(Without being smug) ..Aren't people one of the most amazing things about being a Christian?
Bumped into an "old" friend from my Scripture Union Staff days, who now worships in an independent fellowship nearby. It was such a joy to catch up with each other's families, and where we were in our service for the Lord. What a laugh ( since he's male) that several of the females around were watching us closely. Then his wife ( whom I know too) came up, I guess, to claim him...so she got a hug as well. !
We prayed in broad daylight ( yes!)...Don't be afraid in this day and age to show you care, by letting Holy Spirit pray through you for others. Another amazing thing!
Then I walked on down to Asda full of the joys.....
Last Blog before a week on Sunday...
Anyone reading this, for whom it's their first Christmas without a loved one- no platitudes- may I just pray for you, God's deepest comfort in your loneliness and sadness..this is a tribute to how much you loved and were loved.....
Saturday 17 December 2016
Saturday 10 December 2016
tis the season to take brolly...tra la la la la la la la la !
Actually hasn't the weather been stupendous so far, enabling folks to visit, shop, sing, and everything else we cram into December???? Today I avoided the shops and had a lovely local swim and steam room, while two of our family were working- one in Boots Central Station, the other in a signal box. Daughter no 2 has sadly succumbed to a serious tummy bug so is off work till further notice..aw..meanwhile we have managed to lumber our artificial tree down from the loft and decorate it.
Tonight I have a last minute baby ( child/young person) sitting gig from 8-10pm. As long as I can watch the (usually good, colourful and funny) TV, I will be happy.
Tomorrow is Advent 3 Church Service with the theme "Star Trek" about...of course...those wise men. Looking forward to conducting this service, then off to GRI to hand in daughter no 2's important form to ensure she still gets paid !!!
Happy Christmas if you can- those of you who have sad memories, take it easy... Dot
Tonight I have a last minute baby ( child/young person) sitting gig from 8-10pm. As long as I can watch the (usually good, colourful and funny) TV, I will be happy.
Tomorrow is Advent 3 Church Service with the theme "Star Trek" about...of course...those wise men. Looking forward to conducting this service, then off to GRI to hand in daughter no 2's important form to ensure she still gets paid !!!
Happy Christmas if you can- those of you who have sad memories, take it easy... Dot
Friday 2 December 2016
A spiritualist, a good friend to D, and a Deacon's lunch
Someone called me out of the blue in trouble with negative thoughts. No wonder. Her background was spiritualism. We spoke on the phone.Praise God one of the staff at Faith Mission Bookshop was on hand when my spiritualist contact phoned again. The two Dorothys
( Dot to Dot?) spoke Scripture to her down the phone and prayed for God to break in. Continued prayer pls if you are reading this- that she will keep reading John's Gospel and will come to faith..added bonus if she comes to church on Sunday in Riddrie.
A good friend of a gentleman who comes to the Art Class for silver haired folks in one of the church's downstair's rooms, told me that D had died, and asked if I would conduct his funeral, if possible in church. I would be privileged to do that. Watch this space.
Finally today was my first Annual Christmas dinner- with about 10 other deacons in Glasgow area- active and retired! A good time ( and a moan) was had by all- and the food was good- except for the rockhard pudding. I could have thrown it at a wall and it would have bounced....
I must I must learn to be grateful. I must I must I must learn learn to be be grateful. Byee!
( Dot to Dot?) spoke Scripture to her down the phone and prayed for God to break in. Continued prayer pls if you are reading this- that she will keep reading John's Gospel and will come to faith..added bonus if she comes to church on Sunday in Riddrie.
A good friend of a gentleman who comes to the Art Class for silver haired folks in one of the church's downstair's rooms, told me that D had died, and asked if I would conduct his funeral, if possible in church. I would be privileged to do that. Watch this space.
Finally today was my first Annual Christmas dinner- with about 10 other deacons in Glasgow area- active and retired! A good time ( and a moan) was had by all- and the food was good- except for the rockhard pudding. I could have thrown it at a wall and it would have bounced....
I must I must learn to be grateful. I must I must I must learn learn to be be grateful. Byee!
Thursday 24 November 2016
OOps It's been a fortnight since I blogged!
OOps It's been a fortnight since I blogged!
Today I was conducting a funeral over at a local crematorium. It was bright sunshine and crisp frost- just perfect for one of the hymns the family had chosen- "I watch The Sunrise lighting the sky,"with the lovely chorus, "For You are always close to me, following all my ways, Lord" Very emotional and moving for the loved ones, but The Lord helped us through it. I don't think there's anything wrong with showing tears when they are genuine, and today I really felt for the husband and daughter who are left without a wife and Mum.
By the grace of God, one of the nephews said to me privately, "Thanks for the service. I appreciated your style!" He could have meant the informal and personal style of the funeral service OR the fact that I try to lighten the mood with a funny moment. I'd been reading Dorothy Paul's autobography recently, so it felt apt , being an east end funeral, to mention the Glesga Fayre , or "That annual fortnight's holiday from the toil of labour, when folks go "doon the watter, or to Millport!"
Kirk Session meeting tonight. Wonder what that will hold?
Today I was conducting a funeral over at a local crematorium. It was bright sunshine and crisp frost- just perfect for one of the hymns the family had chosen- "I watch The Sunrise lighting the sky,"with the lovely chorus, "For You are always close to me, following all my ways, Lord" Very emotional and moving for the loved ones, but The Lord helped us through it. I don't think there's anything wrong with showing tears when they are genuine, and today I really felt for the husband and daughter who are left without a wife and Mum.
By the grace of God, one of the nephews said to me privately, "Thanks for the service. I appreciated your style!" He could have meant the informal and personal style of the funeral service OR the fact that I try to lighten the mood with a funny moment. I'd been reading Dorothy Paul's autobography recently, so it felt apt , being an east end funeral, to mention the Glesga Fayre , or "That annual fortnight's holiday from the toil of labour, when folks go "doon the watter, or to Millport!"
Kirk Session meeting tonight. Wonder what that will hold?
Friday 11 November 2016
Best and Worst...
I always think funerals bring out the best and worst of people. The best is the desire to live a better life, as a mourner becomes aware of the brevity of life, and may hear from God an urgent call to " shower the people you love with love" ( words of a James Taylor song) while they are alive!
Bringing out the worst, happened recently to me when the deceased's Next of Kin hadn't seen his/her relative for thirty years. And the information about his loved one, to be read as their tribute, had been written by the ailing person themselves, who sadly had alzheimer's disease. As a consequence, after the service, an unknown man came up to me and said " hen, ye did a good service, but what you said about Y was utter nonsense!" Apparently there were a number of proverbial "skeletons in the family cupboard," and another version of where the deceased grew up, not on a Wigtownshire farm as I had been told.
Also there was no "purvey" afterwards. ( For any English readers, a "purvey" is the time for refreshment after a funeral service usually held in a home or hotel, where folks can further reminisce about their late relative/friend/colleague. ) This may have been a sign of a family rift, or lack of funds, or both.
So there you go....
Bringing out the worst, happened recently to me when the deceased's Next of Kin hadn't seen his/her relative for thirty years. And the information about his loved one, to be read as their tribute, had been written by the ailing person themselves, who sadly had alzheimer's disease. As a consequence, after the service, an unknown man came up to me and said " hen, ye did a good service, but what you said about Y was utter nonsense!" Apparently there were a number of proverbial "skeletons in the family cupboard," and another version of where the deceased grew up, not on a Wigtownshire farm as I had been told.
Also there was no "purvey" afterwards. ( For any English readers, a "purvey" is the time for refreshment after a funeral service usually held in a home or hotel, where folks can further reminisce about their late relative/friend/colleague. ) This may have been a sign of a family rift, or lack of funds, or both.
So there you go....
Monday 7 November 2016
Teams-at- Work
What a great day yesterday when the catering, eating, playing,clergy, technical, chatters, music makers, and worship leading folks got together for fellowship at St Enoch's Hogganfield along with St Paul's Provanmill, and St Andrews in the East in Dennistoun. All of us are small congregations but together we swelled !
Theme was "All Saints Day" and we reflected on Hebrews Chapters 11 chunks (heroes and heroines of faith) and a bit of Chapter 12, citing Jesus Himself The Pioneer and Perfecter of our Faith. Those of us IN CHRIST are being cheered on by a grandstand full of those who have fought the good fight and finished their races- our relatives, St Francis of Assisi, Mary Slessor, and many others from every tribe and tongue and nation. what a hooley it's going to be as we all meet up!
One kind person said that I was "infectious." "eh, I said. have I given you measles?" "no," he said. "When you stand up and share God's Word, I just wanna say, yes Dot, yes God, I'll do it!"
All the talented folks shared their talents ( see first sentence)
Food was shared - each church doing a course- great atmosphere.
