March 2013 Volume 16 Issue 1 Easter Tidings from Killearn Kirk · Wednesday 27th & Thursday 28th at...

March 2013 Volume 16 Issue 1

Easter Tidings from Killearn Kirk

Details of regular activities and forthcoming events are on page 5

What’s so special about Easter? I guess this depends on your perspective. From one view point it signifies an extra holiday, a welcome break from work and all that responsibility. Another response might be time for family get togethers; someone else might speak about a welcome excuse to indulge in chocolate. All of these explanations could well be true and certainly could be classed as ‘good fun’. Yet from the Christian Faith perspective, Easter is a real mixture of uncertainty, pain, emotional lows and highs, and an extraordinary, out of this world experience which has left people divided as to whether a man dead for at least 24 hours could be possibly brought back to life, and yes, all this without medical intervention. It seems a tall story and what is more there is no way of confirming this event, without the use of a Time Machine.

If this is the case, then surely Christianity has been built upon a very flimsy structure, with no real foundation other than what has been recorded in the gospel narratives. Even if we were to take the gospel stories as having some historical bases, we are still dealing with documents that were written at least 35 years after the event. This surely would indicate a high degree of error in remembering all the details and accounts of a man being raised from the dead. It certainly would account for the fact that each of the gospel stories dealing with the resurrection are different in their details. Some of the discrepancies are one or two angels; the number of women present; only Peter running to the tomb; a non appearance of Jesus; personal encounters with the risen Jesus; fear and an explosion of joy. These are just to name a few differences.

Hallelujah ! Jesus has Risen !

Come and celebrate with us this March at our Easter Week servicesWednesday 27th & Thursday 28th at 7.30pm & Easter Sunday 10.30am (Killearn Kirk)

Good Friday 29th at 7.30pm (Strathblane Church)

You could argue, and rightly, that the gospel stories were not the earliest documents which deal with the resurrection. Paul’s earlier letters, written about 20 years after the resurrection event, record the traditions surrounding this story that were received by him. Paul also had a very personal encounter with the risen Jesus through a visionary experience, again however for many, such an experience would be classed as questionable. So if we can’t prove that Jesus was raised from the dead, why do people still believe this story as having actually happened? Are Christian people today still perpetuating a myth, a delusional belief that has no significance, other than being make belief?

I suppose, my simple answer, to all of this is the honesty of the gospel stories as they record, doubt, uncertainty, disbelief, a sense of confusion and all the discrepancies around the resurrection event. There is no committee that conflates and ties down and corrects all the differences, there is no careful editing of the sources so that they are made to speak with one voice. Instead you follow the story of unbelief through the different stages of doubt to certainty, arriving at a group of disciples who hold a profound message but are not sure how to handle it! From denial to certainty comes the beginning of a movement that survived persecution, indifference and intolerance to become a worldwide Faith that still manages to attract doubting Thomas’s who take that step, from cold unbelief to a rich hope, which speaks of a life with God. So yes, although I am heavily biased, I believe that the Easter story offers so much hope, in a world where hope is often in short supply.

Lee Messeder


PersonaliaKillearn Kirk People

Minister Rev. Lee Messeder 2 The Oaks 550045 [email protected] Worker Amanda McCall [email protected] Worker Tim Burnham [email protected] Clerk Chris Williams Blair House, Croftamie 660020Treasurer Bob Ballantyne Kilmorie Cottage 550310 Church Officer Iain Sinclair 18 Crosshead Road 550204Roll Keeper Kirsty Smith 26 New Endrick Road 550654

Killearn Kirk is a Charity Registered in Scotland No SC012140Killearn Kirk Tidings is edited by:

Scott Macintosh (tel 550794) - [email protected] printed by The Macintosh Partnership

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

FUNERALS

December 2012Sidney Parrott Irving ColeMatilda Gourley

Cover PictureGuess the Parish ?

The dramatic coastal sunrise on the front cover was photographed just along the road from a Church of Scotland - can you guess where? Here’s a clue, it’s not North Berwick or St. Andrews.

in fact, the picture was taken on the Costa del Sol and the nearby congregation (strictly speaking it’s not actually a parish) is the one at Fuengirola. The minister, Rev Morris Dutch, and his wife Maggie, are from Glasgow and many of the congregation are Scottish so you can be assured of a warm welcome. It’s a popular holiday spot so if you’re over there why not go along to the Sunday service? Full details on their website: www.churchofscotlandcostadelsol.eu.

PS Pity the poor presbytery elder, the meetings rotate around the presbytery churches in the usual fashion - Malta, Bermuda, Geneva, Colombo . . . it’s a tough job but someone has to do it !

EditorialThe next edition (Autumn) of Killearn Kirk Tidings will be published at the end of the summer holidays. Articles are always welcome and can be on any aspect of our Church life. In particular we would like more photographs so please take out your camera or phone and snap away at Church events.

Please eMail contributions to the editor in plenty of time. Text should if possible be a Word document attached to an eMail. Pictures & graphics should also be separately attached, please do not embed pictures and graphics within documents or eMails, it can be difficult or impossible to extract them. If in doubt contact the editor beforehand. Thank you.

It is sad that so many have passed away recently, however our thanks to the Killearn Courier and its contributors for assistance with obituaries and photographs.

Leprosy MissionJim Fallas tells us that as a result of eMail, facebook, etc, there are fewer letters being sent and consequently the value of used stamps is rising. He was able to take a good quantity to aid the work of the Leprosy Mission as a result of the Christmas post but the collection box for used stamps is in the hall foyer all year round so please keep up the good work.

