ÿþ<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"> <html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <head> <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=iso-8859-1" /> <title>Untitled Document</title> <style type="text/css"> <!-- .style1 {font-family: "Comic Sans MS"} .style2 {font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 36px; } .style3 {font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px; } body { background-color: #999999; } span.a {} li.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin-bottom:.0001pt; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; margin-left:0cm; margin-right:0cm; margin-top:0cm} .style4 { color: #CC0099; font-weight: bold; } .style5 { font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px; color: #CC0099; font-weight: bold; } --> </style> </head> <body> <p class="style2">Presbytery News</p> <p class="style1">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" class="style4"><font size="5" face="Comic Sans MS">Presbytery of Lanark  October 2006 Meeting</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font face="Comic Sans MS"><span lang="EN-GB">&nbsp;</span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">The Rev Iain Goring, who is currently the Interim Minister at Carstairs in union with Carstairs Junction, is shortly to leave to take up the interim ministry at Holytown linked with New Stevenston. The Moderator of Presbytery, Rev Dr Graham Houston, thanked Iain for his service in the community over past eighteen months. Mrs Irene Williams, on behalf of the congregation, expressed her appreciation of the contribution Iain had made to the life of the congregation and wished him well in his new appointment.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">The Rev. Harry Findlay has been appointed as a Chaplain to Presbytery. Harry was formally &nbsp;the minister at Wishaw: St. Mark s, a position he held for many years.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">The Church of Scotland is currently in a period of change and to facilitate that change a Special Commission on Structure and Chance has been established. The congregations of Biggar, Cairngryffe linked with Symington, Carluke: Kirkton and Kirkmuirhill will represent Lanark Presbytery at the meeting to be held later in the month.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">The Annual World Mission Rally is to be held in Lanark: St. Nicholas on Wednesday 8<sup>th</sup> November at 7:30 pm. All will be made welcome.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">The Clyde Presbyteries have released preliminary details of their  Nexus event which will be held in Glasgow, at the SECC, from the 23<sup>rd</sup> to 25<sup>th</sup> August 2007. The event will aim to help make connections between Churches across Scotland.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">There is to be an  Elders Evening in Carstairs Community Centre on the 20th March 2007. The speaker that evening will be Rev David Currie from the Mission and Discipleship Council and his topic will be  You re an Angel  talking about faith </font></span></p> <p class="style3">&nbsp;</p> <p class="style3">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" class="style4"><font size="5" face="Comic Sans MS">Presbytery of Lanark  November 2006 Meeting</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font face="Comic Sans MS"><span lang="EN-GB">&nbsp;</span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">As Christmas approaches many of the Churches in Presbytery are preparing for their special Christmas activities. Amongst these is the United Parish of Carstairs and Carstairs Junction who have arranged an Advent Labyrinth which will be held in Carstairs Junction Church. This will be open on Thursday and Friday, 7<sup>th</sup> and 8<sup>th</sup> December, from 2:00  4:00pm and 7:00  8:30pm. It will also be open on Saturday 9<sup>th</sup> December from 10:00am till 2:00pm.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">Presbytery is to consider the introduction of Marriage Preparation Courses for couples being married within the Presbytery area. The course, for those who would find it beneficial, could include such subjects as finance, living together and becoming a couple. </font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">All congregations are now in receipt of their Ministries and Mission allocations for 2007 together with details of the Presbytery Budget.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal">&nbsp;</p> <p class="style4"><font size="5" face="Comic Sans MS">Presbytery of Lanark - December 2006 &amp; February 2007 Meetings</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">Rev Sarah Ross and Mr Tom Smith have been appointed as the Presbytery s Ecumenical Relations contacts.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">Presbytery is to consider having a  Festival of Hope as a follow on from the  Nexus-Scotland event which is to be held in Glasgow in August 2007. The Moderator, Rev Dr Graham Houston, is leading the discussion.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">The debate on Civil Partnerships took place within Presbytery on the 5<sup>th</sup> December. Members of Lanark Presbytery voted 20 to 11 against the proposal to approve the blessing of Civil Partnerships.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">The Rev John Turnbull, recently retired from Balfron linked with Fintry, has taken up residence in Biggar and has become a member of Presbytery.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">Rev Bryan Kerr, formally of Douglas Valley Church, is to be inducted into the charge of Lanark: Greyfriars on Thursday 8<sup>th</sup> March. Rev Harry Findlay is to be the Interim Moderator and Locum at Douglas Valley.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">Revival FM, the religious broadcasting station, made a presentation to Presbytery at its February meeting concerning its Christian Work and witness. Those wishing to tune in will find them at 100.8 FM or online at </font></span><span class="a"> <span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black"> <a href="http://www.revivalradio.org.uk/" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline; text-underline: single"> <font size="4">www.