St Andrew's and St George's West September 2010
St Andrew's and St George's West September 2010
St Andrew's and St George's West September 2010
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<strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong><br />
Diary <strong>and</strong> newsletter<br />
<strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong><br />
1 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
What’s inside?<br />
Page<br />
A letter from Russell 3-5<br />
<strong>September</strong> diary <strong>and</strong> October preview 6-8<br />
Forthcoming events<br />
9-12<br />
Amos Scripture Trust AGM – Amnesty –<br />
Worship@1 – Bethany Walk – Philippa Gregory-<br />
Overcoming Violence<br />
Christian Aid News 13<br />
Charity Chic – Affordable Vintage Fair –<br />
14-15<br />
Painting Edinburgh Green<br />
TOGETHER News<br />
16-18<br />
Chairman’s Update – Marcus Borg at <strong>St</strong> John’s<br />
City News<br />
19-22<br />
Reformation Lectures – Business Alpha –<br />
Simpson House Counselling Training – Moose in<br />
the Hoose<br />
Congregational <strong>St</strong>ories<br />
23-26<br />
An Old Friend (Alex Harper) - The Cracked Pot<br />
(Ruth Sheard)<br />
Contact details 27<br />
Newsletter team<br />
Design <strong>and</strong> layout: Andrena <strong>and</strong> Alison B<br />
Production: Jean M, Judith, Rosemary, Libby, Elizabeth M<br />
Email: inspire@st<strong>and</strong>rews<strong>and</strong>stgeorges.org.uk<br />
Many thanks to all contributors. Photos, articles, events,<br />
prayers, poems are welcome by email or through the offices at<br />
Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place <strong>and</strong> George <strong>St</strong>reet.<br />
Next copy deadline: Monday 20 <strong>September</strong> for publication<br />
Sunday 26 <strong>September</strong><br />
2 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
Letter from Russell<br />
Dear members <strong>and</strong> friends,<br />
Great potential.<br />
Over these past few weeks I have met several of the applicants<br />
for the post of Parish Minister as they have looked to gain<br />
some background to the charge. It has been very good indeed<br />
to be able to speak to them about the congregation with its<br />
many people of great character, commitment <strong>and</strong> talent <strong>and</strong><br />
the exciting potential of this city centre parish <strong>and</strong> ministry. I<br />
have been equally clear that we are very much a work in<br />
progress following on from union with all the adjustments<br />
involved <strong>and</strong> also in the longer term process of working through<br />
the issues of Interim Ministry started two years ago. I am able<br />
to stress that people have shown determination <strong>and</strong> grace to<br />
effect some very difficult changes. The challenge is not just to<br />
3 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
a new minister but also for all the people involved in <strong>St</strong><br />
Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> to build on the work of the past<br />
year.<br />
Alan Ward<br />
I have very much appreciated Alan’s involvement with us in<br />
sharing the ministry over these months in leading services,<br />
visiting <strong>and</strong> advice to Kirk Session. We had previously worked<br />
closely together in the committees of Glasgow Presbytery <strong>and</strong> I<br />
knew that I could work well with Alan <strong>and</strong> that his approach <strong>and</strong><br />
gifts would complement mine.<br />
Alan’s last Sunday with us will be on 12 th <strong>September</strong> after<br />
which he has a few weeks’ holiday before beginning his first full<br />
placement as Interim Minister. I am sure that you will share<br />
my appreciation of The Ministries Council which agreed to Alan<br />
being placed with us over these months. We wish Alan well in<br />
his new appointment which should be confirmed on Sunday<br />
12 th <strong>September</strong>.<br />
Interim Moderator <strong>and</strong> Locum Minister<br />
My time with you on a weekly basis comes to an end at the end<br />
of <strong>September</strong> after which I will continue to serve as Interim<br />
Moderator until the Induction of a new minister. Presbytery<br />
were keen to know that there should be as much continuity as<br />
possible in the affairs of the congregation given the significant<br />
changes over the past year <strong>and</strong> an advantage in my position as<br />
Regional Interim Minister in The Lothians <strong>and</strong> Edinburgh is that<br />
I am not moving home <strong>and</strong> can continue to serve.<br />
4 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
I will have a period of 5 weeks <strong>St</strong>udy Leave before my next<br />
placement <strong>and</strong> will be available during that period for all<br />
matters of congregational business.<br />
Kirk Session will confirm the appointment of the Locum Minister<br />
at a meeting on Sunday 29 th August <strong>and</strong> I hope that the Locum<br />
will be introduced in church on the last Sunday of <strong>September</strong>.<br />
The duties of Locum involve leading worship, visiting <strong>and</strong><br />
