Stamperland Parish Church Magazine Stamperland Parish Church Magazine

GardenGarden OpenOpen WeekendWeekend 56 Stamperland Drive, Clarkston, Glasgow G76 8HF Tel 0141 586 0955

Focus Saturday 15th August 2015 Focus

1.30pm to 5pm & 7.00pm to 9.00pm ————————————————————————————————————

Sunday 16th August 2015

1.30pm to 6.00pm

Tearoom, supported again this year by Marks & Spencer's, opens Saturday - 2pm to 5pm & 7pm to 9pm Sunday - 2pm to 5pm only.

Admission - All Ages - £1 (All children must be accompanied by an adult)

Voluntary additional donations are welcome

Prices include Tea/Coffee & Home Baking. Also features Garden Railway Display. Special illumination on Saturday night.

Join us for an open air coffee and a look around the garden.

This year’s Charities are ; The Maggie Centre Glasgow and Robin House Children’s Hospice In 2014 we donated £1600 between Eastwood Dementia Centre JuneApril 20152015 Availablehttp://www.stamperlandchurch.btck.co.uk/home for distribution on the last Sunday of the preceding month http://www.stamperlandchurch.btck.co.uk/home Registered Charity No SC003155 25th Anniversary 1990 - 2015 Registered Charity No SC003155

2. 27. The Church of Scotland Stamperland Parish Church; Clarkston Registered Charity SC003155 Stamperland Gardens, Clarkston, Glasgow, G76 8LJ Church Telephone 0141 637 4999 (Answering Service)

(Interim Moderator) Gray Fletcher Telephone 0141 644 1578 [email protected]

Locum Minister Jack Drummond 0141 571 6002

Session Clerk: Norman Bolton 3 Paidmyre Crescent, Newton Mearns, G77 5AQ Telephone 0141 638 3502

Treasurer: Kay Bolton 3 Paidmyre Crescent, Newton Mearns, G77 5AQ Telephone 0141 638 3502 [email protected]

Roll Keeper: William Paterson

1 Orchy Avenue, Clarkston, G76 8LS Telephone 0141 571 8652

Editor of Focus; Fraser Neilson 56 Stamperland Drive, Clarkston G76 8HF Telephone 0141 586 0955 or e mail [email protected]

Life & Work & Focus Distribution: Sheila Mackintosh 20 Tiree Place, Newton Mearns, G77 6UN Telephone 0141 639 1323

Gift Aid Convenor: Norman Walker 66 The Oval, Clarkston, G76

Weekly Freewill Offering Convenor: Anne MacKenzie 76 Randolph Drive, Clarkston, G76 8AP Telephone 0141 637 5576

26. 3. Friends,Dear Friends,

I am writing this letter before the Pentecost Sunday, the day of the Christian year when we celebrate seven weeks after Easter.

Pentecost was originally a Jewish festival, and at the feast of Pen- tecost Jesus’ disciples were meeting for worship and prayer in an upstairs room. Suddenly they had a wonderful experience of being filled to overflowing with the Holy Spirit. There was a new power in their lives and they had a burning desire in their hearts to share their faith and continue Jesus’ ministry of love and care and compassion. You can read the story of these exciting events in Acts Chapter 2.

Now let me tell you another story, a modern parable. A man wanted to buy a budgie that could talk. He went to a pet shop, bought a bird and a cage, and went home to start teaching the budgie to talk. He practiced every day, but a week later the bird had not uttered a word. So the man went back to the pet shop and was advised to buy a mirror. “Maybe if the bird is able to see his reflection in a mirror, he might talk to that”, suggested the sales- man.

Another week went by, and there was still not a word. So the man Ask for Billy went back to the pet shop, and this time he was advised to buy a ladder for the cage. “Maybe if the bird gets a bit of exercise up and down the ladder, he’ll start talking.”

Yet another week went by, and back the man went to the pet shop, this time very angry. “How’s your budgie doing now?” asked the salesman.

“Well,” said the man, “as a matter of fact, he’s dead”.

“Dead” said the surprised salesman “and did he ever speak a sin- gle word?” Our local one stop shop for DIY and hardware items, with the at- traction of advice when needed. Save a drive elsewhere. “Well, yes he did. Just before he fell over on the bottom of the cage

4. 25. he said, “I wish someone would give me some bird seed”!!

We must always remember that God’s holy spirit is the one who nourishes and sustains the Christian Church. He is our seed corn. He gives us the quality of life which enables us to be Jesus’ 21st Century disciples. South Glasgow University Hospital As a Church, we have to be careful that we don’t erect the equiva- lent of mirrors and ladders and other unnecessary extras with- Renal Care and Research out the Spirit of Christ motivating us and guiding us each step of the way. Fundraising Coffee Day

Each year at Pentecost we sing hymns about the Holy Spirit. We nd read about the coming of the Spirit and listen to a sermon about Monday 22 June 2015 the Holy Spirit. Because the Holy Spirit is God—God's activity in the world today—we don’t just give Him an airing once e a year 9.30 – 12.30 1.30 – 4.30 at Pentecost. We need Him every day. 20 Netherpark Avenue Have a good holiday, whether or not you are spending your time at home, or going away. W e need these times of rest and renewal Baking, Plants, Raffle so that we can approach the Church’s work with renewed life and vigour. Ticket £2.50

Yours in Christ’s service,

Jack Drummond Come along and meet some new +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Funerals neighbours and old friends! 11th May Mr Jack Henry 3 Orchard Park, Giffnock All donations of home baking and 11th May Miss Grace Paterson Williamwood House 15th May Mrs Mary Eadie 2 Moray Gardens raffle prizes gratefully received 18th May Mr Graeme Turner 347 Bonnyton Drive, Eaglesham Looking forward to seeing you there, +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Communion Roll Changes

New Members: “Welcome !” to:- Marie Lang Mr Jim Black 25 Strathtay Ave.

