St Andrew's & St George's West Diary and newsletter
St Andrew's & St George's West Diary and newsletter
St Andrew's & St George's West Diary and newsletter
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<strong>St</strong> Andrew’s & <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong><br />
<strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>newsletter</strong><br />
May 2012
What’s inside?<br />
Page<br />
Moving Easter Ian Gilmour 3-5<br />
Worship calendar 6<br />
May <strong>Diary</strong> at a Glance – Announcements 7-9<br />
The next year – the next decade<br />
10-11<br />
<strong>St</strong>ewardship Update - Refurbishment Update<br />
– Notice of a Congregational Meeting<br />
Focus on Malawi 12-15<br />
<strong>St</strong>ated Annual Meeting<br />
16-17<br />
Affirmations <strong>and</strong> Doubts – Outreach<br />
Music News 18<br />
Creative TOGETHER 19<br />
Getting to know you<br />
20-21<br />
Arthur Chapman <strong>and</strong> Jean Mackinlay<br />
General Assembly 22<br />
Volunteer Vacancy: Christmas Tree Festival 22<br />
Learning Resources: Why Believe? – Underst<strong>and</strong>ing 23-24<br />
Grief – Welcoming – Gifford Lectures - Dementia<br />
Moving to Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place 25-26<br />
Letter from Arizona 27<br />
Bloopers 28<br />
Celebrate Heart & Soul - Solas 29<br />
The pilgrimage goes on 30<br />
Contacts 31-32<br />
Design/layout: Andrena <strong>and</strong> Alison B Mailing Rosemary W<br />
Email: inspire@st<strong>and</strong>rews<strong>and</strong>stgeorges.org.uk<br />
Next copy deadline: Mon 21 May for publication Sun 27 May<br />
SAVE A FOREST OF TREES- read the <strong>newsletter</strong> online at<br />
www.st<strong>and</strong>rews<strong>and</strong>stgeorges.org.uk<br />
Did you spot the April fool last month? Yes, the palm<br />
tree, on Palm Sunday. Thanks to a legal eagle in the<br />
congregation for his wit <strong>and</strong> inspiration.<br />
2 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
Moving Easter<br />
Ian Gilmour<br />
On Easter Day at <strong>St</strong><br />
Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s<br />
<strong>West</strong> we enjoyed a<br />
wonderful experience.<br />
Some of us started early at<br />
the dawn ecumenical<br />
worship at <strong>St</strong> Cuthbert’s.<br />
This was quickly followed by our normal early communion at<br />
which the first specially prepared chickens appeared.<br />
We had eggs with toast at the Easter breakfast at 9.45 am. This<br />
was a joyful time of relaxing fellowship as we discussed the<br />
delights of Easter Day.<br />
It was good to have time to chat about new life; about our well<br />
received theme of ‘Pilgrims Together’ through Holy Week, not<br />
forgetting that age old debate concerning which came first the<br />
chicken or the egg? Already we had moved from <strong>St</strong> Cuthbert’s to<br />
the Undercroft <strong>and</strong> were being prepared for more Easter<br />
movement in the 11am service.<br />
Bill Morrison <strong>and</strong> Anne Wilson took some photographs so<br />
everyone could see for themselves the pleasure of those who<br />
became pilgrims from our pews. At our 11am service, the<br />
children sought high <strong>and</strong> low in a hunt for eggs. They found<br />
enough to have one each <strong>and</strong> share 120 with other worshippers.<br />
It was in one sense a chicken versus egg Easter!<br />
3 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
During the 11am service worshippers were invited by Tony Bryer<br />
to come forward to receive bread <strong>and</strong> wine. <strong>St</strong><strong>and</strong>ing, then<br />
moving onwards to the dais signified for many a deeper way to<br />
receive the gift of Easter Day. Several people expressed this<br />
action was for them, literally <strong>and</strong> metaphorically, a moving<br />
experience.<br />
So we enjoyed a moving rather than static Easter experience.<br />
We sang the recessional hymn,<br />
“Tell out, sweet bells his praises!”<br />
Sing, children, sing his name!<br />
…He rose again,<br />
He rose again on this glad day ”<br />
as we walked out of the church, the choir, the elders <strong>and</strong> a<br />
smiling congregation on to George <strong>St</strong>reet to continue our singing<br />
around the tree. The rich sound of our bells brought delight to all<br />
who had gathered.<br />
4 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
We were a congregation travelling from indoors to outdoors in<br />
celebration.<br />
This pattern may serve us well in the coming days <strong>and</strong> months as<br />
we move our furniture to facilitate the Christian Aid Book Sale,<br />
then as we move for six months to Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place from Sunday<br />
6 May.<br />
Surely to be a people on the move following the way of Jesus <strong>and</strong><br />
supported by God’s ever present Spirit, has got to be a good<br />
pattern both for the next days <strong>and</strong> decades of our life together.<br />
Never to be static, conforming, but always alert, alive, growing in<br />
faith pilgrims together.<br />
If we establish this pattern of movement as a habit we will be<br />
God’s pilgrim people. One of us may even discover which came<br />
first the chicken or the egg!<br />
Live, Love <strong>and</strong> Enjoy the journey together, Ian<br />
5 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
Worship<br />
