October 2017

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He won’t let you stumble,    your Guardian God won’t fall asleep.

Not on your life! Israel’s    Guardian will never doze or sleep.

 God’s your Guardian,    right at your side to protect you—The sun will not harm you by day,

    nor the moon at night.God guards you from every evil,    He guards your very life.

He guards you when you leave and when you return,

    He guards you now, He guards you always.

Psalm 121:3-8 The Message

"I am no longer anxious about anything, as I realise the Lord is able to carry out His will, and His will is mine. It makes no matter where He places me, or how. That is

rather for him to consider than me." James Hudson Taylor (1832-1905) Christian missionary to China for 51 years and founder of the China Inland Mission.

REFLECTIONS FROM BOB… October 2017 Bob, can you tell us a little about your early years, where you were born and brought up? Where did you begin your working life? I was born in the William Smellie Memorial Hospital, Lanark, as were my two eldest children, Ruth and Ruaridh. The Hospital is now a housing estate, so there’s now nowhere to put up my commemoration plaque. After those first few days, the next 26 years of my life were spent in Lesmahagow. Working life began at an early age. When my mum thought I was old enough to be introduced to a healthy work ethic, I was sent berry picking over the school summer holidays, which gradually evolved into lettuces and farm work, until I left the school. Full-time employment was in the Clerk’s Department of Lanarkshire County Council up until the Reorganisation of Local Government in 1975, when I joined Hamilton District Council.When did you become Christian and what were the influences that helped you grow in your faith? When and how did you feel the calling to go into the ministry? During those latter years, I was very much involved in my home Church life, through the Youth Fellowship and spending my holidays on Summer Mission in Girvan, Leven and Burntisland. My mum’s mission was to help her four children find their way to the Kingdom of Heaven, and so we went to Church every Sunday until it became part of our lives. My Minister, the Rev Dr Walker and his family also had a big influence. His youngest son, Donald, introduced me to hill-walking, and we became good friends. One thing followed another, until I felt called to the Ministry. My dad thought I was “aff my heid” when I told him I was giving up a job that paid more than he earned as a Joiner (as well as that of Dr Walker, my Minister). But, for me, it wasn’t about the money! Tell us about life at University Normally, a candidate for the Ministry spends six years at University – three years on an Arts or Science degree followed by a three year Divinity degree. However, if you’re older and worked for a while, the whole thing can be completed in five years. St Andrews

University is the oldest in Scotland. History is a big thing for me and, even though St Mary’s College had the least intake of Church of Scotland candidates for the Ministry, I decided to go there. I loved St Andrews, and successfully completed the four years of a first Bachelor of Divinity Degree, followed by a year at Trinity College, Glasgow, to obtain a Certificate in Ministry. Where did you meet Catriona? What was your first charge and when were you called to Dundonald? It was at Trinity College, I met Catriona. We were married just after I was ordained and inducted into my first charge of Wishaw Old. It was there we were blessed with the first two of our three children, Ruth and Ruaridh. Maggie followed the year after I was inducted to the charge of Dundonald Parish Church in December, 1988. How would you describe your ministry in Dundonald? I’ve really enjoyed my ministry here, and have appreciated the help and support of so many wonderful and hard-working people. I’ve just tried to be a Parish Minister and to get on with being there for people. I’ve also tried to provide meaningful worship, but that’s not for me to judge. I’ve always believed that God called me to Dundonald, and He has blessed me in so many different ways. I have countless memories to take with me, at least until the dementia sets in! I think I could work just about anywhere, but Dundonald is a special place. What part of your work have you found the most challenging? I’ve found many challenges in being a Minister. The death of a child is always the hardest one to face. Also there are so many deadlines to meet, and new ideas and ways to present the Gospel that I’m now struggling to keep fresh. What do you consider are the main challenges facing the Church of Scotland/Christian Church in the future? Where do I start? Maybe the Church of Scotland has lost its way over the last few years in trying to become relevant in a rapidly changing society. There are too many Ministers with mixed opinions; the Church needs to remain true to the Gospel; and there are many Church members who are apathetic and don’t believe in the resurrection. And in Dundonald? Dundonald will always be in my heart and in my prayers.

What are you looking forward to in retirement? I’m looking forward to a rest and some relaxation. Might take up fishing again and catch up with some hill-walking. I still have 105 Corbetts to climb to finish them off. There are lots of books I’d like to read and there’s an acre of wilderness around the cottage that needs taming. Garfield is such a peaceful place and on sunny days, it will be wonderful to sit listening to the burn that runs through the garden. A great place for meditation, it will be like going on a permanent retreat. I just hope we have the health to fully enjoy it. We’ve never really had a weekend off together for the last 35½ years, so we’re looking forward to the next 11 months of away weekends until Catriona retires. After that, I may do some pulpit supply if asked.