Then I turned up at a local Sheltered Housing complex, with a gracious Mexican warden, and another wee team sang well known hymns (some with actions- ooh!) and prayed for each other...a drop off of a church member to her home, then I went home, full, not only of food and fun, but of thankfulness too!
Theme was "All Saints Day" and we reflected on Hebrews Chapters 11 chunks (heroes and heroines of faith) and a bit of Chapter 12, citing Jesus Himself The Pioneer and Perfecter of our Faith. Those of us IN CHRIST are being cheered on by a grandstand full of those who have fought the good fight and finished their races- our relatives, St Francis of Assisi, Mary Slessor, and many others from every tribe and tongue and nation. what a hooley it's going to be as we all meet up!
One kind person said that I was "infectious." "eh, I said. have I given you measles?" "no," he said. "When you stand up and share God's Word, I just wanna say, yes Dot, yes God, I'll do it!"
All the talented folks shared their talents ( see first sentence)
Food was shared - each church doing a course- great atmosphere.
Then I turned up at a local Sheltered Housing complex, with a gracious Mexican warden, and another wee team sang well known hymns (some with actions- ooh!) and prayed for each other...a drop off of a church member to her home, then I went home, full, not only of food and fun, but of thankfulness too!
Wednesday 2 November 2016
God is round every corner!
Do some of you remember a golden oldie hymn"God is always near me hearing what I say,
Knowing all my thoughts and deeds, all my work & play??"
Used to find these words, not a comfort, but in my imagination and Calvinist psychie, even at aged 5, picturing a scary giant- all- seeing god, like the giant in Jack and the Beanstalk who would stomp on you for the least mistake- terrifying!?
I see a continuity between Old and New Testaments with Jesus as The Lynch Pin. He's hard on sin and the causes of sin but we are His Treasure. ( How He must grieve over the farcical election fiasco in USA just now, and how Middle Eastern folks mouths must be agog with how far The West and "Christians" have fallen, when they laugh at the antics of democratic - I mean in the widest sense, including les Republiciens- leadership) Our Lord hard at the injustices and evil of institutional sin, ( in His days perhaps those Pharisees) within and without our religious edifices...and Yet..such love for people, such longing to see His beautiful character reproduced in us, His Bride...a bride so diverse and different throughout the world, wearing a variety of dresses and intricate cultural accessories but united in preparing to become Christ-like in union with Him.
We get het up about denominations and how we do things better than "them over there.
Grieving God, have mercy on us. Help us to see You round every corner, as I did today. Thank you for connecting me with a real "superhero" working in a quiet backwater. Bless and Grow that person's vision. Bless and enable as well that lady from my past working life, who still remains positive about the dying structures of a crumbling church, and who wishes there were more priority given to pastoral support for those who work within a terminally ill and permanently damaged part of the body.
In the words of the latest recruit to a ministry in Glasgow.."God isn't finished with the Church of Scotland yet." But let's work with AND FOR, His LASTING, Dynamic Creative Spirit Resurrected Life and stop trying to prolong the death, eh???
Words of Jesus (collectively as well as individually) as a Way of Life, "Unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground, it dies alone, but if it dies, it bears much fruit." John 12
Knowing all my thoughts and deeds, all my work & play??"
Used to find these words, not a comfort, but in my imagination and Calvinist psychie, even at aged 5, picturing a scary giant- all- seeing god, like the giant in Jack and the Beanstalk who would stomp on you for the least mistake- terrifying!?
I see a continuity between Old and New Testaments with Jesus as The Lynch Pin. He's hard on sin and the causes of sin but we are His Treasure. ( How He must grieve over the farcical election fiasco in USA just now, and how Middle Eastern folks mouths must be agog with how far The West and "Christians" have fallen, when they laugh at the antics of democratic - I mean in the widest sense, including les Republiciens- leadership) Our Lord hard at the injustices and evil of institutional sin, ( in His days perhaps those Pharisees) within and without our religious edifices...and Yet..such love for people, such longing to see His beautiful character reproduced in us, His Bride...a bride so diverse and different throughout the world, wearing a variety of dresses and intricate cultural accessories but united in preparing to become Christ-like in union with Him.
We get het up about denominations and how we do things better than "them over there.
Grieving God, have mercy on us. Help us to see You round every corner, as I did today. Thank you for connecting me with a real "superhero" working in a quiet backwater. Bless and Grow that person's vision. Bless and enable as well that lady from my past working life, who still remains positive about the dying structures of a crumbling church, and who wishes there were more priority given to pastoral support for those who work within a terminally ill and permanently damaged part of the body.
In the words of the latest recruit to a ministry in Glasgow.."God isn't finished with the Church of Scotland yet." But let's work with AND FOR, His LASTING, Dynamic Creative Spirit Resurrected Life and stop trying to prolong the death, eh???
Words of Jesus (collectively as well as individually) as a Way of Life, "Unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground, it dies alone, but if it dies, it bears much fruit." John 12
Saturday 29 October 2016
Networking Saturday! ( couldn't think of a rhyme!)
Today I had to take public transport cos hubbie had the car. I heard a landed gentry type guy once say cruelly and rudely that buses were " scumwagons."
I tend to think folks who go in big fancy cars with chaffeurs all the time everywhere, are missing out on life !
All of human life, interesting human life I met today.
A lady at a bus stop on Alexandra Parade was glad we had had a faith conversation since she was thinking about God at the moment anyway! She said she hadn't forced her children to go to her Christian tradition because it was based on fear! I asked her what she meant and she outlined what I knew only vaguely from my Glasgow Uni days, that "there are so many sins that can trip us up." I shared how my Heavenly Father is a loving God ( yes to be feared in the sense of awe at His wonderful holiness), but that He sent Jesus to show what God was like and to bring us to God- something we could never earn. Were people in awe of Jesus? Yes! Were they afraid of Him? No! God is not sin centred looking for ways to blame and shame us...He is all for us! ( though we do need transforming,,,,,,)
Second lady at going home bus stop was a sight to behold- rather wild in her appearance I would say! She had a rich heritage of working in a church but ranted to me about how bad mankind was, especially to animals- poachers of ivory ( I agreed) and how in the 50's the world was a better place but now that the population had risen so much, how doomed was the planet...I agreed too, but said how Jesus was coming back again to sort out right from wrong. She said, "do you really believe that?" She shook her weary head and wild hair......Hope we meet again!
In between departing and returning home, I enjoyed chatting to Sale of Workers who had and set up, baked, sold Christmas wrappings and cards and bric- a -brac for church funds...lovely atmosphere. met some family members of church folks, chatted some more, enjoyed a " guid plate o soup." "Ready, on your Marks, get Set, BAKE!" as they used to say on BBC's"Great British Bake Off."
Also met the local central east SNP councillor at Sale of Work.
Home again by means of two "scum wagons"...bus AND train.
Some daft folks are missing out on a wonderful world of people....let them eat cake and keep themselves to themselves !!!??
I tend to think folks who go in big fancy cars with chaffeurs all the time everywhere, are missing out on life !
All of human life, interesting human life I met today.
A lady at a bus stop on Alexandra Parade was glad we had had a faith conversation since she was thinking about God at the moment anyway! She said she hadn't forced her children to go to her Christian tradition because it was based on fear! I asked her what she meant and she outlined what I knew only vaguely from my Glasgow Uni days, that "there are so many sins that can trip us up." I shared how my Heavenly Father is a loving God ( yes to be feared in the sense of awe at His wonderful holiness), but that He sent Jesus to show what God was like and to bring us to God- something we could never earn. Were people in awe of Jesus? Yes! Were they afraid of Him? No! God is not sin centred looking for ways to blame and shame us...He is all for us! ( though we do need transforming,,,,,,)
Second lady at going home bus stop was a sight to behold- rather wild in her appearance I would say! She had a rich heritage of working in a church but ranted to me about how bad mankind was, especially to animals- poachers of ivory ( I agreed) and how in the 50's the world was a better place but now that the population had risen so much, how doomed was the planet...I agreed too, but said how Jesus was coming back again to sort out right from wrong. She said, "do you really believe that?" She shook her weary head and wild hair......Hope we meet again!
In between departing and returning home, I enjoyed chatting to Sale of Workers who had and set up, baked, sold Christmas wrappings and cards and bric- a -brac for church funds...lovely atmosphere. met some family members of church folks, chatted some more, enjoyed a " guid plate o soup." "Ready, on your Marks, get Set, BAKE!" as they used to say on BBC's"Great British Bake Off."
Also met the local central east SNP councillor at Sale of Work.
Home again by means of two "scum wagons"...bus AND train.
Some daft folks are missing out on a wonderful world of people....let them eat cake and keep themselves to themselves !!!??