conducting funeral services <strong>and</strong> will involve a maximum of two<br />
days in the week in addition to leading Sunday Services.<br />
<strong>September</strong> Services <strong>and</strong> Place of Worship<br />
Services in <strong>September</strong> will be at Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place. This will<br />
bring to an end the period of worshipping in the two buildings<br />
on alternate months. I believe that this has been a very good<br />
arrangement which has allowed people to appreciate the<br />
traditions of the two congregations coming into union.<br />
The plans to redecorate at George <strong>St</strong>reet, with new lighting,<br />
sound system <strong>and</strong> projection had been put on hold in order to<br />
consider the union <strong>and</strong> the Kirk Session anticipate a return to<br />
worshipping in Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place for a period of months if there<br />
is to be upgrading work carried out at George <strong>St</strong>reet. During<br />
this period it will be appropriate to properly celebrate the<br />
church building <strong>and</strong> its tradition before a final leave-taking.<br />
God’s richest blessings to each <strong>and</strong> to all<br />
Russell McLarty<br />
5 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
<strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Diary at a Glance<br />
A diary of events at, connected with, or of interest to members<br />
<strong>and</strong> friends of <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong>.<br />
Visit our online diary at<br />
www.st<strong>and</strong>rews<strong>and</strong>stgeorgeswest.org.uk/diary.php<br />
Sunday services in <strong>September</strong> will be held in Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place<br />
From October Sunday services will be held in George <strong>St</strong>reet<br />
<strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong><br />
Monday – Saturday<br />
Daily worship at 1pm in the Sanctuary, George <strong>St</strong><br />
Sun 5 Sep<br />
Fri 10 Sep<br />
Sat 11 Sep<br />
9am, 9.45am <strong>and</strong> 11am services in<br />
Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place<br />
TOGETHER Singalong Film Night<br />
7.30pm C<strong>and</strong>lish Hall, <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong><br />
George’s <strong>West</strong>, Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place<br />
Bethany walk along the coast<br />
10am - 4 pm Marcus Borg at <strong>St</strong> John’s<br />
Episcopal<br />
Sun 12 Sep<br />
9am, 9.45am <strong>and</strong> 11am services in<br />
Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place<br />
7pm Morningside Parish Church<br />
What’s the Reformation ever done for us?<br />
The Reformation: From Europe to Scotl<strong>and</strong><br />
Dr Susan Hardman Moore<br />
6 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
Tue 14 Sep<br />
Wed 15 Sep<br />
Sat 18 Sep<br />
Sun 19 Sep<br />
Author Philippa Gregory in conversation<br />
with Professor Geoffrey Carnell<br />
7.30pm Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place Building<br />
Kirk Session meets in George <strong>St</strong>reet (venue<br />
tbc) all are welcome as observers<br />
Judy’s Affordable Vintage Fair<br />
at <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong>,<br />
George <strong>St</strong>reet<br />
9am, 9.45am <strong>and</strong> 11am services in<br />
Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place<br />
7pm Morningside Parish Church lectures<br />
What’s the Reformation ever done for us?<br />
The Social Policy of the Scottish Churches<br />
Prof Jay Brown<br />
Tue 21 Sep<br />
Sat 25 Sep<br />
is the International Day of Prayer for Peace<br />
Amos Scripture Care Trust AGM <strong>and</strong> lunch<br />
10.30am onwards at Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place<br />
11am-4pm Out of the Blue, Dalmeny <strong>St</strong><br />
Painting Edinburgh Green<br />
Sun 26 Sep<br />
9am, 9.45am <strong>and</strong> 11am services in<br />
Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place<br />
10am – 5pm Out of the Blue, Dalmeny <strong>St</strong><br />
Painting Edinburgh Green<br />
7pm Morningside Parish Church<br />
What’s the Reformation ever done for us?<br />
The Kirk <strong>and</strong> Scottish Literature Dr Alison Jack<br />
7 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
October <strong>2010</strong><br />
Sun 3 Oct<br />
9am, 9.45am <strong>and</strong> 11am services in George<br />
<strong>St</strong>reet<br />
7pm Morningside Parish Church<br />
What’s the Reformation ever done for us?<br />
Why we should be grateful to Luther, Calvin<br />
<strong>and</strong> Knox Dr Harry Reid<br />
Thurs 7 –<br />
Sat 9 Oct<br />
Charity Chic Eco Fashion Fair<br />
<strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong>,<br />
George <strong>St</strong><br />
Regular meetings in George <strong>St</strong>reet<br />
Brownies meet weekly<br />
Bellringers meet Mondays<br />
AA meet Wednesdays in the Davidson Room<br />
Scouts meet Thursdays 7.30 - 9.30pm<br />
Choir meets Thursdays 7 - 9pm in the Davidson Room<br />
