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Media Information
2002-2007 Presbytery Press Officer,
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NEW MINISTERS
ARRIVE IN CITY Two new ministers have been inducted into charges in Aberdeen Presbytery recently. The Rev Keith Blackwood was inducted to Mannofield Church on June 21st. Mr Blackwood was formerly minister at Bearsden North Church. Mr Blackwood is married to Katrina and they have three young children. He took over from the Rev John Anderson, who had a long ministry at the church. On August 23rd, the Rev Hugh Wallace was inducted to Newhills Church, following the retirement of the Rev Norrie McIvor. Mr Wallace was previously at Mount Florida Church in Glasgow. He is married to Rae and they have three grown up children. SERVICE OF COMMEMORATION FOR DIANA PRINCESS OF WALES This service will take place on Friday 31st August Service at 12 noon Kirk in St Nicholas Uniting and will be conducted by the Rev Stephen Taylor. The service will last between 20 - 40 minutes. SUMMERHILL FLOWER FESTIVAL This special event will take place at Summerhill Parish Church, Stronsay Drive, on Friday 31 August - Sunday 2 September. The title is "Fit Like?" and the times will be Friday 10am-4pm, Saturday 10am - 4pm Sunday 2 September 2 - 4pm . Admission is £2.50 which includes refreshments. [24 August 2007]
FIRST GROUP PRAISED FOR
GENEROUS OFFER [22 May 2007]
Pictured is Rev Elspeth Harley, the new half time minister at Middlefield Parish Church, and Mrs Maureen Simpson, Moderator of the Presbytery of Aberdeen, at Mrs Harley's Induction Service on Thursday 17th May. Mrs Simpson, who was once Session Clerk at Middlefield, inducted Rev Elspeth Harley into the first such half time post in the Church of Scotland not involving married ministerial couples. [18 May 2007]
DUKE OF YORK TO VISIT
PRESBYTERY OF ABERDEEN [17 May 2007] MALAWI PARTNERSHIP
RENEWED [17 May 2007] AN INDUCTION WITH A
DIFFERENCE [17 May 2007]
RETIRAL OF LONG SERVING
MINISTER A Service of Celebration for all Christians from
home and abroad will take place on Sunday 25th June at 2pm in Ruthrieston
South Church (to become South Holburn*) on Holburn Street. [20 June 2006] |
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CHURCHES TO UNITE Two Aberdeen churches are set to unite next month. Holburn Central and Ruthrieston South church will unite to form the new congregation of South Holburn. Ruthrieston South fell vacant with the retiral of the Rev. Hugh Kerr. The plan was approved by the Presbytery of Aberdeen at its recent meeting and means that the Holburn Central building will be sold or let, with worship for the new congregation taking place in Ruthrieston South. The minister of the new charge will be the Rev. George Cowie of Holburn Central and his induction and the Service of Union will take place on Thursday June 22nd. NEW MODERATOR Aberdeen Presbytery has a new Moderator. The Rev. James Davies of St Stephen’s Church has taken over from the Rev. Andrew Wilson. Mr Davies has been a minister in Aberdeen since 1989 and he is married with two children. A MULTI ETHNIC CHURCH The appreciation that there are many Christians in Aberdeen from other countries has led the World Church Committee of Aberdeen Presbytery to organise a special worship event called ‘Aberdeen: A Multi Ethnic Church- Service of Celebration.’ Invitations have been made to Christian ethnic groups or churches that meet in the city from many different areas of the world. The service will take place in South Holburn Church (formerly Ruthrieston South) on Sunday 25th June at 2.00p.m. GRANTS FOR YOUTH CHURCH YOUTH WORK A total of £10,500 has been disbursed from a special fund for youth work among churches in Aberdeen. The Youth Outreach Project Fund has given grants to various exciting youth projects in the city. These include money for a new internet café at Ferryhill Church, a new alternative worship service for young people and young adults in Bridge of Don, plus grants for the Rock Youth Club at St Columba’s Bridge of Don and for the Blue Horizon Project in Kincorth and Cove, which is a voluntary youth trust supporting and inspiring vulnerable young people and their families. The grants demonstrate that at a time when many people assume that the work of the church among young people is in decline, there is in fact a great deal of positive work taking place. FAMINE RELIEF FOR MALAWI RAISES FANTASTIC TOTAL Local Christians have raised £26,000 for famine relief in Malawi. The money was sent out to the Blantyre City Presbytery in Malawi which is in partnership with Aberdeen Presbytery. 14 people from Aberdeen churches will be making a visit to the church in Malawi this September. A Concert for Malawi will take place in Queen’s Cross Church on Friday 16th June at 7.30p.m. and tickets can be purchased by phoning 486665. [2 May 2006] |
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CHURCHES MEET THE CHALLENGES
