news

This is the
churches' news-sheet
for
June 2007

From the Manse

As I write our thoughts and prayers continue to reflect our concern and sadness over the abduction of a little child called Madeleine. It is any parent's worst nightmare and we have witnessed the heartache of her parents in recent days and the very public campaign which ensures that her name is kept in the forefront of the media. Of course, in our wealthy and regulated society this is easy to do. Sadly however we need to be mindful also that every day children go missing in some remote corner of the globe without any mention. May our prayers reach out to them as well.

On a lighter note, it was a pleasure to see such support for the service attended by our Boys Brigade Company recently. They really are a credit to our BB Captain and Leaders. For the majority of those present in church, it was an absolute joy and delight to behold. Of course, children's services don't please everyone, (I can't think why?) as odd and obvious 'tut, tutting' even reached the minister's ears! How do we expect to encourage our young families to come to church and feel welcome, with such obvious intolerance ? It's not a new phenomenon of course. Even our Lord himself had to deal with ignorant disciples who thought that children were unworthy of their Master's time - and how did he react? By welcoming them! Why? Because children have the kind of faith and trust needed to enter God's kingdom. It is vital that we introduce our children to Jesus and that we also approach him with childlike attitudes of acceptance, faith and trust.

"Let the children come to me do not hinder them, for to such belongs the Kingdom of God"!

God bless you and yours.

Duncan

Protecting children while on the Internet

The internet is a valuable educational and social tool and has also become a new form of entertainment for children. All those responsible for the care of children or young people should however be aware of the associated risks surrounding the use of the internet. The Home Office has produced a leaflet which includes information, advice and guidance on how to protect children while they are on the internet. You can download the [.pdf] leaflet directly from: www.psni.police.uk/parents-guide.pdf

Parish Register

We extend our condolences to members of the family.
12th May Mrs M Anderson, 55a Forteath Street, Burghead

Communion

A joint Communion Service will be held in Alves Church on Sunday, 3rd June.
Please note that there will NOT be a service at Burghead.

Sunday Services - Scripture Readings

A list of Bible Readings for each of the services for the next three months is on the Notice Board at the church entrance. Anyone who would like to read a lesson during the service, please append your name to the sheet.

Guild

The Annual Guild Rally will be held in the Caird Hall, Dundee, on Saturday, 25th August. Two tickets are available. Anyone wishing to attend the Rally, please contact Ruth on 01343835946 or 07967685357.

Christian Aid

In the parish, collections, donations and a Coffee Morning for Christian Aid raised the sum of £ 1005.80. Thanks to all who contributed.

Garden Party At Ruth's the sum of £ 81.75 was collected for Pasha's Orphanage work in Moscow. Thanks to all who donated.

Boys Brigade

The Boys Brigade attended the church on the last Sunday in May for the end of year ceremony. Service badges, promotion certificates and trophies were awarded. It was interesting to note that the boys are involved in a number of projects. These range from the local history of Burghead to worldwide issues. Thanks go to the officers and helpers.

Blythswood

The monthly collection will be on Tuesday, 19th June.

Transporting Children ?

New Child Car Seat Law: advice and information
With the onset of summer and school holidays, it may be that some grandparents may be helping to care for grandchildren. If however you are and are going to transport them in your car, do please check that your seats comply with the new regulations or you may risk a fine. A range of information, advice and guidance is available about the new child car seat laws in the UK on the UK Department of Transport website. For more information, including a range of advice leaflets to download, please visit: www.thinkroadsafety.gov.uk