January 2013James GemmellAngus MacdonaldDouglas Davies

February 2013Helen LoudonMargaret Bishop

SermonsIf you can’t manage to Church, or indeed you wish to hear them over again, the weekly Sunday sermons are recorded and can be listened to or downloaded from the Church website. If you’re not able to do this the sermons can be brought to your house on a portable player. Andrew Weir can arrange this (550779).

Worship GroupThe Worship Group takes part in the Sunday morning service most weeks. They are always on the lookout for more instrumentalists and singers. Please contact Karen (550380)

Christian AidThis year’s Christian Aid Week will be 12-18 May 2013 and donation envelopes will be distributed to houses in the village and subsequently collected - please support this worthwhile cause.


Pilgrimage to the Holy Land

A small group of folks from the Killearn/Drymen area are planning a trip to Israel this autumn but to make it viable a few more folks are necessary. The projected dates are 10-17th October. Travel would be by scheduled flights and hotels would be 4/5 star Ramada etc. The projected cost is c£1500 half-board and this includes extensive sightseeing in an air-con ditioned coach with English speaking guide, entry to various sites etc. One of the proposed party has been several times before and “knows the ropes” and this is a “once-in-a lifetime” opportunity. For further details contact the Macintoshes (550794)

In the spring of 1947 Bedouin goat-herds, searching the cliffs along the Dead Sea for a lost goat (or for treasure, depending on who is telling the story), came upon a cave containing jars filled with manuscripts. That find caused a sensation when it was released to the world, and continues to fascinate the scholarly community and the public to this day.

The initial discovery, by Bedouin shepherd Muhammed Edh-Dhib, his cousin Jum'a Muhammed and Khalil Musa, took place between November 1946 and February 1947. The shepherds discovered 7 scrolls housed in jars in a cave at what is now known as the Qumran site. John C. Trever reconstructed the story of the scrolls from several interviews with the Bedouin. The story is as follows:-

Edh-Dhib's cousin noticed the caves, but edh-Dhib himself was the first to actually fall into one. He retrieved a handful of scrolls, which Trever identifies as the Isaiah Scroll, Habakkuk Commentary, and the Community Rule, and took them back to the camp to show to his family. None of the scrolls were destroyed in this process, despite popular rumor. The Bedouin kept the scrolls hanging on a tent pole while they figured out what to do with them, periodically taking them out to show people.

At some point during this time, the Community Rule was split in two. The Bedouin first took the scrolls to a dealer named Ibrahim 'Ijha in Bethlehem. 'Ijha returned them, saying they were worthless, after being warned that they might have been stolen from a synagogue. Undaunted, the Bedouin went to a nearby market, where a Syrian Christian offered to buy them. A sheikh joined their conversation and suggested they take the scrolls to Khalil Eskander Shahin, "Kando," a cobbler and part-time antiques dealer. The Bedouin sold seven of the scrolls to Kando. He in turn

The Discovery of the Dead Sea Scrollssold three of the scrolls to Eleazar L. Sukenik of Hebrew University, and four to Metropolitan Mar Athanasius Yeshue Samuel of the Syrian Orthodox monastery of St. Mark. Mar Athanasius in turn brought his four to the American School of Oriental Research, where they came to the attention of American and European scholars.

From there, Dr. John C. Trever, of the American Schools of Oriental Research (ASOR), compared the script in the scrolls to that of The Nash Papyrus, the oldest biblical manuscript then known, and found similarities between them. In March, the 1948 Arab-Israeli War prompted the move of some of scrolls to Beirut, Lebanon, for safekeeping. On 11 April 1948, Miller Burrows, head of the ASOR, announced the discovery of the scrolls in a general press release.

It was not until 1949 that the site of the find was identified as the cave now known as Qumran Cave 1. It was that identification that led to further explorations and excavations of the area of Khirbet Qumran. Further search of Cave 1 revealed archaeological finds of pottery, cloth and wood, as well as a number of additional manuscript fragments. It was these discoveries that proved decisively that the scrolls were indeed ancient and authentic.

Between 1949 and 1956, in what became a race between the Bedouin and the archaeologists, ten additional caves were found in the hills around Qumran, caves that yielded several more scrolls, as well as thousands of fragments of scrolls: the remnants of approximately 800 manuscripts dating from approximately 200 B.C.E. to 68 C.E.

The manuscripts of the Qumran caves include early copies of biblical books in Hebrew and Aramaic, hymns, prayers, Jewish writings known as pseudepigrapha (because they are attributed to ancient biblical characters such as Enoch or the patriarchs), and texts that seem to represent the beliefs of a particular Jewish group that may have lived at the site of Qumran. Most scholars believe that the Qumran community was very similar to the Essenes.

and if your interest has been sparked by this article, why not consider this pilgrimage . . .

Sunday Morning CoffeeIt has been encouraging to see that over the last year the numbers staying on for coffee and fellowship has been growing. The donations given for the coffee have grown too as we have received £530. This has enabled us to send £350 to Traidcaraft who supplies the tea, coffee and sugar. We have in the past also supported Ballikinrain and their trip to India, Parkinson’s Society and the Pakistan Appeal. If anyone would like to suggest other charities that we could support in the future please let me know.

We have a great group of volunteers who work in pairs on a rota so they are only doing the coffees about once every four months. I would like to thank them for their time and support. If anyone would like to join this group please contact me. Sue Beck


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bob Ballantyne, Treasurer.

Behold the Tax Man Cometh - With a Gift!