Sung at Bob's last service at Dundonald Church on 24th September to the tune "I the Lord of Sea and Sky"

What a friend we have in you and your wife Catriona too:All the good things you have done for everyone.

Through the good times and the bad,Even times when we were sad,

Now it's time for you to go, we'll miss you so.

So goodbye Bob, fare thee weil Bob,We're sad it's time for you to go,

Cheerio Bob, adios Bob,We will miss you more than you will know.

We hope you really like this song, so we'd thought we'd sing along

We all want to wish you well in all you do.As you move to your new home

You won't ever be alone.All good thoughts we send with you, what e're you do.

by Mariea Black

… AND FROM CATRIONAI first visited Dundonald in 1969 when my Aunt Anne and Uncle David moved to the village. As a teenager, I have very happy memories of weekends in the village; little did I think at that time I would be there living in the manse for nearly thirty years. As the minister’s wife in Dundonald I shirked the first duty I was asked to do. Open the Christmas fete... I had to decline, we were moving 3 days later and I had two toddlers with chicken pox. Moving is hard enough but no one wants to look after children with Chicken pox. Fortunately, my cousin Fiona (Watts), still stayed in the village and she did help, only to get shingles for her troubles. Bob had moved his ‘study’ first and locked it. I moved in with the children and the mountains of boxes, Bob stayed in Wishaw for a few days. He’d left the only phone in the house locked in his study, it kept ringing and ringing and Bob had mislaid the key. We came to a congregation that was hurting and split. My apologies to all of you who in the early days we invited along for Sunday lunch, only to find out later, that there was some tension between you. I must say after a few months I gave up the invites to Sunday lunch at the manse. I couldn’t work out whom to invite with whom and anyway I was expecting Maggie by then and bed ridden for 5 months. In the early days, I became involved in the Toddlers Group, the Playgroup and the Brownies, and if I was in a group I took my turn on the committee and often stirred things up by suggesting change and I still do. Throughout the years I have thoroughly enjoyed the fellowship in the Young Women’s Group, the Church Decoration group, The Guild and The Rural and of course The Big Ends. I’ll miss them all, including the insults I’ve endured over my lack of taste in Christmas decorations, the arguments the week before panto, and the Rural competitions. I only ever won once, a flower arrangement in a tea-cup, Ruth had ‘fixed’ it for me before I left. The fun, laughter and tears through the years will always be with me. Mostly I remember and will always treasure the privilege to be with you in happy and sad times. I’ll not forget the occasional late-night visits to hospitals and your homes sometimes by myself and other times just sitting in the car while Bob went in. That you called us out no matter the time of day was never a burden but an honour that you wanted us there. The weddings, wedding anniversary

celebrations, Baptism parties, birthday parties, so many special events with your families when you included us has made us feel part of your family. The love and warmth you’ve welcomed us with into your lives has brought us so much pleasure. The welcome and friendship extended to my mother and Bob’s parents over the years has always been appreciated by us all. The thing I will miss most is the Sunday Service; you’ve probably gathered this by the number of times I’ve been in tears in the last year. Every time Bob said gleefully ‘this will be the last time I ...’ I cried. I feel a real presence of God in our fellowship, joy in our worship and we are one of the best singing congregation anywhere because we have had such talented organists and we are praising God. Life in the manse has never been about a job, it is about fellowship and service and it’s been tough. Life in a manse can mean sacrifice of personal space and at times choice. I do come from a very close, large, extended family; we would never have managed to do so much without the support of Anne, David, Fiona, Katy and David. I cannot thank them enough for the deep friendships we share and the time to offload the frustrations and the hurts. My escapes with my mother, brothers, Iain and Gavin and sisters, Morna and Gayna to Millport, where I forced them to look after me have been very precious times. My cousin Eleanor ‘on the other side’ of the family has supported us throughout and has always felt welcomed in the village. Joan Edgar was my right hand in the manse, both in bringing up the children and housekeeping; every manse should have a Joan. Along the way I gained a big sister in Libba Fallows There are so many of you with who we have built special bonds, and while we no longer will be the manse family we hope still to be your friends. How will people remember the Minister’s wife? Will people talk about the few good sermons and re-organisation of committees or the mini-kilted Fran and the pub quiz hostess? I said this to Maggie recently, she said ‘You’re a people person’, I replied ‘not me, I’m not very caring’. She said, ‘But you are; you care enough to say the hard things and then be supportive and loving’. My hopes and prayers for you are that you remain strong in your faith, pray for each other and find the right person to lead you and serve you. I’ll happily recommend you as the best congregation in Scotland.