24. 5.

Kevin had Shingles.

Those of us who spend much time in a doctor's office should appreciate this!

Doesn't it seem more and more that physicians are running their practices like an Assembly line? Here's what happened to Kevin: Thank you to everyone who helped in any way with Christian Aid Week. Those who delivered envelopes, those who collected them, and those who did both. A great big He walked into a doctor's office and the receptionist asked him what he had. Kevin thank you! To every one of you. said: 'Shingles.’ So she wrote down his name, address, medical insurance number Thanks also to all those who counted all the Christian Aid Week donations after the and told him to have a seat. service on 17th May. Charlie, Margaret and Gillian Harte, Jean Marshall, Sheena

Badger, Evelyn Graham, Dorothy Nicolson and Grace Walker. Their efficient work Fifteen minutes later a nurse's aide came out and asked Kevin what he had…. made sure that the count was done fairly swiftly. Kevin said, 'Shingles.’ So she wrote down his height, weight, a complete medical history and told Kevin to wait in the examining room. As donations are still being received the final total will be announced as soon as pos- sible. Half an hour later a nurse came in and asked Kevin what he had. Kevin said, Sandra Cowie 'Shingles..' So the nurse gave Kevin a blood test, a blood pressure test, an electro- cardiogram, and told Kevin to take off all his clothes and wait for the doctor. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Pastoral Care An hour later the doctor came in and found Kevin sitting patiently in the nude and asked Kevin what he had. Kevin said, 'Shingles.' The doctor asked, 'Where?' We are hoping to extend the services that we can offer you, and are beginning with Exchange of Library books. One of our team Kay Baird, works in Clarkston Library Kevin said, 'Outside on the truck. Where do you want me to unload 'em??' and is happy to set this up for you should you wish to exchange a book and cannot ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ get to the Library yourself, or, if you would like to become a member of the Library A Message from the Editor she can assist you to do this.

As this is the last edition of Focus before the summer break, I would like to take this Please get in touch with us if you would like to know more about this. opportunity to thank all those who help with the production, collating, stapling and distribution of this magazine, without whom it would not be possible to make it hap- Grace Scott, On behalf of the Pastoral Care Group, pen.

Over the summer months I would also like to review this operation by asking all the Pastoral Care distributors to let me have a note of the street and numbers that you deliver the magazine to, and whether or not you need more, or less copies supplied. This in Your Pastoral Care Team are here for you. If you need ; turn will help to regulate more accurately the number of copies being printed.  Transport to Church Hospital This can be done by placing a note in the Focus box from Sunday 31st May and  Doctors Appointment Shopping throughout June. Or you can e mail the information to [email protected], heading your e mail with “Focus Distribution” Finally, if you wish, you could pop it  Could do with a chat Have a prayer request through our door at 56 Stamperland Dr any time you may be passing.

Thanking you all in anticipation, Please contact Grace Scott, 0141 637 2226

Fraser Neilson, Editor

6. 23.

Jack Henry How to Plant Your Garden

On Monday 11th May , a service of celebration for the life of Jack Henry was held in With turmoil in the world we could do a lot with our garden plot ; Stamperland Church. Jack was our former Organist and lived a long, happy and

fulfilling life of 95 years. He spent the last 36 years of his life with his devoted wife, First, you come to the garden alone, while the dew is still on the Joyce. roses.

Jack was born in 1920 on the south side of Glasgow. His life was steeped in music FOR THE GARDEN OF YOUR DAILY LIVING; PLANT THREE ROWS OF PEAS: from his early years. After leaving school he gained an LRAM degree in music, then 1. Peace of mind his teaching qualification. 2. Peace of heart

3. Peace of soul As well as being a skilled organist Jack had a lovely baritone singing voice, and took a keen interest in voice production. He was a good accompanist and could PLANT FOUR ROWS OF SQUASH: transpose music into any key. 1. Squash gossip As a young man, Jack was a member of the Orpheus Choir, and later in life joined 2. Squash indifference the Glasgow Grand Opera Society, where he met his wife Joyce. 3. Squash grumbling 4. Squash selfishness