OF CHANGING TIMES A remarkable series of church success stories was presented to ministers and elders of the Church of Scotland in Aberdeen at the March 2006 Presbytery meeting. Members of the Presbytery were delighted to hear good news stories from three congregations known as ‘New Charge Development’ churches. The ‘NCD’ congregations have a special status in the church where there is a recognition of the demographic shifts and population changes that have taken place across Scotland in previous decades. Older areas, once densely-populated, have given way to new housing estates and the Church has had to keep up with this trend. The solution has been to plant new charges and build up communities of faith specific to the needs of the local area. New forms of church and approach to church planting are researched through contacts throughout the world to consider the most helpful models of new church in Scotland. In some cases, the church may not even its own building and will meet perhaps in a primary school or community centre. These congregations are encouraged to seek new ways of being the Church by adopting different structures and forms of worship. They are not required to contribute to central funds to the same extent as other congregations, in order to allow them to put all resources into the local church. There are twelve such charges in Scotland and three of them are in Aberdeen. Aberdeen Presbytery heard about the exiting developments which have taken place in Cove, Stockethill and Bridge of Don: Oldmachar. Just some examples from each church are; Cove: A youth project called ‘Blue Horizon’ has helped young people widen their horizons through practical experiences. One example has been to take a group of young people from Kincorth Academy to Peru to see the work of a church funded project called Amazon Hope, which is helping street kids there. A staggering 200 people attended a special Christmas event at Cove. Stockethill: Attendance at worship has increased by an astonishing 40%. The church is concentrating on ministering to people who do not have a Christian background and are seeking answers to spiritual questions. Bridge of Don: Oldmachar: The worship sanctuary is struggling to cope with the large numbers who attend on a Sunday morning. The challenge facing the church is how to manage growth more effectively. The church is working in five local schools and has offered Gap Year experiences for older teenagers in the church. Such stories are not unique to New Charge Development congregations. But they show that the Church of Scotland can still successfully plant new churches and bring about growth at a time when the general trend is that of falling numbers of church members. This is of great encouragement for the Church a whole. See attached background document for more information CAIRNS COUNSELLING SERVICE CELEBRATES 10TH BIRTHDAY A counselling service set up by the Presbytery of Aberdeen has celebrated the 10th anniversary of its foundation. Cairns Counselling is funded by Aberdeen Presbytery, NHS Grampian, other trusts and individual donations. At a recent meeting of Aberdeen Presbytery, the chairman of the Centre’s Management committee, Rev. Bob Brown, spoke warmly about the tremendous work which the centre has undertaken over the past 10 years and the many people who have been helped by it. He paid tribute to the outgoing director, Mrs Eleanor Olley, who is retiring from the post. MINISTER TO RETIRE The minister of Ruthrieston South Parish Chruch, the Rev. Hugh Kerr, is due to retire later this month after serving the congregation for 22 years. Mr Kerr plans to continue t live in Aberdeen. He was warmly thanked for his work at a recent meeting of the Presbytery of Aberdeen. It has been proposed that Ruthrieston South should be united with Holburn Central and that the new minister will be the Rev. George Cowie of Holburn Central, with the congregation meeting in the Ruthrieston South building. [8 March 2006] |
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10 YEAR PLAN APPROVED The Presbytery of Aberdeen has approved a 10 year plan for the congregations within its bounds. It must be stressed that this is only a plan and it can be reviewed and changed. The main points are as follows:
AMAZING TOTAL FOR MALAWI APPEAL [8 February 2006] |
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Eco Congregation Award Peterculter Parish Church has been awarded an eco congregation award, one of only 23 congregations in Scotland to receive such recognition. On Sunday November 13th, the Church was visited by the team from the eco-congregation project, who met with members of the Justice & Peace group and others from within the congregation. This visit forms part of the assessment process, and the team were able to make a variety of suggestions for the church to consider in its future plans. At the same time they commended the work that the congregation has done so far, including the church refurbishment, childrens activities, the use of Fairtrade products and the partnership with St. Paul's Church, Blantyre Presbytery in Malawi. In recognition of the award, the Church has received a plaque and the eco-congregation assessment team will also send a written report on their findings. www.ecocongregation.org/scotland for background details [21 November 2005] |
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CHURCHES WILL UNITE TO
CREATE A NEW CONGREGATION The new congregation of Midstocket Church will use the present St. Ninian’s Church building as its place of worship. A panel of independent arbiters made the decision yesterday, which means that Beechgrove Church will either be sold or let. The Service of Union will take place in St. Ninian’s Church on November 17th. POSSIBLE CLOSURE OF DENBURN AND ROSEMOUNT CHURCHES A decision on the future of Denburn Church and Rosemount Church will be made by the Presbytery of Aberdeen at a future meeting. The Kirk Sessions of both churches have agreed to dissolution following discussions with the Presbytery’s Parish Development Committee, but the Presbytery has still to come to a decision on this matter. [3 November 2005] |