A MESSAGE FROM OUR SESSION CLERK PAM, ON BEHALF OF US ALL, GIVEN AT BOB'S LAST PRESBYTERY MEETING…

I’m here to encapsulate 29 years of Bob’s Ministry in Dundonald; I was on the Vacancy Committee so it’s partly my fault that he ended up in Dundonald! He was an inspired choice. He is exceptionally hard-working and immediately set about putting his stamp on his new Ministry with great enthusiasm. He visited his new flock and MOST were charmed by his sense of humour! It gradually grew on the rest of them! He got down to dealing with the many issues that a rural parish brings. He started services in Loans and Dundonald House Nursing Home and continued those at the Sheltered Unit in Dundonald. He gave high priority to his work as School Chaplain both at Dundonald Primary and at Marr College. At the primary he worked with children in classes, assisted staff in enhancing RME topics, encouraged and facilitated visits to Church for Services at Easter and Christmas and in addition hosted visits of class groups to our Church explaining baptism, weddings, etc. He has supported Ayr Presbytery, engaged in lively debate and served on many committees, including as Business Committee Convener in 2015/16. However, to keep his feet firmly on the ground, his Session Clerk has frequently run alongside him, in the manner of the slave of Marcus Aurelius, saying:”Beware of hubris! You’re only mortal!” This amused him, if nothing else! Thanks to Bob the Church is one of the main features of Dundonald village life and is in very good heart. To show the high esteem in which he is held by the whole Dundonald community he was chosen to be Dundonald Highland Games Chieftain, a role he adopted with relish. He has encouraged the growth of Bible Study groups, Alpha courses, informal Communions and he has led us forward, seeking out the truth of Scripture and making it relevant to today. Everyone says Bob is very approachable and you’re guaranteed a straight answer, no matter what the topic. He’s very popular within the village because of this and his easy manner. He won’t let anything hold him back from doing his job: like having an ankle in plaster and using crutches to allow him to conduct a funeral, and when he couldn’t get his trousers on he wore his kilt! He has brought the best out of us, no easy task! As Session Clerk it’s been

challenging dealing with Bob’s unwillingness to delegate, and we’ve had our moments with the Session Minutes! His suggestions were, on the whole, good, but I’d never tell him that of course! I like to think that we’ve worked well together, but he may disagree! I hope not. I’ve seen at close hand the phenomenal amount of work he’s done. Everyone has spoken very highly of his hospital visits: on one visit to me he had all the surrounding patients laughing too and when he’d gone they were keen to know which Church I went to so they could come too! When you’re going through a difficult time he is very sensitive and knows when to empathise and when to give you space. You feel very supported. In times of bereavement he gives great comfort. A few of his oldest members have died recently: they got their wish for Rev Bob to conduct their funeral. His funeral services are uplifting and weddings and baptisms joyous. He is very supportive to people in times of trouble and he visits and LISTENS. For the Remembrance Service he does intensive research and has succeeded, throughout all these years, to produce very moving stories of the fallen from the village and outlying areas. We shall miss him playing with the children’s toys on Christmas Day and being intrigued by them, and we all looked forward to Easter Day, for the joy of resurrection of course, but also to see who would be awarded a Golden Egg for helping over the year, 4 per year, and the total is 116, amazing! Bob is particularly helpful to young people and children who need guidance in their early lives. He was in his element each August at Holiday Club, not only holding the children spellbound when telling Bible stories and reading out the world’s most awful jokes, but playing Super Dodgeball with them. They loved it and so did he! The Boys’ Brigade were thrilled when he took them abseiling. He has actively promoted our links with Malawi, welcoming the Malawian Ministers into his home. For a break from the demands of parish life Bob has always headed north and climbed mountains and Corbetts. He has completed two rounds of the Munros, was one of the first to complete the Three Peaks’ Challenge for charity: climbing Britain’s three highest mountains in 22 hours: Snowdon in Wales, Sca Fell in the Lake District and Ben Nevis. No mean feat! He has also enjoyed long-distance cycling and taken stunning photos of birds, wildlife, flowers,

peaks and lochs which we have all enjoyed prior to Services. He enjoys his garden and grows lots of fruit and veg. One of our Elders passed on to me these thoughts: - 29 years of telling the best jokes in the world during his sermons and murdering them - Telling the worst jokes in the world during his sermons and murdering them - Wearing his Motherwell scarf every time they beat the super Killie, which was about twice in that time. - Giving a present to Santa at the Christmas Gift Service, even though it’s supposed to be the other way round. - Looking nervous at every Communion in case one of the Elders dropped bread or wine - Conducting funerals with great empathy and warmth. Making Dundonald a Church of welcome, family and an excellent place of worship. We have all enjoyed seeing Ruth, Ruaridh and Maggie grow up in the Manse into the fine, enthusiastic people they are today. Bob has been ably supported by them, but most of all by Catriona who has kept him sane and kept the home fires burning. We shall miss them all very much. We wish Bob and Catriona well for their new life in Mauchline, a new chapter in their lives. Bob will be kept busy with his bees, walking his Border Collies and cooking, another of his passions. He won’t be bored!

