makes.

Killearn Village Hall We hope to continue the Rather excitingly the new village hall in Killearn is to be different space ready soon. For those of you who don’t know there is a on our Messy youth basement being added in. Both TP7T and TFNT will days to help be moving over there. When this happens there will be a few accommodate changes as the age group for TFNT will become for years the growing S1 – S3/4 and a new club specifically for S4/5 – S6 will start numbers and up on Sunday evenings after Curious. This will provide a to offer more place to chill and undoubtedly some food available. When choice. The it starts up come along, check it out and let us know what end of March you want and we’ll try our best to deliver! and into April will see us looking at Easter crafts and a big Easter egg hunt before the Easter holidays. May and June As with all our clubs there is no need to be a Christian or we will continue the fun when we`ll be thinking about attend anything else we run. Holidays and looking at a Jonah who had an unusual short break inside a big fish! We will finish with our summer party Check out some of the plans for the new village hall building on the 27th June with lots of party games, prizes, food and here; http://www.killearnvillagehall.co.uk fun…and probably some mess too.

So What’s Happening ?

Crèche: 0 – Preschool Sundays 10:25am during the church service Messy Play, Lower Kirk Kids: P1 – P4 Sunday 10:25 am during the church service Toddlers, Toys n’ Tea Upper Kirk Kids: P5 – P7 Sundays 10:25am during the church service SMYG (Sunday Morning Youth Group): S1 – S6 Sundays 10:25am during the church service 28 March Messy Curious?: S1 – S6 Sundays 6:30pm – 8:30pm (term time only) 25 April Toys Primary SU: P5 – P7 Monday lunchtimes at Killearn Primary School 9 May Messy Secondary SU: S1 – S6 Wednesday Lunchtimes at Balfron High School 23 May Toys Messy Play: All preschool and parents, running alternate Thursdays 13 June Messy TP7T (The Primary 7 Thing): P7 Friday 6:30pm – 7:30pm (term time only) 27 June Summer Party TFNT (The Friday Night Thing): S1 – S6 Friday 8:00pm – 9:30pm (term time only) All pre-school One off events; children & parents SU Forth Valley Weekend Away: P5 – S6 Friday 31st May – Sunday 2nd June welcome, FREE! Waste Watchers Holiday Club: P1 – P7 Wednesday 7th – Friday 9th August.

For more info contact; Amanda [email protected] or Tim [email protected] Church office phone (01360) 550326 (not manned all the time but do leave a message and we’ll get back to you) Helen PageLoudon 8 1936–2013Easter Tidings from Killearn Kirk Helen Loudon died unexpectedly at the (Betty Garland),Helen Loudon the co-author of the first beginning of February. She was one of Killearn 1936 Book, - 2013 she played a leading role an established Killearn family, widely inof thethe village setting and, following up in the of footsteps AKA of her mother– the All Killearn (Betty Garland), the co-author of the first Killearn Book, she played a leading role in the setting up of AKA - the known and greatly respected and was, in ArchiveAll Killearn Archive – collecting – collecting and recording and recording historical historical features of village life, under the auspices of Killearn many ways, a part of Killearn’s history. featuresCommunity Futures of Company. village She and life, Bishop under regularly the auspices attended the meetings of Killearn Community Council and Born in Auchenibert, then the home of ofmade Killearn valuable contributions Community to matters under discussion. Futures Company. The Quincentennial Celebrations in her grandmother, she was the eldest of the She2006, lasting and over several Bishop days, was one regularly of Helen’s feats attended the of planning and organisation, enjoyed by the whole village Cormack family and was brought up in the meetingsand the many visitors of who Killearn came to mark the Community anniversary Council of Killearn’s most famous son. Last summer, she organised family home, Dunkyan. She was educated andthe Killearn made Kirk Flower valuable Festival, with acontributions walk around some to matters outstanding gardens and a magnificent display of flower arrangements, augmented by exhibits from the Flower at St. Hilda’s School, Balfron (now underShow, in the church. discussion. The George Buchanan

