Carstairs and

Carnwath

Parish Churches

Spring 2016

From the Interim Moderator

Friends

The first time I wrote to you as your Interim Moderator was for the Christmas edition of the magazine. Now I am writing for the Easter Edition and it will be for the last time as your Interim Moderator. I feel like I've just started to get to know you and now I will be leaving after 31st March following the induction of Rev Maudeen MacDougall.

What an exciting beginning to 2016 for you!!

It's a busy time in Church life, so much happening in these next few months. Of course we also had the start of Lent on Wednesday, 10th Feb taking us through to Holy Week and Easter Sunday on 27th March.

My prayer will be that you can find some time to just "BE" and to listen for the wee small voice of God amidst all the busyness, and business that will be upon you.

I look forward to conducting worship with Carstairs on Sunday, 6th March and for Communion in both congregations on 13th March.

It has been a joy to be with you at this time in your journey of faith and in the continued witness of the community of faith.

I wish you every blessing as you move forward with your new minister.

I hope that we will have opportunities to meet up again in the future, and know that you will always be welcome to visit us here at Braehead House.

God blessElizabeth

The Sacrament of Holy Communionwill be celebrated on

Sunday 13th March

10am at Carstairs 11.30am at Carnwath

We look forward to your company

Rev Maudeen MacDougall

Dear Friends

This is just a little letter to say that I am looking forward to getting to know you all and ministering in the parishes. You live in a lovely part of the world. I’m glad that in addition to all other weathers you have snow from time to time; cold as it might be then, you sure make up for it in the warmth of your welcome. I enjoyed my day with you in January, and was delighted you had a good sense of humour. I enjoy one too! I must also say that it was lovely to be given a unanimous Call by both parishes and it was good to see the number who signed the Call. Thank you.

You have been so kind in getting the manse in order, the notice-board prepared, and all else. Very many thanks. Your Call spoke to me so much that when invited to preach I phoned others and withdrew my interest.

I was asked to tell you a little about myself. Well I was born a west coaster with quite some heart too for the east coast. My sister Lorna is studying for the full time ministry and is due to graduate BD in June. She has a cocker spaniel called Brandy who loves to have a fuss made of him.

Lorna and I were born into the Manse and we have happy memories and some fun ones of being the minister’s daughters, but all of us were ably supported by the bishop of our family, our mother who lived into her 98th year. Age is just as old as you feel and I subtracted 5 years off mine over a decade ago and heartily recommend this! Of course, I feel a lot younger than even that age affords. Indeed when I first went to Dundee I challenged the 80yr olds to be 70, the 70’s to become 60’s, the 60’s to become 50’s, and so it went on until the 20’s and 30’s, the teenagers, and the children could just be the age they were at. It worked miracles!

My calling to ministry came through working a gap year in the acute admission ward of a psychiatric hospital where encouragement was given to me towards nursing, psychology, etc. I thought psychiatric chaplaincy was more for me; however I’ll share more about that some other time but suffice to say that I went back to that hospital to work at Christmas and all through the summer for my first six years at University.

Edinburgh University and New College I simply love; in my book, the experience there cannot be bettered and it was such a delight when after we’ll not say how many years I had the opportunity to return for some further study. If in the National Church we could take the strides that New

College has taken over the years we’d have much to celebrate. However, I realise that you have been taking strides and I look forward to us travelling further in faith’s adventure together.

For the moment though, I wish you blessings for Lent, Holy Week and Easter, a truly special time of year.

On the Sunday after Easter it will be my first Sunday as your minister. In addition to all whom you’ve known for a good while, this would be a great day to invite new people to the area to join us not forgetting all who commute and the manse neighbours. I am so very happy that my Divinity Professor and Principal of New College, David Fergusson, FBA, FRSE, will preach me in to Carnwath with Carstairs. I hope you’ll share that news around as it is a privilege to have him with us. Also, his humanity is as special as his Divinity, while he contributes his excellence to New College, the Church of Scotland, and makes considerable contribution on the International stage. Professor Fergusson is a keen football supporter, a well above average cyclist, and good sportsman, and among his innumerable publications is the book “Faith and its Critics”;

Looking forward to being with you soon. By the end March, beginning of April, maybe the lambs will be well on the way.

Meantime, I leave you with a verse or two from a favourite Easter Hymn:

Now the green blade riseth from the buried grain,Wheat that in dark earth many days has lain;Love lives again, that with the dead has been:Love is come again, like wheat that springeth green

Forth he came at Easter, like the risen grain,He that for three days in the grave had lain.Quick from the dead my risen Lord is seen:Love is come again, like wheat that springeth green.