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DEPARTURE OF ALISON SWINDELLS The Rev. Alison Swindells of St. Ninian’s Parish Church is leaving her congregation after a ministry there lasting 6 years. Warm tribute was paid to Mrs Swindells at a recent Presbytery meeting. Members of Presbytery heard about her excellent teaching and preaching abilities, her willingness to try new ideas and her caring nature towards those in need. St. Ninina’s Church is shortly to unite with Beechgrove Church to create a new congregation called Midstocket Church. The service of union will take place on November 17th. The decision as to which building is to be chosen as the place of worship will be made by independent arbiters in the next few days. PRESBYTERY DISCUSSES CREDIT AND DEBT Members of Aberdeen Presbytery have discussed the issue of credit and debt at their recent meeting. The Presbytery agreed to encourage congregations to consider forming Credit Unions. In a report to Presbytery, the Church and Society committee stated: Christian responses to credit and debt issues must go beyond simplistic appeals to so-called, higher spiritual values. A Biblical interpretation indicates that wise stewardship of resources is a spiritual perspective on living itself and that injustices of debt and crippling systems of repayment needs to be addressed by the people of God. A number of initiatives addressing these issues have been supported by our Church. The 'Debt on our Doorstep' Campaign, launched in 2000 with the support of several church action groups, aimed to provide viable alternatives to predatory loan companies. With its origins in Britain in West Indian immigration groups in the 1950s, credit unions seek to demonstrate spiritual values by way of encouraging thrift, sharing, honesty and trust amongst members. By offering borrowing at reasonable rates of interest based upon financial prudence of members, these unions offer the prospect of building different types of community based on shared values. Any group, following upon training, can establish a credit union and it is here that churches might find themselves able to help. [2 November 2005] |
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VISITORS FROM MALAWI A delegation from the Presbytery of Blantyre City has now begun a visit to the Presbytery of Aberdeen. The group arrived at Aberdeen Airport on Thursday (with half their luggage missing!) and were welcomed at a reception on Friday evening at Rubislaw Church Centre. They were greeted by the Culter Boys' Brigade Pipe Band and the attached picture shows the group with the band. They then went on to visit the Braemar Gathering and had a high tea at Peterculter Heritage Centre on their way home. In November 2003, The Presbytery of Aberdeen was twinned with Blantyre City Presbytery of Malawi. Since then eighteen congregations in the city have twinned with eighteen individual congregations in Blantyre. The Church of Scotland has had strong links with the Christian Church in Malawi for many years and the two Church’s share many similarities. Transport for the visitors is being generously provided free of charge by First Group. George Mair, the Managing Director, kindly agreed to offer a bus and driver and this offer has been much appreciated by the Presbytery.
[5 September 2005] |
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CHRISTIANS FROM MALAWI TO
VISIT ABERDEEN Christians from Malawi will be visiting Aberdeen next month (September 2005). Hosted by the Presbytery of Aberdeen, the visitors will be attending worship services and touring various locations in the city. In November 2003, The Presbytery of Aberdeen was twinned with Blantyre City Presbytery of Malawi. Since then eighteen congregations in the city have twinned with eighteen individual congregations in Blantyre. The Church of Scotland has had strong links with the Christian Church in Malawi for many years and the two Church’s share many similarities. Part of the twinning agreement between the two Presbyteries is exchange visits both to and from Malawi and so in May of this year a group of eight from Aberdeen set out for Blantyre. Now a return visit is being made with 17 members from congregations in Malawi coming over to Scotland. The visit will include a trip to Crathie Church, a Civic Reception at the Town House, a tour of King’s College, attendance at the Presbytery meeting and a ceiildh at Queen’s Cross Church. Transport for the visitors is being generously provided free of charge by First Bus. George Mair, the Managing Director, kindly agreed to offer a bus and driver and this offer has been much appreciated by the Presbytery. It is hoped that the visit will remind local congregations that we are part of a worldwide Church which, in places such as Malawi, is growing rapidly. It will also continue to strengthen the strong links which have been built between the Malawian Christians and those here in Scotland. [18 August 2005] |
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CHURCHES TO RING BELLS IN