<b>revival</b>radio.org.uk</font></a><font size="4">. </font> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">There is to be a World Mission Evening for congregational representatives on 14<sup>th</sup> June 2007. Further information will be available shortly.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal">&nbsp;</p> <p class="style5"><font size="5">Presbytery of Lanark - March, April and May 2007 Meetings</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">Representatives of Carluke: St John s were cited to attended Presbytery to acknowledge the appointment of Rev Roy Cowieson to the vacant charge. The Service of Induction of Rev Roy Cowieson will take place at Carluke: St Johns on 3<sup>rd</sup> May 2007. Roy Cowieson is currently the minister of a charge in Canada.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">An evening for Elders took place in Carstairs Community Centre on the 20<sup>th</sup> March. Rev Bryan Kerr, Convenor of the Congregational Development Committee, introduced the guest speaker, &nbsp;Rev David Currie. David spoke on how elders can share their faith with the people they come into contact with each day. 94 elders from virtually every congregation in Presbytery attended the event.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">Mrs Margaret Warnock from  ECO Congregations addressed Presbytery on the subject of  Preserving God s Earth . She encouraged congregations to consider ways of conserving the earth s resources to make them available for future generations.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">Rev Sarah Ross has returned to her duties as minister at Forth: St Paul s following her period of maternity leave.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">Douglas Valley Church has been allowed to call a minister without restriction and an Advisory Committee has been established.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">The annual inspection of congregational records has taken place and most have been found to be in order.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">Presbytery is being represented at the Church of Scotland National Youth Assembly by three young people, two from the United Parish of Carstairs and Carstairs Junction and one from Forth: St Paul s.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">A meeting for congregational prayer promoters has been arranged for Tuesday 24<sup>th</sup> April at 2:00pm in Glencaple Parish Church.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">Mrs Jackie McQueen from the State Hospital, Carstairs addressed Presbytery on the Pastoral and Spiritual Care service operating in the hospital and gave an insight into the day by day requirements of the patients.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">The General Assembly of the Church of Scotland will convene in Edinburgh on the 19<sup>th</sup> May 2007. Lanark Presbytery will send two Commissioners from each of the following congregations:- Law, Carluke: Kirkton, Coalburn linked with Lesmahagow Old, Lanark: St Nicholas and Lanark: Greyfriars.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">It has been agreed that Presbytery meetings should take place in a number of venues rather than always meeting at Lanark: St Nicholas . In 2007-08 there will be two meetings held elsewhere in Presbytery in addition to the Communion Service which is usually held in the Moderator s charge.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">Presbytery is considering establishing a link with the Presbytery of East Seoul, South Korea. As a first step Lanark Presbytery propose to invite a group of around six people to visit Presbytery in the autumn.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">Blackmount Parish Church is to receive an interior refurbishment at a cost of £35,000. These plans represent an exciting redevelopment of a traditional rural parish church building to make the space more contemporary and usable.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal">&nbsp;</p> <p class="style5"><font size="5">Presbytery of Lanark - June 2007 Meetings</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">Rev Alison Meikle of Lanark: St Nicholas is the Moderator of Lanark Presbytery for the year 2007-08.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">There is to be a special meeting at Douglas on the 28<sup>th</sup> August 2007 to discuss The report of the Special Commission on Structure and Change. This Special Commission is consulting with Presbyteries concerning the administrative changes which were introduced two years ago with a view to determining there success or otherwise.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">The charges due for a Quinquennial visit in 2007-08 are Glencaple l/w Lowther, Carluke: St John s and Crossford l/w Kirkfieldbank.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">The Presbytery Plan, which is a ten year plan for congregations but reviewed annually, will in future have to take account of the available buildings, there suitability, there use and there cost. As a consequence congregations will be asked for information concerning costs and usage of buildings by the end of the year.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">The visit by the representatives of the Presbytery of South Korea will take place from the 27<sup>th</sup> August to the 8<sup>th</sup> September. There is to be a Presbytery Reception on Wednesday 29<sup>th</sup> August at 7:00pm at Hollandbush Golf Club. All are invited. Tickets cost £17.00.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">The date of this year s World Mission Rally is Wednesday 14<sup>th</sup> November. The venue has still to be confirmed.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">Following the success of the elder s evening held in March a series of training events for those involved in leadership within congregations have been arranged. The first course will take place in Biggar on 5 Wednesday nights from 26<sup>th</sup> September to 31<sup>st</sup> October (missing out school holiday week.) The  You re an Angel courses will be led by Rev. David Currie.