Monday 24 October 2016
Just Another Marvellous Monday!
So privileged today... set off to Riddrie about 10. 15 am to visit one or two elderly folks. First Care Home, and J is out at her club again, manager tells me. "Ye'll need to come back a Tuesday or a Thirsday. J's here then" Note to diary. Now off to visit a very deaf lady in her home. Told to knock on far away window, which I do, as well as pressing the bell hard! She hears, and comes to open her front door. Success! ( tried last week and "no cigar".) It's good to see B. She had a bad fall and gashed her right eye as well as staving her hand- all in trying to put out her bin and not taking her stick...she's nearing the end of her 4 score and 10 but still bright as a button! We had a super chat and prayer and sing.
Then decided to go to another Care Home down in the east end- very short visit this time since the lady was head down and asleep, so left a card.
Lunch in Alexander Park with my sandwich... did a couple of texts to family of elderly folks to see how they were. Got out of the car cos the Autumn trees and golden rusty leaves were calling me to sniff the fresh air!
On way back, two dog walkers and myself saw a man fall hard onto a bench, after swaying in the breeze.
Spoke to him and his boxer dog ( Buddy) as we walked back to the park gates. J was able to hold a conversation, only just. Wondered if he was on something- not sure- no smell of alcohol but I know some addictions do not have much of an odour. J told me he had his bike stolen recently in this park at night time, but that he'd picked out one of the perpetrators at the police station. Misses his bike. We stopped. I told him my first name and where I worked. J told me he used to be in the BB's at the same church. Then felt I ought to ask him if he wanted me to pray for him? He said "yes" so I did. AND he took off his hat as we did so. I was amazed that this man still had a respect for God, or some Higher Power than himself... said bye bye..
drove round to local school to do a half hour lesson on Luke 5 about the paralysed man. Good response from the children. As I was leaving, a member of staff motioned to me, relating that he was in the middle of some kind of complaint procedure, so his holiday had "not really been a holiday; spent a lot of time at the kitchen table filling in forms!"
Just another reminder of the culture we live in, when a small error ( or not) can bring out legal guns from a family that may have an axe or twenty to grind, and this person happened to be in chopping
rang!? We in the Church of Scotland have to be very circumspect these days too.
Then decided to go to another Care Home down in the east end- very short visit this time since the lady was head down and asleep, so left a card.
Lunch in Alexander Park with my sandwich... did a couple of texts to family of elderly folks to see how they were. Got out of the car cos the Autumn trees and golden rusty leaves were calling me to sniff the fresh air!
On way back, two dog walkers and myself saw a man fall hard onto a bench, after swaying in the breeze.
Spoke to him and his boxer dog ( Buddy) as we walked back to the park gates. J was able to hold a conversation, only just. Wondered if he was on something- not sure- no smell of alcohol but I know some addictions do not have much of an odour. J told me he had his bike stolen recently in this park at night time, but that he'd picked out one of the perpetrators at the police station. Misses his bike. We stopped. I told him my first name and where I worked. J told me he used to be in the BB's at the same church. Then felt I ought to ask him if he wanted me to pray for him? He said "yes" so I did. AND he took off his hat as we did so. I was amazed that this man still had a respect for God, or some Higher Power than himself... said bye bye..
drove round to local school to do a half hour lesson on Luke 5 about the paralysed man. Good response from the children. As I was leaving, a member of staff motioned to me, relating that he was in the middle of some kind of complaint procedure, so his holiday had "not really been a holiday; spent a lot of time at the kitchen table filling in forms!"
Just another reminder of the culture we live in, when a small error ( or not) can bring out legal guns from a family that may have an axe or twenty to grind, and this person happened to be in chopping
rang!? We in the Church of Scotland have to be very circumspect these days too.
Wednesday 19 October 2016
Chicago No more !
Next summer 2017, several Scottish Deacons are going to the Diakonia World Conference which happens every three years or so. This year it's in Chicago USA ( city of Calamity Jane ( the incomparable Doris Day who had a horrific domestic scene but positively glowed on film) )She called it Shicaggie!
Anyway, decided not to go now, though my name was down to go. Not just the cost, but USA has never been a country I'm dying to go to. Canada, where David and I went for our 25th Wedding Anniversary, now that was brilliant!
Today, I visited a top notch Care Home where there was a noticeboard with daily activities, and while I was there, a young volunteer was doing crafty things with some of the residents, and everything smelt fragrant.
Like some of you reading this, you will have been into Homes with varying degrees of cleanliness and atmosphere. My visitee, I could see, was well looked after.
Praise God for the Care Commission who inspect and grade Care Homes now.
Also popped in to see a retired Deacon while I was passing. it was good to catch up with her.
Anyway, decided not to go now, though my name was down to go. Not just the cost, but USA has never been a country I'm dying to go to. Canada, where David and I went for our 25th Wedding Anniversary, now that was brilliant!
Today, I visited a top notch Care Home where there was a noticeboard with daily activities, and while I was there, a young volunteer was doing crafty things with some of the residents, and everything smelt fragrant.
Like some of you reading this, you will have been into Homes with varying degrees of cleanliness and atmosphere. My visitee, I could see, was well looked after.
Praise God for the Care Commission who inspect and grade Care Homes now.
Also popped in to see a retired Deacon while I was passing. it was good to catch up with her.
Monday 17 October 2016
Visiting !
Today, despite the rain and heavy showers, my spirits are high.
Enjoyed visiting a lady in a Care Home and one in her own home!
Got no answer from a third lady.
Maybe should've phoned first cos it can take elderly folks a wee while to get down a stair, or get up off a chair if they are on their "ownsome" with no-one else that day to open the door to visitors.
Good to remember that and be patient.
Some elderly folks put us to shame with their positive attitude, and I just love praying with and for them as well as singing a hymn of their choice. It's true that "in the giving there is a receiving."
Enjoyed visiting a lady in a Care Home and one in her own home!
Got no answer from a third lady.
Maybe should've phoned first cos it can take elderly folks a wee while to get down a stair, or get up off a chair if they are on their "ownsome" with no-one else that day to open the door to visitors.
Good to remember that and be patient.
Some elderly folks put us to shame with their positive attitude, and I just love praying with and for them as well as singing a hymn of their choice. It's true that "in the giving there is a receiving."
Saturday 15 October 2016
Sat Oct 15th
Woke up feeling a bit tearful...not usual for me. Think it may have something to do with the flu jab I had two days ago. It's said you can get flu symptoms of up to 72 hrs afterwards. Might be more complex when you are a "woman of a certain age"....soon to be another half year (B)OLDER ( as Helen Mirren says!)
Anyway, to help cheer myself up, I asked hubbie and daughter to give me a long hug! Makes a difference...hug your loved ones!
That helped, tho it made me even more teary- SO I went out for a walk in the drizzle after listening to God on "pray as you go". Got to my fave coffee shop ( Bean and Berry in Bothwell Rd), counted my blessings
( after counting my change at self service check out for sunflower margarine) Enjoyed a decaf coffee, glass of water, and the top of a lemon and poppy seed muffin. (You can't take the "I feel bad" feeling from an ex yo-yo dieter when she eats something "naughty but nice" but feeling better cos she only had the top bit !!??)
SO Have just had a wee nap after treating myself to an OK magazine,grazing the fab pics and reading about one of my favourite actresses, Susan Sarandon. Then I plan to keep being lifted up by God, as I shop online for Christmas, using as many vouchers/tokens for money off that I can! That should do the trick...then collect carry out main meal ( has to be a curry!) while making rice at home to save pennies.
Hubbie on late shift, Daughter No 1 away for w/e, and Daughter No 2 returns about 7pm.
Let's hope I've left her enough of that curry to watch with "Strictly" or "ma heid will be in ma hans" as my Mum would say.! Thanks you God that tomorrow is Sunday and I will be with Your people, Your Word and Spirit and singing Your praise!
Anyway, to help cheer myself up, I asked hubbie and daughter to give me a long hug! Makes a difference...hug your loved ones!
That helped, tho it made me even more teary- SO I went out for a walk in the drizzle after listening to God on "pray as you go". Got to my fave coffee shop ( Bean and Berry in Bothwell Rd), counted my blessings
( after counting my change at self service check out for sunflower margarine) Enjoyed a decaf coffee, glass of water, and the top of a lemon and poppy seed muffin. (You can't take the "I feel bad" feeling from an ex yo-yo dieter when she eats something "naughty but nice" but feeling better cos she only had the top bit !!??)
SO Have just had a wee nap after treating myself to an OK magazine,grazing the fab pics and reading about one of my favourite actresses, Susan Sarandon. Then I plan to keep being lifted up by God, as I shop online for Christmas, using as many vouchers/tokens for money off that I can! That should do the trick...then collect carry out main meal ( has to be a curry!) while making rice at home to save pennies.
