We’ve had our usual busy season in the Church with the cleverly staged new-look Nativity, the more traditional Nine Lessons and Carols, the entertaining Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services and the joint services with Gladsmuir and the Cockenzie Methodists. As if Robin, Marion and the others didn’t have enough to do at Christmas without all the extra services to compose and conduct – even the ‘usual’ services take a fair bit of organising to keep them fresh – and we are most grateful to all yet again.
In December, however, we did have a new service – a Bereavement Service – for anyone in the village who felt the need for a little extra comfort at this time of year when memories come flooding back, while all around are happily awaiting Christmas. Opinions beforehand were quite polarised, with some folks saying it was a lovely idea, while others were not in favour at all. The service itself attracted more than thirty people, not all members of our church, and several afterwards specifically sought out Rev. Frances Henderson, who conducted the service in a simple, meaningful and positive manner, and/or Elders present to express their thanks, because the service had meant so much to them.
The event was therefore a definite success – even if only one person had been comforted it would still have been worthwhile – and one which will be repeated.
So that’s it, then, back to ‘auld claes and parritch’ for us all now that the Festive Season has finally ceased – and even the snow has gone too (at least as I write this it has!). Here’s to next Christmas!
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Children, aged 3 - 8 years old, can come to the Sunday Club during the 9.45 service. They have a story, followed by related crafts and games. Sometimes, we get adventurous and go outside; sometimes we stay in and watch a DVD. But there's usually juice and biscuits at the end! Please come along and visit - we'd love to meet you and have you join us!
Older kids, from about 9 - 11 (P5 - P7) come along to Junior TYC during the service. They usually go into topics in more depth, as well creating crafts, writing and performing dramas, making presentations on the PC etc.
Please note: during the school break, the Sunday Club and JTYC will run on February 14th but will be on holiday on February 21st. |
TYC is aimed at S1 and beyond. They meet up on a Friday for activities (e.g. games night in the Community Centre, going to the cinema, bowling, swimming) and then also meet for breakfast on a Sunday morning. During the Sunday breakfast (once the bacon rolls and chocolate croissants have been eaten), there's a topical discussion. |
The Belleplates group in the Church is known as "The Clangers".
We
meet most Sundays (not usually on Communion Sunday or in school
holidays) at 11am to practice the belleplates (otherwise known as
handbells for dummies!) and anyone is welcome to join us. Our youngest
player is in P7! We are a very informal group and we 'perform' in
church a few times a year, e.g. Christmas, Easter. |