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">A Child Protection Training evening for volunteers will be held on Monday 27<sup>th</sup> August at 7:00pm in Lanark: Greyfriars Church Hall. The course will last 2.5 hours.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">There is to be a second Elders Training evening on Tuesday 30<sup>th</sup> October at a venue still to be determined. The subject on this occasion will be pastoral care and bereavement support. The course leader will be Rev Peter Johnston from Blantyre.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">The next Prayer Promoters meeting will be held on Tuesday 9<sup>th</sup> October in Glencaple Church Hall at 7:00pm.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="4" face="Comic Sans MS">And finally a reminder that NEXUS takes place in the SECC, Glasgow from 23<sup>rd</sup> to 25<sup>th</sup> August.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS" class="style4"><font size="5">Presbytery of Lanark - September 2007 - October 2007 Meetings</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">Rev Iain Goring has been appointed as Interim Moderator at Carnwath from the 17 September 2007.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">Mrs Jessie Bryce is to make a presentation on the Church of Scotland s Parish Development fund at the Presbytery meeting on the 5 February 2008.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"> <span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"> <span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">Ms Eildon Dyer is to make a presentation on behalf of Christian Aid at the Presbytery meeting on the 4 March. She has recently been appointed as the Area Co-ordinator.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:18.0pt;text-align:justify;text-indent: -18.0pt"><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"> <span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">Child protection training will take place in St. John's Church, Carluke on 27 November 2007 and that co-ordinators should contact Rev. Sarah Ross to book places.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"> <span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"> <span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">There are presently vacancies for Chaplains at Roadmeetings and Lady Home Hospitals. </font></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"> <span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"> <span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">Rev Bryan Kerr has been appointed as interim chaplain covering Carstairs State Hospital for the term of Rev B Gauld s sick leave. His duties began on Oct 3 2007.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"> <span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"> <span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">Note that the Ministries and Missions Allocations for 2008 for Symington is £19,402 although this has been reduced to £18,093 under Presbytery s discretionary powers. The allocation in 2006 was £17,800. This represents a 1.6% increase.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS" class="style4"><font size="5">Presbytery of Lanark - November 2007 - March 2008 Meetings</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">The following have been nominated by Presbytery for the General Assembly Councils and Committees, Rev Roy Cowieson (Carluke: St John s) for the Ministries Council, Rev Dr Graham Houston (Cairngryffe l/w Symington) for the Publishing Committee and Rev Sarah Ross for the Ecumenical Relations Committee.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">Rev David Easton has been appointed as Locum at Douglas Valley Churches.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">The Church Without Walls National Gathering will be held at Ingliston, Edinburgh on the 3<sup>rd</sup>  4<sup>th</sup> May 2008.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">Child Protection training for volunteers has been arranged for 27<sup>th</sup> May 2008 in the Gilliespie Centre, Biggar.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">The Congregations attending this year s General Assembly will be Lanark: Greyfriars, Forth: St Paul s, Kirkmuirhill, Carluke: St Andrew s and Carluke: St John s.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">Many congregations are now using CH 4. To this end an open sing-a-long evening has been planned in Greyfriars Parish Church on 2<sup>nd</sup> April at 7pm for anyone interested in learning some of the newer materials.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">Rev Helen Jamieson has been appointed Chaplain at Roadmeetings Hospital, Carluke.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">Rev Margaret Muir will be the Interim Moderator at Cairngryffe l/w Symington during Graham s period of absence on Study Leave.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">Rev Anne McIvor is leaving Law to take up the charge of Gigha l/w Cara. Rev Bryan Kerr will be Interim Moderator at Law.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS" class="style4"><font size="5">Presbytery of Lanark - April 2008 Meeting</font></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="5">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">Rev Roy Cowieson (Carluke: St John s) has been appointed to the Ministries Council of the Church of Scotland.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">Rev Margaret Muir will be the Interim Moderator at Cairngryffe l/w Symington during Graham s period of absence on Study Leave.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">Rev Anne McIvor is leaving Law to take up the charge of Gigha and Cara in the Presbytery of Argyll. &nbsp;Her induction will be on the 7<sup>th</sup> June 2008. Rev Bryan Kerr will be Interim Moderator at Law.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">Mr Andrew Brown (Kirkmuirhill) has been nominated as Moderator of Lanark Presbytery for 2008-09. If selected he will be the first elder to be Moderator of Lanark Presbytery.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">Rev Iain Cunningham, Dr Sinclair Scott, Rev Dr Graham Houston and Mrs Jenny Worthington will represent Lanark Presbytery on its visit to East Seoul Presbytery, South Korea, in October.