Births, marriages <strong>and</strong> deaths<br />
Death:<br />
Peacefully on 4 th August <strong>2010</strong>, Mrs Anna Cowan, a member<br />
since 1956<br />
Removals by Transference Certificate:<br />
On 22 nd June <strong>2010</strong>, Reverend S Edwin P Beveridge,<br />
Pastoral Assistant <strong>and</strong> Mrs Sheena Beveridge, both of<br />
Edinburgh, EH3 who were members since 2005.<br />
On 9 th July <strong>2010</strong>, Miss Janice Todd, of Edinburgh, EH4,<br />
an elder since 1983 <strong>and</strong> a member since 1957<br />
8 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
Amos Scripture Care Trust<br />
The Annual General Meeting of the Amos Scripture Care<br />
Trust will be held at <strong>St</strong> <strong>Andrew's</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> <strong>George's</strong> <strong>West</strong><br />
Church, Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place, on Saturday 25th <strong>September</strong>,<br />
<strong>2010</strong> at 10.30am.<br />
The Guest speakers are Lynda Samuel <strong>and</strong> Anne <strong>St</strong>urrock.<br />
Following the meeting, the choir of the African & Caribbean<br />
Christian Fellowship will sing to us for a short while, to be<br />
followed by a light luncheon.<br />
Please let Alan Mackinlay (226 5445) know if you plan to stay<br />
for the lunch.<br />
The Trust was started in 1995 by the late Bruce Crerar.<br />
We produce laminated cards (credit card sized) with an image<br />
or photo on one side, <strong>and</strong> a text on the other. These are<br />
distributed to hospices, hospital chaplains, churches, retreat<br />
centres <strong>and</strong> to individuals who distribute them as they see fit.<br />
The aim is to get the Word of God out to people, <strong>and</strong> feedback<br />
indicates the cards are much appreciated in difficult, <strong>and</strong><br />
happy, times of people's lives. It is not a 'Together' project, but<br />
it has the blessing of the member churches of the former<br />
CWEC, <strong>and</strong> there are card st<strong>and</strong>s in the former <strong>St</strong> <strong>George's</strong><br />
<strong>West</strong>, <strong>St</strong> John's, <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> Cuthbert's.<br />
We hope to arrange for a display st<strong>and</strong> in the George <strong>St</strong>reet<br />
building in due course. We do not charge for the cards, but<br />
donations are gratefully received. Apart from one part-time<br />
employee, all the work in producing the cards is done by<br />
volunteers, mainly working in small teams. Alan MacKinlay<br />
9 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
Amnesty International<br />
We are thinking of setting up an Amnesty group<br />
at <strong>St</strong> Andrews <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> Georges <strong>West</strong>. Please<br />
get in touch if you are interested.<br />
Ruth Forrester for the Wider Horizons Group<br />
Worship@1 daily prayers at George <strong>St</strong>reet<br />
Prayers are said every day at <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s<br />
<strong>West</strong>, George <strong>St</strong>reet.<br />
On Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday at 1<br />
o’clock there is a short time of meditation during which prayers<br />
are said for people or places by name.<br />
There is a set text of readings, prayers <strong>and</strong> thoughts for<br />
reflection for each day, which can be followed or can be<br />
adapted or personalised. These can be seen in the Church or<br />
the little Chapel in the Undercroft where prayers are held<br />
during special times – e.g. Festival, Advent, Lent, <strong>and</strong> Christian<br />
Aid sale.<br />
On Tuesdays prayers take the form of a Communion service<br />
led by clergy.<br />
Please come <strong>and</strong> join us <strong>and</strong> if you would be interested in<br />
joining the team of people who lead the prayers or would be<br />
willing to be involved in producing new material, contact Mary<br />
Godden<br />
10 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
Bethany Walk by the coast for Homelessness<br />
Saturday 11 <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong><br />
Cockenzie – Gullane, East Lothian<br />
Bethany’s sponsored walk is along East Lothian’s stunning<br />
coastline following part of the John Muir Way. The area boasts<br />
incredible scenery <strong>and</strong> a treasure-trove of wildlife in its natural<br />
setting. Make a difference in the lives of homeless people <strong>and</strong><br />
enjoy a stunning day out at the same time. To receive more<br />
info call 0131 625 5417 or email events@bethanyct.com or visit<br />
www.bethanychristiantrust.com/events.<br />
Mary Godden is hoping to do this walk <strong>and</strong> would love some<br />
company. If you would like to join her (for 9.5 miles or 3miles)<br />
or would be willing to be a sponsor, please get in touch with her<br />
via the office.<br />
Author Philippa Gregory at Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place<br />
Philippa Gregory, author of ‘The Red Queen’ <strong>and</strong> Prof<br />
Geoffrey Carnell, author of ‘G<strong>and</strong>hi’s Interpreter’ will be<br />