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

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

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

Helen Gee, Gift Aid Co-ordinator


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

On Saturday morning the Friends of Malawi and friends of friends came to help. At 10 am the doors opened and the sale began. Two hectic hours later it was all over and the big clear up began as the hall was needed in the afternoon for a party. On Sunday the van came from Capability Scotland. They took away the books and the bric-a-brac. On Monday the van from Mary’s Meals took all the clothing and shoes. It was good to know that nothing was going to waste and that other charities could benefit from our efforts. The grand total raised was in the region of £1400. Thanks are due to all those who donated and all those who helped. This was a real community effort. The money will be used to support on-going projects in Malawi and to give a donation to Balfron High School to enable young people from Malawi to make an exchange visit.

Malawi Jumble Sale

If you would like to serve on the committee of the Killearn Malawi Group contact Jenifer Barret on 01360 550 508. If you would like to become a Friend of Malawi and receive our newsletters then email June Thomas: [email protected].


Young People at Killearn KirkSU Scotland Forth Valley Weekend Away

At the beginning of February we went away to Lendrickmuir with 16 children and young people for a weekend away run by SU (Scripture Union Scotland). We had a great time doing activities outside, such as archery, a low ropes course etc inside games and don’t forget the Bond wide game with those pesky Ninja’s! As with most SU camps/holidays we stayed inside and had the comfort of decent showers and beds. We also looked at the story of a man named Saul, why he decided to follow Jesus and the dramatic change that happened throughout his life. During this time we learn a few new songs that seemed to be very popular with our group.....apparently the girls could be heard singing them from their bedrooms!

For those interested there is another weekend away for the Forth Valley area on Friday 30th May – Sunday 2nd June. This is open to P5 – S6 ages. Full details are still to be confirmed, but we can guarantee you’ll have a brilliant time.

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

TFNT is now running from 8:00pm – 9:30pm as a time to socialise with friends. Once a month there is usually an activity night, this could be something like a quiz, games, challenges or even a trip....yes we are definitely doing the laser quest one soon!! Really we promise, and what’s more I (Tim) am going to win!!! This club is open to all young people in secondary school in the village – you do not need to attend anything else the church runs or follow a particular set of beliefs to come.

This term we have started a series on spiritual gifts and are thinking about the different types of gifts God gives people, which gifts we have and how we can use them. This group is a Bible study and is currently aimed at Christians who want to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the Christian faith, however non-Christians are more than welcome to attend too.

Balfron High SchoolAmanda and Tim both continue to go to Balfron High School on Wednesdays & Fridays. They have been warmly welcomed by the new Head Teacher Elaine Bannatyne. In 2012 Amanda and Tim were approached by pupils in the school and asked to run a club where people can learn more about Christianity. So now at Wednesday lunchtimes in the RME class is the new SU group. Currently the students have requested that we do a Bible overview – what is the Bible? And what happens in it, what’s its story? On Friday they continue to be available at lunchtimes around the atrium and classes. If you see them do come and chat to them. Let them know how your day has been, if there is anything you want to talk about and which teacher gives the most homework!

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


Messy PlayWe are still having lots of Messy fun fortnightly at Killearn kirk Halls. Open to all pre-school children and their carers/ parents. Alternating between toys and tea sessions and messy play fortnightly. Through February and March we were thinking about “Love” and we had messy fun experimenting with new and different spaces 1. Toy and snack space, 2. Table top crafts and 3. Messy water play, sand, playdough, messy foam, mixtures and hidden objects and paint as well as our aqua mats, then we finished with 4. Our song time out in the foyer before going home with all our makes. We hope to continue the different space on our Messy days to help accommodate the growing numbers and to offer more choice. The end of March and into April will see us looking at Easter crafts and a big Easter egg hunt before the Easter holidays. May and June we will continue the fun when we`ll be thinking about Holidays and looking at a Jonah who had an unusual short break inside a big fish! We will finish with our summer party on the 27th June with lots of party games, prizes, food and fun…and probably some mess too.

Last year we had our Champions Holiday Club which was a great success! Fun was had by all our children....and all out leaders! This summer will see the return of the Holiday Club – this time Waste Watchers. There will be games, dramas, stories, crafts and even more fun than last year! Children in P1 – P7 are welcome to come, even if there are no church connections they are more than welcome. It will be running from 7th – 9th August. As usual there will be limited spaces so do keep an eye out for more details and book as soon as you can to avoid disappointment.

Messy Play, Toddlers, Toys n’ Tea

28 March Messy25 April Toys9 May Messy23 May Toys13 June Messy27 June Summer Party

All pre-school children & parentswelcome, FREE!

Crèche: 0 – Preschool Sundays 10:25am during the church serviceLower Kirk Kids: P1 – P4 Sunday 10:25 am during the church serviceUpper Kirk Kids: P5 – P7 Sundays 10:25am during the church serviceSMYG (Sunday Morning Youth Group): S1 – S6 Sundays 10:25am during the church serviceCurious?: S1 – S6 Sundays 6:30pm – 8:30pm (term time only)Primary SU: P5 – P7 Monday lunchtimes at Killearn Primary SchoolSecondary SU: S1 – S6 Wednesday Lunchtimes at Balfron High SchoolMessy Play: All preschool and parents, running alternate ThursdaysTP7T (The Primary 7 Thing): P7 Friday 6:30pm – 7:30pm (term time only)TFNT (The Friday Night Thing): S1 – S6 Friday 8:00pm – 9:30pm (term time only)

One off events;SU Forth Valley Weekend Away: P5 – S6 Friday 31st May – Sunday 2nd JuneWaste Watchers Holiday Club: P1 – P7 Wednesday 7th – Friday 9th August.

For more info contact; Amanda [email protected] or Tim [email protected] Church office phone (01360) 550326 (not manned all the time but do leave a message and we’ll get back to you)

So What’s Happening ?