THE LORD KNOWS ALLThe Lord knows what is best for us, He is with us every day

If only we put our trust in Him, He will surely show us the way. Keep looking up and keep the faith, that’s all we need to do

God knows what’s in our hearts, He loves us, He will see us through. When we let things on our minds that worry us day by day

We should get on our knees and talk to God He will help us when we pray.

Ask Him daily to forgive for the wrong things we may have done Then things will change as we believe for the battles we have won.

So give a smile with head held high The Lord knows all and He will know

Who will meet Him when we die.

Taken from Anchored magazine

BOARD MATTERS Bob McMillanThe Congregational Board met on 19th September in the Church Hall with Rev. Mayes presiding. The meeting was constituted with a prayer and a hymn. The Minutes of the meeting of the 15th. August 2017 were approved. MATTERS ARISING:- Hall Titles. As directed, the Clerk had again been in contact with General Treasurer’s Dept. at 121 regarding these documents. They finally located a document which was sent to the Clerk but this turned out to be concerned with a grant given in 1970 from the Baird Trust. The Clerk suggested a full property search be requested from Register’s House at an approximate cost of £40. This was agreed. FINANCE REPORT:- The bank balance stands at £22220.28. Total offerings for August 2017 were £4207.80, down £272.23 on same month in previous year. Total for 2017 to date is £37035.63 which is down by £576.17 on same period last year. FABRIC REPORT:- Main Hall lighting will be re-tubed as soon as possible using tubes salvaged from Ayr Ice Rink by Gemmill Jack some time ago. The McCowan brothers, who use the hall for Boccia training, have requested approval to put tape markings on floor to aid their training. It was agreed to try this to check if it interfered with Badminton play. It will be necessary to set up a small team to inspect and work on the Manse once it becomes vacant. Mr. Grant also requested help from the ladies when it comes to decorating the various rooms. Repairs Outstanding - Church: Rendering of walls and south elevation window surrounds – work to be completed early 2018. SOCIAL ACTION COMMITTEE:- Tea and coffee available after the service on the 1st Sunday in October. LOANS SERVICE:- On 15th October when Mrs. Cain will play piano. ITEMS FOR THE OCTOBER AGENDA:- Hall letting – do we allow lets to outsiders? If so, at what cost and under what conditions. The next Board & Session meetings will be on the 17th October. This being all of the business, the meeting closed with the Benediction.

GUILD Eileen DochertyThe Guild Annual Gathering, 2nd September

Two delegates from Dundonald went to the Caird Hall, Dundee for the Annual Gathering, leaving Mauchline at 7am on a beautiful September morning with mist over the moor and again over the Tay as we approached Dundee. The meeting began with a welcome from the National Convenor, Marge Paterson, who is from our own Presbyterial Council in Ayr. She acknowledged that some Guild branches were struggling to fill Convener and Committee places and said - rather than just close down, any who were in this position should contact Guild Office who would do anything they could to give advice to help keep the group together. There was no special formula for meetings and no set times, so a flexible approach could be used. The retiring convener, Rosemary Johnston, gave a resume of her year in office, which she said had been a huge honour. Moderator of the General Assembly, Rt Rev Dr Derek Browning was then introduced and said that in his year in office he hoped to explore hospitality and welcome; how we treat the stranger and vulnerable in our communities is key to how we explore our Christian faith. Is our Church one that builds bridges or one that maintains barriers? After the lunch break the speaker was Dr Pam Cairns, a retired GP and author of two novels. She was the volunteer medical director of the Vine Trust (2004-6) when she and her husband Alan developed and promoted the Amazon Hope medical and dental project in the Peruvian jungle. She is founding trustee of the 'Free to Live' trust which seeks to improve the lives of street children and victim of modern slavery. Currently the Trust is building a home for abandoned children of trafficked sex workers in India.The music during the session was provided by Heart and Soul Swing Band who was at last year's gathering with the Rev Alex Shuttleworth involved. We knew what to expect! The Guild were jiving in the aisles! The General Secretary, Ian White, gave an update on the 6 Projects over the past 3 years which to date have raised £509,836 and said that new Projects for the next 3 years were being considered at the moment. As usual, the singing was wonderful and a day of friendship and fellowship ended with the Grace.

CHURCH DIARY MORNING WORSHIP Every Sunday at 11.00 am.

CRECHE Every Sunday from 10.45 am. (Hall) SUNDAY SCHOOL Every Sunday at 11.00 am (Church)

BIBLE CLASS Every Sunday at 11.00 am (Church)

OCT 1st WORSHIP (Dundonald Church to be preached Vacant) Followed by tea/coffee in hall

8th WORSHIP

15th WORSHIP - BB Dedication & Enrolment Service

Loans Village Service (Village Hall at 2.30pm. Sacrament of Holy Communion)

17th Congregational Board (Church Hall at 7.30pm) followed immediately by the Kirk Session

22nd WORSHIP

29th WORSHIP Sheltered Unit Service (2.00pm.)