Jack was always interested in choral singing, a chorus master who began his own PLANT FOUR ROWS OF LETTUCE: group of choristers, the Concord Singers, 40 years ago. Over the years the numbers decreased, but Jack was still rehearsing with the small group at home, the 1. Lettuce be faithful week before he was admitted to hospital. 2. Lettuce be kind 3. Lettuce be patient Jack gave an amazing 76 years of service to the Church of Scotland as an organist 4. Lettuce really love one another and Choirmaster, in King’s Park Church, Battlefield West Church, Paisley St John’s NO GARDEN IS WITHOUT TURNIPS: Church, Killearn Kirk, and Stamperland, retiring just last year at the age of 94. 1. Turnip for meetings Jack had a great fund of jokes and amusing anecdotes, and was frequently in 2. Turnip for service demand as an after dinner speaker, usually at men's gatherings. He had a wicked 3. Turnip to help one another sense of humour!! TO CONCLUDE OUR GARDEN WE MUST HAVE THYME:

Jack was a gifted music teacher in both primary and secondary schools. He had a 1. Thyme for each other great rapport with children, and his enthusiasm rubbed off on both students and 2. Thyme for family staff. 3. Thyme for friends

He was a man with a kind and encouraging nature, always concerned about others. WATER FREELY WITH PATIENCE, AND CULTIVATE WITH LOVE. THERE IS MUCH FRUIT IN YOUR GARDEN, BECAUSE YOU REAP WHAT YOU SOW. Jack’s spirit and determination kept him going into his 96th year. With Joyce there by his side Jack remained at home, enjoying the company of friends, and had only +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Morning People a short spell of 10 days in the Victoria Infirmary before he passed away peacefully, aged 95. "Somebody has well said that there are only two kinds of people in the Rev Jack Drummond. world - there are those who wake up in the morning and say, "Good morn- ing, Lord," and there are those who wake up in the morning and say, "Good Lord, it's morning”.

22 7. 7.

DUTY TEAMS FOR THE COMING MONTHS

Mar 1thst COMMUNION Mar 8th – TEAMth 5 Mar 15th – TEAMst 6 June 7 COMMUNION June 14 - TEAM 6 June 21 – TEAM 1 A MrMrs R A Allan MacFarlane (Con) (Con) MrMr R Allan A Graham (Con) (Con) Mr MrA Graham W Paterson (Con) (Con) dis- Miss E Robb Mrs E Graham Mrs M Young Mrs S Bell Mrs J Herriot Mrs E Graham trau Mrs J Cranston Mr N Walker Miss L Robb ght MrMr AN HendersonWalker MrMrs J Curror M Neilson Mr MissN Walker G Scott sen MrMr GD FairweatherBrown MrsMrs J Curror K Baird MrsMr M DNeilson McKee ior Mrs S Skelton citi- Mrs M Young Mr S Russell Mrs K Baird zen June 28th – TEAM 2 July 5th – TEAM 3 July 12th - TEAM 4 Mrs J Silcock Mrs S Skelton pho Mr G Fairweather (Con) Mrs A MacFarlane(Con) Mrs N Fisher (Con) ned Mr G Robertson Mr A Henderson Miss J Barr her MrMar R 22Russellnd – TEAM 1 MarMrs 29 Sth Bell – TEAM 2 AprilMrs 5th J –Cranston TEAM 3 doc Mrs J Silcock Mrs R McNiven Mr G Finlayson tor' Mr W Paterson (Con) Mr G Fairweather (Con) Mrs A MacFarlane (Con) Mr D Brown Miss J Stewart Mrs G Walker s Mrs M Young Mr G Robertson Mr A Henderson of- Mr S Owens Mrs K Bolton fice Miss L Robb Mr R Russell Mrs S Bell July 19th - TEAM 5 July 26th – TEAM 6 August 2nd – TEAM 1 . MrMiss R AllanG Scott (Con) MrsMr J SilcockA Graham (Con) MrsMr R McNivenW Paterson (Con)

MrsMr DJ HerriotMcKee MrMrs D Brown E Graham MissMrs J Stewart M Young "Is Mr J Curror Mr N Walker Miss L Robb Mr S Owens it Mrs J Curror Mrs M Neilson Miss G Scott true Mr S Russell Mrs K Baird Mr D McKee ," th Mrs S thSkelton th April 12 - TEAM 4 April 19 – TEAM 5 April 26 – TEAM 6 she August 9th – TEAM 2 August 16th – TEAM 3 August 23rd - TEAM 4 wa MrMrs G N Fairweather Fisher (Con) (Con) MrMrs R Allan A MacFarlane(Con) (Con) Mr MrsA Graham N Fisher (Con) (Con) nte MrMiss G JRobertson Barr MrsMr J AHerriot Henderson MrsMiss E Graham J Barr d to Mr R Russell Mrs S Bell Mrs J Cranston kno MrsMrs JJ SilcockCranston MrMrs J Curror R McNiven Mr MrN Walker G Finlayson w, MrMr DG BrownFinlayson Mrs J Curror MrsMrs M Neilson G Walker "tha Ms S Owens Miss J Stewart Mrs K Bolton t Mrs G Walker Mr S Russell Mrs K Baird the th AugustMrs K Bolton30 – TEAM 5 Mrs S Skelton me Mr R Allan (Con) Any duty member who cannot attend on dic Mrs J Herriot any date allocated should arrange a sub- atio MrAny J Currorduty member who cannot attendstitute onfor any that date date allocated and inform should the Duty ar- n Mrrange J Curror a substitute for that date Convener.and inform the Duty Convener. you Mr S Russell pre- scri bed has to be tak en for the rest of my life ?"