"It is in the process of being worshipped<br />
that God communicates His presence." C.S. Lewis<br />
Worship is helpful for our growth as followers of Christ, so<br />
consider joining us Sunday by Sunday. You can attend<br />
Communion at 9.00am, the All Age service at 9.45am or enjoy<br />
our progressive pattern at 11.00am or come to all three!<br />
Sun 6 May<br />
Sun 13 May<br />
Sun 20 May<br />
Sun 27 May<br />
Pentecost<br />
May worship themes<br />
11am Morning Worship Revd Norman Shanks<br />
Reach Out Acts 8:26–40<br />
11am Morning Worship<br />
The Great Dance John 15:9-17<br />
11am Morning Worship<br />
On Your Behalf Acts 1:15–17, 21–26<br />
11am Morning Worship<br />
Pentecost Acts 2:1–21<br />
June worship themes<br />
Sun 3 June<br />
11am TOGETHER service at Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place<br />
The Trinity Isaiah 6:1–8<br />
Most Loving God,<br />
Revive within us a spirit of Joy<br />
Come amongst us <strong>and</strong> burn the remains of the past with all its hurts.<br />
Fill us with readiness to venture out on the path of diligent<br />
discipleship.<br />
In our worship help us learn what it means to be tender, caring <strong>and</strong><br />
gracious.<br />
So be it. Amen.<br />
6 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
Key dates<br />
From Sun 6 May<br />
Mon 30 April –<br />
Friday 11 May<br />
Sat 12 May, Mon<br />
14 – Fri 18 May<br />
Sunday worship at Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place<br />
Preparations for Christian Aid Sale at<br />
George <strong>St</strong>reet<br />
Christian Aid Sale at George <strong>St</strong>reet<br />
From Mon 20 May George <strong>St</strong>reet building closes until<br />
December. All activities except<br />
Bellringers move to Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place<br />
May <strong>Diary</strong><br />
Mon 30 Apr CA Sale preparations George <strong>St</strong> 9am-9pm<br />
Gifford lecture p24<br />
Tue 1 May CA Sale preparations George <strong>St</strong> 9am-9pm<br />
Gifford lecture p24<br />
Wed 2 May CA Sale preparations George <strong>St</strong> 9am-9pm<br />
RSE evening with Diarmid MacCulloch p24<br />
Thurs 3 May CA Sale preparations George <strong>St</strong> 9am-9pm<br />
Gifford lecture p24<br />
Fri 4 May CA Sale preparations George <strong>St</strong> 9am-9pm<br />
Sat 5 May CA Sale preparations George <strong>St</strong> 9am-9pm<br />
Sun 6 May SERVICES AT SHANDWICK PLACE<br />
9am, 9.45am, 11am services<br />
10.30am Adult Discussion Group meets<br />
11am with Revd Norman Shanks<br />
Fellowship Lunch for Christian Aid<br />
Mon 7 May CA Sale preparations George <strong>St</strong> 9am- 9pm<br />
7 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
May <strong>Diary</strong><br />
Tue 8 May CA Sale preparations George <strong>St</strong> 9am-9pm<br />
Wed 9 May CA Sale preparations George <strong>St</strong> 9am-9pm<br />
Thur 10 May CA Sale preparations George <strong>St</strong> 9am-9pm<br />
Fri 11 May CA Sale preparations George <strong>St</strong> 9am-9pm<br />
Sat 12 May AT GEORGE STREET<br />
10am-4pm Christian Aid Sale<br />
What can I say? (Palmerston Place)p23<br />
Sun 13 May<br />
SERVICES AT SHANDWICK PLACE<br />
9am, 9.45am, 11am services<br />
10.30am Adult Discussion Group meets<br />
Mon 14 May AT GEORGE STREET<br />
10am- 3.30pm Christian Aid Sale<br />
Tue 15 May AT GEORGE STREET<br />
10am- 3.30pm Christian Aid Sale<br />
Wed 16 May AT GEORGE STREET<br />
10am- 3.30pm Christian Aid Sale<br />
Thur 17 May AT GEORGE STREET<br />
10am -7pm Christian Aid Sale<br />
Underst<strong>and</strong>ing Grief p23<br />
Fri 18 May AT GEORGE STREET<br />
10am- 3.30pm Christian Aid Sale<br />
AT SHANDWICK PLACE<br />
Gothenburg University Chamber Choir p18<br />
Sat 19 May<br />
Sun 20 May<br />
General Assembly<br />
SERVICES AT SHANDWICK PLACE<br />
9am, 9.45am, 11am services<br />
10.30am Adult Discussion Group meets<br />
12 noon Congregational Meeting p11<br />
1pm - 6pm Heart <strong>and</strong> Soul p29<br />
8 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
May <strong>Diary</strong><br />
Mon 21 May General Assembly<br />
Tue 22 May General Assembly<br />
Wed 23 May General Assembly<br />
Creative TOGETHER p19<br />
Thur 24 May General Assembly<br />
Fri 25 May General Assembly<br />
Sat 26 May 10am-2pm Open Day at Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place p17<br />
Sun 27 May SERVICES AT SHANDWICK PLACE<br />
9am, 9.45am, 11am services<br />
10.30am Adult Discussion Group meets<br />
Tue 29 May Kirk Session Meeting (NOT 22 May)<br />
Malcolm Goldsmith Lecture p24<br />
Wed 30 May Christmas Tree Festival Planning Meeting p22<br />
Thur 31 May<br />
Fri 1 June<br />
Sat 2 June<br />
Sun 3 June<br />
June <strong>Diary</strong><br />
Welcoming People to Church p23<br />
SERVICES AT SHANDWICK PLACE<br />
9am, 9.45am, 11am services<br />
10.30am Adult Discussion Group meets<br />
Announcements<br />
Baptisms Lachlan James Douglas Campbell <strong>and</strong> Niall<br />
Angus Wallace Campbell on Sunday, 1 April<br />
Wedding Gillian Gilmour <strong>and</strong> James McPherson on 21<br />
April<br />
Death Jack Peterson on 31 March<br />
9 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
. The next year – the next decade<br />
<strong>St</strong>ewardship Update<br />
At the services on Sunday 15 May the <strong>St</strong>ewardship Group was<br />
able to report that the then running total (including pledges <strong>and</strong><br />