May you know the wonder of Easter Blessing. Love & Prayers for a special Easter Season.

Maudeen

Service of Induction of Rev Maudeen MacDougall into the linked charge of Carnwath and Carstairs Parish Churches

Thursday, 31 March at 7pmCarstairs Parish Church

Everyone is welcome to attend this service

Final Word from the Nominating Committee

As you will all now be aware the Rev Maudeen MacDougall has been elected to be the new Minister of Carstairs & Carnwath Parish Churches. Following her preaching as sole nominee she was unanimously elected.

This brings to an end the requirement for the nominating committee and as such we will be duly discharged of our duties.

This is the first time I have been involved on a nominating committee and must admit to finding it a challenging and at times a disheartening task. As a group we put in a great deal of work and on many occasions wondered where we could turn next. We did have excellent support from our three Interim Moderator’s Rev Russell McLarty, Rev Gordon Jamieson and latterly Rev Elizabeth Clelland.

Late in October, following a suggestion from the advisory group, we decided upon a weekly prayer for the month of November, we can’t say if there is a connection or not, but even before the first week of prayer and having previously received no creditable applications, Rev Maudeen MacDougall applied. We as a group were obviously very excited and embarked on a time of interviewing, seeking references and of course going to hear Maudeen preach. We should probably apologise here for any little 'untruths' that were told at the time but it was all in the call of duty.

As a group we were grateful for the prayer support we received and hope that as a congregation you also gained from the experience of having a prayer focus each week.

I would like at this time to thank all the nominating committee members for their hard work and perseverance, which ultimately brought the desired conclusion. It is now up to the two congregations to warmly welcome and fully support our new minister.

Alan GilchristNominating Committee Chair

----------------------------------------------------------------------------SoSing

SoSing are keen to attract new members from both congregations/communities to the group so if you like to sing please come along and join us. It’s a very relaxed and informal group. If you would like more information or just want to chat about it please call Nanette Melvin (870988).

What's New?

It is often said that, “faith is like a journey”, and for the last few years, the folks of Carnwath and Carstairs have certainly been on a journey. At times it may have been a difficult journey with, perhaps, feelings of disappointment, uncertainty about the future and possibly frustration along the way. It may even have been a journey that some wondered how long it would be until it came to an end.

But now, with the impending induction of the Rev Maudeen McDougall at the end of March, the journey through this time of Vacancy is coming to an end. Carnwath and Carstairs, stand on the threshold of a new beginning.

At this time too, we are also reminded of the new beginnings that come with Easter; from the journey leading to the darkness of the Cross there followed the light and new life that came with the Resurrection. For the Disciples, Easter marked the end of one journey and the beginning of a new one as they would continue Christ's work on earth by taking the Gospel out to the world.

It was work they began with confidence, buoyed up by Christ's parting promise before He left them for the final time; His promise that He would be with them always.

It was an exciting time for the Disciples then and it is an exciting time here too. It is a time to look forward. A time when all have the opportunity and are invited to become involved and to be part of this new stage of Christ's Church of today amongst the people of Carnwath and Carstairs with a new minister. Each one can continue in the same confidence as those first Disciples knowing that Christ is with us in all we do for Him.

For my own part, I am grateful at having the privilege of being able to have shared a little of your journey during my time as Pastoral Locum over the past couple of years. And so, to all at Carnwath and Carstairs I wish you well and every blessing for Easter and the future.

Alan-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Carstairs Parish Church

We currently provide a volunteer service each Sunday offering a lift to elderly members from Carstairs Junction. We really need more volunteers to come forward, if you are able to support this service please contact Elizabeth Brown (870787).

Farewell

By the time you are reading this we will be approaching Easter and the schools Spring break. Spring always makes me think of new beginnings with the spring flowers in bloom and some of the trees in bud indicating that new life is beginning and the winter is over. It will also be the time of a new beginning for the church as well with the induction of Maudeen, your new minister. I wish you all well as you enter this new chapter in the life of your church.

I will lead worship for the last time on Easter Sunday and can I say that I count it a privilege and honour to have shared this chapter of your church’s life with you.

It has been great to build up friendships and share fellowship with you all over the last few years. I thank you for all the love and support you have given me during my spell here as preaching locum.

Thank you all for welcoming me into your church and I will return at some time to see how you are getting on. Thank youRichard

-----------------------------------------------------------------Jeremy’s Story

When this issue of the magazine comes out we will be approaching Easter and so I thought I would share with you a story I came across recently. I enjoyed it I hope you will too.....Richard.