NOV 5th WORSHIP – celebrating the Sacrament of Holy Communion with Services at 11am and 6.30pm - Followed by tea/coffee in the hall after morning service.

PARISH REGISTERBAPTISM17.9.17 - Ava Zorget, 92 Kilnford Drive, Dundonald

  

STRICTLY FUN DANCING in partnership with

DUNDONALD PARISH CHURCH will be hosting a TEA DANCE

SUNDAY 8th OCTOBER 2017 2.00-4.30pm in Dundonald Church Hall £5

including sandwiches, tea, coffee & cakeShirley Shaw (540063)

THANK YOU! Thank you for the beautiful flowers I received from the Church. I appreciated them so very much.

With many thanks, Rena Owen

34 Main Street. I would like to thank

everyone for all the cards, flowers and good wishes I received during my recent

stay in hospital. Thank you, Isobel Frew

Jean Slaven

Jean’s family would like to thank those from the Church, village and beyond who attended her funeral service on Friday 1st September. The number attending was an acknowledgement of our Aunt’s service in the community over several decades. We will miss her greatly for the love she showed us all throughout our lives. The collection at her funeral for the Ayrshire Hospice raised £900 and your generosity and support is greatly appreciated.

CROSSREACH CALENDARSChristmas is coming! The Crossreach Calendar for 2018 can now

be ordered up until Sunday 5th November, The cost is a very reasonable £5 and can be ordered (with money up front) from

Katy Purdie. There is also a catalogue available if you would like to order Christmas Cards.

DUNDONALD HISTORICAL & ARCHIVE SOCIETY

Wednesday, 11th October Jim Manson

Lanarkshire Police History Irene McMillan (850702)

DUNDONALD SWI Thursday 5th October

Mrs Edna Russell from The Little Knitting Shop talking

about New Wools and Trends 2nd November

Guest Night - Scottish Evening with Mr Menzies.

DUNDONALD CRAFT & SOCIAL CLUB

Thursday afternoon in the Montgomerie Hall from

2.00 – 4.00pm. We have carpet bowls, pool and a craft section.Open to everyone over the age of 50 so come and join us. Douglas

Munro 01563 850125

DRIVER NEEDED! One more driver is needed for

the Car Rota! Can you help with this?

If so, please contact Jane Ritchie 851481

(approximately every 8 weeks)

LOANS SWIFriday 27th October

Halloween Party (Fancy Dress)

Competition Halloween Sugar-craft item

Dressed up Wooden Spoon

Flowers in Church for September were provided by Mrs M. Black, Mrs M. Smith, Mrs M. Miller

Flower Fund - Harvest Thanksgiving Thanks to Everybody - Ellen Gray

DUNDONALD CHURCH GUILD

Monday 2nd October at 7pm

Dedication for the year with Rev A. Symington, followed

by "Songs for All" with Rev Jill Clancy's Community Choir.

16th Oct at 7.30pm

Christmas at

Lindy's Sunday 8th October

11am- 2.30pm Christmas cards and gifts,

Christmas cards and decorations, gift bags and

wrapping paper Lindy's at Hansel Village

Like a Singing BirdAndrew McTaggart and friends invite you for an evening of musical entertainment for

Save the Children Saturday 7th October, 7pm Portland Parish Church, Troon, Tickets £15 including wine and

canapés From Words and Music, Troon

or 012922312061

AYRSHIRE HOSPICE CHRISTMAS CARDS

On sale in the Sheltered Housing Unit between 8am to 3pm Uuntil the second week in December. Come and support this worthy cause!

Would you like to be involved in making Dundonald a Dementia friendly community?

Dundonald House, Service Users, Families and Staff would like to ask the people of Dundonald if they would be interested in

working with us to develop a dementia-friendly community; this would involve the whole community, people who are committed

to working together and helping people with dementia to remain part of their community and not become apart from it. This involves in learning a little about dementia and doing very

simple practical things that can make an enormous difference to people living with the condition.