Hubbie on late shift, Daughter No 1 away for w/e, and Daughter No 2 returns about 7pm.
Let's hope I've left her enough of that curry to watch with "Strictly" or "ma heid will be in ma hans" as my Mum would say.! Thanks you God that tomorrow is Sunday and I will be with Your people, Your Word and Spirit and singing Your praise!
Saturday 8 October 2016
Do you pop??
Yesterday I was over in Glasgow's west end for a Macmillan Coffee Morning, organised by a friend,M, and held in her Dad's comfy top floor flat, carpeted all the way up, with cleaners on the ground floor cleaning with hoovers and brasso!. ( love the smell of brasso and also lavender polish...brings back childhood memories)
Anyway, I am used to red sandstone tenements, having lived in two in Partick, and done many visits to folks in tenements during the length of my Diakonate ministry.
Imagine my surprise then, when I was chatting to a neighbour of M's Dad from floor 2, and asked her if she enjoyed popping in to see M's dad and others in the flats.
She replied, " oh I don't pop. We don't pop!"
I felt like Margo addressing Barbara snootily in "The Good Life" TV show, "No Gerry,we certainly do not pop!" What a shame that folks can isolate themselves, for whatever reason, by not befriending neighbours- wherever we live. Because of fear, or tradition, or upbringing (I'm guessing) we maybe feel we can't ask help from another who lives nearby, or we fear dropping in unannounced, not by appointment ( royal ??)We prefer our own company in case we are perhaps rejected in some way.
But it was a funny story... " We don't pop !"
Anyway, I am used to red sandstone tenements, having lived in two in Partick, and done many visits to folks in tenements during the length of my Diakonate ministry.
Imagine my surprise then, when I was chatting to a neighbour of M's Dad from floor 2, and asked her if she enjoyed popping in to see M's dad and others in the flats.
She replied, " oh I don't pop. We don't pop!"
I felt like Margo addressing Barbara snootily in "The Good Life" TV show, "No Gerry,we certainly do not pop!" What a shame that folks can isolate themselves, for whatever reason, by not befriending neighbours- wherever we live. Because of fear, or tradition, or upbringing (I'm guessing) we maybe feel we can't ask help from another who lives nearby, or we fear dropping in unannounced, not by appointment ( royal ??)We prefer our own company in case we are perhaps rejected in some way.
But it was a funny story... " We don't pop !"
Thursday 6 October 2016
Parish Grouping
Have spent today thinking about Church of Scotland Parish Grouping St Enoch's is part of, which is working well. St Paul's Provanmill, St Enoch's Riddrie, and St Andrews in the East, Dennistoun.
We are meeting next Thursday and will be together at an All Saints Day themed service on Sunday Nov 6th.
Busy three months coming up, Carntyne Primary School Harvest Assembly then their Remembrance Service as well as St Enoch's own.
Then of course Advent begins at end of November...so looking out character studies in advance.
Meanwhile our cat Lucy is going a bit crazy on her scratching post just now...wish we humans had an equivalent... maybe a whole room with multi coloured scratching posts so we could do our Baloo back wriggling moves from the Jungle Book !!
We are meeting next Thursday and will be together at an All Saints Day themed service on Sunday Nov 6th.
Busy three months coming up, Carntyne Primary School Harvest Assembly then their Remembrance Service as well as St Enoch's own.
Then of course Advent begins at end of November...so looking out character studies in advance.
Meanwhile our cat Lucy is going a bit crazy on her scratching post just now...wish we humans had an equivalent... maybe a whole room with multi coloured scratching posts so we could do our Baloo back wriggling moves from the Jungle Book !!
Monday 3 October 2016
Amazing!
Amazing that after my last post saying "will catch up with Shettleston New folks before long" AND yesterday I spotted two of those special friends in the congregation @ St Enoch's. It was such a joy to see "a weil kent face" and to catch up with news after the service over coffee. Thank you God!
This week I have chosen not to go to an evening meeting, since a colleague reminded me that it's the Interim Moderator's role to oversee such things as LCR's ( local church reviews, which occur every five years, and used to have the awful title of "quinquennials." (Why does the C of S still have a legal Latin type profile in some of its language? An example of this is Benediction. It's, what I call, Blessing.
Another meeting this month has the leader of Glasgow Presbytery's Strategy Committee ( of which I was a member a few years back) This Group deals with congregations, often in Vacancy, without a current minister They prayerfully try to sort out which would benefit from being linked with another nearby congregation. That's the positive spin. Sadly, these visits often put folks on the defensive, thinking it's something that
"will be done TO them" -rather than thinking through for themselves what are the sensible practical economic options. It's such a bad witness to Christ I always think, when churches refuse to link up and learn to love and unite in His Name.
However, that said...a fellow Deacon once wisely said to me. "You know Dot, technology, media, everything is moving so fast these days, that for some people, particularly the elderly, the ONLY THING, that has stayed the same and where they feel they have a link with the past, is their church and church building. That's why they find it so difficult to lose a building. It's often elderly folks who have HAD to deal with change all their lives, and value their weekly worship and its stability above all.....
Makes you see both sides...
This week I have chosen not to go to an evening meeting, since a colleague reminded me that it's the Interim Moderator's role to oversee such things as LCR's ( local church reviews, which occur every five years, and used to have the awful title of "quinquennials." (Why does the C of S still have a legal Latin type profile in some of its language? An example of this is Benediction. It's, what I call, Blessing.
Another meeting this month has the leader of Glasgow Presbytery's Strategy Committee ( of which I was a member a few years back) This Group deals with congregations, often in Vacancy, without a current minister They prayerfully try to sort out which would benefit from being linked with another nearby congregation. That's the positive spin. Sadly, these visits often put folks on the defensive, thinking it's something that
"will be done TO them" -rather than thinking through for themselves what are the sensible practical economic options. It's such a bad witness to Christ I always think, when churches refuse to link up and learn to love and unite in His Name.
However, that said...a fellow Deacon once wisely said to me. "You know Dot, technology, media, everything is moving so fast these days, that for some people, particularly the elderly, the ONLY THING, that has stayed the same and where they feel they have a link with the past, is their church and church building. That's why they find it so difficult to lose a building. It's often elderly folks who have HAD to deal with change all their lives, and value their weekly worship and its stability above all.....
Makes you see both sides...
Wednesday 28 September 2016
Have left Shettleston New Church of Scotland now...sad wrench, but will catch up with these special folks before long, just wont have the same pastoral tie. Glad of the weekend to make the break and write some reflections. West Mearns is my only part-time Deacon's job for now, so I have headspace to give it my all.
This reminder on my Facebook page, made me realise how many different jobs I have had since my ordination as a Deacon. ... Development Co-Ordinator, Family Networker, now Locum minister.
I guess some folks stay a long time in one job. I prefer the variety - keeps me from getting bored! Sadly we had to close down West Mearns Fresh Expression on Dec 31st 2014.
Last night's Glasgow Presbytery Mission Committee was stimulating. We are planning a Networking Event together in 2017 and were discussing where we could source practitioners from, who would deliver "how to" models of Mission which are going on.
Today, I have several phone calls to make, to set up pastoral visits tomorrow, need to look over my prep for Sunday, in the light of a very helpful comment from a colleague about how to encourage folks to listen instead of chat during the taking of the offering......Have a good day, ya all ( American accent required!?)
Tuesday 20 September 2016
Rewarding day
Hi folks, hung out some sheets to dry
went to gym
fed cat
worked on this Sunday's service
made dinner ( chilli...yum yum)
heard from someone from last job-
destroyed jigsaw..need a new one
got a new thriller from Library
answered emails and texts
arranged to visit a hospitalee
did learning intentions and outcomes for a primary School Harvest Assembly (I'm rusty at this!)
fed cat again
about to watch tv and put ye feet up
went to gym
fed cat
worked on this Sunday's service
made dinner ( chilli...yum yum)
heard from someone from last job-
destroyed jigsaw..need a new one
got a new thriller from Library
answered emails and texts
arranged to visit a hospitalee
did learning intentions and outcomes for a primary School Harvest Assembly (I'm rusty at this!)
fed cat again
about to watch tv and put ye feet up
Thursday 15 September 2016
Parish Groupings!
Thursday Sept 15th
Very pleased to be part of a three-way Parish Grouping in my new job.
Have always thought it made sense not to heat and light two or three churches which were reasonably close together, when one venue filled up was a) more practical and b) more Christian (celebrating diversity and unity, loving each other by worshipping and working together esp in outreach work which everybody finds challenging!!
Lovely to have these times 4 times a year and at 1630-1800:- good use of time as we get a take away.