discussing the art of biography <strong>and</strong> the craft of fiction. Both<br />
authors will welcome questions <strong>and</strong> be available for signing<br />
of books afterwards.<br />
Tuesday 14 <strong>September</strong> 7.30 - 9 pm<br />
<strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong>, Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place<br />
Tickets £5 redeemable against book purchases on the night<br />
available only from The Edinburgh Bookshop 0131 229 9207<br />
11 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
Why Violence?<br />
Why Not Peace?<br />
Although the World Council of Churches<br />
Decade to Overcome Violence is drawing to<br />
an end it is never too late to consider the<br />
above questions.<br />
During October <strong>and</strong> November there will be a series of four<br />
evenings devoted to considering some of the issues raised.<br />
We will be looking at four aspects of violence:<br />
Is Violence Inevitable?<br />
How Do We Use Power?<br />
How Do We Act Justly?<br />
What Kind of Identity?<br />
We will be using a variety of resources including exercises to<br />
help us reflect on the questions from our own experience,<br />
materials to stimulate conversation <strong>and</strong> passages for Bible<br />
study <strong>and</strong> reflection.<br />
Although each evening will begin with reflection we intend that<br />
the outcome of each meeting will be ideas for action. Further<br />
details <strong>and</strong> a sign up sheet will be available from late<br />
<strong>September</strong>. We look forward to your participation.<br />
Arthur Chapman<br />
for the Wider Horizons Group<br />
Resources here: http://www.overcomingviolence.org/<br />
21 <strong>September</strong> is the International Day of Prayer for Peace<br />
12 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
Christian Aid News<br />
"TOGETHER" Christian Aid Committee<br />
have arranged for your enjoyment <strong>and</strong> relaxation a Film Night<br />
Sing-along. It will be held in the C<strong>and</strong>lish Hall, Sh<strong>and</strong>wick<br />
Place on Friday 10 <strong>September</strong> at 7.30pm. There will even be<br />
ice cream in the interval. Tickets (£8) are available from either<br />
Margaret McGregor or Maggie Morley.<br />
Christian Aid Fundraising Update<br />
In the Christian Aid Report, I mentioned our stock list <strong>and</strong> how<br />
some of it has been sent to various auction houses <strong>and</strong> we<br />
should await further information. Well, some of the items have<br />
just been auctioned <strong>and</strong> I am pleased to announce that the two<br />
Chinese ivory figures <strong>and</strong> the two collections of Chinese<br />
internally painted snuff bottles have realised the marvellous<br />
figure of £1,262.61. Rest assured there is more to follow.<br />
Joan Dryburgh, Antiques <strong>and</strong> Collectables<br />
Truly Scrumptious Christian Aid Recipe Book<br />
‘Truly Scrumptious’ contains 58 recipes collected by 14-<br />
year-old Imogen Allen, a member of <strong>St</strong> Laurence's Church in<br />
Scalby, Yorkshire. Sales have already exceeded £600 <strong>and</strong><br />
Imogen has proved to be a great ambassador for Christian<br />
Aid's work with poor communities around the world. To<br />
obtain a copy of Truly Scrumptious, which costs £3, call<br />
0113 2444764 or email yorkshire@christian-aid.org<br />
13 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
Charity Chic<br />
Eco Fashion Fair<br />
We’re holding our annual<br />
Charity Chic Eco Fashion Fair<br />
Thursday 9 –Saturday 11 October<br />
<strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong>,<br />
George <strong>St</strong>reet<br />
supported by John Lewis<br />
It’s a stylish mix of clothes <strong>and</strong> accessories from local charities<br />
<strong>and</strong> makers designed to raise awareness of reducing, reusing<br />
<strong>and</strong> recycling in fashion <strong>and</strong> to raise funds for good causes.<br />
How you can help<br />
Give time<br />
If you can help with setting up, staffing <strong>and</strong> taking down, please<br />
contact Dorothy MacKenzie<br />
If you can help with catering – home baking <strong>and</strong> vintage teas -<br />
please contact Jean Brodie<br />
Donate something for a Christian Aid stall<br />
If you can donate a piece of costume jewellery please contact<br />
Halla Beloff<br />
If you have any 50s <strong>and</strong> 60s clothes that you would like to<br />
donate please contact Bridget Harris or Alison Bruce<br />
Help us publicise the event<br />
Flyers <strong>and</strong> posters will be available soon. Please tell your<br />
friends, daughters, gr<strong>and</strong>daughters, nieces… <strong>and</strong> gentlemen<br />
too.<br />
Thank you!<br />
Debbie Bayne, Creative Space <strong>and</strong> the Charity Chic team<br />
charitychic@st<strong>and</strong>rews<strong>and</strong>stgeorges.org.uk<br />
14 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
Judy’s<br />
Affordable<br />
Vintage Fair<br />
is coming to <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s<br />
<strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong>,<br />
George <strong>St</strong>reet<br />
Saturday 18 <strong>September</strong><br />
11am - 4pm<br />
The Affordable Vintage Fair holds regular events in cities<br />
including London, Liverpool, Leeds, Newcastle, Nottingham<br />
Oxford <strong>and</strong> Cambridge.<br />
Thanks to Bridget Harris for this.<br />
TRANSITION EDINBURGH - PAINTING EDINBURGH GREEN<br />
A two day event to help communities reduce their carbon emissions<br />
<strong>and</strong> prepare for a low carbon lifestyle based at<br />
Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny <strong>St</strong>reet, Edinburgh<br />
Saturday 25 <strong>September</strong> 11.00 - 16.00 Market place of stalls &<br />
activities, storytelling, children’s activities, chill zone, local produce,<br />
fair trade cafe. Free entry<br />
Sunday 26 <strong>September</strong> 10.00 - 16.00 Day Conference: How local<br />
communities can survive the financial & environmental crisis<br />
A space to explore options for local action in & around Edinburgh,<br />
with keynote speakers & interactive sessions. Open to all groups &<br />
individuals embracing the ‘Transition’ to low-carbon, sustainable,<br />
life-enhancing communities. Communal breakfast <strong>and</strong> lunch<br />
provided. Free entry<br />
Thanks to Alison Campbell <strong>and</strong> Friends of the Earth for this<br />
15 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
It’s not quite “Goodbye”<br />
from him but it’s definitely<br />
“hello” from me<br />
I welcome this opportunity to introduce myself as Chairman of<br />
Edinburgh City Centre Churches Together in succession to<br />
Russell McLarty.<br />
Let me first pay tribute to Russell’s achievements in this<br />
ambitious attempt to create a new ecumenical partnership. The<br />
future of the three congregations lies in working more closely<br />
together while retaining their distinctive identities. From his<br />
position as Interim Minster at <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s<br />
<strong>West</strong> (STAGW), he has given unstintingly of his time, his<br />
negotiating talents <strong>and</strong> his experience combined with his skills<br />
in the art of storytelling. This has released a new spirit of<br />
mutual trust <strong>and</strong> forbearance among the Trustees <strong>and</strong> the<br />
Clergy with which we can do great things. So, we say a hearty<br />
thank you to Russell <strong>and</strong> wish him everything that is good for<br />
the remainder of his career in the ministry. Russell will continue<br />
as a Trustee while he is Interim Moderator of STAGW.<br />
My own background is more conventional in that I have been<br />
an elder in <strong>St</strong> Cuthbert’s for almost 40 years <strong>and</strong>, like a number<br />
of others prominent in constituent Churches, I was once a<br />
m<strong>and</strong>arin in <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s House. I spent a lively year in 1972 –<br />
3 as Chairman of the committee which ran the Corner <strong>St</strong>one<br />
Coffee House as an outreach project of the Council of <strong>West</strong><br />
End Churches, whose meetings I attended. It was through the<br />
Corner <strong>St</strong>one that I met my wife, Irene. Later I chaired the<br />
CWEC/WECT Christian Aid Group <strong>and</strong> spent four fascinating<br />
years on Christian Aid’s governing body for Britain <strong>and</strong> Irel<strong>and</strong>.<br />
I remain an unrepentant enthusiast for the ecumenical<br />
partnership in which I believe we should do together those<br />
16 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
things which can best be done at TOGETHER level, mainly<br />
outreach to the community on our doorsteps from the homeless<br />
at our gates to directors in their board rooms. Other examples<br />
of outreach are, Christian Aid fundraising events, the Night<br />
Shelters for the Homeless, the <strong>St</strong>ory telling events plus<br />
activities under the banners of “Creative Space” <strong>and</strong> the<br />
Festival of Spirituality <strong>and</strong> Peace.<br />
The Trustees’ role is to take decisions, allocate resources <strong>and</strong><br />
plan ahead <strong>and</strong> not in any way to influence the worship <strong>and</strong><br />
management of the three congregations. Nor should we<br />
become involved in the Pastoral Care of their members which<br />
is best left to the constituent Churches to pursue. We will,<br />
however, continue to promote joint services <strong>and</strong> other<br />
occasions in which we can join together for prayer, study <strong>and</strong><br />
worship.<br />
None of this work has so far been particularly visible but it<br />
should become more so with the arrival in post of our part time<br />
co-ordinator, Joe Evans, who is a member of <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong><br />
<strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong>. Thanks to the kindness of that congregation,<br />
Joe has the use of an office in the George <strong>St</strong>reet building <strong>and</strong><br />
can currently be contacted on 0131 225 5921.<br />