'Ye s, I'm afra id so," ' the doc tor told her.

The re was a mo- me nt of si- len ce be- fore the sen ior lad y re- plie d, "I'm wo nde ring , the n, just ho w se- riou s is my con diti on be- cau se this pre- scri ptio n is mar ked 'NO RE- FIL LS'. "

**** **** **** **** **** ***

An old er gen tle ma n was on the op- erat ing ta- ble aw aiti ng sur- ger y and he in- sist ed that his son , a re- no wn ed sur- geo n, per- for m the op- erat ion.

As he was abo ut to get the an- aes the sia, he ask ed to spe ak to his son .

"Ye s, Da d, wh at is it?"

"Do n't be ner vou s, son ; do you r bes t, and just re- me mb er, if it doe sn't go well , if so met hin g hap pen s to me, you r mot her is go- ing to co me and live with you and you r wife ..... " ~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~ Ag ing :

Eve ntu ally you will rea ch a poi nt wh en you sto p ly- ing abo ut you r age and star t bra ggi ng abo ut it. Thi s is so true . I lov e to hea r the m say "yo u do n't loo k tha t old. .." ------

The old er we get, the few er thin gs see m wor th wait ing in line for. ------So me peo ple try to turn bac k thei r odo met ers. Not me!

I wa nt peo ple to kno w why I loo k this way .

I've trav elle d a lon g way and so me of the roa ds wer en't pav ed.

*** **** **** **** **** *

Wh en you are dis- sati sfie d and wo uld like to go bac k to you th, thin k of Al- geb ra. ~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~

You kno w you are get- ting old wh en eve ryth ing ei- ther ... drie s up or lea ks.

------

On e of the ma ny thin gs no one tells you abo ut ag- ing is that it is suc h a nic e cha nge fro m be- ing you ng.

~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~

Ah, be- ing you ng is bea utif ul, but be- ing old is co mfo rtab le.

**** **** *

Firs t you for- get na me s the n you for- get fac es.