( I had a baked potato...ooo....others had fish suppers)
Pastoral needs are coming in, so I shall sign off. Looking forward to taking the first part of this Sunday's Worship, with Rev Diane Stewart leading us into Communion.
Very pleased to be part of a three-way Parish Grouping in my new job.
Have always thought it made sense not to heat and light two or three churches which were reasonably close together, when one venue filled up was a) more practical and b) more Christian (celebrating diversity and unity, loving each other by worshipping and working together esp in outreach work which everybody finds challenging!!
Lovely to have these times 4 times a year and at 1630-1800:- good use of time as we get a take away.
( I had a baked potato...ooo....others had fish suppers)
Pastoral needs are coming in, so I shall sign off. Looking forward to taking the first part of this Sunday's Worship, with Rev Diane Stewart leading us into Communion.
Friday 9 September 2016
I know what I said yesterday, but it's a woman's privilege to ..... her.... ( complete the puzzle)
Today was excellent. About 10 of us Deacons including a lovely lady from the Methodist Church in Netherton, Wishaw, joined us.
Our topic was "Unless you become as a little child, you cannot enter the Kingdom of Heaven"
We explored what makes children children e.g their sense of wonder, exploration, acceptance of others, their freedom and honesty and much much more
Then we discovered how Jesus Himself had many of these characteristics, so God must love children
Well we knew that didn't we? But sadly some of our churches are not child friendly- vis a vis "shhh shh" or an off putting tut ! ( not to be confused with an off tutting putt, which golfers experience)
We shared some personal memories of our own childhoods, and our early feelings about Sunday School
( a name which should be changed to something more creative !!!)
Much to reflect upon. Our leader was Yvonne McCorquidale, who is a most practical theologian and play therapist with children from under privileged/ and or additional learning needs. Superb!
Today was excellent. About 10 of us Deacons including a lovely lady from the Methodist Church in Netherton, Wishaw, joined us.
Our topic was "Unless you become as a little child, you cannot enter the Kingdom of Heaven"
We explored what makes children children e.g their sense of wonder, exploration, acceptance of others, their freedom and honesty and much much more
Then we discovered how Jesus Himself had many of these characteristics, so God must love children
Well we knew that didn't we? But sadly some of our churches are not child friendly- vis a vis "shhh shh" or an off putting tut ! ( not to be confused with an off tutting putt, which golfers experience)
We shared some personal memories of our own childhoods, and our early feelings about Sunday School
( a name which should be changed to something more creative !!!)
Much to reflect upon. Our leader was Yvonne McCorquidale, who is a most practical theologian and play therapist with children from under privileged/ and or additional learning needs. Superb!
Wednesday 7 September 2016
Radio Silence for a week or so !
First Worship Service last Sunday was a bit of a guddle as I let my mindset do the cartwheels necessary to adjust to new people, new sanctuary, and new streets to get to know!
Since it's forbidden ( wisely by Church of Scotland) to post anything where real folks can be identified, I am going RADIO( BLOGSPOT) SILENCE for a wee while, as I adjust. It's too much of a temptation for me to blog about daily happenings and meetings when I am just settling in, so......see you in a bit
Thanks for your understanding if you are reading this. I'm sure others have interesting blogs too!!!!???
But PLEASE come back to me !
Since it's forbidden ( wisely by Church of Scotland) to post anything where real folks can be identified, I am going RADIO( BLOGSPOT) SILENCE for a wee while, as I adjust. It's too much of a temptation for me to blog about daily happenings and meetings when I am just settling in, so......see you in a bit
Thanks for your understanding if you are reading this. I'm sure others have interesting blogs too!!!!???
But PLEASE come back to me !
Saturday 3 September 2016
Nightmare on W Street !
My Mum used to tell me that dreams go by opposites. I do hope so in this case!
Last night, this was my dream:
1) I stood up to do my Childrens talk, and couldn't find my bag with visual aids in it. ( Someone in the new congregation who was uber-tidy had plonked the bag under the stage ( !?) so I couldn't see it. Panic No 1
2) The Bible reader had not turned up so I decided just to do it myself. But my glasses were nowhere to be seen, and the bible I was given was falling apart, and the passage I wanted wasn't there !
3) Then I looked out before the sermon and there were only 2 people there, and just as I began, more people began to arrive- loads of families that I couldn't here myself speak. They all started chatting to each other round about me and drowned out the sermon.
4) Then the organist started playing music which also covered up my voice, till I gave up.
5) At coffee time everyone spoke to one another over the top of me, so I left ( it gets worse!?)
I was walking home ( having found my bag under the stage) but it was dark and raining and I had to climb up and down slippery hillocks till I came across groups of men on either side of a short tunnel with orange street lights shining through. I could see a way out but the blue t-shirt wearing lads wouldn't let me through on the left, and the green shirts just stared at me on the right. However I still made my way through them and the rain until I got through the dark tunnel, and woke up! Very vivid dream
I think it means I really care what impression I make on my new congregation tomorrow, and God would say to me...forget self, it's in My Hands. I use the weak to shame the strong, so be totally reliant on me.
My prayer has been that more children and families come to St E, so this is reflected in my dream.
Then the last bit is for me just to motor through my nerves and have courage to get on with it despite any perceived opposition, which may just be a figment of my imagination, like my dream!
Lord help me to forget it; take it from my mind. Replace it with happy memories that begin tomorrow!
Last night, this was my dream:
1) I stood up to do my Childrens talk, and couldn't find my bag with visual aids in it. ( Someone in the new congregation who was uber-tidy had plonked the bag under the stage ( !?) so I couldn't see it. Panic No 1
2) The Bible reader had not turned up so I decided just to do it myself. But my glasses were nowhere to be seen, and the bible I was given was falling apart, and the passage I wanted wasn't there !
3) Then I looked out before the sermon and there were only 2 people there, and just as I began, more people began to arrive- loads of families that I couldn't here myself speak. They all started chatting to each other round about me and drowned out the sermon.
4) Then the organist started playing music which also covered up my voice, till I gave up.
5) At coffee time everyone spoke to one another over the top of me, so I left ( it gets worse!?)
I was walking home ( having found my bag under the stage) but it was dark and raining and I had to climb up and down slippery hillocks till I came across groups of men on either side of a short tunnel with orange street lights shining through. I could see a way out but the blue t-shirt wearing lads wouldn't let me through on the left, and the green shirts just stared at me on the right. However I still made my way through them and the rain until I got through the dark tunnel, and woke up! Very vivid dream
I think it means I really care what impression I make on my new congregation tomorrow, and God would say to me...forget self, it's in My Hands. I use the weak to shame the strong, so be totally reliant on me.
My prayer has been that more children and families come to St E, so this is reflected in my dream.
Then the last bit is for me just to motor through my nerves and have courage to get on with it despite any perceived opposition, which may just be a figment of my imagination, like my dream!
Lord help me to forget it; take it from my mind. Replace it with happy memories that begin tomorrow!
Friday 2 September 2016
Dinner Date !
Yesterday evening I was invited out by the WOP Group @ Eastwood ( Worship Outreach & Publicity)
"De doo wop wop wop dedoo wopwop"... ..... lovely meal at Orchard Park Hotel and so reasonable
- even tho I wasn't paying! "de doo wop wop wop dedoo wopwop"
Sorry two of the ladies couldn't make it.
This really IS the end! Thank you Eastwood for letting me cut my teeth on regular preaching- have loved it, and you all...
Met this week with St Enoch's Session Clerk at her home in Millerston. Good connection...finding out important stuff like "Who knows everyone and everything that's going on through the St E Grapevine??"
In this case, a lovely 84 year old, who "happens" to be the Bible reader this first Sunday.
Shall proceed to settle in and tell you bits and bobs in the days to come......
"De doo wop wop wop dedoo wopwop"... ..... lovely meal at Orchard Park Hotel and so reasonable
- even tho I wasn't paying! "de doo wop wop wop dedoo wopwop"
Sorry two of the ladies couldn't make it.
This really IS the end! Thank you Eastwood for letting me cut my teeth on regular preaching- have loved it, and you all...
Met this week with St Enoch's Session Clerk at her home in Millerston. Good connection...finding out important stuff like "Who knows everyone and everything that's going on through the St E Grapevine??"
In this case, a lovely 84 year old, who "happens" to be the Bible reader this first Sunday.
Shall proceed to settle in and tell you bits and bobs in the days to come......
Tuesday 30 August 2016
P.S. good byee..goodbyeee,
A poem written by AJ @ Eastwood 28/8/2016
Here we all are to say "bye" to Dot
Who saved us from a bit of a spot
"Nae meenister?" We couldna hae that
But that's when Dot came in to bat
A century scored in nae time flat-
With friendship, fellowship and a wee dollop of wit
Your childrens' talks were always great fun
The adults enjoyed them- every one!