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">Rev Iain Cunningham (Carluke: Kirkton) has been appointed as Convener of Presbytery s World and Community Issues for a further year.</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">Rev Dr Graham Houston (Cairngryffe l/w Symington) has been appointed as Convener of Presbytery s Congregational Support Committee for a period of four years succeeding Rev Helen Jamieson (Carluke: St. Andrew s)</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">Mrs Anna Lumsden (Lanark: Greyfriars) has been appointed as Convener of Presbytery s Business Committee for a period of four years succeeding Mr Robert Carson (Symington)</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> &nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> &nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS" class="style4"><font size="5">Presbytery of Lanark - June 2008 Meeting</font></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="5">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black"> <font size="4">As the newly elected representative elder for Symington Kirk, I attended the Presbytery Meeting on 17<sup>th</sup> June as an observer along with other new elders.&nbsp; The Meeting started with a Communion Service in St. Nicholas Church conducted by Rev Alison Meikle, the retiring Moderator. After the service there was some refreshment then the business meeting continued in the church hall, very much like other church business meetings. The new representative elders were welcomed. The membership of committees for 2008-9 has been organised. Graham Houston is Convenor of the Congregational Support Committee and I am a member of the Ministries Committee. Robert Carson although on longer a representative elder, has been co-opted as an additional elder . The work of Presbytery is mainly carried out by six committees, each of which reports to Presbytery. Among items reported were  </font></span></p> <ul style="margin-top: 0cm; margin-bottom: 0cm" type="disc"> <li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; text-align: justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">The Induction of Rev Alan Gibson to Carstairs on 28<sup>th</sup> August. He has moved from Strathaven and the congregation is purchasing a new manse at Kames.</font></span></li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; text-align: justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">The continuing arrangements for Graham as one of a delegation of four from Presbytery to visit Seoul in Korea between 7<sup>th</sup> and 21<sup>st</sup> October.</font></span></li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; text-align: justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">End of Life Issues (eg pastoral care for the elderly, provision of nursing homes and hospices, legal issues, euthanasia, theology of death, etc) This is an area of concern which impacts on all and it is hoped to involve as many people as possible in a discussion of these issues.</font></span></li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; text-align: justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">An item which amused me involved instructions to ministers on how to fill in wedding schedules properly. Not that I thought that ministers could not attend to this but South Lanarkshire Council has to have everything completed to their satisfaction!</font></span></li> </ul> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><b> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black"> <font size="4">Lambert Allan</font></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:left"><span lang="en-us" class="style4"> <font face="Comic Sans MS" size="5">Presbytery of Lanark - September 2008 Meeting</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">This year began with the installation of an elder as Moderator. Mr Andrew Brown of Kirkmuirhill has the distinction of being the first elder ever to be Moderator in Lanark Presbytery. He is handling meetings very well and keeping business moving.</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">The major event of the autumn was the visit to South Korea by representatives from Presbytery. A report will eventually be issued. However, As Graham was one of the representatives, he has already been passing on some information about it to us and it sounds as if he and Irene had a very interesting time. We look forward to hearing more.</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">One item of interest is that the Moderator of the General Assembly has a meeting with the First Minister every year. We do not know what was on the agenda but they agreed that they would try to raise the profile of St. Andrew s Day.</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">Much of the work of Presbytery is done by its committees. I have been placed on the Ministeries Committee whose main remit is to ensure every parish has the services of a minister. Ideally a minister is appointed to every parish but as the number of ministers is decreasing there are more vacancies and more burden is placed on the other ministers in the area. It is therefore essential that we keep our congregational numbers up, our buildings in good order and maintain our financial position so there is sufficient work and finance to warrant the appointment of a minister to our parishes. The future looks difficult. The Committee is also looking at the work load of ministers and ways in which they may be supported.</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Arial; color: black; font-weight: normal"> &nbsp;</span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family:Arial;color:black">Lambert Allan (Elder to the Presbytery)</span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align: left"><span lang="en-us" class="style4"> <font face="Comic Sans MS" size="5">Presbytery of Lanark - February 2009 Meeting</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black"> <font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">As a member of the Ministries Committee, I was on the interviewing panel for the post of chaplain to Lady Home Hospital at Douglas. The panel was headed by Rev Bob Devenney who is Head of Spiritual Care for NHS Lanarkshire. It is gratifying to note that the NHS takes this post seriously and, in fact, pays for the service of chaplains even though the time for which the payment is made may not be much - around four hours per week for the Lady Home. Bob Devenney had been a minister in Lanark and in case you are puzzled, it was Lanark, Ontario, not our Lanark. You will also be interested to know that Rev Susan Cowell was appointed to the post.