The n you for- get to pull up you r zip- per. ...it' s wor se wh en you for- get. .. to pull it do wn.

````` ````` ````` ` Tw o guy s, one old, one you ng, are pus hin g thei r cart s aro und Wal - Mar t w hen the y col- lide .

The old guy say s to the you ng guy , "So rry abo ut that . I'm loo kin g for my wife , and I gue ss I was n't pay ing at- tent ion to wh ere I was go- ing. "

The you ng guy say s, "Th at's OK, it's a co- inci den ce. I'm loo kin g for my wife , too. I can 't find her and I'm get- ting a little des per ate. "

The old guy say s, "W ell, ma ybe I can hel p you find her. .. wh at doe s she loo k like ?"

The you ng guy say s, "W ell, she is 27 yrs. old, tall, wit h red hair , blu e eye s, is bux om we arin g no bra, lon g leg s, and is we arin g sho rt sho rts.

Wh at doe s y our wife loo k like ?'

To whi ch the old guy say s, "Do esn 't mat ter, --- let's loo k for you rs." *** **** **** **** **** **

8. 21.

Best Group – Group 3

Group Quiz Champions – Group 4

At the time of writing our 71st Annual Inspection is approaching on the 5th June this Best Sparks Performer – Ben Laslo year, which is slightly later than normal. As such, a full review and listing of award winners will be available in the next edition of Focus. Best Drilled Spark – Oliver Phillips

I can however say that our 2 Queens Badge candidates have now fully completed Best Overall Spark – Jamie Kyle their programme of work and will be presented with the Queens Award Certificate at Glasgow City Chambers on the 4th June. Congratulations and well done to Sgt. Best uniform and attendance – Oliver Terris Jack Smart and Sgt. Jack Carline on a great achievement. They will also be for- mally presented with their badges at the Inspection. Best Drilled Junior Section – Liam Preston

Moving away from the Inspection, I am pleased to report that our junior 7 aside Most Improved Footballer – Harrison Gillespie football team came second in the Battalion knock out competition held at Toryglen. The Boys played well throughout and were only beaten in a penalty shootout Players Player of the Year – Jack Hay against a strong East Kilbride team. Well done to all involved, especially our re- cruits, who all put in very strong performances. Best Junior Section Boy – Matthew Norrie

Sticking with football I’m delighted to say that we will be wearing brand new football Every year as part of our display we promote our P3 Boys from Anchor Boys to Jun- kits next year courtesy of Arnold Clark!! – Both staff and boys are looking forward ior Section and our P6 Boys from Junior to Company section. We wish all of the to seeing the boys in the new look for next season!! Boys every success and happiness in their new sections, particularly those who move out of our Friday night section and into the Company. Finally, I would like to thank all those who have supported us throughout this year’s busy session – it does not go un-noticed and is very much appreciated!! The following day we went on our annual trip to Millport. Although the weather was I hope to see you all at our Inspection on the 5th June changeable we all still had a good day spending money in the sweet and toy shop, playing on the beach, looking in rock pools, and eating in ‘the Ritz’. The cycle was a Peter Dale, (Captain) T: 07506681531 little ‘damp’ but all the Boys and leaders fought bravely against the elements to com- +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ plete the full ten miles. A good day was had by all and 30 plus tired and sunburnt faces left the bus and headed home at the end of the day. Date for your Diary In signing off, Paul and I would like to thank all the staff who have helped us this The Worship Committee is proposing to hold a “Bring a Friend Sunday” on 13th year in any way. The Junior Section only runs with the support of people helping out September 2015. parents bringing their Boys along to the many events that the BB offers. We start back on the First Friday of September and hope to see all of our Boys returning for a The idea is that anyone in the congregation (children very much included) would new session and hope to see new faces too! ask a friend, neighbour, relative or lapsed member, to come along to Church with We hope you have a lovely summer. them and enjoy our service. Scott Russell We are planning a “Soup and Sandwich” lunch after the service, to which everyone ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ would be invited. Paddy is doing some roofing work for Murphy. He nears the top of the ladder and starts shaking and going dizzy. More details about this will follow. He calls down to Murphy and says "I tink I will 'ave to go home, I've come all over giddy and feel sick." Murphy asks "Ave yer got vertigo?" Paddy Margo Neilson (on behalf of The Worship Committee) replies "No I only live round the corner."

20. 9.

231st Glasgow Company Boys’ Brigade The Friendship Club Junior Section and Sparks

The month of April is always a quiet one for us due to the school holidays however The Friendship Club recommences for the summer period from April to August. the Boys continued to practise hard for their upcoming display which took place on We meet in the Session Room at 7.30pm on the last Tuesday of the month. If Friday 15th May. you see something of interest in our programme, please come along. You will be Since my last time of writing our football season has come to an end. Having been most welcome. given a bye in the first round of the cup, we were straight into the semi-finals how- ever we were facing the 118A....2nd top in the league and who had soundly beaten June 30th Val Brown speaking on her trip to Israel with Christian Aid. us twice already during the league season. Our Boys were told to follow-up on our July 28th Flower Arranging with Adele training drills and 1) Pass & Move, 2) ensure that every time they were in our half we were 1 on 1, 3) tackle hard again + again. August 25th Musical Evening with Jane and John Curror

The Boys started well, and it appeared that they had been listening (makes a Ray McNiven change!) We were taking the match to the 118A with the play up and around the half-way line rather than our box. We had them on the back foot a couple of times, +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ but couldn't break through. Then a stunning strike by the 118A broke the deadlock. We quickly lost another 2, but the boys were still keen and rushed back to the re- start. Unfortunately the game continued and despite the boys best efforts we suc- Flower Calendar Coordinator cumbed to a 12-0 defeat.