Killearn Village HallRather excitingly the new village hall in Killearn is to be ready soon. For those of you who don’t know there is a youth basement being added in. Both TP7T and TFNT will be moving over there. When this happens there will be a few changes as the age group for TFNT will become for years S1 – S3/4 and a new club specifically for S4/5 – S6 will start up on Sunday evenings after Curious. This will provide a place to chill and undoubtedly some food available. When it starts up come along, check it out and let us know what you want and we’ll try our best to deliver!

As with all our clubs there is no need to be a Christian or attend anything else we run.

Check out some of the plans for the new village hall building here; http://www.killearnvillagehall.co.uk


Helen Loudon died unexpectedly a few weeks ago. She was one of an established Killearn family, widely known and greatly respected and was, in many ways, a part of Killearn’s history. Born in Auchenibert, then the home of her grandmother, she was the eldest of the Cormack family and was brought up in the family home, Dunkyan. She was educated at St.Hilda’s School, Balfron (now Ballikinrain) and then at St. Leonard’s, and later at the ‘Dough’ School in Glasgow, where she learned cookery and household management.

Her early years were marked by a love of sports: hockey, tennis and, in particular, riding. The family kept a number of horses and ponies and Helen became a keen rider. She worked for a time at Crieff Hydro stables and then became a House Mistress at Seymour Lodge girls’ school and took her horse with her, to ride after working hours. For a time she ran her own riding school in Drumbeg Loan. It was through an accident to her horse that a romance blossomed between her and the vet, Bishop Loudon.

Helen and Bishop were married in 1959; they lived first at Endrickhill, Station Road and here their three sons, Alex, John and Douglas spent their early years before the family moved to The Quinloch in 1971. Together Helen and Bishop made many improvements and created a comfortable home and thriving farm, providing generous hospitality to family and friends and to those who came to assist on the farm. In time they became proud grandparents to their two grandsons, Jack and Stuart.

Always gregarious, Helen was also an excellent organiser and took an active and, frequently, a leading role in many village organisations. She took a keen interest in the life

of the village and, following in the footsteps of her mother (Betty Garland), the co-author of the first Killearn Book, she played a leading role in the setting up of AKA - the All Killearn Archive – collecting and recording historical features of village life, under the auspices of Killearn Community Futures Company. She and Bishop regularly attended the meetings of Killearn Community Council and made valuable contributions to matters under discussion. The George Buchanan Quincentennial Celebrations in 2006, lasting over several days, was one of Helen’s feats of planning and organisation, enjoyed by the whole village and the many visitors who came to mark the anniversary of Killearn’s most famous son. Last summer, she organised the Killearn Kirk Flower Festival, with a walk around some outstanding gardens and a magnificent display of flower arrangements, augmented by exhibits from the Flower Show, in the church.

Almost every village organisation and club has, at some time, borne Helen’s imprint: the church where she served as an elder for many years and was also in the choir during its early days, the Guild, the Monday Club, the Thursday Club, the Tennis Club, the Strathendrick Curling Club and West Stirlingshire Ladies Curling Club. In most of the activities of Killearn, Helen has been a member, been on the committee, organised the social events, baked, served, set up and cleared away, arranged flowers, been a driver (literally and figuratively) and just been there. With her upright carriage, and distinctive voice, her infectious laughter spilling through the conversations, her seemingly boundless energy, ideas and enthusiasm, she has been the embodiment of the warmth and vitality of the village.

The news of her sudden death was hard to believe and came as a blow to all who had known her. She will be sorely missed in Killearn. BP

Killearn has lost one of its best known and well respected residents with the death of Angus Macdonald of Buchanan Road. Angus was born at the waterworks in Milngavie, where his father was a stonemason. He was to remain closely connected to water all his life as a plumber to trade and worked for over thirty-five years for the Glasgow Water Corporation and

Angus William Macdonald 1925–2013then with the Water Board, rising to the post of chief inspector. He was widely respected for his skill and dedication to his work.He was married to Hilda in Killearn Kirk in 1955. Their long and happy marriage was blessed by the birth of a son and two daughters, and later by seven grandchildren. Angus was very proud of his family, of their closeness and their various achievements.A man of unassuming but firm faith, Angus gave devoted service to Killearn Kirk where he served as Church Officer for twenty-one years, attending to the opening and closing, cleaning, maintenance and presentation of the building which required an almost daily attendance.When work was over, Angus enjoyed indoor and outdoor bowling, and was

a keen supporter of Killearn Football Club of which he was a past chairman. Also an earnest supporter of Glasgow Rangers F.C., he deplored the recent turn of events with that club.Initiated as a Freemason at Lodge Ellangowan in Milngavie in 1947, Angus was respected for his high principles and wise counsel, and for the friendship and encouragement he gave to others. His service to his lodge was described as unparalleled and he was given the title of The Most Ancient in recognition of the length of his service, although not necessarily of his age.Many have described him as a true gentleman; he will long be remembered, respected and admired for his quiet dignity, his integrity and the courtesy he showed to all who came in contact with him. BP