We took up the challenge of learning new tasks
And even obeying all of your "asks"
But now, you're moving to pastures new
To St Enoch's, where soon there'll ne'er be an empty pew!
We'll miss you Dot- and your cheery mien
But reckon you'll soon find mony a freen
So love to you all- David Dawn and Mary Jo too
Our thanks, our thoughts, and our prayers for you.
Aw...........
Here we all are to say "bye" to Dot
Who saved us from a bit of a spot
"Nae meenister?" We couldna hae that
But that's when Dot came in to bat
A century scored in nae time flat-
With friendship, fellowship and a wee dollop of wit
Your childrens' talks were always great fun
The adults enjoyed them- every one!
We took up the challenge of learning new tasks
And even obeying all of your "asks"
But now, you're moving to pastures new
To St Enoch's, where soon there'll ne'er be an empty pew!
We'll miss you Dot- and your cheery mien
But reckon you'll soon find mony a freen
So love to you all- David Dawn and Mary Jo too
Our thanks, our thoughts, and our prayers for you.
Aw...........
Monday 29 August 2016
Well well, Monday morning- the day after THE DAY before, when I said goodbye officially to Eastwood Parish Church...a giant thank-you card, smaller cards and presents, and a most generous cheque.
We had a laugh as little things went pear shaped but that's me! I cannot stand formal, stiff behaviour of any kind, and " everything must be perfect in the Worship Service" mentality. God oversees and sustains an imperfect world, so why must we try to perfect and often pretend everything is "swell" in our Sunday collective worship??? End of sermon...
Several folks took part - either in an introduction to a hymn, or playing for a hymn.
I loved it when only the youngster I had "primed" spoke about what he remembered and enjoyed most about my Childrens Talks....19 months summed up by a shake of the head ( or maybe just shyness...ha! ha!)
My husband was there and despite HIS shyness, he came up to support me as a few tears slipped out when the Session Clerk wished me well etc. The lunch afterwards was lovely, though I hardly ate an egg sandwich due to going round all the tables to say "Cheerio." Thankfully I had a personal pressie to help me find words to say- it was a compilation of black and white photos tastefully and artfully crafted into a photo frame of my first wedding couple whom I married at Eastwood Dec 19th 2015, and they are still coming to church...that's the best bit!! Also that I leave with another possible three regular folks considering joining the church, so the new minister will have that joy !
We had a laugh as little things went pear shaped but that's me! I cannot stand formal, stiff behaviour of any kind, and " everything must be perfect in the Worship Service" mentality. God oversees and sustains an imperfect world, so why must we try to perfect and often pretend everything is "swell" in our Sunday collective worship??? End of sermon...
Several folks took part - either in an introduction to a hymn, or playing for a hymn.
I loved it when only the youngster I had "primed" spoke about what he remembered and enjoyed most about my Childrens Talks....19 months summed up by a shake of the head ( or maybe just shyness...ha! ha!)
My husband was there and despite HIS shyness, he came up to support me as a few tears slipped out when the Session Clerk wished me well etc. The lunch afterwards was lovely, though I hardly ate an egg sandwich due to going round all the tables to say "Cheerio." Thankfully I had a personal pressie to help me find words to say- it was a compilation of black and white photos tastefully and artfully crafted into a photo frame of my first wedding couple whom I married at Eastwood Dec 19th 2015, and they are still coming to church...that's the best bit!! Also that I leave with another possible three regular folks considering joining the church, so the new minister will have that joy !
Thursday 25 August 2016
Do Not be anxious!
I woke up this morning , very worried about someone I am close to.
I woke up early, which is very unlike me.
It's usually my poor husband, whose body clock is all over the place due to changing shifts all his working life. So I went to the spare room at "blah" o'clock and realised my brain and heart were fear-penetrated and I would not get back to sleep unless I prayed. The silence was awful, so I went downstairs and brought up my ipod to listen to. This lifesaver has some Christian Music on it but is a good melange of a liquorice allsorts of music, such is my taste! ( If interested, am writing a sort of Biog which will have a Music Chapter in it) So.........ipod.....
1) It was mostly uplifting spiritual songs which I cried and worshipped to, pouring out my fears to God, and managing ( by faith) to praise Him that He was looking after my loved one.
2) The cat ( who belongs to one of my daughters) climbed onto my shoulder, did a "bum" turn and deposited herself on my lonesome body and started purring!
3) I got off to sleep again
4) Half past nine, my Presbytery Pastoral Advisor phoned the land line so I was able to "offload" to her
5) Remembered I was meeting a friend in the centre of town this morning, so another person I could choose to share my concern with.
Such is the grace of God in my weakness
So----- we will all keep being anxious over something, or more crucially, someONE. It goes with the territory of loving. Don't be afraid of it, but DO pour out your heart to God and at least one other in your support system. You should find relief and release...until the next time.......
I woke up early, which is very unlike me.
It's usually my poor husband, whose body clock is all over the place due to changing shifts all his working life. So I went to the spare room at "blah" o'clock and realised my brain and heart were fear-penetrated and I would not get back to sleep unless I prayed. The silence was awful, so I went downstairs and brought up my ipod to listen to. This lifesaver has some Christian Music on it but is a good melange of a liquorice allsorts of music, such is my taste! ( If interested, am writing a sort of Biog which will have a Music Chapter in it) So.........ipod.....
1) It was mostly uplifting spiritual songs which I cried and worshipped to, pouring out my fears to God, and managing ( by faith) to praise Him that He was looking after my loved one.
2) The cat ( who belongs to one of my daughters) climbed onto my shoulder, did a "bum" turn and deposited herself on my lonesome body and started purring!
3) I got off to sleep again
4) Half past nine, my Presbytery Pastoral Advisor phoned the land line so I was able to "offload" to her
5) Remembered I was meeting a friend in the centre of town this morning, so another person I could choose to share my concern with.
Such is the grace of God in my weakness
So----- we will all keep being anxious over something, or more crucially, someONE. It goes with the territory of loving. Don't be afraid of it, but DO pour out your heart to God and at least one other in your support system. You should find relief and release...until the next time.......
Wednesday 24 August 2016
Here's an odd combination....a last letter to Eastwood church and a first letter to St Enoch's on the same day! Wonder if the Apostle Paul ever did that for the early churches, to be sped away secretly and by hand instead of emails and blogs!
PS Wee riddle for you. What have I written to both churches???? Comments please.
Crossbeam Mag Article
The French have two words for
“Goodbye. There’s “Adieu” meaning
“Farewell” and “Au Revoir” which literally translates as “To the seeing again.”
With all of you in Eastwood, it is most definitely my wish to say the second
goodbye. It will be lovely to see any of you if you are down Hamilton
I start at St Enoch’s
Hogganfield in Riddrie with the Sunday Service on September 4th, so
I value your prayers as I settle in. And of course, in true Olympic tradition,
I hand over the baton of spiritual care to Rev Jim Teasdale. Welcome Sir!
I close in typical “Dot”
fashion, saying “Wasn’t it great to see Doris Day in “Calamity Jane” again last
weekend? Joy of joys! If you want to
keep singing along with me then tune in to Elaine Paige’s Radio 2 Musical
Programme every Sunday @ 1pm. Yes, that is what I used to do to unwind after
every Sunday Morning Service. Not a lot of people know that !!
Always With Christian Greetings
Dot
My name is Dot Getliffe,
and I’ve been a Deacon and mature student, since 2002, when one of my daughters
, aged 10, said to me ( as I left for Glasgow Uni, having been an “at home” Mum
with both daughters for ten years) “Mum, you’re going to have to stop all this
galavanting to Glasgow!” Ahem !
Needless to say, I’m now, by
the grace of God, a B.A. B.D. Dip Ed but most importantly DCS. You may know
Catherine Wallace DCS who was with you for a year when Graham (Blount) was Church
and Society Council Convener at “121.”
My husband of 25 odd years
( yes they have been a bit odd) works as a Railway Signalman for Network Rail
down in Barrhead ( colloquially.. Baw heid).
I look forward to meeting
all of you in due time on Sundays and during the week for pastoral visits. My
hobbies, by the way, include badminton, cooking, theatre visits, especially
Musicals. Wasn’t it great to see Doris Day in “Calamity Jane” again last
weekend? Joy of joys!
With Christian
Greetings
Dot
Saturday 20 August 2016
City , Country or Town?
Hope you like the purple- keep wringing ( ringing?) the changes to stay young !
Have been thinking whether I prefer living in the city, country or town. One psychologist during my assessment for the Diaconate, 10 or so years ago, said I was a well rounded person and very suitable for ministry- BECAUSE I'd had such a varied upbringing in Buckie, Montrose, east end of Glasgow, village of Sorbie then Newton Stewart.
