news

This is the
churches' news-sheet
for
November 2006

from the manse . . .

November, and our thoughts lead to Remembrance. Remembering those from our community who have died in wars and conflicts, even up to the present day. Every year there's aye someone who raises the whole issue of Remembrance and why we continue with it. Triumphalism some call it. Sadly even some churches and clergy try to steer away from it! Personally I've never understood that view, as if we were a nation of warmongers. Along with some of you who may read this, each and every day I used to minister to military personnel. Those whose training and commitment is geared towards defence of the realm and, if so ordered, even to the point of war. Yet in my experience, ("In my heart of hearts, Padre"), the very last thing any of them wanted to do was to be called upon to 'Go to war'. Why? Well because, by and large, they are a young, fit and active community with a love for life. They, more than any, are all too aware of the destructive power and suffering which can result from modern-day conflict. Let us all remember that, even as we read this newsletter, Service personnel are actively engaged in such duties and risking their lives for the freedom and peace of others. The supreme sacrifice made by our sailors, soldiers and airmen is recalled by our wearing of the Red Poppy. A symbol of blood shed and a body sacrificed. Their sacrifice, lest we forget, follows the example of another whose death is symbolised not by the Poppy but by Bread and Wine. May God forgive us if Remembrance Day is ever viewed as nostalgic pomp and circumstance, or that the sign of the Cross is consigned to folklore and legend. "At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them". May the peace of God be upon you and yours and all who serve in our Armed Services.

Duncan

Remembrance Sunday 2006

Burghead - 1050 Meet at the War Memorial for Wreath Laying and The Silence, followed immediately by the Remembrance Service at 1130.

Alves - 1430 Wreath Laying Ceremony at War Memorial.

Communion

A joint Communion Service will be held in Alves Church on Sunday, 3rd December.

Life and Work Magazine

Orders for 2007 have to be forwarded soon.
There is no change in the cost. The yearly subscription remains at £ 16.00. Please contact Mrs A Milligan, 55 Grant Street, Burghead, telephone 830096, by 12th November to confirm or cancel your copy of Life and Work.

Weekly Freewill Offering Envelopes

Shortly, the list of envelopes for next year will be compiled.
If you wish your name to be added to the list, OR wish to have your name removed from the list, please inform the convener, Mrs J Smith, telephone 542635, by the end of the month.

Guild

Burghead :
Tuesday, 7th November:- Topic - Light Work's not always Easy ~ Mr John Macpherson Tuesday, 21st November:- Topic - Then and Now - Let's talk about Body Image Sunday, 26th November:- Praise Evening, 7pm in the Church

Blythswood

The monthly collection will be on Tuesday, 21st November.

Coffee Morning

Saturday 5th November: There will be an Earl Haig Fund Coffee Morning 10am to 12 mid-day in the church hall