Helen Loudon 1936–2013Helen Loudon died unexpectedly at the beginning of February. She was one of an established Killearn family, widely known and greatly respected and was, in many ways, a part of Killearn’s history. Born in Auchenibert, then the home of her grandmother, she was the eldest of the Cormack family and was brought up in the family home, Dunkyan. She was educated at St. Hilda’s School, Balfron (now Ballikinrain) and then at St. Leonard’s, and later at the ‘Dough’ School in Glasgow, where she learned cookery and household management.Her early years were marked by a love of sports: hockey, tennis and, in particular, riding. The family kept a number of horses and ponies and Helen became a keen rider. She worked for a time at Crieff Hydro stables and then became a House Mistress at Seymour Lodge girls’ school and took her horse with her, to ride after working hours. For a time she ran her own riding school in Drumbeg Loan. It was through an accident to her horse that a romance blossomed between her and the vet, Bishop Loudon. Helen and Bishop were married in 1959; they lived first at Endrickhill, Station Road and here their three sons, Alex, John and Douglas spent their early years before the family moved to The Quinloch in 1971. Together Helen and Bishop made many improvements and created a comfortable home and thriving farm, providing generous hospitality to family and friends and to those who came to assist on the farm. In time they became proud grandparents to their two grandsons, Jack and Stuart.Always gregarious, Helen was also an excellent organiser and took an active and, frequently, a leading role in many village organisations. She took a keen interest in the life of the village and, following in the footsteps of her mother

(Betty Garland), the co-author of the first Killearn Book, she played a leading role in the setting up of AKA – the All Killearn Archive – collecting and recording historical features of village life, under the auspices of Killearn Community Futures Company. She and Bishop regularly attended the meetings of Killearn Community Council and made valuable contributions to matters under discussion. The George Buchanan Quincentennial Celebrations in 2006, lasting over several days, was one of Helen’s feats of planning and organisation, enjoyed by the whole village and the many visitors who came to mark the anniversary of Killearn’s

most famous son. Last summer, she organised the Killearn Kirk Flower Festival, with a walk around some outstanding gardens and a magnificent display of flower arrangements, augmented by exhibits from the Flower Show, in the church.Almost every village organisation and club has, at some time, borne Helen’s imprint: the church where she served as an elder for many years and was also in the choir during its early days, the Guild, the Monday Club, the Thursday Club, the Tennis Club, the Strathendrick Curling Club and West Stirlingshire Ladies Curling Club. In most of the activities of Killearn, Helen has been a member, been on the committee, organised the social events, baked, served, set up and cleared away, arranged flowers, been a driver (literally and figuratively) and just been there. With her upright carriage, and distinctive voice, her infectious laughter spilling through the conversations, her seemingly boundless energy, ideas and enthusiasm, she has been the embodiment of the warmth and vitality of the village. The news of her sudden death was hard to believe and came as a blow to all who had known her. She will be sorely missed in Killearn. BP

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Personal reflections on the Spirit and essence

of the woman who was my dear friend.

Proverbs 31:30-31 (NIV):‘Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honour her for all that her hands have done and let her works bring her praise at the city gate’.

Thomas a Kempis ( 1380- 1471) on the Doctrine of Truth in “The Imitation of Christ”:‘A pure, sincere and stable spirit is not distracted, though it be employed in many works; for that it works all to the honour of God and inwardly being still and quiet seeks not itself in anything it doth’.

As ever, the words of Holy Scripture and those of the Saints beautifully express, much better than I, my thoughts on Helen.

Moira Brown

Helen Loudon1936 - 2013


Robert Passway 1925 - 2012

Robert Passway was born in Glasgow, the eldest of five children. He was educated at Woodside Senior S e c o n d a r y S c h o o l a n d g r a d u a t e d from Glasgow U n i v e r s i t y and the Royal T e c h n i c a l Co l lege wi th d e g r e e s i n M e c h a n i c a l Eng ineer ing . He then served as an officer in the Royal Navy until the end of World War II.

On return from the Navy he found employment with J&P Coats, Thread manufacturers. He took early retirement from Coats and worked for a spell with the Scottish Development Agency in Hillington.

Robert knew Helen from his teens and they married on 4th September 1947 in Finnieston Church Glasgow. In September they celebrated 65 years of marriage. Robert led a full and interesting life that touched many others. Characterised by hard work, cheerfulness and a genuine interest in people, he lived his life in accordance with his faith and values.

In his young days he was a member of the 227th Glasgow Co. Boys’ Brigade based at Finnieston Church. Ways of believing, living and serving began here after which he played a faithful part in Broomhill Church, Glasgow before moving to Killearn, serving as an elder and convenor of various committees in all 3 churches. He suggested the name ‘Tidings’ for this church magazine, originating from the Finnieston magazine many years before.

Robert and Helen moved to Killearn in 1969 and Robert immediately became involved in the Kirk Session in Killearn Kirk. He held the position of Halls Convenor for many years and in 2000 he was presented with a long service certificate to commemorate 46 years as a church elder, a position from which he sadly resigned in 2003 when his hearing difficulties made it impossible to continue in active eldership.

Among family and friends was where Robert was happiest. Always a genial host, with a hearty laugh, Robert will be remembered as a hardworking, warm, welcoming and caring person. He is survived by Helen, daughters Lynda and Christine and his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

LJB

Matilda (Tillie) Gourley 1917 - 2013

Ti l l i e , who lived for 25 y e a r s i n Graham Road, was born in Spr ingburn to William, an engineer and Mary, one of seven children o f I r i s h ex t rac t ion . S h e w a s educated at Albert Senior s e c o n d a r y School and w o r k e d initially in the retail trade.

She met and married Bobby, also from Northern Ireland in 1942 who had come to Scotland looking for work and was also part of a very large family. From an early age, she had a strong Christian conviction attending the Hillkirk Place gospel Hall and subsequently for 31 years, St George’s Tron parish church in Buchanan Street, Glasgow where both she and Bobby worked in many different roles. They lived off Paisley Road West for 32 years and came to Killearn in the early 1980s to join their only son Jim and Laraine who lived on Beech Drive.