Gift Aid <strong>and</strong> the organ appeal figure of £17.3k + Gift Aid) stood at<br />
£91,272.63.<br />
This was an intimation that actions speak louder than words <strong>and</strong><br />
proof of our commitment to each other, to the special work of this<br />
congregation in the City Centre <strong>and</strong> to our future as a vibrant part<br />
of the wider church. The visible flurry of red envelopes on the<br />
first two Sundays in April showed the breadth of support for the<br />
work of the congregation <strong>and</strong> these figures showed the strength<br />
of that support. In these straightened times this sacrificial <strong>and</strong><br />
sacramental giving is the best possible start to reviewing our<br />
stewarding of our time <strong>and</strong> our talents <strong>and</strong> it is key to the future of<br />
our work together.<br />
Now we move our energies from brain to brawn <strong>and</strong> to Christian<br />
Aid.<br />
James McNeill, <strong>St</strong>ewardship Convener<br />
On Your Marks<br />
Refurbishment Update<br />
At a special meeting on the 10 April the Kirk Session endorsed<br />
the recommendation of the Fabric Committee to appoint GHI<br />
Contracts Ltd. to deliver our refurbishment of the George <strong>St</strong>.<br />
building. The contractor is fully aware of the crucial dates related<br />
10 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
The next year – the next decade<br />
to the Christian Aid Sale <strong>and</strong> has been urged to use these weeks<br />
before h<strong>and</strong>-over of the building for project planning, taking<br />
measurements etc. In the meantime our architects, Gray,<br />
Marshall & Associates are finalising the Building Warrant <strong>and</strong><br />
continuing with detail design.<br />
A 'pre-start' meeting of the design team, client <strong>and</strong> contractor will<br />
also take place to introduce all the parties <strong>and</strong> set out<br />
expectations <strong>and</strong> procedures for the work ahead. It is hoped that<br />
these preparatory weeks will enable the works to begin with a<br />
bang <strong>and</strong> set us in good stead for a return to George <strong>St</strong>. in time<br />
for Christmas. We are now in the starting blocks for works to<br />
begin <strong>and</strong> just in case you need a reminder…<br />
Worship will take place in Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place from the first<br />
Sunday in May.<br />
See you there.<br />
Alan Taylor, Joint Fabric Convener<br />
Congregational Meeting Sunday 20 May<br />
Intimation is hereby given that there will be a brief meeting of<br />
the congregation immediately following the 11 a.m. service on<br />
Sunday 20 May 2012 to update members <strong>and</strong> answer any<br />
further questions in relation to the proposed sale of the<br />
Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place Building to Charlotte Baptist Chapel. We will<br />
also invite the formal agreement of our congregation to the sale<br />
of our Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place building<br />
11 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
The Real Africa<br />
12 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
Focus on Malawi<br />
Signing on the dotted line: Dr Ruth Shakespeare, Ian<br />
Gilmour <strong>and</strong> Arthur Chapman mark our commitment to<br />
Mulanje Mission Hospital on 2 April 2012<br />
<strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> is sponsoring Pearson Soka<br />
of MMH to study for an MBA. We’ll meet Pearson when he comes<br />
to Scotl<strong>and</strong> on a Faithshare project. And we’re planning a small<br />
group trip to Malawi in September 2013.<br />
Want to know more about Mulanje Mission Hospital?<br />
Look out for the quarterly <strong>newsletter</strong> - next edition due soon<br />
Find them online at www.mmh.mw <strong>and</strong> on facebook <strong>and</strong> twitter<br />
13 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
Focus on Malawi<br />
Dr. Ruth Shakespeare reflects on a first year in Malawi<br />
“When you get a copy of the Mulanje Mission Hospital <strong>newsletter</strong><br />
it’s not just a question of pressing the send button. We have no<br />
l<strong>and</strong>line. I will have driven my car half way up the mountain at<br />
2am in order to get a mobile signal”<br />
Mulanje Mission Hospital<br />
<strong>and</strong> its clinics share the care<br />
of more than 600,000 people<br />
with one other local hospital. I<br />
am the only doctor at the<br />
Mission. There is also a<br />
primary school, a secondary<br />
school of about 800, a nursing<br />
school of 160 <strong>and</strong> a factory<br />
making fortified porridge.<br />
Basic infrastructure is a<br />
challenge but we’re<br />
improving water storage <strong>and</strong><br />
decontamination <strong>and</strong> installing<br />
solar power.<br />
Economic conditions are<br />
challenging. Budget cuts<br />
mean delayed funds for our<br />
nursing students. Our drugs<br />
<strong>and</strong> medical supplies have to<br />
be shipped direct from<br />
Amsterdam. Petrol is in such<br />
short supply that we only have<br />
enough for one ambulance<br />
HIV remains the big issue.<br />
Half of our patients have HIV.<br />
Malawi has one of the highest<br />
HIV infection rates in the<br />
world - not because the<br />
infection rate here is getting<br />
worse but because other<br />
countries are dealing with HIV<br />