After a 5 minute break we had a 10 minute each way game for the 3rd/4th place 31st May Mrs M Malloch 'play-off'. I say play-off as there were medals for 3rd and 4th, but the Boys weren't told this! Unfortunately the boys were tactically spent and shape and aggression 7th June Mrs A Charlton were gone and we finished with a 5-0 defeat. 14th June Mrs M Dundas 21st June Rev C Murdoch & This brings to an end a challenging season, but the boys have never complained and always given their all, despite being the youngest team in the league and taking Flower CalendarMrs F LamontCoordinator some serious defeats. 28th June Mrs A MacKenzie 5th April Mrs M Boyce As the season has now finished we would like to extend our thanks to Kevin, Ryan, 5th July By Donation Robert, David, and Lisa for helping run the training this year. Thanks also to the 12th12th JulyApril MrsMrs J Law C Fergusson parents for bringing the boys to training, and especially to those who have braved 19th July Mrs C Campbell the full spectrum of weather to watch on a Saturday morning. 19th April Miss H Cochran & 26th July Mrs I Noble Our Annual display took place on Friday the 15th of May in our church hall. The Miss M Cochran Boys were all exceedingly well turned out and smartly dressed in anticipation for 26th2nd AugustApril MrsMrs C Carson R McNiven their big evening. During the evening the audience were entertained with super 9th August Mrs S Skelton & marching, PE, singing and games. Our inspecting officer Captain Peter Dale com- 3rd May MrsThe M FerriesFordyce Family mented on the quality of the items on display and commended the Boys for all their efforts. 16th August Rev A Cherry 23rd August Mrs M Armstrong Throughout the year the Boys work hard in all that they do and they always look 30th August Mr S Esler forward to the prize giving elements at the end of the night. Congratulations to all of the winners of the principal awards. They are listed as follows:

10. 19.

st 1 Stamperland Guides

Beaver Colony Since the Easter break the Guides have been working on a variety of projects. Two We have now come to the end of another session. It has been a quick year & I can- of the girls are going forward for the Baden Powell Award and 8 girls made their not believe that we are now at the end of the session. Promise. All of the girls gained the Holiday badge and are now working on the

Campers and Nights Away badges. This has been a good year with Beavers as they have been learning quite a lot this session like their knots, phonetic alphabet & road safety. We are off to camp at Nether Auchendrane in Alloway at the May holiday weekend. In June we are sending 6 Beavers up to Cubs. This is the first lot that I have had It will be a first camp for all of the girls who are coming and they are very excited going to Cub's for about a year due to how age groups have worked out. Then I about sleeping in a tent. The weekend will be planned around a trip to The Burns have will have another 4 Beavers going up to Cubs towards Christmas. Experience, which we will be visiting on Saturday. Fingers crossed for good weather ...even dry would be good. We have a waiting list for Beavers but if we are lucky to get a new leader, or addi- tional regular adult help before we start back, we will be able to take in more Bea- Congratulations to Lesley McCann who has achieved her Leadership Qualification. vers. Leading up to the summer break the Guides will be ’Bagging some Badges’, visiting ‘Airspace‘ and planning our camp at Culzean in September. We hope that all the boys have a great summer holiday & we will see them all back Yours in Guiding in September. Christine Mailley, [email protected] Alison Macfarlane – Assistant Beaver Scout Leader—Tel: 0141 644 2712 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Cub Pack A Meeting In ASDA As Alison has mentioned, the Cubs are gaining 6 new members with Coll, Mark, Ross, Sam, Harry & Callum moving up from Beavers to Cubs. Elaine and I hope that they have a great time with us in Cubs and they have already joined in with some Cub activities before officially moving up. Two men, one old, one young, are pushing their carts around ASDA when they col- lide. We also have another Callum (this could get confusing!) joining us from another local group, so we are going from strength to strength Since we returned from The old man says to the young man, "Sorry about that. I'm looking for my wife, and I Easter holidays the Cubs have been working through a number of badges, with guess I wasn't paying attention to where I was going." most of the pack looking to have gained their Book Reader badge by the end of May and a number of Cubs gaining other badges like My Faith, Swimmer, Martial The young man says, "That's OK, it's a coincidence. I'm looking for my wife, too. Arts and Musician. I can't find her and I'm getting a little desperate."

The Cubs have also been trying some new games, including a human version of The old man says, "Well, maybe I can help you find her… what does she look like?" the family favourite Hungry Hippos! That was a great night and the Cubs loved it.

We will make a few adjustments to the equipment we used and I am sure this will The young man says, "Well, she is 27 yrs. old, tall, with red hair, blue eyes, is become a firm favourite. buxom, long legs, and is wearing short shorts. What does your wife look like?' We have also taken advantage of the lighter nights by having a treasure hunt in the Linn Park which will be followed up by a session in the hall for the Cubs to gain their To which the old guy says, "Doesn't matter, --- let's look for yours." +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Navigator Badge.

18. 11.

The Scouts will be joining the Cubs at Avondyke for a weekend away at the end of

May. There will be a secret agent/spy theme to the weekend for the Cubs with lots of

activities (mainly outdoors) for the Cubs to get involved with and hopefully gain some

more badges while they are having fun.

Stamperland Congregation’s own Page for Messages Then in June we are outside again for a trip to the Dams to Darnley Country Park to go pond dipping with the countryside rangers. This is the page for your Good Wishes, Get Well, Happy Birthdays, Wedding Anniversaries, A Thank You, or any other message you wish to make. Our last night will be a games night in the church hall before a well-deserved rest over the summer holidays!

Congratulations Philip Moseley – Cub Scout Leader—Tel: 0141 620 3146

Congratulations to Terri Craig who will celebrate her 90th birthday Scout Troop & Explorers this month. Group’s 75th Anniversary – As mentioned last month the 79th Scout Group will be celebrating our 75th anniversary this year. We will be organising various activities to mark this occasion including a hopeful celebration service or similar, Watch out for more details.

Thank you for the lovely flowers I received recently., Spring Fair – Once again the leaders and members of the Scout Group ran the BBQ at the Spring Fair at the start of May. As you know we were very fortunate with the Margot Young. weather this year and I would like to thank the excellent turn out of leaders, Scouts and Explorers to assist with this.