Tillie was a well-known figure in the life of the village, often seen with her friends Nina Brown and the late Flora Reid having a chat or at the gates of the church watching newly married couples. They joined Killearn Kirk and she rapidly became involved with many activities, particularly among the ladies and the children.

She was impeccably houseproud and she and Bobby provided a welcome to allcomers; schoolfriends of their grandchildren Linda and Alan (who tragically died at the age of 23); looking after the children whilst one of the house Bible groups met and generally loving nothing better than a visit, a cup of tea and a chat with any and all.

She lost Bobby 17 years ago and continued in Graham Road until 5 years ago when frailty led to her moving to progressively more dependent care at Mill Haven, Clydebank and latterly at Buchanan Lodge Care Home, Bearsden.

Tillie’s faith was the central core of her life and, she would share this in her own gentle way with many. At her thanksgiving service in Killearn, we reflected that at times she might not have had a great deal in worldly terms but what she was - fiercely proud of her family and a friend to everyone was the result of her saintliness. Incomer – yes, but typical of those many at the core of our village community who contribute so much to enrich everyone’s lives.

Dr Andrew Weir


Angus William Macdonald1925 - 2013

A n g u s spent most of his life in the West of Scot land, b o r n i n Milngavie, w o r k i n g w i t h t he G l a s g o w Water Cor-p o r a t i o n and later moving to Killearn.

He was promoted to the position of Chief Inspector and when he retired after a career of 35 years at the Corporation, Angus was appointed Church Officer at Killearn Kirk.

In 1955 he married Hilda and they raised a close-knit family of a son and two daughters which then expanded to seven grand-children. Hilda is also a member of the Kirk and was a valued contributor of the recent Nomination Committee.

Next time you go to Killearn Kirk consider the endless work that goes into preparing the building for Sunday services and other activities throughout the week ranging from Guild and Probus meetings to the Rainbow and Toddlers Groups. The church is used several times most days and there are almost 20 different regular meetings or activities every week. The building has to be secure, heated, cleaned and maintained; vigilance is needed to protect the building and its contents as illustrated by the recent theft of lead off both the Kirk and Primary School roofs. Imagine the business involved in changing a light bulb.

The current Church Officer Ian Sinclair recounts, when piping at a wedding in the Kirk some years ago, rushing to help Angus on his hands and knees outside the church trying to roll up the red carpet for the bride to avoid it being soaked by a sudden shower of rain.

Ian also recalled being bemused one summer afternoon at precisely 4.20 p.m. by Angus staring wistfully up at the clock tower with the clock hands appearing to be out of control. It transpired that Jim Fallas was up in the clock loft inside the tower trying to adjust the hands to the correct time but could not hear Angus’s instructions from outside the church; Ian had to act as go-between.

For 21 years Angus carried out the duties of Church Officer with real dedication and good humour. His reliability, attention to detail and hard work made the Church operate smoothly and efficiently.

Angus Macdonald will be remembered and respected as a quiet family man with a strong Christian faith who made a real contribution to our community.

Douglas Davies 1927 - 2013

D o u g l a s Davies, who died on 26 January 2013, was born on 13 November 1 9 2 7 i n Ebbw Vale, Monmouth-s h i r e . H e w a s t h e quintessential We l shman , with a passion f o r t h e l andscape , the poet ry and the music of his native land.

His teaching in residential schools began when he worked for the Methodist Church in Penarth, near Cardiff, and although a career move to Scotland did not diminish his love for Wales, it did allow him to develop a strong affection for Scotland. However, his greatest love was for his wife Joan and their four sons, Gareth, Hugh, Clive and Owen. He was immensely proud of his sons’ achievements and he derived great happiness from seeing them settled with their own families.

Douglas worked for over twenty years for the Church of Scotland, initially as headmaster at Langlands Park School for Girls in Port Glasgow and later, until his retirement, becoming headmaster at Ballikinrain School. Whenever he spoke about the boys in his care it was clear that he knew of the troubled background many of them had experienced, and that he believed he had an opportunity to bring some stability into their lives. For this difficult task he was well equipped with patience and with consistently firm but fair standards.

The Rotary Club was an organisation which he supported with great enthusiasm, becoming President of the Strathendrick Club and District Governor of District 23. He was a popular founder member of the Strathendrick Speakers Club and he served as an elder of Killearn Kirk.

He loved to play golf and he was a member of Buchanan Castle Golf Club for many years, and when the weather made golf impossible he played bridge. He was an excellent cook – creative and innovative (though rather untidy). He was fiercely proud of both Scottish and Welsh rugby teams (depending on who was playing).

His friends and colleagues will remember Douglas as a dignified, extremely thoughtful and generous man with a charming manner. He will be greatly missed.

CB

Douglas Davies, who died on 26 January 2013, was born on 13 November 1927 in Ebbw Vale, Monmouthshire. He was the quintessential Welshman, with a passion for the landscape, the poetry and the music of his native land. His teaching in residential schools began when he worked for the Methodist Church in Penarth, near Cardiff, and

Douglas Davies 1927–2013although a career move to Scotland did not diminish his love for Wales, it did allow him to develop a strong affection for Scotland. However, his greatest love was for his wife Joan and their four sons, Gareth, Hugh, Clive and Owen. He was immensely proud of his sons’ achievements and he derived great happiness from seeing them settled with their own families.Douglas worked for over twenty years for the Church of Scotland, initially as headmaster at Langlands Park School for Girls in Port Glasgow and later, until his retirement, becoming headmaster at Ballikinrain School. Whenever he spoke about the boys in his care it was clear that he knew of the troubled background many of them had experienced and that he believed he had an opportunity to bring some stability into their lives. For this difficult task he was well equipped with patience and with consistently firm but fair standards.