better <strong>and</strong> so their rates of<br />
infection are falling. It is a<br />
challenge to deal with HIV in a<br />
low resource setting.<br />
The most important thing<br />
we can do to improve health<br />
is to educate girls.<br />
Mulanje Mission runs both<br />
primary <strong>and</strong> secondary<br />
schools <strong>and</strong> while the primary<br />
school is full, take up of<br />
secondary education is much<br />
lower, especially among girls.<br />
By age 16 girls make up only<br />
25% of pupils.<br />
14 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
Focus on Malawi<br />
The good news at Mulanje Mission Hospital<br />
We do manage with very few resources<br />
The key is “task shifting” – ensuring well qualified people do<br />
what they are trained for <strong>and</strong> increasing patient self-care.<br />
We will have more medical resources soon – a local trainee<br />
<strong>and</strong> my daughter, a doctor, who is going to volunteer here.<br />
Visiting medical students have developed income generating<br />
projects for HIV affected families.<br />
We may be able to offer prison healthcare soon<br />
We had one burning question for Ruth: How do you relax?<br />
How do I relax? One of the challenges is the sheer hours of the<br />
job. I get up at 4am, work in the hospital <strong>and</strong> clinics until 5pm <strong>and</strong><br />
then talk to donors <strong>and</strong> write proposals. It would be easy to work<br />
a 20 hour day, every day… But I have my bike. Sometimes I<br />
walk on the lower slopes of the mountain. I grow all of my own<br />
vegetables <strong>and</strong> have nearly finished my henhouse so when I get<br />
back I will have eggs <strong>and</strong> chickens.<br />
My accommodation is an old house built by Scottish missionaries<br />
to have the best view of the mountain. When I arrived you could<br />
see the holes on the roof on Google Earth. But sitting on the<br />
ver<strong>and</strong>ah at 5am with a cup of tea is magical. And Mulanje has<br />
the best pizza restaurant in the world. We go there on Fridays.<br />
Malawians are the most optimistic people I have met. They say<br />
“It will be all right tomorrow.“<br />
Those of us who heard Ruth speak were awed both by the scale<br />
of the challenges <strong>and</strong> by the energy <strong>and</strong> work done at Mulanje.<br />
It is great to be able to contribute to this work,<br />
Alison Bruce<br />
15 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
<strong>St</strong>ated Annual Meeting 15 April<br />
At services on Sunday 15 April, everyone had a chance to share<br />
their affirmations <strong>and</strong> doubts under the headings of<br />
worship service outreach education fellowship<br />
here are some of our affirmations…<br />
That it is important – crucial –<br />
to work together for good.<br />
Worship with our h<strong>and</strong>s <strong>and</strong><br />
hearts.<br />
Active participation in creating<br />
as well as being part of<br />
services<br />
Having 3 very different<br />
services means that there is<br />
something for everyone – <strong>and</strong><br />
every need!<br />
Witness is not purely a<br />
professional job. We must<br />
live it in our lives also.<br />
Inclusive<br />
Variety<br />
I would like a little more<br />
exegesis but I doubt many<br />
others would.<br />
Faith based talks <strong>and</strong> debates<br />
I affirm the many <strong>and</strong> varied<br />
opportunities for fellowship.<br />
Seems like something for<br />
everyone! Thanks!<br />
And I affirm the wonderful<br />
offerings of music in this<br />
church.<br />
It was good to walk out of<br />
church singing hymn at<br />
Easter. If done at Christmas,<br />
why not Easter? A witness to<br />
those outside!<br />
The city needs us!<br />
Workplace Chaplaincy<br />
16 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
<strong>and</strong> some of our doubts….<br />
Relevance of orders of<br />
services/times of services.<br />
Being a passive percipient.<br />
Relevance of us <strong>and</strong> church<br />
overall to city life<br />
Uncertainties rather than<br />
doubts, <strong>and</strong> of those many,<br />
but that’s an unavoidable part<br />
of life – so much we don’t<br />
know <strong>and</strong> underst<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong><br />
probably never will – mystery<br />
persists because we are only<br />
human but it’s exciting that<br />
there is more. Worship with<br />
our minds.<br />
If you weren’t there but would like to share your affirmations <strong>and</strong><br />
doubts please speak to Ian Gilmour.<br />
If you would like a copy of the 2011 annual report <strong>and</strong> accounts<br />
which were presented at the <strong>St</strong>ated Annual Meeting please speak<br />
to one of the Joint Treasurers John Innes or Allan Sim.<br />
Outreach<br />
Parish Leaflet <strong>and</strong> Open Day<br />
Our second Parish Leaflet is out <strong>and</strong><br />
being delivered to over 2,500 homes in<br />
the parish. Thanks to Dorothy<br />
Mackenzie <strong>and</strong> to Ian Gilmour for a<br />
great collaboration.<br />
We’re following the leaflet up with an<br />
open day for the parish on Saturday<br />
26 May to highlight surprising things<br />
about <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s est.<br />
17 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
Music News<br />
Concert of Sc<strong>and</strong>inavian Choral Music<br />