Jeremy Foresters was born with a twisted body, a slow mind and a chronic, terminal illness that had been slowly killing him all his young life. Still his parents had tried to give him as normal a life as possible and had sent him to St. Theresa’s Primary school. At the age of 12, Jeremy was only in primary two seemingly unable to learn. His teacher, Doris Miller often became exasperated with him. He would squirm in his seat, drool and make grunting noises. At other times he spoke clearly and distinctly as if a spot of Light had penetrated the darkness of his brain. Most of the time however, Jeremy irritated his teacher. One day she called his parents and asked them to come to St. Theresa’s for a consultation.

As the Foresters sat quietly in the empty classroom Doris said to them, “Jeremy really belongs in a special school. It isn’t fair to him to be with younger children who don’t have learning difficulties. Why, there is a five year gap between his age and that of the other students. Mrs Forrester cried softly into a tissue while her husband spoke. “Miss Miller”, he said, “There is no school of that kind nearby. It would be a terrible shock for

Jeremy if we had to take him out of this school. We know he really likes it here.”

Doris sat for a long time after they left, staring at the snow outside the window. Its coldness seemed to seep into her soul. She wanted to sympathise with the Foresters. After all, their only child had a terminal illness. But it wasn’t fair to keep him in her class. She had 18 other youngsters to teach and Jeremy was a distraction. Furthermore, he would never learn to read or write. Why waste any more time trying? As she pondered the situation guilt washed over her. “Oh God,” she said aloud,” here am I complaining when my problems are nothing compared with that poor family! Please help me to be more patient with Jeremy.”

From that day on she tried hard to ignore Jeremy’s noises and his blank stares. Then one day he limped to her desk dragging his bad leg behind him. “I love you, Miss Miller,” he exclaimed, loudly enough for the whole class to hear. The other children snickered and Doris’ face turned red. She stammered, “Wh-Why, that’s very nice Jeremy. Now please take your seat.”

Spring came and the children talked excitedly about the coming of Easter. Doris told them the story of Jesus and then to emphasise the idea of new life springing forth she gave each one of the children a large plastic egg. “Now”, she said to them, “I want you to take this home and bring it back tomorrow with something inside that shows new life. Do you understand?”

“Yes, Miss Miller!” the children responded enthusiastically all except for Jeremy. He just listened intently, his eyes never left her face. He didn’t even make his usual noises. Has he understood what she had said about Jesus’ death and resurrection? Did he understand the assignment? Perhaps she should call his parents and explain the project to them. That evening Doris’s kitchen sink blocked. She called the landlord and waited an hour and a half for him to come by and unclog it. After that she still had to shop for groceries, iron a blouse and prepare a vocabulary test for the next day. She completely forgot about phoning Jeremy’s parents.

The next morning 19 children came to school laughing and talking as they placed their eggs in a large wicker basket on Miss Miller’s desk. After they completed their Math lesson it was time to open the eggs. In the first egg, Doris found a flower. “Oh yes a flower is certainly a sign of new life,” she said. “When plants peek through the soil we know that spring is here.” A small girl in the first row waved her arms. “That’s my egg, Miss Miller,” she said.

The next egg contained a plastic butterfly which looked very real. Doris held it up. We all know that a caterpillar changes and grows into a beautiful butterfly. Yes that is new life too.” Little Judy smiled proudly and

said, “Miss Miller that one is mine.”

Next Doris found a rock with moss on it. She explained that the moss too showed life. Billy spoke up from the back of the classroom. “My daddy helped me!” he beamed.

Then Doris opened the fourth egg. She gasped it was empty! Surely it must be Jeremy’s she thought, and he did not understand her instructions. If only she had not forgotten to phone his parents. Because she didn’t want to embarrass him she quietly set the egg aside and reached for another.

Suddenly Jeremy spoke up,” Miss Miller aren’t you going to talk about my egg?” Flustered Doris replied, “But Jeremy you’re egg is empty!” He looked into her eyes and said softly, “Yes, but Jesus tomb was empty too!” Time stopped. When she could speak again Doris asked him, “Do you know why the tomb was empty?” “Oh yes!” Jeremy exclaimed. “Jesus was killed and put in there. Then his Father raised him up!” The playtime bell rang. While the children excitedly ran out to the school playground, Doris cried and the cold inside her melted completely away.

Three months later Jeremy died. Those who paid their respects at the funeral were surprised to see 19 eggs on top of his coffin, all of them empty.

I hope everyone found this as appealing and inspiring as I did.