PROTEST DURING G8 SUMMIT Churches throughout Scotland will be ringing their bells in an act of protest on Thursday July 7th at 13.45. The decision to do this came at the recent Church of Scotland General Assembly which passed a deliverance stating: "Encourage churches which have bells to ring them at 1345 hours on Thursday 7 July as a wake up call to the G8 Summit, whose nations have 13 per cent of the world's population but produce 45 per cent of its greenhouse gas emissions, and a sign in support of the poor of the world who will suffer an unfair burden of impact of climate change." A number of local churches in Aberdeen will be taking part in the protest. [21 June 2005] |
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ELECTION OF NEW MODERATOR Aberdeen Presbytery has elected a new Moderator to serve for the next year. He is the Rev. Dr. Andrew Wilson, minister of Rubislaw Church. Dr Wilson recently completed a doctoral degree at Aberdeen University and Pittsburgh Theological Seminary in the United States. He served as assistant minister in Dundee Parish Church (St Mary's) and was minister at Freeland Church, Bridge of Weir from 1978 - 1987 when he became minister at Rubislaw Church. Dr. Wilson is chaplain at St Margaret's School for Girls, Aberdeen, and one of a team of chaplains at Aberdeen Grammar School and Aberdeen College. At the recent meeting of Presbytery, Dr. Wilson paid tribute to his predecessor in the post, Rev. William Campbell, and thanked the Presbytery for the honour of electing him. CONCERN OVER BURMA The Presbytery of Aberdeen has expressed strong concern about the present situation in Burma. Members of Presbytery watched a DVD which showed in graphic detail the appalling human rights abuses and the murders of innocent civilians by the Burmese army. The images clearly shocked those present and there was strong support for the position which the national Church has taken in urging church members to pray for the people of Burma and campaign and agitate for justice there. Church members have also been strongly urged not to holiday in Burma as this is seen as a means of supporting the regime. There was also strong concern expressed about the fact that the Board of World Mission of the Church of Scotland plan to pull out the Kirk's Missionary Partners in Thailand as part of a cost cutting strategy. Presbytery is concerned that the Missionary Partners Mike and Jane Fucella, who are based on the border with Burma, are not having their contracts renewed at a time when they are playing an important role in helping people who are fleeing oppression from Burma. An opportunity to hear from the Fucellas themselves will take place on Saturday May 7th at 10.00a.m. when they will be speaking at a meeting in Cults Parish Church (East Buildings). [4 May 2005] |
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SUN SETS ON COLOURFUL
MINISTRIES The Presbytery of Aberdeen has expressed its appreciation of two local ministers who are retiring. The Rev Ross McLaren is soon to step down as Interim Minister of The Kirk of St Nicholas Uniting and The Rev Iain Forbes is to retire from Beechgrove Parish Church. Mention was made of Mr McLaren's ecumenical career, during which he has ministered to three denominations. Mr Forbes reflected on the contrast between his well resourced ministry in Aberdeen and his previous ministry in Mozambique, where he was equipped with little more than a blackboard which was scarred by a bullet hole. NEW VISION FOR VILLAGE CHURCH The Presbytery of Aberdeen has given its backing to innovative proposals for the Church of Scotland in Cults. A new Christian Outreach Centre is being planned, which will provide a wide range of facilities for the community. The development in intended to happen following the anticipated union of the congregations of Cults East and Cults West. NEW MASTER FOR CHRIST'S COLLEGE The Rev Ian Dick, Minister of Ferryhill Parish Church, is to be appointed as the next Master of Christ's College. In his new role, Mr Dick will be responsible for overseeing students who are in training for the ministry at Aberdeen University. The post became vacant following the appointment of The Very Rev Prof Ian Torrance as President of Princeton Theological Seminary in New Jersey. [7 December 2004] |
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CHURCH LEADERS CALL FOR
REVIEW OF MARCHING LAWS The Presbytery of Aberdeen has reiterated its opposition to the proposed march by the National Front on Sunday 28th November. Although church leaders have condemned the march they have also acknowledged the difficulty faced by local councillors who wish to oppose this demonstration. The Presbytery has now agreed to contact the First Minister, asking the Scottish Executive to initiate a review of the laws relating to such protest marches. In particular the Executive will be asked to consider whether local councils should be able to refuse permission on grounds other than public order. LOCAL MINISTER CELEBRATES 25 YEARS IN MINISTRY The Presbytery of Aberdeen has congratulated one of its ministers who has recently completed 25 years in ministry. The Rev John Osbeck was ordained in 1979 and has served for the past 15 years as Minister of St John's Church for the Deaf. Tribute was paid to Mr Osbeck's peripatetic work, which involves visiting congregations for the deaf community throughout the north of Scotland. [7 October 2004] |
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CHURCH LEADERS OPPOSE
NATIONAL FRONT MARCH At its meeting on Tuesday 7th September,
The Presbytery of Aberdeen expressed its opposition to the proposed
procession by the National Front through the city centre on November 28th.