Gothenburg University Chamber Choir<br />
Directed by Gunno Palmquist<br />
<strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong>, Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place<br />
Friday 18 May at 2pm<br />
Free entry<br />
The Chamber Choir at the School of<br />
Music <strong>and</strong> Drama, Gothenburg<br />
University was founded in 1965 by<br />
Professor Gösta Ohlin. The repertoire is<br />
varied – from renaissance to our time –<br />
based on western classical music, jazz <strong>and</strong> folk music. This is the<br />
choir’s first tour to Scotl<strong>and</strong>.<br />
Gunno Palmquist is Professor at the University of Gothenburg.<br />
He conducts a number of vocal ensembles in Sweden.<br />
Pipe Dreams<br />
Charity Organ Recital by Dennis Deas<br />
Barclay Viewforth Church, Thursday 7 June at 7.30pm<br />
Entry £5, proceeds to The Vine Trust<br />
Thanks to everyone who helped make the Swish<br />
such an enjoyable event <strong>and</strong> helped to raise<br />
over £300 for Mary’s Meals.<br />
18 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
Creative TOGETHER<br />
We have some new ideas <strong>and</strong> look forward to all who wish to join<br />
us in being creative. We will meet anytime between 10am <strong>and</strong><br />
4pm at my house on Wednesday 23rd May. In order not to clash<br />
with the Christian Aid Book Sale that is a week later than our<br />
usual meeting. Hope to see you then.<br />
Maggie Morley<br />
H<strong>and</strong> knitted blankets for Mary’s Meals on display at<br />
the RCHS Spring Flower Show, March 2012<br />
“… on behalf of Mary’s Meals <strong>and</strong> The Caley thank you <strong>and</strong> the<br />
ladies of your church for all the strips they knitted for the blankets.<br />
I have packed 50 blankets into boxes to be collected this week<br />
<strong>and</strong> taken to Dalmally in Argyll. From there they will go to Malawi<br />
to be distributed amongst children <strong>and</strong> their families. Each<br />
blanket is very individual <strong>and</strong> all will bring a lot of pleasure.”<br />
19 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
Getting to know<br />
Arthur Chapman<br />
a short biography... born Oct, 1948.<br />
Attended Wadenhoe Parish Church,<br />
Northamptonshire until leaving for<br />
university. Met Judy in 1974, joined<br />
STAGS, married Judy – three children.<br />
Member of the Iona Community since<br />
1987. Ordained an Elder in late 1980s.<br />
BSc Physics, PhD Satellite<br />
Meteorology, BA (OU) Philosophy. Taught computing at Telford<br />
College for 20 years. <strong>St</strong>ill semi-self-employed (New Curiosity<br />
Shop). Interests: theology, philosophy, varied reading, walking,<br />
travel, music (listening!). Concerns: issues of justice, peace,<br />
environment <strong>and</strong> economics. Convener of Wider Horizons group<br />
<strong>and</strong> organiser of 9.45 discussion group.<br />
prayer, poem or Bible verse particularly meaningful to me...<br />
“In the beginning was the word …” John 1:1-18<br />
“Consider the lilies of the field …” <strong>and</strong> Sermon on the Mount<br />
“The soul of Man must quicken to creation” (T S Eliot)<br />
time/place important in my life journey of faith as a<br />
Christian...<br />
Some individuals have had an impact on me, but mostly it’s<br />
through books that I’ve explored, extended, groped for faith <strong>and</strong><br />
underst<strong>and</strong>ing. (If you want a list please get in touch!) However,<br />
the Living the Questions series at the then <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> a<br />
few years ago were important to me as have been the weekly<br />
discussion groups after the 9.45 service.<br />
Arthur is our Commissioner at this year’s General Assembly<br />
20 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
Getting to know<br />
Jean Mackinlay<br />
a short biography... I was born in Wick<br />
<strong>and</strong> spent my childhood in Inverness <strong>and</strong><br />
Nairn. I came to Edinburgh University <strong>and</strong><br />
like many students of that time, attended<br />
<strong>St</strong>George’s <strong>West</strong> Church. Later, as a<br />
young teacher, I became involved in<br />
Cephas, Cephas House <strong>and</strong><br />
Cornerstone, all projects of <strong>West</strong> End Churches.<br />
I met <strong>and</strong> married Alan <strong>and</strong> we have two sons <strong>and</strong> a daughter.<br />
After ten years in Montrose, we returned to Edinburgh where I<br />
continued my teaching career. Now retired, with children <strong>and</strong><br />
gr<strong>and</strong>children in the North of Scotl<strong>and</strong>, the Middle East <strong>and</strong><br />
Switzerl<strong>and</strong>, we seem to spend a lot of time on the move.<br />
prayer, poem or Bible verse particularly meaningful to me...<br />
“You shall know the truth <strong>and</strong> the truth shall set you free” John<br />
8:32 I feel this is increasingly important in a world which seems to<br />
set such store by the slick <strong>and</strong> the superficial.<br />
time/place important in my life journey of faith as a<br />
Christian... without a doubt my time as a member of the<br />
leadership group who ran Cephas Youth Club. It tested <strong>and</strong><br />
deepened my faith; it was exhilarating to be part of such a<br />
challenging situation where the Church was really reaching out to<br />