Ballikinrain) and then at St. Leonard’s, and QuincentennialAlmost every village organisation Celebrations and club has, at some time, in 2006, lasting borne Helen’s imprint: the church where she served as an later at the ‘Dough’ School in Glasgow, overelder for severalmany years and days, was also inwas the choir one during of its Helen’s feats early days, the Guild, the Monday Club, the Thursday Club, where she learned cookery and household ofthe Tennis planning Club, the Strathendrick and organisation,Curling Club and West enjoyed by Ladies Curling Club. In most of the activities of management. theKillearn, whole Helen has beenvillage a member, and been on the the committee, many visitors who organised the social events, baked, served, set up and camecleared away, to arranged mark flowers, the been anniversary a driver (literally and of Killearn’s Her early years were marked by a love of sports:Helen Loudon hockey, died unexpectedly a few weeks ago. She figuratively) and just been there. With her upright carriage, was one of an established Killearnmost family, famouswidely known son.and distinctiveLast voice,summer, her infectious she laughter organised spilling through the Killearn tennis and, in particular, riding. The family keptand greatly a number respected and was, in many ways, a part of the conversations, her seemingly boundless energy, ideas Killearn’s history. Born in Auchenibert,Kirk then Flower the home of Festival, and enthusiasm, with she ahas walk been the around embodiment someof the outstanding of horses and ponies and Helen became a keenher grandmother, rider. sheShe was the eldest of the Cormack family warmth and vitality of the village. and was brought up in the family home, Dunkyan. She was educated at St.Hilda’s School, Balfrongardens (now Ballikinrain) and a magnificentThe news of her sudden display death was hard of to believeflower and arrangements, worked for a time at Crieff Hydro stables and thenand then became at St. Leonard’s, a and later at the ‘Dough’ School came as a blow to all who had known her. She will be sorely in Glasgow, where she learnedaugmented cookery and household by exhibitsmissed in Killearn. from the Flower Show, in the church. House Mistress at Seymour Lodge girls’ schoolmanagement. and took her BP horse with her, to ride after working hours. ForHer earlya time years were she marked byAlmost a love of sports: every hockey, village organisation and club has, at some tennis and, in particular, riding. The family kept a number Personal reflections ran her own riding school in Drumbeg Loan. Itof was horses andthrough ponies and Helen time,became a keenborne rider. She Helen’s imprint:on the Spirit the and essencechurch where she served worked for a time at Crieff Hydro stables and then became of the woman who was my dear friend. an accident to her horse that a romance blossomeda House Mistressbetween at Seymour Lodgeas girls’an school elder and took for many years and was also in the choir during her horse with her, to ride after working hours. For a time Proverbs 31:30-31 (NIV): her and the vet, Bishop Loudon. she ran her own riding school its in Drumbeg early Loan. days, It was the‘Charm Guild, is deceptive, theand beauty Monday is fleeting; butClub, a woman the Thursday through an accident to her horse that a romance blossomed who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honour her for all that between her and the vet, BishopClub, Loudon. the Tennisher hands Club, have done the and let Strathendrickher works bring her praise at Curling Club Helen and Bishop were married in 1959; they lived first at the city gate’. Helen and Bishop were married andin 1959; they West lived first Stirlingshire at Ladies Curling Club. In most of Endrickhill, Station Road and here their threeEndrickhill, sons, Station Alex, Road and here their three sons, Alex, Thomas a Kempis ( 1380- 1471) on the Doctrine of Truth John and Douglas spent their early years before the family in “The Imitation of Christ”: moved to The Quinloch in 1971. Togetherthe activities Helen and Bishop of ‘AKillearn, pure, sincere and Helenstable spirit ishas not distracted, been though a member, been John and Douglas spent their early years beforemade themany improvementsfamily and created a comfortable home it be employed in many works; for that it works all to the and thriving farm, providing generouson hospitality the committee,to family honour of organisedGod and inwardly being the still and social quiet seeks not events, baked, moved to The Quinloch in 1971. Together Helenand andfriends andBishop to those who came to assist on the farm. itself in anything it doth’. In time they became proud grandparentsserved, to settheir twoup and cleared away, arranged flowers, been a made many improvements and created a comfortablegrandsons, Jack home and Stuart. As ever, the words of Holy Scripture and those of the Saints driver (literally andbeautifully figuratively) express, much better than and I, my justthoughts beenon there. With and thriving farm, providing generous hospitalityAlways gregarious,to family Helen was also an excellent organiser Helen. and took an active and, frequently,her a leading upright role in many carriage, and distinctive voice, her infectious and friends and to those who came to assist onvillage the organisations. farm. InShe took a keen interest in the life Moira Brown time they became proud grandparents to their two grandsons, laughter spilling through the conversations, her seemingly Jack and Stuart. boundless energy, ideas and enthusiasm, she has been the embodiment of the warmth and vitality of the village. Always gregarious, Helen was also an excellent organiser and took an active and, frequently, a leading role in many The news of her sudden death was hard to believe and came village organisations. She took a keen interest in the life as a blow to all who had known her. She will be sorely of the village and, following in the footsteps of her mother missed in Killearn. BP Angus William Macdonald 1925–2013 then with the Water Board, rising to the a keen supporter of Killearn Football post of chief inspector. He was widely Club of which he was a past chairman. respected for his skill and dedication to Also an earnest supporter of Glasgow his work. Rangers F.C., he deplored the recent He was married to Hilda in Killearn turn of events with that club. Kirk in 1955. Their long and happy Initiated as a Freemason at Lodge marriage was blessed by the birth of Ellangowan in Milngavie in 1947, a son and two daughters, and later by Angus was respected for his high seven grandchildren. Angus was very principles and wise counsel, and for the proud of his family, of their closeness friendship and encouragement he gave and their various achievements. to others. His service to his lodge was A man of unassuming but firm faith, described as unparalleled and he was Killearn has lost one of its best known given the title of The Most Ancient in and well respected residents with Angus gave devoted service to Killearn Kirk where he served as Church recognition of the length of his service, the death of Angus Macdonald of although not necessarily of his age. Buchanan Road. Angus was born at Officer for twenty-one years, attending the waterworks in Milngavie, where to the opening and closing, cleaning, Many have described him as a true his father was a stonemason. He was maintenance and presentation of the gentleman; he will long be remembered, to remain closely connected to water building which required an almost respected and admired for his quiet all his life as a plumber to trade and daily attendance. dignity, his integrity and the courtesy worked for over thirty-five years for When work was over, Angus enjoyed he showed to all who came in contact the Glasgow Water Corporation and indoor and outdoor bowling, and was with him. BP 31 Easter Tidings from Killearn Kirk Page 9 Robert Passway Matilda (Tillie) Gourley 1925 - 2012 1917 - 2013