Richard

Carstairs Parish Church Easter Services

Palm Sunday, 20th March at 10.00amAll Age Service followed by Tea, Coffee, Juice and Hot Cross Buns

Good Friday, 25th March, Evening Service at 7.00pm

Easter Sunday, 27th March at 10.00am

A Prayer for Easter(Submitted by Sheena Clifford, Carnwath Prayer Co-ordinator)

When everything was darkand it seemed that the sun would never shine again,your love broke through.

Your love was too strong, too wide,too deepfor death to hold.

The sparks cast by your lovedance and spread and burst forthwith resurrection light.

Gracious God,We praise you for the light of new lifemade possible through Jesus.We praise you for the light of new lifethat shone on the first witnesses of resurrection.We praise you for the light of new lifethat continues to shine in our hearts today.

We pray that the Easter light of life, hope and joy,will live in us each day;and that we will be bearers of that lightinto the lives of others.

Amen (by Rev Michaela Youngson)

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Carstairs Parish ChurchChristian Aid Week 15th – 21st May 2016

(www.christianaid.org.uk)

The focus this year is on supporting the flood victims in Bangladesh. You can support Christian Aid Week by volunteering for our local door to door collection in Carstairs Village & Junction. Please contact Christine Lothian on 07917138387.

A fundraising Lunch at the Community Centre will follow the Sunday Service on 15th May. If you are available to help at this lunch please contact Christine or a member of the Social Committee.

Lent

Lent is the 40 day period before Easter beginning with Ash Wednesday concluding on Holy Saturday (26th March). During Lent Christians may fast, or give up some of their usual routine, to give time to personal examination and to reflect on their relationship with God. The reason Lent is 40 days is because 40 is a significant number in Christian scriptures, but the most notable is perhaps that Jesus spent 40 days fasting in the desert in preparation for his ministry.

This Lent, the Church of Scotland has partnered with Christian Aid Scotland, to bring you forty daily reflections from Christians across Scotland and around the world. Using prayers, reflections, images and video the stories of ancient saints and everyday pilgrims

are told. Visit the Church of Scotland website www.churchofscotland.org.uk every day and discover a new message to inspire you and help you reflect on your own spiritual journey. The following daily reflection is from the website:

Journeying With Christian Aid(Kathy Galloway, Head of Christian Aid Scotland)

To be in the wilderness has never been an easy experience. For the people of Israel after their exodus from slavery in Egypt, it was a time of being lost with no signposts or maps, homeless with only a dream to keep them going. It meant vulnerability to all the dangers of the wilderness, exposure to the elements, with nowhere to shelter. It meant having no resources, with only God to turn to.

This desert experience, of course, has not gone from the world. It is sometimes also our experience when all our maps are torn up. It is the experience of millions of displaced peoples, of refugees and asylum seekers, of stateless people and those dispossessed by climate disasters or political oppression and devastating conflict. It is the calling of Christian Aid to accompany these wilderness journeys; to hold out the possibility of another way: the way of justice, the way of faith, hope and love.

Perhaps at first, when the angels came and waited on him, Jesus, like us, wasn't sure that they were indeed angels, and not more demons! Yet he had to go forward, out of the desert to the sea, to call those everyday saints, the fishermen of Galilee, his first and last companions, and to take the long road to Jerusalem. He had to go forward in trust, with all his doubts and fears, on a journey whose outcome was still uncertain.

Just like us. And that's the whole point, really.

Ian Alexander, Carnwath Elder

I was a bit surprised when asked to write an article on my experience of being the current longest serving elder for Carnwath Parish, to date currently 40 odd years under the belt.

It was following an approach by Rev William Middleton, after my dad died suddenly at an early age. He, as an elder, had been involved at that time, in the church initiative of visiting patients in the State Hospital. Being vulnerable following his death, I agreed to his suggestion and as they say never looked back since.

During my early days I was involved in the church hall extension and this led me into assisting with the property portfolio. For the past twelve years I have taken on the mantle of Property Convener for the church properties namely church, manse and hall. Nowadays my responsibility is confined to checking both manse and church on a regular basis for insurance purposes for 121 - making sure they remain secure.

In the 80s, when my own two boys were quite young I became Sunday School Superintendent. This was an eleven year stretch and was very rewarding, particularly with having a good number of children (covering all age groups) and four committed teachers in attendance, changed days now! We would take summer trips to Medwyn Bank at Dunsyre and latterly to Camilty Forest along the Langwang, where the children could enjoy themselves playing ball games, generally running about and getting wet paddling in the burn. The day would culminate with a famous Charlie Forrest barbecue! These outings would be attended by all teachers, parents and friends with a past association with the Sunday school, all too many to name. During the festive period we would put on a Christmas Nativity (complete with scenery thanks to Margaret's artistic talents). One year we even had a real baby Jesus instead of the proverbial doll! The Sunday School year ended by taking in the pantomime at Motherwell Theatre, featuring well-known entertainers from bye gone days such as Christian. One year I remember being the butt of the repartee from the stage! All great fun.