We would like all interested parties to attend a meeting to discuss how we could move this proposal forward. If you would

like to be involved, please contact Anne Kerr, manager Dundonald House

1st DUNDONALD Kevin McAulay

Our new session is off to a great start with 16 boys registered in Anchor Section, 11 in Junior Section and 27 in the Company Section with more anticipated as the weeks go on. It’s certainly not been a quiet session so far with both Juniors and Company Section already having a few Battalion events taking place and coming up over the next few weeks. The Company Section enjoyed an evening at Dumfries House taking part in indoor climbing and then a spot of table tennis to finish off the evening. They also have a trip to the Pleasure Beach to look forward to which I’m sure we’ll hear more about next month. Junior Section took part in Beach Football at Ayrshire’s answer to Cococabana Beach (Barassie). Let’s just say the weather was not in our favour but nonetheless those that took part had a great day and that’s all that matters in the end,. Junior Section also have ten pin bowling and Treasure Hunt later in the month. We’re looking to also do a number of fund raisers this year to help raise some money to buy a trailer for the minibus which will help us transport equipment and luggage for trips away and not have to rely on van hires from outside sources. Look out for further details on this later in the year. Our annual Dedication Parade will take place on Sunday 15th October where we will be marching from Dundonald Primary School at 10:30am and making our way to the Church. We look forward to a good day and look forward to seeing our church family on this special day in our BB calendar.

Dundonald Delights! Our recipe book for sale at £5 each - a great Christmas gift!

ALWAYS SAY A PRAYERWED 11TH OCTOBER - INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE GIRL Lord, we intercede for girls across the world who are discriminated against and devalued because of their gender. Please grant success to those who champion their rights and freedoms to have equal access to education, healthcare, the workplace and other areas. Amen. SAT 14TH OCTOBER - WORLD HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE DAY Ask God to grant strength and compassion to staff and volunteers serving in hospices and palliative care organisations in over 80 countries, caring for patients and their families in the last months and weeks of life. Pray for this movement to grow across the world. ‘We believe that no-one with a life-limiting condition, such as cancer or HIV, should live and die with unnecessary pain and distress. Our vision is a world with universal access to hospice and palliative care. Our mission is to foster, promote and influence the delivery of affordable, quality palliative care.’ (Worldwide Hospice Palliative Care Alliance)

LOSING POWER On a recent afternoon of high winds and black storm clouds overhead we had an irritating power cut. Not for long, and anyone who didn’t have electrical gadgets on at the time probably wouldn’t have noticed it. But it was a Saturday, and in our house that means sport on T.V. so we did notice! The television died, so did the computer. The lights went out and we all groaned. However, they were quickly restored, and when everything came back to life we thought no more about it - until we went to bed that is! That’s when we realised we would have to go round every clock in the house, for they were all flashing and refusing to tell us the right time. How we rely on power in the 21st Century, and when we don’t have it, we’re lost without it. God’s power is much the same. If I don’t pray for a day or two, I may not really notice, but then His power within me gradually diminishes, and it’s often much later that I realise how lost I am without Him to guide my life. And that loss of power is much worse than a simple power cut. 2002 Contact

‘Heaven on Earth’ SEC ARMADILLO GLASGOW 18 April 2018 – 21 April 2018

Heaven on Earth is a brand new musical and has been described:

… as a unique, live arena spectacular - it journeys back to the very beginning of time and is a classic re-telling of the well-known story of Adam and Eve, and their tragic fall from Paradise. It is an exhilarating story of love, loss, and redemption, and an exploration of the universal search for the meaning of life. Its original emotive songs, will resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds, and stay with the audience long after viewing this thrilling and visual treat of a production.

… the stage-set for Eden is breathtaking.  The West End director describes the show as “a visual treat and a delight to the ears; one that will transport the audience to another world.” The musical stars Kerry Ellis (First Lady of the West End) as EVE, and Hugh Maynard (Jesus Christ Superstar/Miss Saigon) as ADAM, and Russell Watson as ‘THE VOICE OF GOD.’

… an epic and inspirational journey and state of the art digital technology, innovative staging, stunning choreography with a cast of over 30 directed by Racky Plews (American Idiot, Footloose) with musical arrangements by Adam Langston (Alien Covenant, Les Miserables, Walking with Dinosaurs, Batman Live) (But not recommended for children under 8 years unless with parental discretion).

With all the costs involved in a 'West-End' production, the tickets are not cheap … they start at £21 right at the back, and the next are £36. If you are interested, please contact Sandy or Frances and if there are 10 or more, then we will be able to get a group discount. heavenonearththemusical.co.uk

"Return to Chitambo" Ron and Andrew Swanson warmly invite you to join them as they share their family story a nostalgic, emotional and inspiring visit to Chitambo Mission, Zambia where their parents served as missionaries with the Church of Scotland 50 years ago.

Saturday 14th October at 7.00pm, Fullarton Connexions,

Fullarton Church, Irvine KA12 8PE

Tea/coffee & home baking

Ron and Andrew would be delighted to welcome as many friends as possible from the Churches within the Ayr Presbytery. They have been asked to present their family story to various organisations, including Guilds, Rotaries, Lunch Clubs etc which they are happy to do after this initial launch presentation which gives an opportunity to support the legacy and on-going work of the local Church within the Chitambo community.