A report from Presbytery's Church and Society Committee declared that such
a march would be against the spirit of a tolerant and open city, which
tries to welcome people of all races and backgrounds. [8 September 2004] |
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PRESIGIOUS POST FOR
ABERDEEN THEOLGIAN A distinguished Professor of Divinity is leaving the University of Aberdeen, in order to take up a post in the United States of America. Having recently completed a year as Moderator of the General Assembly, the Very Rev Professor Iain Torrance is to become President of Princeton Theological Seminary in New Jersey. In Aberdeen, Professor Torrance has specialised in teaching Patristics and Christian Ethics and he has also served as Master of Christ’s College. Speaking at the June meeting of Aberdeen Presbytery, he spoke of the challenges that currently face American Christians, including need to achieve better relationships with Muslims. At the Presbytery meeting, Professor Torrance received a presentation from students at Christ’s College. PRESBYTERY BIDS FAREWELL TO LOCAL MINISTERS At its meeting on Tuesday 22nd June, the Presbytery of Aberdeen bade farewell to two ministers who are now moving to congregations in other parts of Scotland. The Rev Christine Houghton is leaving Garthdee Church in order to become Minister of Whitburn in West Lothian. The Rev Alistair Murray is leaving Woodside Church to become Minister of Trinity Parish Church in Inverness. Once these latest departures have been taken into consideration, the Presbytery of Aberdeen will have no less than eleven vacant churches. This figure represents a quarter of all the charges within the bounds. KIRK CAMPAIGNS FOR LOCAL POST OFFICES The Presbytery of Aberdeen has encouraged church members to join the campaign to save local Post Offices. Particular concern has been expressed for elderly people, who may lose an important local resource. Mr Alan Smith, Convener of the Presbytery’s Public Questions Committee, urged church members to make good use of local Post Office branches, thus helping to ensure that they remain financially viable. [24 June 2004] |
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THE KIRK'S MIDDLE EAST
CORRESPONDENT RETURNS
Next week churchgoers in Aberdeen will be able to meet with a minister
who has been providing them with first hand accounts of the troubles in
Palestine. Rev Clarence Musgrave will be visiting the city from Sunday
22nd February to Sunday 29th February inclusive, while on leave from his
post at St Andrew's Church in Jerusalem. [17 February 2004] |
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MODERATOR'S VISIT The Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, The Right Reverend Professor Iain Torrance, TD, MA, BD, DPhil will be visiting the city this weekend as a guest of the University of Aberdeen. The following is an outline of his schedule:- Friday 6th February 12 Noon: The Moderator will preach at the Christ's College Chapter Service in the University's Chaplaincy Centre. This will be followed by a sandwich lunch with teaching staff and Divinity students. 7.30pm: The Moderator will preach at the Annual Presbytery Service in Queen's Cross Parish Church. During the service, long-service certificates will be presented to elders from congregations within the Presbytery. Saturday 7th February 12.30pm: The Moderator will attend a civic reception which is being hosted in the Town and County Hall. Sunday 8th February 11am: The Moderator will preach at the University Founder's Day Service which is being held in St Machar's Cathedral. [3 February 2004]
NEW CHAPLAIN FOR CRAIGINCHES
PRISON [3 February 2004] |
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PRESBYTERIES IN TWINNING
AGREEMENT The Presbytery of Aberdeen and Blantyre City Presbytery in Malawi have entered into an historical twinning agreement. At signing ceremonies in Scotland and Malawi yesterday (Tuesday 4 November 2003) a commitment was made to pursue increased communication, occasional exchange of visits and mutual support and encouragement, particularly through prayer. The signing ceremony in Malawi was attended by the Rev. Robert Brown, Moderator of Aberdeen Presbytery, where a large and exuberant congregation welcomed the agreement with great joy. In Aberdeen, former Moderator Ian Dick led the service of worship which was attended by the Rev. Misheck Nasiyaya, Mrs Lovely Kamanga and Mr Freeman Mughogho from Blantyre City Presbytery in Malawi. The connections between Scotland and Malawi go back to the mid 19th century when missionaries such as David Livingstone and Robert Laws, who was born in Mannofield, brought Christianity to the country. Aberdeen Presbytery's World Mission and Ecumenical Relations Convener, Rev. Alison Swindells, spoke about the years of discussion and careful thought which led up to the twinning agreement. The Rev. Misheck Nasiyaya, Depute Presbytery Clerk of Blantyre City Presbytery, brought greetings from his people and said that they had been looking forward to this day for a long time. He added that the signing ceremony was just the beginning and that each side has a lot to learn from the other. He also said that he was overwhelmed with joy that the agreement was taking place and was sure that it would prove to be fruitful. Gifts of a painting of Aberdeen and two beautiful banners from Malawi were exchanged and an act of commitment took place in which both Presbyteries gave thanks for the ties which bind them together and looked forward to strengthening these through sharing their understanding of the Christian faith and learning from each other's experience. [4 November 2003] HISTORIC 'TWINNING AGREEMENT' SIGNED WITH AFRICAN CHURCH [3 November 2003] |
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Items from the October 2003