The years have flown in and to this day I remain at the beck and call of our Session Clerk - hence this contribution to the newsletter!

Ian Alexander

(Ian is too modest to mention but as the picture shows he is also a prize winning stick maker)

Carnwath Guild

6th January - An enjoyable evening was had when members enjoyed a chat and Sponsored Knit with proceeds being donated to Lanarkshire Cancer Care Drivers.3rd February - We had a very interesting and informative film show about K9. Mr Gormley told us of the uses of Helping Dogs for disabled people. One dog was putting a card in the ATM machine, another emptying the washing machine and another helping a lady to take off her socks.

2nd March - The speaker for the evening will be talking on the next 3 year projects for the Guild. This will then be followed by the Annual General Meeting.4th March - World Day of Prayer at Cairngryffe Church 7.30pm6th April - our session ends on with a Daffodil Tea in Carnwath Town Hall at 7.30pm. Mr Bill Russell will take us on a journey through India by train. A warm welcome is extended to all who wish to join us.

Finally we look forward to our excursion to The Kelpies and Callendar House on 21st May. An outing shared with friends and members of Carstairs Guild.

Rita Sleight, Guild President

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Thanks to Richard & Alan from Carnwath

We will be delighted to be inducting our new minister The Reverend Maudeen MacDougall on 31st March 2016 at Carstairs Church 7pm, but this news is tinged with sadness as we will be parting with our friends Richard Beattie (Pulpit Supply) and Alan Grant (Pastoral Care).

Richard has been providing pulpit supply at Carnwath now for 4 years. He greets you with a smile and a good morning, is always on time and well prepared. We have developed a strong bond with Richard through fellowship and friendship be it at Sunday Worship or meeting together at the fellowship corner. Our time with Richard has been a rewarding experience for us and we are sorry to be losing our friend.

Pastoral care and latterly alternate Sunday Worship has been carried out by Alan always with a smile and a kind word to all who meet him.

Our lives over the past few years have indeed been enriched and blessed.

Carnwath Church

From 3rd April 2016 the Morning Services will be held at: 10.00am - Carnwath Town Hall

11.30am - Carstairs Parish Church

Church Register

Please remember in your prayers the families and friends of:

Jessica Roskilly, CarnwathHelen Hutchison, Carstairs JunctionIan MacKenzie, WestendJohn Gauld, Carstairs JunctionJohn Leyden, CarnwathJean McPhie, Carstairs Junction

‘The LORD is close to the broken hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit’ (Psalm 34:18). He offers us the comfort of His presence and His word, the support of loving friends and family, plus the passage of time to help heal us.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------Carstairs Flower Calendar

Thank you to all who continue to donate the flowers on a Sunday, they are very much appreciated by all who receive them. For anyone wishing to donate flowers, there are still a few vacant dates available:

24/07/16, 28/08/16, 18/09/16, 30/10/16, 18/12/16, 25/12/16.

Our Flower Convenors are Sandra Wilson (870592) and Nanette Melvin (870988).

Isaiah 40:8: ‘The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever’.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Carstairs Parish Church - Life and Work magazine

Our new Life and Work magazine co-ordinator is Janet Tervit (870509). Many thanks to Keith Whitton for his years of service in this role. If you wish a subscription (annual cost £26.40) to the magazine please contact Janet.

Girls Brigade

We are now nearing the end of our 3rd year at 1st Carstairs Girls Brigade and what an exciting time we’ve had.

Since our last update we had our trip to Motherwell Civic Centre to see Snow White and the seven dwarfs with the Boys Brigade and the NET which was great fun!! Oh yes it was!!!!

Since returning in January we have continued with our “arts” theme and looking at the talents God has given to each and every one of us. These talents will be on show at our parents evening when the girls will be either singing, dancing, playing an instrument or telling jokes – a real treat I am sure.

We also spent time looking at our community and ways in which we can help Carstairs e.g. recycling aluminium cans, being a responsible dog owner, and helping the environment, we had a poster competition to raised awareness of our environment and how we can help. So look out for our posters in the village….

In February we had a fashion show with a difference. The girls from both sections made their outfits from junk – quite ingenious if you ask me!!

As previously mentioned in the last magazine we hoped to facilitate a Brigader section for the older girls; however we need helpers. So please don’t be shy put your name forward or speak to any of the leaders and we

will persuade you!