Contact details Ron 07957138106

ronald.swanson@btinternet.comAndrew 07393019962

aswanson458@btinternet.com

Presbytery of AyrAlternative Gift

SchemeLooking for the perfect

Christmas or Birthday gift for your friends and family - then

why not buy them some seeds and fertiliser?

"They don't need seeds and fertiliser!" I hear you cry!

Well, maybe they don't, but our friends in Malawi do.

Alternative gift cards can be bought for £5 each which will

buy seeds and fertiliser for our partners in Bandawe and

Limphasa Presbyteries in Malawi.

Thank you in advance for your generosity

Church of Scotland Presbytery of Ayr Charity

Number SCO20676Cards can be bought from Frances Mavor shortly xx

GREETINGS FROM REV BORDINGTONE!

Dear Congregation at Dundonald

For the retirement of our beloved and senior minster Bob - the Congregation and the family of Bordingtone wish him all the best and pray that he will stay well as he starts another chapter of life - he has fought a good fight in the Lord.Also, I am running short of words to forward to all members of Dundonald Church for the support rendered to me in many ways when l was at school (University). Therefore, I am pleased to reveal to the entire Church at Dundonald that l have completed my course and graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Theology and Religious studies.The graduation took place on 26th August 2017 at Bingu International Conference Centre, Lilongwe.

Bordingtone Singini and family - his wife Elizabeth and their children: Mary, Doreen, Nathan, Naomi and Levi

Parenting Teenagers getting them (and you!) through. Care for the family, Tuesday, 10th October, Glasgow

Do you feel like your teenager has become a different person overnight? Or maybe your child is almost a teenager and you’re feeling a bit apprehensive about what’s ahead. Well, it's all normal! Join Rob Parsons and Katharine Hill and go home with hope, knowing that the challenges you face are not unique. We've got a lot to share with you, so why not join us? The Care for the Family team at Woodhill Evangelical Church, Glasgow, G64 2NH - 7:30pm - 10:00pm 029 2081 0800 shop@cff.org.uk £6. Large car park at church.

YOU CAN SAVE A LIFE ! LEARN HOW TO USE DUNDONALD'S NEW DEFIBRILLATOR

Dundonald Community Council has recently purchased a Public Access Defibrillator and Cabinet. This is sited at Dundonald Bowling Club. Did you know? • Only 1 in 20 survive an out of hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA).

3,325 people die each year in Scotland. With immediate treatment these lives could be saved.

• Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) can be treated by defibrillation. Seconds count, and the ambulance service is unlikely to arrive quickly enough to resuscitate most victims.

• Many lives can be saved if people nearby recognise what has happened, summon the ambulance service, perform basic CPR and use a defibrillator (AED) to restore heart's normal rhythm.

What can YOU do? • AEDs are easy to use, compact, portable and very effective. • They are designed to be used by anyone to restart the heart as

soon as possible. • The quicker the shock the greater the chance of survival. • Take the AED to the person who has collapsed and use

immediately • The victim's chance of survival falls by around 7-10% every

minute that defibrillation is delayed. It is simple to use • Attach two adhesive pads (electrodes) to patient's bare chest. • Through these pads the AED can both monitor the heart's

electrical rhythm and deliver a shock when it is needed. • The AED provides audible instructions and visual prompts on

screen. • They are safe and will not allow a shock to be given unless the

heart's rhythm requires it. • As well as having an AED (and people trained to use it), it is also

vital that as many people as possible learn basic skills in CPR. This entails recognising that someone may have suffered SCA, calling 999 and then performing chest compressions and rescue

breaths. This basic first aid will maintain an oxygen supply to the brain and other organs and make it more likely that the heart can be re-started by defibrillation.

We are aiming to run several teaching events on CPR and the defibrillator around the village so look out for posters and on DCC web and Facebook page. Also look at Lifesaver interactive app at life-saver.org.uk or savealife.scot

COOKERY CORNER CARAMEL CRUMBLE

200g tin condensed milk, 50g butter, 50g Demerara sugar, Good pinch cinnamon, 450g Bramley Apples, TOPPING 20g cold butter, 20g plain flour, 25g soft brown sugar, 25g white granulated sugar, 25g porridge oats

Simmer the can of condensed milk for about two hours to produce the caramel. Make sure water is kept topped up and the can is always covered. Allow to cool before opening. Alternatively just buy Caramel Condensed! TOPPING: Mix together all the topping ingredients except the oats until they have the consistency of breadcrumbs, then add the oats. Squeeze into a ball then separate into small pieces to ensure crunchy texture after cooking. Peel the apples, de-core and cut into 2cm chunks. With a heavy based pan, melt the butter, add the sugar, cinnamon and apples. Cook gently for 5-6 minutes until the apples soften. Remove from the heat and allow to cook in latent heat for 3-4 minutes, then chill. When cold, spoon ⅓ of the apples into a serving dish and top with half of the caramel. Repeat, finishing with the final ⅓ of apple. Finally, top with the crumble mix. Place in a preheated oven at 170C/150C Fan for 10-15 mins until the crumble is golden brown and cooked through. Serve with cream or custard.