Presbytery Meeting CITY CENTRE FORUM
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Items from the September
Presbytery Meeting MODERATOR
DENOUNCES 'DEFENSIVE' CHURCH VALUABLE RESOURCE FOR DISADVANTAGED COMMUNITIES |
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CENTENARY
SERVICE FOR GREYFRIARS JOHN KNOX CHURCH A special celebration is being held this Sunday (7th September) to mark the centenary of Greyfriar's Church building (now Greyfriars John Knox Church). The service will be conduced by Rev Ainslie Walton, with guest preacher Rev Bob Brown (Moderator of the Presbytery of Aberdeen). Others attending the service will include Lord Provost John Reynolds, Vice Principal of Aberdeen University Graeme Roberts and Rev Graeme Muckart with members of the congregation of North Church of St Andrew. The building, which is incorporated into Marischal College, was first opened on 2nd September 1903. Over the years it has had an important role for both the University and Town Council. More information about the history of the church can be found on the Presbytery Website:- http://www.presbaberdeen.org.uk/greyfriars%20centenary.htm For further information about the centenary celebration, contact: Amelia Bissett (Session Clerk): 01224 553316 More Information
[1 September 2003] |
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DREAM CHURCHES, CRAIBSTONE AND
WORSHIP LEADERS 'Dream churches' on
display. [25 June 2003] |
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MAY MEETING OF
PRESBYTERY Presbytery appoints new Moderator [7 May 2003] |
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CITY CENTRE CHAPLAIN APPOINTED In a pioneering venture local churches have now appointed a Chaplain to the retail sector in Aberdeen City Centre. Mrs Cate Adams (aged 39) is the first person to hold such a post in Aberdeen and she will endeavour to develop links with shop-workers and customers. A theology graduate from Aberdeen University, Cate is a member of St Mary's Roman Catholic Cathedral in Huntly Street. However, her appointment has been endorsed by a number of local churches which have been working together ecumeniclly. Kate will be based at the Kirk of St Nicholas, but much of her time will be spent out and about meeting people in the shopping centres. Cate Adams can be contacted at: Kirk of St Nicholas (Tel: 643494) [18 April 2003] |
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CHURCH LEADERS SPEAK OUT AGAINST SECTARIANISM. The Presbytery of Aberdeen has publicly dissociated itself from sectarianism, following reports that the Orange Lodge may try to organise another march in Aberdeen. The Public Questions Committee highlighted moves in the Scottish Parliament to combat sectarianism and Presbytery expressed the wish that no further sectarian marches should happen in the city. PRESBYTERY REMEMBERS THE CONFLICT IN IRAQ The Presbytery of Aberdeen has expressed its sympathy for all those bereaved as a result of the ongoing conflict in Iraq. Presbytery pledged its support for Chaplains and for other personnel serving in the Gulf, while also calling for a speedy end to hostile action to enable humanitarian efforts to proceed. It was noted that a local minister, Rev Sean Swindells, would soon be mobilised as a TA Chaplain as a result of the conflict. LOCAL OPINIONS CAN CHANGE THE CITY At its meeting on Tuesday 1st April, the Presbytery of Aberdeen welcomed a visit from the Lord Provost, Margaret Smith. Speaking in her capacity as chairperson of the City Alliance, Margaret Smith described how resources were now being coordinated to improve the city under the auspices of 'Aberdeen Futures'. Clear targets have been set for tackling issues such as homelessness and healthcare. Margaret Smith emphasised the need for consultation with people in the city and stated that the churches represent an important community voice. KIRK CONDUCTS REVIEW IF ITS RESIDENTIAL CARE SERVICES The Presbytery of Aberdeen received a report indicating that the Church of Scotland Board of Social Responsibility is carrying out a major review of its 30 residential care homes for older people. This review was prompted by a number of factors, including the continuing well-documented financial difficulties of operating residential care services. Recently the Kirk's Director of Social Work, Ian Manson stated that the issue is perhaps the biggest question facing Social Responsibility: "We have set up a review group which is examining a range of issues, including finance, human resources, property, registration, and local supply and demand. This review incorporates a consultation process with our staff, service users, Kirk presbyteries and other relevant groups such as individual local authorities. When the review, which began last November, is completed the Board will then have some extremely difficult decisions to make about which homes will close and which ones can continue or be redeveloped within available financial constraints. It's anticipated that the Board will take these decisions at its meeting in June." [2 April 2003] |
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PROPOSED