One last thing…..if you are an internet shopper please visit the easyfundraising website (www.easyfundraising.org.uk) and raise money for us….if you are unsure then speak to Linda, Sharon or myself and we will be able to help you….after all every little helps.

Thanks Karen Burnett (Officer in Charge of the Junior Section)

Youth Co-ordinators Report

In recent months I have read 2 different articles that spoke about doors. The first was about a minister whose holiday hobby was to collect doors. Not physical doors but photographs of doors. He snapped photos of doors of all shapes, sizes and colour - house doors, shop doors, church doors, museum doors. In fact any door that caught his eye or intrigued him. He spoke of wanting to know what was beyond the door and how he often (if appropriate) tried the door to step inside. Interestingly it was often the church doors that were hard to find and even harder to find one that was open. It made him think about his own church. When is the door open? Why is the door open? And to whom is the door open? He realised that the door is open to let folks in but it is equally or more important to open the door to let those in the church out in order to open other doors in their communities.

The second article was about a young family walking home from the beach enjoying an ice-cream. You can imagine the scene shorts, t-shirts, wet swim costumes, flip flops on sand covered feet, sticky fingers, ice-cream covered faces. As they strolled home they passed various shop windows and paused to look in the windows. One shop happened to be holding an exhibition of a local artists work. The whole family stopped and peered through the window admiring the paintings they could see and peering to see those further back. As they stood the door opened and a woman invited them to step inside. The mother took one look at the family beside her and said ‘we’d love to but I don’t think you would want us’. The woman paid no heed to the mother and ushered them all inside leading them through the whole exhibition, explaining about each picture, answering the questions of the children and all the while giving to them an appreciation and understanding of the beauty of art. As they left they shop an hour or so later the young mum thanked the woman for inviting them in despite their appearances and young children in tow. The reply ‘if only more folk would accept the invitation and come through the door to discover the treasures inside’.

These stories got me thinking in particular about our youth ministry. Every Sunday we open our church door and welcome people in but every week we also open the door to the Community Centre for Sclub, Boys’ Brigade, Girls Brigade and The Net. Bi monthly we open Carstairs Junction hall door for Messy Church. Between all these groups we have 116 young people under the age of 17.

As a youth leader it doesn’t really matter to me whether it’s the church door or a hall door that opens, it’s the fact that the door is opened and a young person feels they want to step inside. We then have the opportunity to share our faith with them by making them feel welcome, by letting them participate in activities they enjoy, by sharing stories and songs, by

making them feel they belong and are valued.

As both the BB and GB come to the end of their sessions I would like to thank the leaders of these groups and indeed all our youth leaders for stepping out of the open church door, into our communities and opening other doors for young people to step inside and discover that God loves them so much He sent His only Son Jesus to die for us.

Linda--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Volleyball and Pink Pancakes....

What could these two things possibly have in common and whoever heard of pink pancake? Well the answer is both could be found at The Net on Valentine’s Day. Volleyball is always a popular choice of game and we are trying to learn to play by the rules – well Allan’s rules that is so before we started the main activity of the

night the teams were organised, the net was up and the first game was underway. Game over it was time to move to the next activity.

This year in one week we had both Pancake Day and Valentine’s Day- two important days in our calendar so in true Net style we split into teams for the ultimate Valentine’s Pancake Challenge. Little did the leaders know when they bought sprinkles, chocolate and strawberry jam for the toppings would they form part of the main ingredients together with food colouring to create pink pancakes! But they did and it has to be said that in the main they tasted better than they looked.

The message to be gained from the challenge? On Pancake day we traditionally use up all the goodies before Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent – a time of giving up and doing without in order to reflect on the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the desert and the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus gave on the cross for us because God loves us so much.

The Net meet every other Sunday from 7.00pm to 8.45pm in Carstairs community Centre for those in P7 and secondary school.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------Give a Gift

We have received a letter of heartfelt thanks from Women’s Aid, South Lanarkshire for the Christmas Gifts donated from Carstairs Parish Church. To find out more about the work of this charity please visit: www.wasl.org.uk

Boys Brigade

After a very busy session the boys will finish on Tuesday, 22nd March for their summer break. The boys have all worked very hard for their achievements this year.

One of the highlights was a visit in November from members of 4th Carluke Boys Brigade Band. They brought along a variety of musical instruments letting the boys try them out. It was great fun and hopefully may have sparked an interest in music with some of the boys.

This year the numbers have been low so we hope that you will be able to encourage your son/grandson to come along when we resume again in September.