others. The circle of friends from those days is still in touch <strong>and</strong><br />
the bonds between us are very strong. After Cephas I taught in<br />
Tabeetha School, an international school in Israel run by the<br />
Church of Scotl<strong>and</strong>. That too was a wonderful experience.<br />
21 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
General Assembly 2012<br />
19- 25 April<br />
what’s new?<br />
A Right Relationship with Money<br />
the report of the Special Commission<br />
on the Purposes of Economic Activity .<br />
Plus Mission in a Digital Age,<br />
Sustainable Agriculture, the Church in China, Neuroethics <strong>and</strong><br />
lots more. Read it all online in the 416 page Blue Book <strong>and</strong> if you<br />
can’t be there you can watch live streaming of the proceedings.<br />
Arthur Chapman is our Commissioner to the General Assembly<br />
Volunteer Vacancy :<br />
The 2012 Edinburgh Christmas Tree Festival<br />
Plans are already underway for our next Christmas Tree<br />
Festival! This is a tremendous opportunity for outreach <strong>and</strong> to<br />
build on the success of the first two years. Provisional dates are<br />
George <strong>St</strong>reet: Monday 10th - Saturday 29th December<br />
Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place: Monday 10th - Friday 23rd December<br />
The next planning meeting will be Wednesday 30th May 7.00pm<br />
at Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place, chaired by our Minister, Ian Gilmour.<br />
Anyone willing to get involved will be welcome.<br />
We are looking for an enthusiastic volunteer, to take a lead<br />
role in the team <strong>and</strong> progress arrangements for this year's<br />
event.<br />
If you can help please speak to Sally Evans 332 4449, or Ian<br />
Gilmour at the Church.<br />
22 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
Learning Resources<br />
What Can I Say?<br />
Commending faith in a sceptical age<br />
Saturday 12 May, 10am– 4pm at Palmerston Place Church<br />
Keynote Speaker: Amy Orr-Ewing, evangelist, Zacharias Trust<br />
Chair: Dr Donald Bruce, Director of Edinethics.<br />
Cost £10, www.godsearchscotl<strong>and</strong>.org.uk/home.htm#Events<br />
Underst<strong>and</strong>ing Grief<br />
Deirdre Carr, Clinical Psychologist, Maggie’s Centre<br />
Davidson’s Mains Church, Thursday 17 May, 7pm-8.30pm<br />
Often people in supportive roles fear doing more harm than good<br />
<strong>and</strong> are at a loss as to what helps. This workshop is not a “how<br />
to” but will explore the essence of grief <strong>and</strong> how to st<strong>and</strong><br />
alongside it more comfortably. For anyone involved in pastoral<br />
care.<br />
Booking: Grace Mackay, Edinburgh Presbytery Secretary<br />
edinburgh@cofscotl<strong>and</strong>.org.uk or tel 0131 225 9137<br />
Welcoming People to Church<br />
Saturday 2 June 10am-1pm, venue tbc<br />
Welcoming People to Church<br />
The most important time for welcome is what happens after the<br />
service. Today is designed around sharing what has worked <strong>and</strong><br />
what has not worked well in our congregations. Coupled to this<br />
participants will study a number of cases which will help us reflect<br />
on what welcome means from the point of view of the people<br />
being welcomed. For anyone involved in welcoming.<br />
Booking: Grace Mackay, Edinburgh Presbytery Secretary<br />
edinburgh@cofscotl<strong>and</strong>.org.uk or tel 225 9137<br />
23 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
Learning Resources<br />
Silence in Christian History: the witness of Holmes's Dog<br />
Gifford Lecture Series given by Professor Diarmaid MacCulloch<br />
23, 24, 26,30 April <strong>and</strong> 1,3 May<br />
5.30-6.30pm at <strong>St</strong> Cecilia’s Hall, Niddry <strong>St</strong>reet, EH1 1LJ<br />
Free but ticketed. Book online. Diarmaid MacCulloch is Professor of<br />
the History of the Church at Oxford University.<br />
Wednesday 2 May at 6pm at The Royal Society in George <strong>St</strong>reet:<br />
discussion forum with Professor MacCulloch.<br />
Free but ticketed. http://www.royalsoced.org.uk/events/<br />
Faith in Older People <strong>and</strong> the Centre for Theology <strong>and</strong> Public<br />
Issues present The Malcolm Goldsmith Lecture<br />
Finding meaning in the experience of dementia<br />
Professor Elizabeth MacKinlay<br />
Charles <strong>St</strong>urt University, Canberra<br />
Tuesday 29th May 2012 5pm Tea; Lecture 5.30pm<br />
Lecture Room 1, New College, The University of Edinburgh,<br />
The Mound, Edinburgh<br />
Book online at www.faithinolderpeople.org.uk/<br />
Free, although donations are always gratefully received.<br />
24 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
Key dates<br />
Moving to Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place<br />
Sunday 6 May – worship moves to Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place<br />
Friday 18 May – final day of Christian Aid Sale at George <strong>St</strong><br />
Monday 21 May – keys of George <strong>St</strong>reet are h<strong>and</strong>ed over to<br />
building contractors. No further access.<br />
Getting to Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place by public transport<br />
This is no problem as long as you are a codebreaker of Bletchley<br />
Park st<strong>and</strong>ard <strong>and</strong> a reasonable walker. The recent closure of<br />