TWINNING ARRANGEMENT WITH AFRICAN CHURCH The Presbytery of Aberdeen is currently in discussions with Blantyre City Presbytery in Malawi to explore the possibility of a 'twinning' arrangement being established. The Church of Scotland has enjoyed a longstanding partnership with the Church of Central Africa (Presbyterian) and the proposed partnership would enable Aberdeen congregations to develop closer links with their Malawian counterparts. Speaking at the March meeting of Aberdeen Presbytery, Rev Alison Swindells spoke of the warm welcome that she had received on her recent visit to Blantyre City. Gifts from the Church in Malawi were received on behalf of Presbytery by the Moderator, Rev Ian Dick. For more information on this story, please contact: Rev Alison Swindells, World Mission Convener CHURCH LEADERS CRITICISE COLLEGE CLOSURE Members of the Presbytery of Aberdeen have expressed their disquiet over the sudden closure of the Scottish Churches Open College. Rev Graeme Muckhart described the pioneering programs in lay-training which may be lost as a result of the closure. Amongst its other work, SCOC has been responsible for the training of Readers in the Church of Scotland. The closure has been precipitated by a withdrawal of funding from the Kirk's Board of Parish Education. For more information on this story, please contact: Mrs Marion Dey, Education Convener (Tel: 01358 721009) or Rev Graeme Muckhart, Minister of the North Church of St Andrew CHAPEL FOR NEW CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL This month the Presbytery of Aberdeen received good news from Rev James Falconer, Chaplain to Aberdeen Children's Hospital. Thanks to the contributions of churches and individuals, much of the funding is now in place for the chapel at the new Children's Hospital. Mr Falconer commended the project to local people, indicating that less than £30,000 now needs to be raised. For more information on this story, please contact: Rev James Falconer, Chaplain to Aberdeen Children's Hospital CONCERN OVER SPIRITUAL CARE AT CRAIGINCHES PRISON When addressing the Presbytery of Aberdeen, Rev Sean Swindells (Home Mission Convener) expressed concern about the lack of a permanent Chaplain at Craiginches Prison. For some time discussions have been taking place between the Kirk's Board of National Mission and the Scottish Prison Service, but the situation is unlikely to be resolved for several months. For more information on this story, please contact: Rev Sean Swindells, Home Mission Convener [5 March 2003] |
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Local churches call
for restraint over Iraq 'On Saturday afternoon a number of
Aberdeen churches will be ringing their bells to highlight the deep
concern felt by many Christians about the crisis facing Iraq. The bells
will be rung at 3pm in conjunction with churches in other parts of
Scotland. [14 February 2003] |
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MODERATOR'S VISIT The Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, The Right Reverend Finlay A.J. MacDonald MA BD PhD DD, will be visiting the city this weekend as a guest of the University of Aberdeen. The following is an outline of his schedule:- Friday 7th February 12 Noon: The Moderator will participate in the Annual Chapter Service for Christ's College at Kings College Chapel. This will be followed by a sandwich lunch with teaching staff and candidates in training for the ministry. 7.30pm: The Moderator will preach at the Annual Presbytery Service in Ferryhill Parish Church. Saturday 8th February 12.30pm: The Moderator will attend a civic reception which is being hosted in the Town and County Hall. Sunday 9th February 11am: The Moderator will preach at the morning service in King's College Chapel. [4 February 2003] |
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NEW MINISTER FOR TILLYDRONE A 'well kent face' will soon be welcomed back to Aberdeen, when Rev James Weir is inducted as the next Minister of St George's Tillydrone Parish Church. Last night (4th February) Aberdeen Presbytery sustained a call to Jim, who previously served as Minister of Garthdee Parish Church for 11 years before moving to Motherwell. APPOINTMENT OF CITY CENTRE CHAPLAIN Churches in Aberdeen have been working together on an ecumenical basis to appoint a Chaplain to the city centre. This initiative will be a groundbreaking venture and it marks a departure from more tradtional patterns of ministry. The new appointment will endeavour to create links with those work in offices and shops. [4 February 2003] |
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CHURCH
SUPPORT FOR TROUBLED FARMERS Addressing this month's meeting of Aberdeen Presbytery, the Rev Dr Richard Fraser described a new church-led initiative to support Scottish farmers and their families. The new 'Agricultural Support Network' will provide care and support for members of the agricultural community whose way of life is under threat. Mr Fraser spoke of the much publicised crises, such as BSE and the Foot and Mouth Epidemic. However, he also explained how the globalisation of the food industry has underminded domestic farming. Mr Fraser described the case of one farmer, who took over his family's tenancy believing that that his role would be one of duty and public service. However in the space of two years that farmer earned less than £3000 and was subsequently faced with bankrupcy. Through the Agricultural Support Network churches will endeavour to express solidarity with rural families in distress. [4 December 2002] |
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FUN DAY FOR CHILDREN On Saturday 7th December a special fun day, Kids 'R' Us, is being organised by local churches in Aberdeen. The event, will take place at Queens Cross Church from 10am to 3pm and is being staged as part of The Year of the Child. Activities at Kids 'R' Us include a magician, a clown and a story-teller as well as face-painting, a bouncy castle and a soft-play area. The event is open to all Primary School children who attend Sunday School or other church organisations. [4 December 2002] |
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SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE
FOR ROAD ACCIDENT VICTIMS
On Sunday 17th November at 3pm, a special service will be held at the North Church of St Andrew in Queen Street, Aberdeen to mark the European Day of Remembrance and Hope for Road Traffic Victims. The Day of Remembrance is being promoted by RoadPeace, which is the