Special Fundraising Appeal: the boys are continuing with the Smartie

Challenge. If you want to join in just treat yourself to a tube of smarties then save 20 pence coins in the empty tube. Please hand in filled tubes to Elizabeth Brown (870787).

--------------------------------------------------------------------------“I’M NOT DOING THAT”! Is the theme for the next messy Church on Friday 18th March.

During our time together we will think about Jesus as the servant King and how the night before He died, Jesus washed the feet of his disciples. By doing so He taught us to

love one another by serving one another.

So why not come along and explore this story through a variety of crafts, games, stories and songs.

Remember Messy Church isn’t just for children; in fact children must be accompanied by an adult. Messy Church is for everyone regardless of age and ability but just remember it is messy and this story involves feet! We would love you to join us 5pm, Friday 18th March, Carstairs Junction Hall.

The drama club exists both to build fellowship through a fun community group and to find new, creative and inclusive ways to share the gospel message. New members from Carstairs or Carnwath are welcomed. It doesn't matter if you are 3 or 83, whether you have experience or not or how often you go to church, getting involved is a chance to meet other people in a relaxed environment, and to try out some new skills along the way.

If you don't fancy taking to the stage, we'll also be more than happy to hear from anyone who'd like to help out behind the scenes with backdrops or costumes etc. Speak to Roberta Finlayson (870817) or any other drama club member for more information. Come along, get involved and enjoy drama and seasonal sketches.

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3 REASONS WHY YOU NEED JESUS

Jesus loves you! He desires to have a relationship with you, and to give you a life full of joy and purpose. Why do you need Him in your life?

1 2 3YOU HAVE A PAST YOU NEED A FRIEND HE HOLDS THE

FUTURE

You can’t go back, but He can. The Bible says, ‘Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and for ever’

(Hebrews 13:8)

He can walk into those places of sin and failure, wipe the slate clean, and give you a new beginning.

Jesus knows the worst about you, yet He believes he best.

Why?

Because He sees you not as you are, but as you will be when He gets through with you. What a friend!

Who else are you going to trust?

In His hands you are safe and secure – today, tomorrow, and for eternity. His word says, ‘For I know the plans I have for you... plans for good and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen’

(Jeremiah 29: 11-13)(Sourced from UCB word for today)

Christmas Extravaganza

In November last year we organised a Fundraiser in Carstairs Community Centre, to raise funds for both Carstairs Parish Church and Alzheimer Scotland.

We invited approximately 15 stallholders to come along, held a raffle and had our ever popular Promise Tree. “Afternoon Tea”’ was served in the evening !! ...accompanied by a glass of Prosecco.

A great night was had by all and on the night we raised £1850. We had two employees of Royal Bank of Scotland helping us at the event which allowed them to apply for matched funding of £250 each; this made our Grand Total of £2350. A donation of £1000 was made to Carstairs Parish Church property fund and £1350 was donated to Alzheimer Scotland.

A big thank you must go to everyone who made the night such a success.

Heather Forrest, the Rae Family & Volunteers

------------------------------------------------------------------------------Jigsaw Bible Study

The Jigsaw group meets fortnightly on a Monday night in Carstairs Community Centre at 7pm to study in a little more detail the Word of God. You will find our meetings comfortable & relaxed with no pressure put on anyone. We have started a new programme based on “Women of the Old Testament”. This consists of 8 stand alone studies which will allow you to come along to any/all of the studies depending on individual commitments. Please speak to Alex Nelson for a copy of the programme. We look forward to welcoming new members.

Our next dates are:14th March – Rahab, an unlikely ally28th March – Hannah, from misery to praise11th April – Abigail, a level-headed woman25th April – Shunammite woman, taking the initiative9th May – Recap of the studies: A portrait of excellence

Joining ingrowthsharingandworship

Food Bank Feedback

Dear Friends

Thank you for your ongoing donations and support, without which the Food Bank could not operate. It continues to be a much needed helpline within our community. As I write referrals are averaging 16 per week over Clydesdale. In our area at least one delivery is made almost every week.

I have found, in conversation, the words FOOD BANK can provoke quite a negative response from some people. It is easy to think that we know the circumstances that have led to people receiving donations of food.

It is easy to think that our family and friends would never need to seek a referral. When I first volunteered for food bank duty I remember thinking how desperate must circumstances be for someone to find the courage to ask for help and the courage to accept help. Help that is so generously and freely given. Regards Ruth, Carstairs Parish Church

(Luke 6:37 - “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven)

Food items required are intimated weekly on the order of service. All donations can be placed in the red tub at the back of the church.