Robert Passway Tillie, who was born in lived for 25 Glasgow, the y e a r s i n eldest of five Graham Road, children. He was born in was educated at Springburn Woodside Senior to William, an Secondary engineer and S c h o o l a n d Mary, one of graduated seven children from Glasgow o f I r i s h University extraction. and the Royal S h e w a s Technical educated at College with Albert Senior degrees in s e c o n d a r y Mechanical School and Engineering. w o r k e d He then served initially in the as an officer in retail trade. the Royal Navy until the end of She met and married Bobby, also from Northern Ireland in World War II. 1942 who had come to Scotland looking for work and was also part of a very large family. From an early age, she had On return from the Navy he found employment with J&P a strong Christian conviction attending the Hillkirk Place Coats, Thread manufacturers. He took early retirement from gospel Hall and subsequently for 31 years, St George’s Tron Coats and worked for a spell with the Scottish Development parish church in Buchanan Street, Glasgow where both she Agency in Hillington. and Bobby worked in many different roles. They lived off Paisley Road West for 32 years and came to Killearn in the Robert knew Helen from his teens and they married on early 1980s to join their only son Jim and Laraine who lived 4th September 1947 in Finnieston Church Glasgow. In on Beech Drive. September they celebrated 65 years of marriage. Robert led a full and interesting life that touched many others. Tillie was a well-known figure in the life of the village, often Characterised by hard work, cheerfulness and a genuine seen with her friends Nina Brown and the late Flora Reid interest in people, he lived his life in accordance with his having a chat or at the gates of the church watching newly faith and values. married couples. They joined Killearn Kirk and she rapidly became involved with many activities, particularly among In his young days he was a member of the 227th Glasgow the ladies and the children. Co. Boys’ Brigade based at Finnieston Church. Ways of believing, living and serving began here after which he She was impeccably houseproud and she and Bobby played a faithful part in Broomhill Church, Glasgow before provided a welcome to allcomers; schoolfriends of their moving to Killearn, serving as an elder and convenor of grandchildren Linda and Alan (who tragically died at the age various committees in all 3 churches. He suggested the of 23); looking after the children whilst one of the house name ‘Tidings’ for this church magazine, originating from Bible groups met and generally loving nothing better than the Finnieston magazine many years before. a visit, a cup of tea and a chat with any and all.