Today I work in Glasgow south soon to move job to Glasgow north east. I like working in Glasgow but am glad I live in a town, and even gladder to go on holiday in the countryside- preferable near water or mountain or both! I guess this is a balance. One of my "besties" ( favourite friends) recently moved from Glasgow's west end to a remote part of the Western Highlands and still feels she is "on holiday but will wake up soon."
If David and I are "spared, as my Grandpa used to say....( nearly typed spayed...altogether different!! )"
Re: retiral, our dream would be to live and work in the North East of Scotland- he as a signalman in one of the remaining manual boxes, me doing locum ministry or Interim Ministry between 2 or 3 country Parishes.
THEN I would appreciate coming back to Glasgow to see Besties ( those who know me best and longest)
as often as possible and shop.
Today, Saturday, I DID NOT enjoy going into Glasgow Central Station to drop off something to older daughter who works in Boots there. Is it me, or are crowds becoming a nuisance, when you want to get somewhere fast- especially when you work all week with people and have a spiritual obligation to interact with them...Saturdays/days off I just wanna be anony mouse.....Byeeeee
Remember ! You can comment on anything I blog...makes it more interesting......Dot
Have been thinking whether I prefer living in the city, country or town. One psychologist during my assessment for the Diaconate, 10 or so years ago, said I was a well rounded person and very suitable for ministry- BECAUSE I'd had such a varied upbringing in Buckie, Montrose, east end of Glasgow, village of Sorbie then Newton Stewart.
Today I work in Glasgow south soon to move job to Glasgow north east. I like working in Glasgow but am glad I live in a town, and even gladder to go on holiday in the countryside- preferable near water or mountain or both! I guess this is a balance. One of my "besties" ( favourite friends) recently moved from Glasgow's west end to a remote part of the Western Highlands and still feels she is "on holiday but will wake up soon."
If David and I are "spared, as my Grandpa used to say....( nearly typed spayed...altogether different!! )"
Re: retiral, our dream would be to live and work in the North East of Scotland- he as a signalman in one of the remaining manual boxes, me doing locum ministry or Interim Ministry between 2 or 3 country Parishes.
THEN I would appreciate coming back to Glasgow to see Besties ( those who know me best and longest)
as often as possible and shop.
Today, Saturday, I DID NOT enjoy going into Glasgow Central Station to drop off something to older daughter who works in Boots there. Is it me, or are crowds becoming a nuisance, when you want to get somewhere fast- especially when you work all week with people and have a spiritual obligation to interact with them...Saturdays/days off I just wanna be anony mouse.....Byeeeee
Remember ! You can comment on anything I blog...makes it more interesting......Dot
Thursday 18 August 2016
French Odyssey Part 3 ( with apologies to Chef Rick Stein for cribbing his title! )
So...another afternoon David and I headed for the Hotel d'Ardouin , which may be Mazeres best kept secret- three floors of inter active archaelogy, mannequins in historical dress - which gives me the creeps!?
Also diaramas and videos about PASTEL, the blue woad plant, which caused rich barons to flourish and become benefactors in many many ways, founding this, building that. There is still the woad plant in the beautiful garden area which overlooks the River Hers. The curator was a lovely woman called Douceline. I am guessing this name is shortened to Celine ( as in Celine Dion). We spoke a lot to her and found out that she, like us, is a "born again Christian"...much over used phrase in USA, and can give some of us a bad name! Just means we believe John's Gospel Chapter 3 when Jesus and Nico have a late night conversation, wherein Nico discovers the awful truth that all his learning, Jewish Pharisaical education and standing in the community amounts to nothing unless he sees the revealed Light of the World Who can give him eternal life not by striving to be good but by letting God the Mighty Creator ( Elohim) re-create him from the inside with a heart transplant !!! End of sermon !
Visited a lovely wee 92 year old lady today whose Mum took her to St George's Tron when Tom Allan was minister ( google TA to see all he did by the grace of God in the 1960's) Did a pre-funeral visit too so involving a professional Catholic lady who will read the Old Testament reading next Tuesday at Linn crematorrrrrium. Lastly, I visited a family, not just to sign a passport photo and do counter signature, but also to say "Cheerio" in person...this will be a hard family to leave to the new Eastwood minister's care. We have loved and prayed their premature son through 3 serious operations. he is now much much better, praise God. Byeeee.
Also diaramas and videos about PASTEL, the blue woad plant, which caused rich barons to flourish and become benefactors in many many ways, founding this, building that. There is still the woad plant in the beautiful garden area which overlooks the River Hers. The curator was a lovely woman called Douceline. I am guessing this name is shortened to Celine ( as in Celine Dion). We spoke a lot to her and found out that she, like us, is a "born again Christian"...much over used phrase in USA, and can give some of us a bad name! Just means we believe John's Gospel Chapter 3 when Jesus and Nico have a late night conversation, wherein Nico discovers the awful truth that all his learning, Jewish Pharisaical education and standing in the community amounts to nothing unless he sees the revealed Light of the World Who can give him eternal life not by striving to be good but by letting God the Mighty Creator ( Elohim) re-create him from the inside with a heart transplant !!! End of sermon !
Visited a lovely wee 92 year old lady today whose Mum took her to St George's Tron when Tom Allan was minister ( google TA to see all he did by the grace of God in the 1960's) Did a pre-funeral visit too so involving a professional Catholic lady who will read the Old Testament reading next Tuesday at Linn crematorrrrrium. Lastly, I visited a family, not just to sign a passport photo and do counter signature, but also to say "Cheerio" in person...this will be a hard family to leave to the new Eastwood minister's care. We have loved and prayed their premature son through 3 serious operations. he is now much much better, praise God. Byeeee.
Wednesday 17 August 2016
Le Midi des Pyrenees Part 2
Le Midi des Pyrenees Part 2
Another highlight for David et moi, was a cycle ride of a few kilometres to the "Domaine des Oiseaux" ( Bird Sanctuary). We glimpsed the usual geese, ducks, chirpy wee birds and doves in the smelly doocot BUT the creme de la creme was the STORKS! Had never seen their high top-of- the- pole nests before or them flying but what a gorgeous sight as they swooped in and down..of course David got some good photos so I'm considering popping best photo of stork in flight, and amending it so it has the proverbial package in its beak announcing a new birth !!! Et voila!
Also must tell you about French television ( in French, naturellment, except for dubbed "Midsommer Murders" which was even worse than in English. BUT...they have their own version of "Pointless" the BBC1 TV Quiz show which some of you know I was a contestant on...ANYWAY...in La Belle France, it is called "Qu'avait pensees" ( literally translated."Who'd have thought?????) Loved it...presented by a boy who resembled "H" from Steps pop group of old...."Qu'avait pense!!!"
Another highlight for David et moi, was a cycle ride of a few kilometres to the "Domaine des Oiseaux" ( Bird Sanctuary). We glimpsed the usual geese, ducks, chirpy wee birds and doves in the smelly doocot BUT the creme de la creme was the STORKS! Had never seen their high top-of- the- pole nests before or them flying but what a gorgeous sight as they swooped in and down..of course David got some good photos so I'm considering popping best photo of stork in flight, and amending it so it has the proverbial package in its beak announcing a new birth !!! Et voila!
Also must tell you about French television ( in French, naturellment, except for dubbed "Midsommer Murders" which was even worse than in English. BUT...they have their own version of "Pointless" the BBC1 TV Quiz show which some of you know I was a contestant on...ANYWAY...in La Belle France, it is called "Qu'avait pensees" ( literally translated."Who'd have thought?????) Loved it...presented by a boy who resembled "H" from Steps pop group of old...."Qu'avait pense!!!"
Tuesday 16 August 2016
Well hello again from sunny Scotland!
Just returned from a two week holiday with the "Medievales"...
What, I hear you cry, are they/it?
South of France villages were often date back to medieval times- thus timbered houses, old castles and fortresses as in the town of Foix with greeny grey chalky running rivieres and medieval bridges. My husband and I witnessed a defilement ( which means procession/ a filing past) of odd looking folks dressed in medieval costumes before they partook of a medieval 7 course meal at a l-o-n-g communal table.
It was a sight to see, especially colourful in a family maroony/mustardy/ leafy green kind of a peasant way! Funny seeing medieval people in long dresses, curly toed shoes OR " what the heck!" high heeled shoes and glasses.( another spectacle!?)
A good time was had by all, and on our return the house had been untidily kept by daughter No 1 but she was safe, and that was the main thing.. A funeral has come in, so waiting for details. I had done some prep for Sunday service before I travelled, so just to finish off and get my hair done today ( whoopee!)
More anon.