I Wish You Big Mud Puddles ……..

When I look at a patch of dandelions, I see a bunch of weeds that are going to take over my garden. My kids see flowers for Mum and blowing white fluff you can wish on.

When I look at an old drunk and he smiles at me, I see a smelly, dirty person who probably wants money and I look away. My kids see someone smiling at them, and they smile back.

When I hear music I love, I know I can’t carry a tune and don’t have much rhythm so I sit self-consciously and listen. My kids feel the beat and move to it. They sing out the words. If they don’t know them they make up their own.

When I feel wind on my face, I brace myself against it. I feel it messing up my hair and holding me back when I walk. My kids close their eyes, spread their arms and fly with it, until they fall to the ground laughing.

When I pray, I say thee and thou and please grant me this and give me that. My kids say, “Hi God, Thanks for my toys and friends. Please keep the bad dreams away tonight, and sorry, but I don’t want to go to heaven yet, I would miss my Mummy and Daddy.”

When I see a mud puddle, I step around it. All I can see are muddy shoes and dirty carpets. My kids sit in it. They see dams to build, rivers to cross and worms to play with.

I wonder if we are given kids to teach or to learn from. No wonder God loves the little children. Enjoy the little things in life, for one day you may look back and realise they were the big things.

I wish you big mud puddles and sunny yellow dandelions.

Taken from 2002 Contact magazine

SMILES! Excuses A senior citizen drove his brand new BMW out of the car salesroom. Taking off down the motorway he floored it to 90 mph enjoying the wind blowing through his hair. Amazing, he thought, pushing the pedal down even more. Looking in his rear view mirror, he saw a police car behind him blue lights flashing and siren blaring. I can get away from him, no problem he thought, pushing his speed to 120 then 130 and 140 mph. Suddenly he thought what am I doing, I’m too old for this and pulled over and waited for the police to catch him up. Pulling in behind him, the policeman said, “Sir my shift ends in ten minutes and I’m taking off for the weekend. If you can give me a reason why you were speeding that I’ve never heard before, I’ll let you go.” The man looked very seriously at the policeman and replied, “Years ago my wife ran off with a policeman. I thought you were bringing her back.” “Have a good day” said the policeman.

From "The Bells, the Bells" Mark Stibbe, Monarch books

What does that mean Daddy?

The vicar stepped into the pulpit and opened up the bible in front of him with a flourish. “What does that mean Daddy?” asked the little boy in the front row. “It means that he’s going to tell us important things about the bible.” Then the vicar took out a sheaf of papers and laid them carefully on the lectern. “What does that mean Daddy?” “That means he’s going to explain all the things in the bible story.” Then the vicar took off his watch and put it on the side of the pulpit. “What does that mean Daddy?” “That means absolutely nothing at all!”

CHURCH ROTAS October 2017

DATES Car 1 Car 2 Car 3

08/10/17 David Harrow Margaret Rae Yvonne Cain

15/10/17 Graeme Dunn Maggie Kuczynski Elizabeth Munro

22/10/17 Pat McLaren Moreen Linton Keith Parker

29/10/17 Morag Gilmour Maureen Brown Elaine Grant

05/11/17 Pam Kavanagh Kate Tweedie Margaret Miller

DATES CRECHE BIBLE READING

08/10/17 Linda Hall & Shona Jack A. Watts

15/10/17 Lynne Fagan & Joan Edgar K. Wright

22/10/17 Pat McLaren & Katy Purdie A. Wheelan

29/10/17 Jean Gray & Debi Dunn A. Young

05/11/17 Libba Fallows & Anne FitzGerald L. Axford

08/10/17 DOOR DUTY

R. McMillan F. Mavor A. FitzGerald J. Wilson

15/10/17

J. Kerr S. Payne A . Picken A. Brown

22/10/17

W. Rae E. Gray G. Kenmuir Mrs J. Ritchie G. Baird

29/10/17

J. Morton E. Grant M. Miller J. Hardie

05/11/17

E. Docherty E. Munro Mr J. Ritchie G. Dunn L. Axford

Session Clerk: Pam Kavanagh 01563 850976

Clerk to the Board: Bob McMillan 01563 850702

Treasurer: Sheila Tannock 01563 830427

Church Officer: Hugh Appleby 01563 851105

Organist and Choir: Mariea Black 01563 851417

Safeguarding Coordinator: Janice Hardie 01292 316476

Charity no: SCO8284 CCLI 26701

May the road rise up to meet you.May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face;The rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet

again,May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

Traditional Irish blessing

Please give articles to the Editor for

the November Magazine by Sunday 29th October

AU REVOIR

and GOD BLESS!