Fire Safety - The Scouts are working through the requirements for their Fire Safety Margaret and Gillian Harte would like to say thank you badge looking at dangers in the home, what to do if a fire breaks out, how to prevent fire and type of fire extinguishers amongst a number of other items. This will culmi- for the beautiful Church flowers that they received during nate with a trip to Cowcaddens Fire Station in June. Gillian's recent hospital stay. Avondyke – The Scouts are joining with the Cubs at Avondyke in May. While the Cubs will be using the indoor accommodation, the Scouts will be camping and their whole programme will be outside and be mainly skills based. This will include cook- Good wishes are sent from the Congregation to Mrs Sheila McDon- ing all their own food outside after preparing their menus in advance. ald, 140 The Oval, who is at present in the South Glasgow Univer- sity Hospital. Outdoor activities – The Scouts will be using some of the longer light nights to be involved in some outdoor activities and we hope to have an evening of raft building at the James Hamilton Heritage park in the short term.

Go Karting – The Explorers and all of the group’s leaders took part in an evening go Messages can be submitted at any time in the month when they will be karting at Cambuslang in April. Everyone had a great time, but it is suffice to say that kept for the next edition of Focus. Explorers are pretty quick!!

On behalf of myself and the other leaders I hope that you have a restful and enjoy- able summer break.

Joe Mailley – Scouter-in-Charge -Tel: 0141 571 0887

12. 17.

SPRING FAIR Rescue at Sea - Unknown

For a long time our Spring Fair has been a major fund raising event each year. In 1994 the format of the Spring Fair was altered in dramatic fashion when we literally Years ago, in a small fishing village in Holland, a young boy taught the world “threw open” all of the doors to the church and halls and allowed free access to our about the rewards of unselfish service. Because the entire village revolved whole suite of buildings and surrounding grounds. In that first year of the new for- around the fishing industry, a volunteer rescue team was needed in cases of mat we had life-size Disney characters walking about, not just in our church and emergency. grounds but venturing all the way to Busby Road, Clarkston. Early afternoon saw a large procession of children in all kinds of fancy dress costumes led by the pipe One night the winds raged, the clouds burst and a gale force storm capsized a band from the church to Clarkston Library and back. Crowds actually lined the fishing boat at sea. Stranded and in trouble, the crew sent out the S.O.S. The pavements and our procession created traffic jams. Back at the church there was captain of the rescue rowboat team sounded the alarm and the villagers assem- a two hour Talent Show and then, at four o’clock, a children’s disco. The sun bled in the town square overlooking the bay. While the team launched their row- shone warmly all day; ice cream melted; families queued for hours to win a gold- boat and fought their way through the wild waves, the villagers waited restlessly fish; from ten in the morning till four in the afternoon the whole place seemed to be on the beach, holding lanterns to light the way back. “going like a fair”.

st An hour later, the rescue boat reappeared through the fog and the cheering vil- Throughout the 1990s and early years of the 21 century, our Spring Fairs devel- lagers ran to greet them. Falling exhausted on the sand, the volunteers reported oped and grew; large numbers of people were attracted. Then slowly, almost im- that the rescue boat could not hold any more passengers and they had to leave perceptibly, the event declined. Vocal campaigns meant goldfish could no longer one man behind. Even one more passenger would have surely capsized the feature; the number of drawings and paintings being entered in the children’s art rescue boat and all would have been lost. competition dropped off markedly. There was no interest in the Fancy Dress com- petition; the Talent Show attracted little talent; the fair no longer carried on till four Frantically, the captain called for another volunteer team to go after the lone o’clock but was more-or-less over by two. For several years in a row even the survivor. Sixteen-year-old Hans stepped forward. His mother grabbed his arm, weather seemed to be against us. pleading, "Please don’t go. Your father died in a shipwreck 10 years ago and

This year may have seen a turning point. We had a successful event on the 9th your older brother, Paul, has been lost at sea for three weeks. Hans, you are all May. Thanks to a lot of hard work by numerous people the total raised for church I have left." funds was a little over £2,700. The church and halls didn’t seem crowded at any time but there was a steady stream of people happy to buy plants, browse through Hans replied, "Mother, I have to go. What if everyone said, ‘I can’t go, let some- books and toys and bric-a-brac diligently seeking that ‘special something’ and care- one else do it?’ Mother, this time I have to do my duty. When the call for service fully peruse the items offered in the silent auction. Competitions, raffles and games comes, we all need to take our turn and do our part." Hans kissed his mother, proved popular. As ever, all kinds of food were on offer – cake and candy, freshly joined the team and disappeared into the night. barbequed burgers, filled rolls and cakes. Another hour passed, which seemed to Hans’ mother like an eternity. Finally, Many people worked extremely hard to ensure the day was a success. A lot of ef- the rescue boat darted through the fog with Hans standing up in the bow. Cup- fort was expended baking and making weeks before the day of the Fair; local busi- ping his hands, the captain called, "Did you find the lost man?" Barely able to nesses were contacted to seek sponsorship; goods were collected; halls cleared; contain himself, Hans excitedly yelled back, "Yes, we found him. Tell my mother tables set up. On the day of the Fair work started as early as six o’clock; people it’s my older brother, Paul!" manned stalls, waited on tables, washed dishes, counted money; cleared up; took +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ goods to charity shops; went to the dump. It was after four o’clock when the last A Little Boy’s Prayer people left the church. "Dear God, please take care of my daddy and my mommy and my Spring Fairs - tiring, exhausting, a source of worry and, sometimes, even conflict. sister and my brother and my doggy and my cat and me. Oh, please Yes, all of these but very satisfying when the event has been successful in terms of take care of yourself, God. If anything happens to you, we're gonna be in a big community involvement, church involvement and financial outcome. mess." Norrie Bolton