national charity for road traffic victims. The organisation has recently
launched an appeal to establish a national memorial and it has also
established an internet memorial site. www.roadpeace.org/internetmemorials/index.html. The service at the North Church of St Andrew has become an annual event. It is open to all from Aberdeen and the surrounding district who wish to remember loved ones who have been killed or injured as a result of motor accidents. For further information contact: Rev Graeme Muckart (Tel: 01224 646429) [15 November 2002]
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"A LAD IN A MANGER" Bookings are now being taken for an alternative Christmas show which is being staged at Mannofield Parish Church in December. 'A-lad-in-a-manger' tells the traditional nativity story in the style of a pantomime. Entry to the show will be free, although donations will be received for charity. Performances will take place on 12th, 13th and 14th December at 7.30pm, with an additional matinee show at 2.30pm on 14th. Early booking is advised and tickets are now available from Mannofield Church (Tel: 310082). [5 November 2002] |
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NEW MINISTER FOR GARTHDEE On Thursday 28th November, the Rev Christine Houghton will be welcomed as the next minister of Garthdee Parish Church. Garthdee has been vacant since Rev James Weir moved to the Presbytery of Hamilton earlier this year. For the past five years Mrs Houghton has been the minister of Dun linked with Hillside in the Presbytery of Angus. CHURCH RECOGNISES THE NEEDS OF THE DEAF Mr Osbeck criticised the closure of specialist schools for the deaf, describing how deaf people often fail to achieve their educational potential. Deaf people are frequently excluded from conversations and left out of practical activities. While the needs of the deaf can often be answered quite easily, many people fail to appreciate what can be done. Mr Osbeck is the Minister of St John's Church for Deaf People at 13 Smithfield Road. [5 November 2002] |
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From the October Meeting of Presbytery
CONTINUING REALITY OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE CHURCH LEADERS CONDEMN WARMONGERING KIRK CONDEMNS OBLIGATORY SUNDAY WORKING [2 October 2002] |
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Visit from
Jerusalem
From Wednesday September 11th local churches will welcome Rev Clarence Musgrave and his wife Joan to the City of Aberdeen. Mr Musgrave is the Minister of St Andrew's Church in Jerusalem and he acts as 'Missionary Partner' to a number of local congregations. Clarence Musgrave has lived and worked in Jerusalem for the past two years. This period has coincided with a time of heightened unrest, involving conflict between Israelis and Palestinians. Throughout his time there, Mr Musgrave has kept Aberdeen churches up to date with the latest happenings. In the course of his daily duties he frequently encounters armed check-points and road-blocks. Mr Musgrave's visit to Aberdeen will last for two weeks, during which he will speak at a variety of venues including churches and schools. One highlight of his visit will be an open meeting, on Saturday (14th September) at 10am, in Ruthrieston South Parish Church. Anybody who wishes to learn more will be made very welcome. For further information about Mr Musgrave's visit, contact: [10 September 2002] |
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Commemorating
September 11th
Congregations in Aberdeen are commemorating the events of September 11th. by different people in a variety of ways: Sunday 8th September Monday 9th September Tuesday 10th September Wednesday 11th September Prayers for Peace and Justice will be held at St Machar's Cathedral
(Old Aberdeen) at 1pm. The Chapel will be open at Holburn Central Parish Church from 11.30am
to 2pm for silent prayer and candle-lighting. |
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Church hears wake up
call on war against AIDS
Around the world 40 million people are already dying as a result of the AIDS pandemic and the numbers are continuing to rise steeply. This harsh fact was revealed at last night's meeting of Aberdeen Presbytery (Tuesday 3rd September) by former Moderator of the Kirk, Very Rev Prof Alan Main. Professor Main was describing the work of the Church of Scotland's HIV / AIDS Project which is campaigning to increase awareness of the crisis. He emphasisied the link between AIDS and poverty, describing how it had reached disaster proportions in Southern Africa, India, Russia and the Far East. Professor Main emphasised that church members must exert political pressure, to obtain an increase in Britain's spending on overseas aid.
[3 September 2002] |
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| HISTORIC
CHURCH UNION
On Sunday 1st September at 2.30pm a special service of union will take place at the Kirk of St Nicholas in Aberdeen. The event will formally join the Church of Scotland congregation at the Kirk, with St Nicholas United Reformed Church. This is the first ecumenical union of its kind in Aberdeen in recent times and it brings Christians of different denominations together into a single congregation. Having entered into a Local Ecumenical Partnership in September 1998, members of both churches have been working towards this event for some time. In March of this year the proposals were approved by the Synod of the United Reformed Church and they were given the blessing of the Church of Scotland's General Assembly in May. Since Nov last year the minister of the United Reformed Church, Rev Ross McLaren, has been acting as Interim Minister of the Local Ecumenical Partnership. He will continue as Interim Minister of the new united congregation.
[29 August 2002] |
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