He will act mainly as a central link between the various<br />
TOGETHER projects, between the congregations, <strong>and</strong> with the<br />
local community; finding common ground <strong>and</strong> trying to help us<br />
to find better ways of working together. By meetings in person<br />
as well as communicating through the magazines <strong>and</strong> the<br />
internet, he hopes to find new resources which we didn’t know<br />
we had <strong>and</strong> use the resources we already have in more<br />
productive <strong>and</strong> innovative ways.<br />
So to those who wonder when is TOGETHER going to start in<br />
earnest, I say that we are already in business <strong>and</strong> are currently<br />
moving on the publicity, Homeless <strong>and</strong> Christian Aid fronts.<br />
17 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
Progress has been slower on other items such as<br />
Communications through a quarterly magazine, now due in<br />
November, a Workplace Chaplain for the shops <strong>and</strong> offices <strong>and</strong><br />
<strong>St</strong>reet Angels/Pastors for the club scene.<br />
I hope this gives you some feel for what TOGETHER is doing.<br />
We can only succeed with the support of individual members of<br />
the Churches <strong>and</strong> I will keep you informed of developments.<br />
Joe <strong>and</strong> I plan to meet as many of you as we can during the<br />
remainder of this year.<br />
Kenneth MacKenzie<br />
Fill us with a passion for righteousness <strong>and</strong> a zeal to<br />
serve where there is need.<br />
Being Christian in the 21 st Century<br />
Marcus J Borg at <strong>St</strong> John’s<br />
Marcus J. Borg is Hundere Distinguished Professor of Religion<br />
<strong>and</strong> Culture at Oregon <strong>St</strong>ate University.<br />
Saturday 11th <strong>September</strong> 10 am to 4.00 pm Three Lectures<br />
‘Being Christian in the 21st century’ a few tickets left at £22<br />
from adrian.alker@pcnbritain.org.uk No tickets on the door.<br />
Sunday 12th <strong>September</strong>: Morning Service at 10.30 am, when<br />
Marcus Borg will be the preacher<br />
http://www.pcnbritain.org.uk/index.php/events/detail/being_christian_in_the_21st_century/<br />
18 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
19 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
Two Business Alpha courses in Edinburgh<br />
Janice Todd<br />
Business Alpha is the Alpha course in a business /office-world<br />
context. It helps people explore the meaning of life, discover<br />
the person of Jesus <strong>and</strong> come to faith. A group of office people<br />
from across the churches in Edinburgh have run this course for<br />
several years. To date over 300 guests have attended <strong>and</strong><br />
many have experienced their dormant faith fan into flame, <strong>and</strong><br />
some guests of no faith have come to faith. Business Alpha<br />
has then helped them grow in their faith <strong>and</strong> find a church. The<br />
Business Alpha course is run very professionally - for office<br />
people, by office people <strong>and</strong> with speakers from various work<br />
backgrounds.<br />
Please do bring this course to the attention of anyone you<br />
know who works in the city who might be interested. Tell them<br />
the course is a chance to explore the meaning of life <strong>and</strong> that<br />
they can attend a Taster event with a notable speaker.<br />
In fact, there are going to be two Taster sessions for two<br />
separate but identical tracks: one Taster after work in the<br />
Holyrood Hotel, Wednesday 15th <strong>September</strong>, the other Taster<br />
at lunchtime in the Roxburghe Hotel, Thursday 16th<br />
<strong>September</strong>. The speaker at both will be Jonathan Aitken, the<br />
former Cabinet Minister in Mrs Thatcher's government who<br />
came to faith as a result of a major crisis in his life. He is a<br />
superb speaker.<br />
www.businessalphaedinburgh.com<br />
20 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
Looking for a training course? In the fields of counselling,<br />
children & young people, supervision or substance use?<br />
Simpson House Training is proud to deliver quality<br />
training - where we work hard to help you succeed.<br />
It's not too late to register your interest in courses<br />
starting Autumn <strong>2010</strong> .........<br />
Diploma in Higher Education Counselling Children <strong>and</strong><br />
Young People<br />
COSCA Certificate in Counselling - Children & Young<br />
People<br />
COSCA Certificate in Counselling - Generic<br />
COSCA Certificate in Counselling - Substance Use &<br />
Dependency<br />
COSCA Certificate in Supervision / Skills<br />
www.simpson-house.org<br />
working in partnership with COSCA, Middlesex University,<br />
Learn Direct Scotl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> Mairi Nye Associates<br />
For more information please contact Lesley Orr,<br />
Administrator, Simpson House Training, 52 Queen <strong>St</strong>reet,<br />
Edinburgh, EH2 3NS<br />
21 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
Tel/Fax : 0131 477 3883<br />
www.aceit.org.uk<br />
Volunteers Wanted!<br />