Robert and Helen moved to Killearn in 1969 and Robert She lost Bobby 17 years ago and continued in Graham immediately became involved in the Kirk Session in Killearn Road until 5 years ago when frailty led to her moving to Kirk. He held the position of Halls Convenor for many years progressively more dependent care at Mill Haven, Clydebank and in 2000 he was presented with a long service certificate and latterly at Buchanan Lodge Care Home, Bearsden. to commemorate 46 years as a church elder, a position from which he sadly resigned in 2003 when his hearing difficulties Tillie’s faith was the central core of her life and, she made it impossible to continue in active eldership. would share this in her own gentle way with many. At her thanksgiving service in Killearn, we reflected that at times Among family and friends was where Robert was happiest. she might not have had a great deal in worldly terms but Always a genial host, with a hearty laugh, Robert will be what she was - fiercely proud of her family and a friend to remembered as a hardworking, warm, welcoming and caring everyone was the result of her saintliness. Incomer – yes, but person. He is survived by Helen, daughters Lynda and typical of those many at the core of our village community Christine and his grandchildren and great grandchildren. who contribute so much to enrich everyone’s lives.

LJB Dr Andrew Weir Helen Loudon 1936–2013 Helen Loudon died unexpectedly at the (Betty Garland), the co-author of the first beginning of February. She was one of Killearn Book, she played a leading role an established Killearn family, widely in the setting up of AKA – the All Killearn known and greatly respected and was, in Archive – collecting and recording historical many ways, a part of Killearn’s history. features of village life, under the auspices Born in Auchenibert, then the home of of Killearn Community Futures Company. her grandmother, she was the eldest of the She and Bishop regularly attended the Cormack family and was brought up in the meetings of Killearn Community Council family home, Dunkyan. She was educated and made valuable contributions to matters at St. Hilda’s School, Balfron (now under discussion. The George Buchanan Ballikinrain) and then at St. Leonard’s, and Quincentennial Celebrations in 2006, lasting later at the ‘Dough’ School in Glasgow, over several days, was one of Helen’s feats where she learned cookery and household of planning and organisation, enjoyed by management. the whole village and the many visitors who Her early years were marked by a love of sports: hockey, came to mark the anniversary of Killearn’s tennis and, in particular, riding. The family kept a number most famous son. Last summer, she organised the Killearn of horses and ponies and Helen became a keen rider. She Kirk Flower Festival, with a walk around some outstanding worked for a time at Crieff Hydro stables and then became a gardens and a magnificent display of flower arrangements, House Mistress at Seymour Lodge girls’ school and took her augmented by exhibits from the Flower Show, in the church. horse with her, to ride after working hours. For a time she Almost every village organisation and club has, at some ran her own riding school in Drumbeg Loan. It was through time, borne Helen’s imprint: the church where she served an accident to her horse that a romance blossomed between as an elder for many years and was also in the choir during her and the vet, Bishop Loudon. its early days, the Guild, the Monday Club, the Thursday Helen and Bishop were married in 1959; they lived first at Club, the Tennis Club, the Strathendrick Curling Club Endrickhill, Station Road and here their three sons, Alex, and West Stirlingshire Ladies Curling Club. In most of John and Douglas spent their early years before the family the activities of Killearn, Helen has been a member, been moved to The Quinloch in 1971. Together Helen and Bishop on the committee, organised the social events, baked, made many improvements and created a comfortable home served, set up and cleared away, arranged flowers, been a and thriving farm, providing generous hospitality to family driver (literally and figuratively) and just been there. With and friends and to those who came to assist on the farm. In her upright carriage, and distinctive voice, her infectious time they became proud grandparents to their two grandsons, laughter spilling through the conversations, her seemingly Jack and Stuart. boundless energy, ideas and enthusiasm, she has been the embodiment of the warmth and vitality of the village. Always gregarious, Helen was also an excellent organiser Page 10 and took an active and, frequently, a leading roleEaster in many Tidings The from news Killearn of her Kirk sudden death was hard to believe and came village organisations. She took a keen interest in the life as a blow to all who had known her. She will be sorely Angusof Williamthe village and, Macdonald following in the footsteps of herDouglas mother missedDavies in Killear n. BP 1925 - 2013Angus William1927 Macdonald - 2013 1925–2013Douglas Davies 1927–2013 A n g u s D othen u g lwith a s the Water Board, rising to