<strong>West</strong> Maitl<strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong>reet has led to long diversions.<br />
Current (from 24 March) leaflets from Lothian Buses are available<br />
in the vestibule <strong>and</strong> Undercroft in George <strong>St</strong>reet.<br />
For up to date information the Lothian Buses customer helpline is<br />
0131 475 0210 / 0211 / 0212 <strong>and</strong> the website is<br />
www.lothianbuses.com<br />
25 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
Moving to Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place<br />
Getting to Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place<br />
by car<br />
Parking is available in Melville <strong>St</strong>reet,<br />
<strong>St</strong>afford <strong>St</strong>reet, <strong>and</strong> other side streets.<br />
Parking is free on Sundays <strong>and</strong> metered<br />
8.30am - 6.30pm Monday-Saturday.<br />
Please consider leaving parking places close<br />
to the church for people who are less mobile.<br />
The ‘official’ Church Sunday transport<br />
service will continue to operate, on the first<br />
Sunday of the month, co-ordinated by Averil<br />
Fifer .<br />
It is hoped that those who participate in an<br />
informal transport service will continue to do<br />
so. It is also hoped that other members with<br />
transport will consider offering help to fellow<br />
members.<br />
Walking <strong>and</strong> cycling to Sh<strong>and</strong>wick<br />
Place<br />
Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place is close to a network of offroad<br />
cycle <strong>and</strong> walking paths such as the<br />
Water of Leith <strong>and</strong> the Union Canal<br />
Towpath.<br />
If you would like to explore these alternative<br />
highways of greenery <strong>and</strong> birdsong get hold<br />
of a copy of the Edinburgh Cycle Map (great<br />
for walkers too) published by Spokes. There<br />
are cycle racks on the <strong>St</strong>afford <strong>St</strong>reet side of<br />
the building. spokes.org.uk/wordpress<br />
26 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
Letter from Arizona<br />
Bill Clinkenbeard<br />
There is, near Tucson Arizona, a missile museum. That may sound<br />
odd, but it is true. It is the only one remaining from a total of 54 Titan<br />
II missile sites which were built across the United <strong>St</strong>ates. This is a<br />
“silo” type of missile site .The silo is buried deep into the Arizona<br />
desert, with a lift ready to take you down to the various levels. You<br />
can descend underground <strong>and</strong> see where the missile stood upright,<br />
ready to launch. You can st<strong>and</strong> in the control centre, where the air<br />
force personnel carried out the comm<strong>and</strong>s of their superior officers.<br />
You can gaze at the red telephone with its direct line to the president.<br />
The Titan II could deliver a 9-megaton nuclear warhead to targets<br />
more than 5500 miles away in less than 30 minutes.<br />
The site is of interest to me because in the sixties I worked on an<br />
Atlas missile site as an engineer. I used to st<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> look at our<br />
missile, stored horizontally in those days, <strong>and</strong> wonder if it would ever<br />
fly <strong>and</strong> bring nuclear destruction to the population of some city. I’m<br />
grateful that it never did.<br />
Museums are intended to teach us about the past. This missile<br />
museum st<strong>and</strong>s as a potent reminder of the Cold War, the armed<br />
mutual hostility that was waged in the 1960’s <strong>and</strong> 70’s between the<br />
<strong>West</strong> <strong>and</strong> the Soviet Union.<br />
It is useful because most younger people today have no recollection<br />
or knowledge of that Cold War. They will not feel the deep sense of<br />
terror <strong>and</strong> dread of those who lived through the era. They do not<br />
share an anxiety that any day could bring nuclear catastrophe. So the<br />
missile museum is a good thing. We do need to have reminders of<br />
our past in order to inform our decision making for the future. This is<br />
especially true in the present, as we watch North Korea prepare to<br />
launch a rocket which they say will only be used for sending satellites<br />
into orbit, <strong>and</strong> as we watch Iran continue to develop nuclear<br />
capability which they say will only be for domestic use.<br />
Are we going back to a fear-filled world? While museums teach us of<br />
the past they cannot guarantee that we actually learn from it.<br />
27 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
Love those Church Ladies<br />
They're Back! Those wonderful Church Bulletins! Thank<br />
God for church ladies with typewriters. These<br />
sentences (with all the BLOOPERS) actually appeared in<br />
church bulletins or were announced in church services:<br />
--------------------------<br />
The Fasting & Prayer Conference includes meals.<br />
--------------------------<br />
The sermon this morning: 'Jesus Walks on the Water.'<br />
The sermon tonight: 'Searching for Jesus.'<br />
--------------------------<br />
Ladies, don't forget the rummage sale. It's a<br />
chance to get rid of those things not worth<br />
keeping around the house. Bring your husb<strong>and</strong>s.<br />
--------------------------<br />
Remember in prayer the many who are sick of our<br />
community. Smile at someone who is hard to love. Say<br />
