A Letter from the Manse
February 2012

Dear Friends,

Storm Damage

We were involved in a bit of an emergency in December when a severe storm left one of the church finials in a dangerous condition. This resulted in part of St Marnock Street being blocked off, and also meant that for one Sunday we were unable to get access to the church. The service on the 11th of December was held instead over in The Howard Centre. It was very fortunate that we had this facility, and I would like to express our thanks to all those who worked hard to help us cope with that change.

Although the finial was swaying in the breeze, thankfully it didn’t fall. Northern Steeplejacks were quickly on site and before too long they secured the damaged stonework. As I write this letter the scaffolding is still up, and the loose finial has still to be repaired. However the Steeplejacks are scheduled to be back on the job on the 23rd of January. We hope to have the church back to normal shortly after that.

Family Supper

On Friday the 24th of February we have our Church Family Supper at the start of our Buchanan Stewardship Campaign. This time it won’t be held in the Grand Hall, but in our very own Howard Centre. Our Family Supper is an important event in the life of our church, and I hope you will make every effort to come along and share in what is always a memorable evening.

Following the Supper the Stewardship visits will begin, and I am sure you are aware just how important your support is for the future of the church. I know that you will extend a courteous welcome to your visitor and consider seriously the future of our church.

Presbytery Plan

In February the draft Presbytery Plan will be presented, and we should learn whether we will be able to seek a replacement worker for Jamie. Until then we are endeavouring to keep the outreach work of the Howard Centre going, however it is a heavy burden and one that we cannot carry indefinitely without help. If you can share part of that load until the situation is clarified, then please contact the office at The Howard Centre (tel 541337).

Enquirer’s Class

I will be holding an Enquirer’s Class during the 4 Sundays of March. This Class will meet from 12.30pm to 1.30pm. It is aimed at those who are considering church membership. So if you know of any friends or members of your family who are not already members of the church, then please invite them along and pass these details on to them.

Family Wedding

On Friday the 9th of March at 1pm, I will have the great privilege of conducting the wedding in church of our son Neil and his bride Katrina Dean. We eagerly look forward to celebrating their wedding with family and friends on that day. I have even got a kilt for the occasion in muted McNaughtan tartan! I have a feeling that 2012 is going to be a year to remember.

I wish you God’s blessing throughout 2012.

	Your minister,
		
		Jim McNaughtan