the a keenalthough supporter a career move of Killearn to Scotland Football did The Rotary Club was an organisation spent most Davies, who not diminish his love for Wales, it did which he supported with great diedpost on of 26 chief inspector. He was widely Club of which he was a past chairman. of his life in allow him to develop a strong affection enthusiasm, becoming President of the West of Januaryrespected 2013, for his skill and dedication to Also an earnest supporter of Glasgow Scotland, was born on for Scotland. However, his greatest the Strathendrick Club and District b o r n i n 13 hisNovember work. Rangerslove was F.C., for hehis wifedeplored Joan and the their recent Governor of District 23. He was 1 9 2 7 i n Milngavie, He was married to Hilda in Killearn turnfour of events sons, Gareth, with that Hugh, club. Clive and a popular founder member of the w o r k i n g Ebbw Vale, Owen. He was immensely proud of Strathendrick Speakers Club and he w i t h t h e Monmouth- Kirk in 1955. Their long and happy Initiatedhis sons’ as achievements a Freemason and he atderived Lodge served as an elder of Killearn Kirk. G l a s g o w s hmarriage i r e . H e was blessed by the birth of Ellangowan in Milngavie in 1947, Water Cor- w a s t h e great happiness from seeing them He loved to play golf; he was a p o r a t i o n quintessentiala son and two daughters, and later by Angussettled was with their respected own families. for his highmember of Buchanan Castle Golf Club and later We l s h m a n , moving to withseven a passion grandchildren. Angus was very principlesDouglas andworked wise for counsel, over twenty and years for the for many years and when the weather Killearn. f oproud r t h of e his family, of their closeness friendshipfor the Churchand encouragement of Scotland, initially he gave made golf impossible he played bridge. l a nand d s c atheir p e , various achievements. to others.as headmaster His service at Langlandsto his lodge Park was He was an excellent cook – creative the poetry School for Girls in Port Glasgow and and innovative (though rather untidy). and the music described as unparalleled and he was A man of unassuming but firm faith, later, until his retirement, becoming He was fiercely proud of both Scottish He was promotedKillearn to the has position lost ofone Chief of Inspectorits best andknown of his native given the title of The Most Ancient in when he retiredand after wella career respectedof 35 years at the residents Corporation, with land.Angus gave devoted service to Killearn headmaster at Ballikinrain School. and Welsh rugby teams (depending on Angus was appointed Church Officer at Killearn Kirk. Kirk whereDouglas he Davies, served who died as on Church 26 January recognition Whenever ofhe thespoke length about of the his boys service, in who was playing). the death of Angus Macdonald of 2013, was born on 13 November 1927 althoughhis care not it wasnecessarily clear that of he his knew age. of His friends and colleagues will In 1955 he marriedBuchanan Hilda and Road. they raised Angus a close-knit was family born at His Officerteaching in for inresidential twenty-one Ebbw schools Vale, began Monmouthshire.years, when attending he worked He the troubled background many of them remember Douglas as a dignified, of a son and two daughters which then expanded to seven for tothe the Methodist openingwas Churchthe quintessential and in Penarth, closing, nearWelshman, cleaning, Cardiff, withand Many have described him as a true grand-children.the Hilda waterworks is also a member in of Milngavie, the Kirk and was where although a career move to Scotland did not diminish his had experienced and that he believed extremely thoughtful and generous a passion for the landscape, the poetry a valued contributorhis father of the wasrecent a Nomination stonemason. Committee. He was lovemaintenance for Wales, it did allow and him presentation to develop a strong of affection the gentleman;he had an he opportunity will long be to remembered, bring some man with a charming manner. He will for Scotland. However,and the hismusic greatest of his love native was for land. his wifeHis to remain closely connected to water building which required an almost respectedstability and into admired their lives. for For his this quiet be greatly missed. Next time you go to Killearn Kirk consider the endless work Joandaily and theirattendance. teachingfour sons, inGareth, residential Hugh, Clive schools and Owen. began dignity, difficult his integritytask he and was the well courtesy equipped that goes intoall preparing his life the as building a plumber for Sunday to services trade and He was immenselywhen proud he ofworked his sons’ for achievements the Methodist and CB he derived great happiness from seeing them settled with with patience and with consistently and other activitiesworked throughout for over the thirty-five week ranging fromyears for Church in Penarth, near Cardiff, andhe showed to all who came in contact Guild and Probus meetings to the Rainbow and Toddlers theirWhen own families. work was over, Angus enjoyed firm but fair standards. Groups. Thethe church Glasgow is used several Water