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If you’d like to begin a personal relationship with Jesus today, Please pray this prayer:

Lord Jesus Christ

I am sorry for the things I have done wrong in my life, I ask your forgiveness. Thank you for dying on the cross for me to set me free from my sins. Please come into my life and fill me with your Holy Spirit and be with me forever.

Thank you Lord Jesus, Amen

When you have read your magazine, please feel free to pass it on to someone else who may be

interested.

Charity Clothes Collection

Following on from the success of last years charity clothes collection which raised £438 for church funds we hope to run another collection in June. Watch out for full details nearer the time. We need ‘good quality’ clothes, hats, scarves, gloves, paired shoes, soft toys, bags & belts.

Meantime if you have any of these items or bedding, towels or curtains needing collected now please contact Elizabeth Brown (870787) for uplift.

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Friends

I would like to take this opportunity, through our church magazine, to thank both South Lanarkshire Council and Councillor Bev Gauld for their support over the last 14 years to achieve getting a ramp for the Kirk Yard at Carstairs Parish Church. As you know it has not been an easy journey. The ramp has been designed in keeping with the Church Building and surroundings. I do hope the construction of the ramp will now encourage families and those unable to access via the steps back to our church.

SincerelyIan Brown, Snr

(Habakkuk 2:3): “It may seem slow in coming, but wait for it; it will certainly take place, and it will not be delayed.”

When waiting on God, we need to fully trust that God‘s timing is perfect. We know this; we’ve seen its truth over and over. God’s timing is not just better than ours, it is perfect. And if God’s timing is perfect, then we can rest in the wait.

Carstairs Parish Church - Message from Gif Aid Treasurer

Our financial end of year was 31st December 2015 and our accounts have been audited and are available to view. We may have embarked on a new financial year but the same old story exists in that we continue to show a decrease in our offerings whilst our outgoings increase. We have to rely on fundraising, the annual gift week and gift aid repayments to cover the shortfall.

As Gift Aid Treasurer, I would like to encourage all members not only to consider their level of giving but commit to regular giving using Standing Order or Weekly Freewill Envelopes.

The value of offerings/donations can be increased by ensuring that, if eligible, you complete a Gift Aid Declaration.

If you pay tax in the UK the Church can reclaim the basic rate tax (25%) on your gift. So, if you donate £10, it is worth £12.50 to the Church. All Forms are available from the Barbara (Treasurer) or Lorna (Gift Aid Treasurer) or pick one up from the church vestibule. Last year we received £6194 from Gift Aid repayments.

(2 Corinthians 9:7) -  Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

Fundraising

Small model churches which can be used as a ‘piggy bank’ are available for collecting loose change. All monies will go towards helping the Fabric of the Church. Last year we raised £309 through this form of fundraising. If you would like to participate in the scheme please contact Barbara (870043).

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Carstairs Guild Report

The Guild Continues to meet in Carstairs Community Centre every 2nd Wednesday. The World Day of Prayer is on 4th March and this will be held in Cairngryffe Church at 7pm. We hope to share transport with Carnwath Guild to attend this meeting. Our AGM will be held on Wednesday 16th March. The speaker will be Mr Alan Grant. On the evening of 16th March the Spring Rally takes place in Greyfriars Church Hall, Lanark at 7.30pm. Finally to end this Session the Summer Rally takes place at St Brides, Douglas.

CONTACTS

Interim Moderator Rev Elizabeth Clelland Tel 860716

Carstairs Office-Bearers:Session Clerk Irene Williams Tel. 664694

Congregational Board Clerk Mabel Morris Tel. 870676and Presbytery Elder

Treasurer and Roll Keeper Barbara Kay Tel. 870043

Deputy Treasurer, Jennifer Whitton Tel. 870642FWO Treasurer, CCL Licence

Gift Aid Treasurer Lorna Bruce Tel. 870426

Child Protection Trevor Mee Tel. 870558Co-ordinators Kate Langton

Youth Co-ordinator Linda Brown Tel. 870028

Christian Aid Christine Lothian Tel. 870031

Magazine Co-ordinator Lorna Bruce Tel. 870426

Organist Mrs Ann McMillan Tel. 771039

Web Site Liz Warnock Tel. 870243www.carstairschurches.btck.co.uk

Carnwath Office-Bearers:Session Clerk Betty McLeod Tel. 840736

Treasurer Iain Cochrane Tel. 840225

Presbytery Elder Anne Cochrane Tel. 840225

Organist Fiona Paul

Carstairs Parish Church - Scottish Charity SC028124Carnwath Parish Church – Scottish Charity SC016360

Thank you to all contributors for their articles and photographs.

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