The Rotary Club was an organisation which he supported with great enthusiasm, becoming President of the Strathendrick Club and District Governor of District 23. He was a popular founder member of the Strathendrick Speakers Club and he served as an elder of Killearn Kirk.He loved to play golf; he was a member of Buchanan Castle Golf Club for many years and when the weather made golf impossible he played bridge. He was an excellent cook – creative and innovative (though rather untidy). He was fiercely proud of both Scottish and Welsh rugby teams (depending on who was playing).His friends and colleagues will remember Douglas as a dignified, extremely thoughtful and generous man with a charming manner. He will be greatly missed.

CB

Irving was born in Belfast, the youngest of four children. His early childhood was spent in Carrickfergus and Portrush, before the family moved back to Belfast when Irving was in his early teens. He was educated at the Methodist College and Queen’s College, Belfast, graduating in physics in 1942. He spent the last three war years with the Army Operational Research Group at Roehampton.After the war he moved north to Glasgow University to take up a post as assistant lecturer, where he stayed for five years, before returning to the Atomic Energy Research Establishment. It was then, whilst staying in digs, that he met Jean, who was a veterinary student at the Royal Vet College. By the time they married in 1955, he had moved back to Glasgow to become a lecturer at the Royal Technical College, later Strathclyde University, where he remained for the rest of his career. A very patient, courteous and approachable man, he was a born teacher, and after his

retirement he continued to coach locally in maths and physics.In 1962, Irving and Jean moved to Killearn to raise their young family, Sarah and Tim. Irving loved Killearn and joined in village life, serving on the PTA of Balfron High School and the committees of Abbeyfield, Killearn Community Council and Killearn Cottagers’ Horticultural Society.One of Irving’s and Jean’s abiding passions was for bridge, and they were active and successful members of the Killearn, Strathendrick, and Drymen Bridge Clubs for many years, with

Irving being a past president of Drymen Bridge Club.Irving was an avid reader with a great interest in books and it was this that led to an arrangement with the Women’s Guild whereby for the best part of 35 years, he ran the bookstall at their annual Sale of Work. During this time, not only Jean, but also his daughter, Sarah, and eventually his son-in-law, Eric, and his grandchildren, Anna and Jamie, all played their part

in running the stall.Irving and Jean were keen dog owners all their married life, and Irving was a well-kent figure, often to be seen wearing his red woolly hat and walking his dogs in the Glen and the surrounding fields.It was therefore a great sadness when he was no longer able to walk Pippa, his dog, and when failing eyesight made bridge and reading increasingly difficult, deprivations he bore stoically. Irving was a true gentleman and is greatly missed by all his family.

SD

Irving Cole 1922–2012

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Killearn has lost one of its best known and well respected residents with the death of Angus Macdonald of Buchanan Road. Angus was born at the waterworks in Milngavie, where his father was a stonemason. He was to remain closely connected to water all his life as a plumber to trade and worked for over thirty-five years for the Glasgow Water Corporation and

Angus William Macdonald 1925–2013then with the Water Board, rising to the post of chief inspector. He was widely respected for his skill and dedication to his work.He was married to Hilda in Killearn Kirk in 1955. Their long and happy marriage was blessed by the birth of a son and two daughters, and later by seven grandchildren. Angus was very proud of his family, of their closeness and their various achievements.A man of unassuming but firm faith, Angus gave devoted service to Killearn Kirk where he served as Church Officer for twenty-one years, attending to the opening and closing, cleaning, maintenance and presentation of the building which required an almost daily attendance.When work was over, Angus enjoyed indoor and outdoor bowling, and was

a keen supporter of Killearn Football Club of which he was a past chairman. Also an earnest supporter of Glasgow Rangers F.C., he deplored the recent turn of events with that club.Initiated as a Freemason at Lodge Ellangowan in Milngavie in 1947, Angus was respected for his high principles and wise counsel, and for the friendship and encouragement he gave to others. His service to his lodge was described as unparalleled and he was given the title of The Most Ancient in recognition of the length of his service, although not necessarily of his age.Many have described him as a true gentleman; he will long be remembered, respected and admired for his quiet dignity, his integrity and the courtesy he showed to all who came in contact with him. BP

Helen Loudon 1936–2013Helen Loudon died unexpectedly at the beginning of February. She was one of an established Killearn family, widely known and greatly respected and was, in many ways, a part of Killearn’s history. Born in Auchenibert, then the home of her grandmother, she was the eldest of the Cormack family and was brought up in the family home, Dunkyan. She was educated at St. Hilda’s School, Balfron (now Ballikinrain) and then at St. Leonard’s, and later at the ‘Dough’ School in Glasgow, where she learned cookery and household management.Her early years were marked by a love of sports: hockey, tennis and, in particular, riding. The family kept a number of horses and ponies and Helen became a keen rider. She worked for a time at Crieff Hydro stables and then became a House Mistress at Seymour Lodge girls’ school and took her horse with her, to ride after working hours. For a time she ran her own riding school in Drumbeg Loan. It was through an accident to her horse that a romance blossomed between her and the vet, Bishop Loudon. Helen and Bishop were married in 1959; they lived first at Endrickhill, Station Road and here their three sons, Alex, John and Douglas spent their early years before the family moved to The Quinloch in 1971. Together Helen and Bishop made many improvements and created a comfortable home and thriving farm, providing generous hospitality to family and friends and to those who came to assist on the farm. In time they became proud grandparents to their two grandsons, Jack and Stuart.Always gregarious, Helen was also an excellent organiser and took an active and, frequently, a leading role in many village organisations. She took a keen interest in the life of the village and, following in the footsteps of her mother