times Corporation most days and and indoor and outdoor bowling, and was with him. BP there are almost 20 different regular meetings or activities Douglas worked for over twenty years for the Church of 31 every week. The building has to be secure, heated, cleaned Scotland, initially as headmaster at Langlands Park SchoolIrving Cole 1922–2012 and maintained; vigilance is needed to protect the building for Girls in PortIrving Glasgow was and born later, in until Belfast, his retirement, Irving being a past president and its contents as illustrated by the recent theft of lead becoming headmasterthe youngest at Ballikinrain of four School. children. Whenever he of Drymen Bridge Club. off both the Kirk and Primary School roofs. Imagine the spoke about theHis boys earlyin his care childhood it was clear was that he knew business involved in changing a light bulb. of the troubled background many of them had experienced, Irving was an avid reader and that he believedspent he in had Carrickfergus an opportunity andto bring some with a great interest in The current Church Officer Ian Sinclair recounts, when piping stability into theirPortrush, lives. For before this difficult the family task he was well books and it was this that led at a wedding in the Kirk some years ago, rushing to help equipped with movedpatience and back with consistently to Belfast firm but fair to an arrangement with the Angus on his hands and knees outside the church trying to standards. when Irving was in his early roll up the red carpet for the bride to avoid it being soaked Women’s Guild whereby by a sudden shower of rain. The Rotary Clubteens. was an organisation He was educatedwhich he supported at with for the best part of 35 years, great enthusiasm,the becoming Methodist President College of the and Strathendrick he ran the bookstall at Ian also recalled being bemused one summer afternoon at Club and DistrictQueen’s Governor of College, District 23. Belfast, He was a popular precisely 4.20 p.m. by Angus staring wistfully up at the clock founder member of the Strathendrick Speakers Club and he their annual Sale of Work. tower with the clock hands appearing to be out of control. served as an eldergraduating of Killearn inKirk. physics in During this time, not only It transpired that Jim Fallas was up in the clock loft inside 1942. He spent the last three Jean, but also his daughter, He loved to play golf and he was a member of Buchanan the tower trying to adjust the hands to the correct time but war years with the Army Sarah, and eventually his could not hear Angus’s instructions from outside the church; Castle Golf ClubOperational for many years, Research and when Group the weather Ian had to act as go-between. made golf impossible he played bridge. He was an excellent son-in-law, Eric, and his cook – creativeat and Roehampton. innovative (though rather untidy). He grandchildren, Anna and For 21 years Angus carried out the duties of Church Officer was fiercely proudAfter of theboth war Scottish he moved and Welsh north rugby teams Jamie, all played their part with real dedication and good humour. His reliability, (depending on who was playing). retirement he continued to coach attention to detail and hard work made the Church operate to Glasgow University to take up a locally in maths and physics. in running the stall. smoothly and efficiently. His friends andpost colleagues as assistant will remember lecturer, Douglas where as hea Irving and Jean were keen dog owners dignified, extremelystayed thoughtful for five andyears, generous before manreturning with a In 1962, Irving and Jean moved to Angus Macdonald will be remembered and respected as a charming manner. He will be greatly missed. all their married life, and Irving to the Atomic Energy Research Killearn to raise their young family, quiet family man with a strong Christian faith who made a Sarah and Tim. Irving loved Killearn was a well-kent figure, often to be real contribution to our community. CB Establishment. It was then, whilst seen wearing his red woolly hat and staying in digs, that he met Jean, who and joined in village life, serving on the PTA of Balfron High School and walking his dogs in the Glen and the was a veterinary student at the Royal surrounding fields. Vet College. By the time they married the committees of Abbeyfield, Killearn in 1955, he had moved back to Glasgow Community Council and Killearn It was therefore a great sadness when to become a lecturer at the Royal Cottagers’ Horticultural Society. he was no longer able to walk Pippa, Technical College, later Strathclyde One of Irving’s and Jean’s abiding his dog, and when failing eyesight University, where he remained for passions was for bridge, and they were made bridge and reading increasingly the rest of his career. A very patient, active and successful members of the difficult, deprivations he bore stoically. courteous and approachable man, Killearn, Strathendrick, and Drymen Irving was a true gentleman and is he was a born teacher, and after his Bridge Clubs for many years, with greatly missed by all his family. 30 SD Easter Tidings from Killearn Kirk Page 11 Jim Kennedy 1939 - 2012