The Moose in the Hoose project needs more volunteers to help<br />
bring the benefits of email <strong>and</strong> the internet to older people<br />
living in care homes across Edinburgh.<br />
• Do you enjoy talking to older people?<br />
• Do you have basic computer skills?<br />
• Can you give 2-3 hours per week for at least a year?<br />
If you are 18 years or over <strong>and</strong> want to know more, please<br />
contact the Project Manager, Terry Blair, on 0131 477 3883<br />
or email terry@aceit.org.uk<br />
You can also visit Moose in the Hoose at<br />
www.aceit.org.uk/moose<br />
22 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
An Old Friend<br />
Alex Harper<br />
As I made my way down to the basement my eye was caught<br />
by a glimpse of subtle-blue velour <strong>and</strong> there it was, nestling in<br />
the corner of the stair. The one-time <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> pulpit<br />
sofa: having checked with those who know such things to be<br />
sure that is the proper furnishing terminology!<br />
As you know my thoughts often take an irreverent turn, <strong>and</strong> I<br />
began to muse on the quantity – <strong>and</strong> quality – of the bottoms<br />
that had graced its battered surface over the years.<br />
In its heyday the SGW pulpit sofa welcomed many preachers,<br />
some renowned <strong>and</strong> some unknown quantities, but all adding<br />
to what was the SGW experience.<br />
You will have your own memories, but for me the ultimate peak<br />
was the structured eloquent reasoning of James S. <strong>St</strong>ewart,<br />
whose oft requested sermon featuring Joshua’s exploits at<br />
Jericho I will never forget, contrasting perhaps with couthy<br />
homilies of old Mr. Irwin (of Dores!) lingering in many a<br />
memory. Contrast again with our homegrown Bill Shaw –<br />
forsaker of the law – in clinically reasoned expositions, to many<br />
foreshadowing his future rise to theological eminence.<br />
Murdo 1 himself was generous in making his pulpit available to<br />
guest preachers <strong>and</strong> student assistants alike, quite apart from<br />
1 Revd Prof Murdo Ewan Macdonald (1914 - 2004)<br />
Prof Macdonald was educated in the village school in Drinishader,<br />
Harris <strong>and</strong> from there he received bursaries to Tarbert <strong>and</strong> Kingussie<br />
Schools <strong>and</strong> gone on to <strong>St</strong> Andrews University. He was inducted to<br />
the Ministry in 1939, received a call up to the Armed Forces in 1940<br />
<strong>and</strong> after a spell as chaplain to the Queen’s Own Highl<strong>and</strong>ers in the<br />
23 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
the fact that his couple of months’ break in the summer gave<br />
the congregation an opportunity to hear other clerical views. All<br />
these were occupants of the sofa at one time or another!!!<br />
If the old sofa could speak what tales it would tell of what some<br />
term as “the glory days” of communal wholehearted worship in<br />
a packed church in which it was indeed a privilege to<br />
participate.<br />
Relegated now to its basement situation it is still performing at<br />
a lower level its intended function giving a resting place to<br />
many bottoms whose owners pass through our portals daily<br />
<strong>and</strong> especially at Festival Time, enjoying a few moments’<br />
relaxation – just as much in God’s service, surely, as offering<br />
comfort to the eminent?<br />
A nostalgic backward look <strong>and</strong> a wee stroll down memory lane<br />
helps keep reminiscence alive, but time moves inexorably on,<br />
<strong>and</strong> we – often in spite of ourselves – must move with it.<br />
Just like the old sofa!<br />
Caribbean, he volunteered for the 1st Parachute Brigade. He was<br />
captured by German forces <strong>and</strong> imprisoned for the remainder of the<br />
war. After the war he received a call to Partick <strong>and</strong> from there to <strong>St</strong><br />
George’s <strong>West</strong> where his preaching <strong>and</strong> personality had a profound<br />
effect on young people, particularly students. In 1964 he became<br />
Professor of Practical Theology at Glasgow University. Murdo Ewen<br />
brought a radical zeal <strong>and</strong> Celtic eloquence to his ministry <strong>and</strong> was<br />
always robust in his projection of Christianity <strong>and</strong> left-wing political<br />
beliefs.<br />
24 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
The Cracked Pot<br />
submitted by Ruth Sheard<br />
A water-bearer in India has two large pots; one hung on each<br />
end of a pole which he carried across his neck. One of the<br />
pots had a crack in it, while the other pot was perfect <strong>and</strong><br />
always delivered a full portion of water at the end of the long<br />
walk from the stream to the master’s house. The cracked pot<br />
arrived only half full.<br />
For a full two years this went on daily, with the bearer<br />
delivering only one <strong>and</strong> a half pots full of water in his master’s<br />
house. Of course, the perfect pot was proud of its<br />