</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">The Ministries Committee was required draw up a ten year plan suggesting how best to use resources in Presbytery. The plan was approved by Presbytery and by the Presbytery Task Group in Edinburgh. Part of the plan required more cooperation between the parishes of Biggar, Coulter, Blackmount and Liberton and Quothquan. Now that Rev Jim Francis is leaving Biggar, urgent discussions are taking place between the congregation of those parishes and Presbytery representatives to try to reach common agreement. Jim Francis is leaving Biggar to be a chaplain in the Army, he will be sadly missed in Biggar and in the Presbytery. The Rev Beverley Gauld&nbsp; is also retiring from Carnwath</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">Better news is that Law Parish Church have a new minister. She is the Rev. Una Stewart who will be inducted on 26<sup>th</sup> February. She is moving from Strathaven</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">Because of the number of vacancies, pressure is put on neighbouring ministers who act as Interim Moderators thus increasing their workload. It is suggested that elders, with training, could take on this administrative job. So if there are any elders who would be interested in taking this on, please see Graham or myself.</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">Presbytery has been asked to appoint a Youth Representative to the General Assembly and to appoint representatives to the National Youth Assembly in September. These are tremendous opportunities for anyone aged between 18 and 25 who are regularly involved in the life and worship of the congregation. At the General Assembly, youth representatives have a private meeting with the Moderator and are invited to the reception at Holyrood with the Lord High Commissioner. They also can, and do, take part in debates at the Assembly.</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">The Presbytery also agreed to pass the proposals for the changes to the sanctuary in Symington Kirk to the General Trustees for their approval.</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black"> <font size="4">Lambert Allan&nbsp; ( Elder to the Presbytery</font></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"><font size="4"> )</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:left">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align: left"> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS" class="style4"><font size="5">Presbytery of Lanark - Meetings to September 2009</font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">Jim Johnstone an elder at Symington Kirk, has been approached to be an Additional Elder at Presbytery. By appointing additional elders Presbytery maintains its numbers. Robert Carson is also one of these elders so Symington is well represented. Jim has agreed and Presbytery will formally appoint him. His expertise and experience in social work will be helpful to Presbytery.</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">At Presbytery s September meeting the Rev David Easton was appointed Moderator for this session. David is a retired minister from Burnside and now stays in Quothquan. Some of you will know him as a member of the bass section of Biggar Singers.</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">The Rev Ian Cunningham of Kirkton Church, Carluke has been appointed our Interim Moderator during Graham s illness.</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">The Church of Scotland has become more concerned recently about the state of the church property throughout Scotland and has instructed presbyteries to appoint architects to carry out inspections. Stewart Toy, Lanark, has been appointed to inspect our churches and the manse. Mike Nisbet, Symington, will be dealing with quite a number in the rest of Presbytery.</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">Also at the September meeting, The Rev Una Stewart from Law gave a short talk and showed some slides about her visit to Russia where she was finding out about the work of the Tearfund there. The Tearfund is a Christian relief and development agency. Una was very impressed with what was being done and could be persuaded to come to talk to the guild or other organization about the visit.</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">Due to the Data Protection Act, the main desk at Wishaw General Hospital has refused to give the ward number of patients to ministers and even relatives. As you will appreciate this has caused considerable concern. It even happens when patients have requested a visit. Presbytery s dissatisfaction with the arrangement will be conveyed to the Hospital management and to the local Councilors, MSPs and Members of Parliament.</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><strong> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black; font-weight: normal"> <font size="4">It is proposed that Presbytery holds a  Back to Church Sunday in the New Year when each member of every congregation will invite one person to attend church on the Sunday. No doubt you will hear more of this in the future.</font></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><b> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: black"> <font size="4">Lambert Allan (Elder to the Presbytery)</font></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:left">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><i> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-family:Comic Sans MS"><font size="4">&nbsp;</font></span></i></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.7pt;text-align:justify"> &nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal">&nbsp;</p> <p class="style3">&nbsp;</p> <p class="style3"><font size="1">Last updated 6th October 2009</font></p> </body> </html>