A large number of friends and family packed Killearn Kirk to full capacity for the Service of thanksgiving for the life of James Adam Kennedy. The tributes made recounted his achievements as a Lieutenant Commander of the Naval Reserve, his successful career as Managing Director of two major businesses in Glasgow and and his love for Scotland, the lochs and hills, its wildlife and sporting opportunities as well as its golf courses. A fuller account of his life is recorded in the Killearn Courier.

Two main forces guided his life. Firstly his deep love for the family, his devotion to Madge, their three daughters and six grandchildren. Jim’s 48 years of marriage was a shining example of commitment, unqualified friendship As his health began to deteriorate last year, Jim’s energy and living life to the full. The other major influence which and drive started to accelerate. He prepared a full colour drove Jim was his steadfast Christian faith. An elder of planning leaflet for the Church Away Day held at Killearn Kirk for 41 years, Jim was heavily involved in the House on 19th May with the headline ‘God does not need financial administration working alongside Graeme Simmers our money. He wants us!’ as Treasurer. Responsibilities included streamlining the Gift Aid Scheme, the principal source of funding, and overseeing Jim also set out his vision for the future of the Church all aspects of the Stewardship campaign, another key expressing excitement at the buzz of activity going into our component to ensure the future financial security of the Youth work together with the growing number of young Kirk. He also served as the Session Presbytery elder where families attracted to the Church and its programmes. He the length of the regular meetings in were known was one of the driving forces behind the initiative to make to tax Jim’s patience as a man of decision. the actual Church building brighter and more welcoming with a plan to transform the front entrance in sympathy The Nomination Committee for the selection of our Minister, with the architecture of the building. Lee, benefitted from Jim’s sound judgment and advice. Jim’s belief was a private matter but in the course of late A consistent thread runs through this long record of Church summer last year, he started to attend the Prayer Breakfasts service – a never failing sense of commitment to ensure and took an active part in the prayers. On one memorable that Killearn Kirk continues to be a focal point of the village morning he referred in one prayer to his ‘ flickering faith’ and community. and talked again about his fervent wish for the secure future of Killearn Kirk.