'Hell' to someone who doesn't care much about you.<br />
--------------------------<br />
Don't let worry kill you off<br />
let the Church help.<br />
28 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
Heart <strong>and</strong> Soul 2012<br />
Sunday 20 May 1-6pm<br />
Princes <strong>St</strong>reet Gardens,<br />
Edinburgh<br />
The programme’s really<br />
shaping up – it’s going to be<br />
amazing.<br />
Remember, you can apply to<br />
join the choir, volunteer as a<br />
steward, organise a <strong>St</strong>A<strong>St</strong>GW<br />
stall, organise the rest of us to<br />
get there…<br />
Find out more at<br />
www.heart<strong>and</strong>soul2012.org.uk<br />
Celebrate<br />
Solas Festival 22-24 June<br />
Solas Festival is a unique<br />
Scottish midsummer event<br />
featuring an exciting artistic<br />
programme alongside debate on<br />
cultural, political <strong>and</strong> religious<br />
issues.<br />
We welcome all ages <strong>and</strong> all<br />
views <strong>and</strong> we aim to unleash the<br />
artist in everyone.<br />
29 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
The Pilgrimage Goes On<br />
Inwards<br />
Soul Therapy June 2012<br />
Desmond Ryan has agreed to come <strong>and</strong> lead a group of us on a<br />
journey through a book called Self Therapy. This will be the first<br />
group in Scotl<strong>and</strong> to study the book which offers insights into how<br />
to engage in helpful forms of internal dialogue, which can bring<br />
more peace as well as new insights to participants. We will all<br />
have to buy the book (£12) but otherwise there will be no charge.<br />
The group will run for 4 weeks at Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place on Thursdays<br />
from the 21 June 10.30am – 12. 30pm.<br />
Outwards<br />
Lindisfarne - June 2012<br />
On Saturday 9 June we are exploring the opportunity for 20<br />
people to undertake the 2 hour pilgrim poles walk to Lindisfarne.<br />
It will cost £10 <strong>and</strong> we will need four cars. You should bring your<br />
own packed lunch.<br />
It is most satisfying to do the walk barefoot. There will be a sign<br />
up sheet in the vestibule of the church.<br />
Malawi - September 2013<br />
A small group of people will take a trip to see Mulanje Hospital<br />
<strong>and</strong> undertake some work in a local school. The group will<br />
probably be no more than 6 people. It will cost less than £2,000.<br />
If interested, please speak to Ian Gilmour.<br />
30 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
<strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong>, Edinburgh<br />
Minister<br />
Joint Session<br />
Clerks<br />
Rev Ian Y Gilmour<br />
Alison Campbell<br />
Barbara Finlayson<br />
Joint Treasurers<br />
Director of Music<br />
John Innes<br />
Allan Sim<br />
Brigitte Harris<br />
Key <strong>St</strong>aff at our Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place Building 0131 225 7001<br />
Centre manager<br />
Deputy manager<br />
Volunteer<br />
Coordinator<br />
Caretaking<br />
Cook<br />
Becky Duncan becky@stgeorgeswest.com<br />
Joe Doody mail@stgeorgeswest.com<br />
Becky Duncan/ Joe Doody<br />
volunteers@stgeorgeswest.com<br />
Alan Hynd<br />
Colin Sharp<br />
Key staff at our George <strong>St</strong>reet Building 0131 225 3847<br />
Church Secretary Joyce Garl<strong>and</strong><br />
info@st<strong>and</strong>rews<strong>and</strong>stgeorges.org.uk<br />
Church Manager Cathie Donaldson<br />
Church Officer Eddie McRiner<br />
Café Manager Wayne Williams<br />
Edinburgh City Centre Churches TOGETHER<br />
TOGETHER Chair<br />
TOGETHER City<br />
Centre Chaplain<br />
Ian Gilmour<br />
Tony Bryer 0131 229 6542 or 07834 748129<br />
tbryer.wpcscotl<strong>and</strong>@gmail.com<br />
<strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> <strong>George's</strong> <strong>West</strong> Church of Scotl<strong>and</strong>,<br />
Edinburgh is a registered charity. Charity number SC 008990.<br />
31 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter
<strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong><br />
George <strong>St</strong>reet Building<br />
13 George <strong>St</strong>reet EH2 2PA<br />
Tel 0131 225 3847<br />
www.st<strong>and</strong>rews<strong>and</strong>stgeorges.org.uk<br />
info@st<strong>and</strong>rews<strong>and</strong>stgeorges.org.uk<br />
Church open Mon-Fri 10am-3pm<br />
Café open Mon-Fri 10am-2.30pm<br />
our George <strong>St</strong>reet Building is<br />
closing for refurbishment from<br />
mid May until December 2012<br />
<strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong><br />
Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place Building<br />
58 Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place EH2 4RT<br />
Tel 0131 225 7001<br />
www.stgeorgeswest.com<br />
mail@stgeorgeswest.com<br />
Centre open Mon – Fri 9am - 5pm<br />
Olive Tree Café Mon -Fri 9am-3pm<br />
Surely to be a people<br />
on the move following<br />
the way of Jesus <strong>and</strong><br />
supported by God’s<br />
ever present Spirit, has<br />
got to be a good pattern<br />
both for the next days<br />
<strong>and</strong> decades of our life<br />
together.<br />
Never to be static,<br />
conforming, but always<br />
alert, alive, growing in<br />
faith, pilgrims together<br />
.<br />
32 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh May 2012 <strong>Diary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Newsletter