accomplishments, perfect to the end for which it was made.<br />
But the poor cracked pot was ashamed of its own imperfection,<br />
<strong>and</strong> miserable that it was able to accomplish only half of what it<br />
had been made to do.<br />
After two years of what it perceived to be a bitter failure, it<br />
spoke to the water-bearer one day by the stream. “I am<br />
ashamed of myself, <strong>and</strong> I want to apologise to you.”<br />
“Why?” asked the bearer. “What are you ashamed of?”<br />
“I have been able, for these past two years, to deliver only half<br />
my load because this crack in my side causes water to leak out<br />
all the way back to your master’s house. Because of my flaws,<br />
you have to do all of this work, <strong>and</strong> you don’t get full value from<br />
your efforts.”<br />
The water-bearer felt sorry for the old cracked pot, <strong>and</strong> in his<br />
compassion he said, “As we return to the master’s house, I<br />
want you to notice the beautiful flowers along the path.”<br />
Indeed, as they went up the hill, the old cracked pot took notice<br />
of the sun warming the beautiful wild flowers on the side of the<br />
path, <strong>and</strong> this cheered it somewhat. But at the end of the trail,<br />
it still felt bad because it had leaked out half its load, <strong>and</strong> so<br />
again the pot apologised to the bearer for its failure.<br />
25 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
The bearer said to the pot, “Did you notice that there were<br />
flowers only on your side of your path, but not on the other<br />
pot’s side? That’s because I have always known about your<br />
flaw, <strong>and</strong> I took advantage of it. I planted flower seeds on your<br />
side of the path, <strong>and</strong> every day while we have walked back<br />
from the stream, you’ve watered them. For two years I have<br />
been able to pick these beautiful flowers to decorate my<br />
master’s table. Without you being just the way you are, he<br />
would not have this beauty to grace his house.”<br />
Each of us has our own unique flaws.<br />
We are all cracked pots.<br />
But if we allow it, our flaws are used to grace life’s table.<br />
In God’s great economy, nothing goes to waste.<br />
Don’t be afraid of your flaws.<br />
Acknowledge them, <strong>and</strong> you too can be the cause of<br />
beauty. Know that in our weakness we find our strength.<br />
26 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
<strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong>, Edinburgh<br />
Interim Minister<br />
Associate Interim<br />
Minister<br />
Russell McLarty 018756 14496<br />
Alan Ward 07709 906 130<br />
Joint Session Clerks Alison Campbell 0131 556 2895<br />
Barbara Finlayson 0131 312 6351<br />
Joint Treasurers John Innes 0131 332 2702<br />
Allan Sim 0131 552 9254<br />
Director of Music Brigitte Harris 0131 556 1759<br />
Key <strong>St</strong>aff at our Sh<strong>and</strong>wick Place Building 0131 225 7001<br />
Creative Space<br />
Centre manager<br />
Administrator<br />
Volunteer<br />
Coordinator<br />
Senior caretaker<br />
Cook<br />
Debbie Bayne mail@creativespacesgw.org.uk<br />
Becky Duncan becky@stgeorgeswest.com<br />
Joe Doody mail@stgeorgeswest.com<br />
Andrew Hynd<br />
volunteers@stgeorgeswest.com<br />
Diego Musazzi<br />
Colin Sharp<br />
Key staff at our George <strong>St</strong>reet Building 0131 225 3847<br />
Church Secretary<br />
Church Manager<br />
Church Officer<br />
Café Manager<br />
TOGETHER Comms<br />
co-ordinator<br />
Joyce Garl<strong>and</strong><br />
info@st<strong>and</strong>rews<strong>and</strong>stgeorges.org.uk<br />
Cathie Donaldson<br />
Eddie McRiner<br />
Wayne Williams<br />
Joe Evans 0131 225 5921<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 />
27 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter
<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<br />
Edinburgh 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 />
Hospitality is not to change<br />
people but to offer them<br />
space where change can<br />
take place.<br />
It is not to bring men <strong>and</strong><br />
women over to our sides,<br />
but to offer freedom not<br />
disturbed by dividing lines<br />
the paradox of hospitality is<br />
that it wants to create<br />
emptiness<br />
not a fearful emptiness; but<br />
a friendly emptiness where<br />
strangers can enter <strong>and</strong><br />
discover themselves as<br />
created free<br />
<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<br />
Edinburgh 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<br />
Mon- Fri<br />
10am - 3pm<br />
Undercroft Café<br />
Open Mon-Fri<br />
10am - 2.30pm<br />
free to sing their own songs,<br />
speak their own languages,<br />
dance their own dances<br />
free also to leave <strong>and</strong> follow<br />
their own vocations.<br />
Hospitality is not a subtle<br />
invitation to adopt the life<br />
style of the host, but the gift<br />
of a chance for guests to<br />
find their own.<br />
Henri Nouwen<br />
Reaching out<br />
28 <strong>St</strong> Andrew’s <strong>and</strong> <strong>St</strong> George’s <strong>West</strong> Edinburgh <strong>September</strong> <strong>2010</strong> Newsletter