Killearn Kirk Projects Tall and imposing with a colourful sense of fashion and fun, Jim Kennedy was a valued, respected and much loved Over the last 12 months the Session and Property Committee man who committed his life to Scotland, his family and his have been looking at improvements in the Kirk. Three Church. projects were identified: the replacement of the “green” car park with monoblock; improving the chancel area and also improving the vestibule area. Christmas Post 2012

The car park has now received planning permission with The Killearn Guides and Boys’ Brigade again took up the conditions which are nothing insuperable. Our Engineer challenge of operating a Christmas Post within the Village is progressing with Building Control approval. He will then speed boundaries. This year we delivered 3,250 cards to progress the project through the tendering stage hoping places around the village and also a few into the post proper to be on programme to carry out the work during July and that had been placed in our box. We also managed to return August this year. one that had been addressed to “Mum”!

The vestibule initial plans have been on display since January The Village achieved a great total of £864 to give to CHAS in the Hall foyer. There has been a very positive response this year. Whilst the total is down on last year, the actual to them. We are still going through the consultative stage giving per card has increased from 22.5p to 27p per card. A with this project after which it will be taken to Session for huge thank you from the Guides and Boys’ Brigade for your approval. support. We believe that this coming Christmas will be the 20th year of operating the post in Killearn. In this time we The chancel improvement plans have also been on display in have supported Save the Children, an orphanage in Chile the Hall foyer and have received a very positive response. We that I had visited in 1997 and, for the last fourteen years, await final approval from the Church of Scotland committee CHAS, and raised an enormous amount to give to them. It before we are able to take this project through tendering has only been possible with your support. Thank you. Sue and actual work to completion this summer or autumn. Beck Neil Evans Page 12 Easter Tidings from Killearn Kirk Spring News from the Guild

Our year passes so quickly. We have had excellent attendance at our meetings and we have enjoyed interesting and entertaining speakers.

The year began with Rev. Moira McCormack talking in her usual inimitable way about the Guild Theme “A Faith to Proclaim” Having been a Guild member for many years as well as minister at & Gartmore she inspired and encouraged us. This was followed by a “First” - A joint meeting with the Thursday Club enjoyed by all, in particular Jean Woodburn’s amusing talk. At our next meeting David Wilson kept us enthralled with a remarkable “Day in India ” when an amazing number of coincidences came together to allow him to discover his historical family sites. Teresa Prescott had a full house including several visitors for her talk. She spoke about dementia in an informed and most helpful

way. Our next meeting will be about our this year’s Guild project ; “Comfort Rwanda”

This year our meetings do not end in March as usual as our Guild has been invited by Stirling Presbytery to host the Annual Guild Rally. We look for ward to greeting Guild members from all over Stirlingshire on Thursday 6th June ’13 to what is always a very enjoyable and uplifting event

And Finally . . .

A minister was walking to church one morning when he passed one of his members working in his garden.

"Can't you hear those bells calling you to church?" asked the minister.

"Eh, what's that?" said the member.

"Can't you hear those bells calling you to church?"

"I'm afraid you'll have to speak a little louder!" said the member.

"CAN'T YOU HEAR THOSE BELLS CALLING YOU TO CHURCH?!" shouted the minister.

"I'm sorry," said the member, "I can't hear you because of those BELLS!"