(Betty Garland), the co-author of the first Killearn Book, she played a leading role in the setting up of AKA – the All Killearn Archive – collecting and recording historical features of village life, under the auspices of Killearn Community Futures Company. She and Bishop regularly attended the meetings of Killearn Community Council and made valuable contributions to matters under discussion. The George Buchanan Quincentennial Celebrations in 2006, lasting over several days, was one of Helen’s feats of planning and organisation, enjoyed by the whole village and the many visitors who came to mark the anniversary of Killearn’s

most famous son. Last summer, she organised the Killearn Kirk Flower Festival, with a walk around some outstanding gardens and a magnificent display of flower arrangements, augmented by exhibits from the Flower Show, in the church.Almost every village organisation and club has, at some time, borne Helen’s imprint: the church where she served as an elder for many years and was also in the choir during its early days, the Guild, the Monday Club, the Thursday Club, the Tennis Club, the Strathendrick Curling Club and West Stirlingshire Ladies Curling Club. In most of the activities of Killearn, Helen has been a member, been on the committee, organised the social events, baked, served, set up and cleared away, arranged flowers, been a driver (literally and figuratively) and just been there. With her upright carriage, and distinctive voice, her infectious laughter spilling through the conversations, her seemingly boundless energy, ideas and enthusiasm, she has been the embodiment of the warmth and vitality of the village. The news of her sudden death was hard to believe and came as a blow to all who had known her. She will be sorely missed in Killearn. BP

31


Jim Kennedy1939 - 2012

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

Two main forces guided his life. Firstly his deep love for the family, his devotion to Madge, their three daughters and six grandchildren. Jim’s 48 years of marriage was a shining example of commitment, unqualified friendship and living life to the full. The other major influence which drove Jim was his steadfast Christian faith. An elder of Killearn Kirk for 41 years, Jim was heavily involved in the financial administration working alongside Graeme Simmers as Treasurer. Responsibilities included streamlining the Gift Aid Scheme, the principal source of funding, and overseeing all aspects of the Stewardship campaign, another key component to ensure the future financial security of the Kirk. He also served as the Session Presbytery elder where the length of the regular meetings in Stirling were known to tax Jim’s patience as a man of decision.

The Nomination Committee for the selection of our Minister, Lee, benefitted from Jim’s sound judgment and advice.

A consistent thread runs through this long record of Church service – a never failing sense of commitment to ensure that Killearn Kirk continues to be a focal point of the village and community.

As his health began to deteriorate last year, Jim’s energy and drive started to accelerate. He prepared a full colour planning leaflet for the Church Away Day held at Gartmore House on 19th May with the headline ‘God does not need our money. He wants us!’

Jim also set out his vision for the future of the Church expressing excitement at the buzz of activity going into our Youth work together with the growing number of young families attracted to the Church and its programmes. He was one of the driving forces behind the initiative to make the actual Church building brighter and more welcoming with a plan to transform the front entrance in sympathy with the architecture of the building.

Jim’s belief was a private matter but in the course of late summer last year, he started to attend the Prayer Breakfasts and took an active part in the prayers. On one memorable morning he referred in one prayer to his ‘ flickering faith’ and talked again about his fervent wish for the secure future of Killearn Kirk.

Tall and imposing with a colourful sense of fashion and fun, Jim Kennedy was a valued, respected and much loved man who committed his life to Scotland, his family and his Church.

Christmas Post 2012 The Killearn Guides and Boys’ Brigade again took up the challenge of operating a Christmas Post within the Village speed boundaries. This year we delivered 3,250 cards to places around the village and also a few into the post proper that had been placed in our box. We also managed to return one that had been addressed to “Mum”!

The Village achieved a great total of £864 to give to CHAS this year. Whilst the total is down on last year, the actual giving per card has increased from 22.5p to 27p per card. A huge thank you from the Guides and Boys’ Brigade for your support. We believe that this coming Christmas will be the 20th year of operating the post in Killearn. In this time we have supported Save the Children, an orphanage in Chile that I had visited in 1997 and, for the last fourteen years, CHAS, and raised an enormous amount to give to them. It has only been possible with your support. Thank you. Sue Beck Neil Evans

Killearn Kirk ProjectsOver the last 12 months the Session and Property Committee have been looking at improvements in the Kirk. Three projects were identified: the replacement of the “green” car park with monoblock; improving the chancel area and also improving the vestibule area.

The car park has now received planning permission with conditions which are nothing insuperable. Our Engineer is progressing with Building Control approval. He will then progress the project through the tendering stage hoping to be on programme to carry out the work during July and August this year.

The vestibule initial plans have been on display since January in the Hall foyer. There has been a very positive response to them. We are still going through the consultative stage with this project after which it will be taken to Session for approval.

The chancel improvement plans have also been on display in the Hall foyer and have received a very positive response. We await final approval from the Church of Scotland committee before we are able to take this project through tendering and actual work to completion this summer or autumn.


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

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

Spring News from the Guild

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

"Can't you hear those bells calling you to church?" asked the minister. "Eh, what's that?" said the member. "Can't you hear those bells calling you to church?" "I'm afraid you'll have to speak a little louder!" said the member. "CAN'T YOU HEAR THOSE BELLS CALLING YOU TO CHURCH?!" shouted the minister. "I'm sorry," said the member, "I can't hear you because of those BELLS!"

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

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

March 2013 Volume 16 Issue 1 Easter Tidings from Killearn Kirk · Wednesday 27th & Thursday 28th at...

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Transcript of March 2013 Volume 16 Issue 1 Easter Tidings from Killearn Kirk · Wednesday 27th & Thursday 28th at...