16. 13.

SHARING IN PRAYER AUGUST What Use is made of Stamperland Church and Halls on a Weekly Basis? WRONG!! (Mainly between September and June inclusive) Things had gone well – now he was dead and his cowardly friends had all scattered and fled, the tomb had been sealed, he could do no more harm, Sundays Worship Sanctuary Morn a guard had been set who would raise the alarm Stepping Stones Large Hall Morn should any fanatical follower try Parties Large/Small Halls As Booked to take out the body and then spread the lie that he'd done what he had reportedly said Mondays Baby Sensory Large/Small Halls Morn/Aft that on the third day he would rise from the dead. Brownies Large Hall Eve

He'd caused enough havoc these three years or more - Guides Large Hall Eve wherever he'd gone there had been an uproar, Pipe Band Sanctuary Eve a carpenter's son – a nobody for sure - Session Session Room Eve Monthly he'd mixed with the beggars, the homeless and poor, outcasts and lepers, the lowest of low Tuesday Rainbows Small Hall Eve Weekly and sinners that no decent person would know. Guild Session Room Eve Weekly He'd led them, fed them, made blind men see, made deaf men hear – how could this be? Sounds Int. Choir Large Hall Eve Weekly The man was a trickster, a con man, a fraud, Friendship Club Session Room Eve Summer but the worst thing of all – he'd called himself God. He'd upset the leaders and teachers of law - Wednesday Open Door Sanctuary Morn Weekly his claims of “Messiah” had been the last straw. BB Football Training Large Hall Eve Weekly There was no doubt at all, he'd given them cause to put him to Pipe Band Sanctuary Eve Weekly death – the worst that there was. It had all been so simple and smooth in the end. Thursday Beavers Small Hall Eve Weekly He'd turned himself in – betrayed by a friend. Cubs Large Hall Eve Weekly The crowd turned against him – the one they'd called “king” Scouts Large Hall Eve Weekly They'd screamed “Crucify him!” and forgot everything – his preaching and teaching had all become dim, they wanted Friday Keep Fit Class 1 Large Hall Morn Weekly Barabbas, they didn't want him. Well they'd sorted him out – now he was gone. Keep Fit Class 2 Large Hall Morn Weekly Hopefully now all their lives could go on. Heart for Art Sanctuary Aft Weekly So the Scribes and the Pharisees thought they had won. Dance Classes Large Hall Periodically They'd hardened their hearts against God's only Son. BB Junior Sect All Halls Eve Weekly How foolish and ignorant, narrow-minded and blind, BB Coy Sect All Halls Eve Weekly not to know that the Saviour and Lord of mankind was about to demolish their neat little plans Saturday Flowers Team Sanctuary Morn Weekly and prove that God's ways are much different from man's. Parties Large/Small Hall As Booked An earthquake took place, the stone rolled away, Fund Raisers All Halls As Booked the guards stood by helpless as Christ rose that day. Death couldn't hold Him, no tomb could contain the Giver of Life, and the grave where He'd lain was empty, for He was no longer there, Need the use of a Hall? Get in touch with but alive to bring hope to a world in despair. Connell Cranston on 07847 588702 The message is just as important today that Christ is alive, we can't shut Him away in some dusty corner – He wants full control of our whole being – mind, body and soul. He brings light out of darkness, peace out of strife, from the deadness of sin the joy of new life.

14. 15.

SHARING IN PRAYER JUNE SHARING IN PRAYER JULY

CHINESE WHISPERS GOD'S HONOURS LIST

In a cafe over coffee a secret was revealed … People love medals, marks of respect, “Please don't tell a living soul” great chains of office hung around the neck “Of course! My lips are sealed” - as symbols of position - The words took flight and made their way into the superstore and there in Tesco Extra who they are and what they've done - they tumbled out once more … badges, stripes and ribbons “I'm not supposed to tell you but ...” tell of victories won. “You're not telling me that she ...” “Now if anybody asks you, it didn't come from me,” … People love winners and honour those names The tale went on … who're recorded in history in man's hall of fame. another aisle, It's good to give honour where honour is due, another pair of ears … to keep in remembrance the great people who “This is in strictest confidence ...” battled for justice, and gave their own life “That's terrible ...” “Oh dear ...” in the interests of freedom and an ending to strife It sped around the fridges … in between the shelves … But medals and trophies, chains and rosettes “A little bird just told me … will tarnish and perish and turn to dust, yet but keep it to yourselves ...” the prizes God offers will surely endure, The news ran through the checkout and in the taxi queue … for they're not from this world and we can be sure “Not many people know this ...” that God is preparing His own Honours list - “I don't believe it ..” it might be surprising to find some names missed “SHHHH!” when we all stand before Him Excitement grew, and look in His eyes - the scandal flew it's not the world's winners who'll take the first prize. and as it went it grew and grew By the time it reached the pound shop But the faceless and nameless who fought the good fight a third of it was true. not great names in history Mobile phones were buzzing, texts travelled to and fro but great in God's sight, “Guess what?” … not big in church circles, not given acclaim, “They're not!” not publicly gifted, but used all the same “That's awful” “Well, it only goes to show” to build up Christ's kingdom At the sheltered housing bingo - to live to serve others “Whit's that ye're sayin' hen? to pour all their love on their sisters and brothers; So between “Kelly's Eye” and “Legs Eleven” to love the unloved, The beans were spilled again. to help those in need, to follow the Saviour In the Nursery, and the (Women's) Guild, in word and in deed. among the chit and chat … “Did you hear? .. Oh, may God make us humble, “They never did!” more loving and giving, “I'm not surprised at that !” so we won't be ashamed Even at the bowling club the news was on a roll when we reach God's Prize Giving. So much for asking someone not to tell a living soul - and as you might imagine, before the day was through, (June, July and August 'Sharing in Prayer' the secret was no secret for everybody knew. taken from “Second Thoughts” by Sadie McLean) A reputation shattered, a precious friendship wrecked through idle conversation. May God teach us to respect the secrets others share with us; May He help us win the battle to be known for our discretion, and not for tittle tattle.