Just returned from a two week holiday with the "Medievales"...
What, I hear you cry, are they/it?
South of France villages were often date back to medieval times- thus timbered houses, old castles and fortresses as in the town of Foix with greeny grey chalky running rivieres and medieval bridges. My husband and I witnessed a defilement ( which means procession/ a filing past) of odd looking folks dressed in medieval costumes before they partook of a medieval 7 course meal at a l-o-n-g communal table.
It was a sight to see, especially colourful in a family maroony/mustardy/ leafy green kind of a peasant way! Funny seeing medieval people in long dresses, curly toed shoes OR " what the heck!" high heeled shoes and glasses.( another spectacle!?)
A good time was had by all, and on our return the house had been untidily kept by daughter No 1 but she was safe, and that was the main thing.. A funeral has come in, so waiting for details. I had done some prep for Sunday service before I travelled, so just to finish off and get my hair done today ( whoopee!)
More anon.
Tuesday 26 July 2016
Sunshine !
No, I'm not writing about that huge ball of fire in the day sky...
My theme on Sunday was Sun/Summer/Living Hope.
This morning I was ruminating over whether the use of the metaphor of the SUN was either daft or a mistake.
I try to make time each morning to listen to "Pray as you go.com" which is really a downloadable quiet time, or short daily devotional to the Lord. Some days I prefer to listen to the word of God than read the Bible because I guess I get weary when the Bible is my work tool as well as one of my deep links with God through the Holy Spirit.
Anyway..... today's passage read out was Matthew Chapter 13 vs 36-43. It's about Jesus explaining to his disciples in the serenity of someone's home...and at the end He says when all evil and evil doing and evildoers are removed from the planet, "the righteous will SHINE LIKE THE SUN in their Father's kingdom!"
I was so grateful to receive reassurance from the Lord that however bitty or mixed up or unclear my service on Sunday may have been, He will make it plain to "those who have ears."
Feel so blessed and tearful actually that my Lord should speak to me..going into Glasgow today to collect some currency so I will ruminate on that image of the SUN some more, and be thankful to the SON !
My theme on Sunday was Sun/Summer/Living Hope.
This morning I was ruminating over whether the use of the metaphor of the SUN was either daft or a mistake.
I try to make time each morning to listen to "Pray as you go.com" which is really a downloadable quiet time, or short daily devotional to the Lord. Some days I prefer to listen to the word of God than read the Bible because I guess I get weary when the Bible is my work tool as well as one of my deep links with God through the Holy Spirit.
Anyway..... today's passage read out was Matthew Chapter 13 vs 36-43. It's about Jesus explaining to his disciples in the serenity of someone's home...and at the end He says when all evil and evil doing and evildoers are removed from the planet, "the righteous will SHINE LIKE THE SUN in their Father's kingdom!"
I was so grateful to receive reassurance from the Lord that however bitty or mixed up or unclear my service on Sunday may have been, He will make it plain to "those who have ears."
Feel so blessed and tearful actually that my Lord should speak to me..going into Glasgow today to collect some currency so I will ruminate on that image of the SUN some more, and be thankful to the SON !
Sunday 24 July 2016
Bamboozled by the heat!
It's been so humid lately that the church was like a sauna this morning. I had my jacket off for the majority of the service. If you are of a (Christian) nervous disposition, look away now !
I was so bamboozled by the heat and perspiring a la sauna that I told the organist we were not doing the last hymn, and then asked the audience ( I mean congregation) if they would still like to sing the two hymns about hope,on the Order of Service with the reflection in between !!! A gentleman said "yes" so as you were, ladies and men folks and children. "All my hope on God is founded in CH4 ( 4th edition of Church of Scotland Hymnary), a short reflective prayer about summer, and the final hymn from Mission Praise- "My hope is built on nothing less."
Someone asked if I'd had a hot flush, and at the door someone else said that I needed a holiday...I agreed!?
So.... bits and pieces of prep this week,so I don't have to do everything when I get back. Bon Voyage!
I was so bamboozled by the heat and perspiring a la sauna that I told the organist we were not doing the last hymn, and then asked the audience ( I mean congregation) if they would still like to sing the two hymns about hope,on the Order of Service with the reflection in between !!! A gentleman said "yes" so as you were, ladies and men folks and children. "All my hope on God is founded in CH4 ( 4th edition of Church of Scotland Hymnary), a short reflective prayer about summer, and the final hymn from Mission Praise- "My hope is built on nothing less."
Someone asked if I'd had a hot flush, and at the door someone else said that I needed a holiday...I agreed!?
So.... bits and pieces of prep this week,so I don't have to do everything when I get back. Bon Voyage!
Saturday 23 July 2016
Listening to Radio 2 Live...I know it puts me in a category of oldie, but Saturday's "Pick of The Pops" has always been my favourite listeners' fare, alongside Radio 4's "Desert Island Discs" ( but only when I know the guest- usually an actor or singer or politician...I have no patience ,I'm afraid , with the head of some business whom I've never heard of ( literally !)
Was on my bike this morning and cycled round to a new coffee shop on Bothwell Road that used to be a Hairdressers. Now reading my favourite crime writer. You will have to engage with me in the Comments section, if you're curious as to who this is!
Tomorrow's Church Service theme is part celebration of Sun and summer season ( Summer Suns are Glowing!) and part Living Hope, which for the Christian , is not vague optimism that summer will come, but a real Hope, based on the historical life, death and rising living love of One SON of God, Jesus Christ, and promises in Scripture that we can wholly and holy rely on. Byeee....
Was on my bike this morning and cycled round to a new coffee shop on Bothwell Road that used to be a Hairdressers. Now reading my favourite crime writer. You will have to engage with me in the Comments section, if you're curious as to who this is!
Tomorrow's Church Service theme is part celebration of Sun and summer season ( Summer Suns are Glowing!) and part Living Hope, which for the Christian , is not vague optimism that summer will come, but a real Hope, based on the historical life, death and rising living love of One SON of God, Jesus Christ, and promises in Scripture that we can wholly and holy rely on. Byeee....
Friday 22 July 2016
Ooops....The I.T. from yesterday, is actually the I.M...
Makes more sense doesn't it? I.M getting older and more forgetful !!??
Today I met for coffee with the new incumbent ( see y'day's blog), who will be inducted to Eastwood Parish Church on Thursday September 8th.2016 "Inducted" is not connected with "induced" or being helped to give birth: Comes from the Latin meaning.."led into" I.M thinking...
Here is a prayer sent to me by text from one of my sisters- in -law. It is quite beautiful as well as practical. If you are reading this and not a "churchy or religious" person, I hope it has meaning for you too.
O Lord thank you for our wonderful salvation
And your changing power in our lives.
May all the hurt come to the surface and be expressed with vulnerability and gentleness.
May we forgive all offences and let go of our record of wrongs.
Lord our tender Healer may there
Come healing and understanding in our relationships.
May we bear and forbear with others as you have done with us.
For we ask this for Your Glory and in Your Lovely Name.
Amen
Thursday 21 July 2016
An I.T with a DG !
I met yesterday with an I.T. For those who don't know this ecclesiastical language. An I.T is not an internet expert ( although he or she might be !) An I.T stands for Interim Moderator- some one usually a Rev but sometimes a Deac, who oversees a congregation when their minister has left. The I.T. does many things- usually on top of looking after their own congregation at the same time, so double work load. The I.T. volunteers ( or hand up the back maybe???) after being asked by the Presbytery Clerk, in this case, Glasgow PC.
I'm boring you...moving swiftly on...I agreed to be the next locum for a north east of Glasgow charge
( church) after I finish at Eastwood in the central south Glasgow at end of August. So..............................
that's why I was meeting the I.T in a well known international chain of coffee shops .....and tomorrow I meet with the new incumbent At Eastwood......incumbent is not, contrary to public opinione, someone lying ona lounge sofa, he/she will be the next minister of a charge/church.....easy for some to say...see you tmors. Dot
I'm boring you...moving swiftly on...I agreed to be the next locum for a north east of Glasgow charge
( church) after I finish at Eastwood in the central south Glasgow at end of August. So..............................
that's why I was meeting the I.T in a well known international chain of coffee shops .....and tomorrow I meet with the new incumbent At Eastwood......incumbent is not, contrary to public opinione, someone lying ona lounge sofa, he/she will be the next minister of a charge/church.....easy for some to say...see you tmors. Dot
Wednesday 20 July 2016
The Sound of Music !
Yes, friends, The Sound of Music is where that famous quote comes from, that I use too often ! ( I have sinned Reverend Mother) Spoken by Maria after she has fallen for Captain Von Trapp and he, apparently for her. And she comes running back to the safety of the Convent because she can't handle her feelings. So, in my opinion, she hasn't sinned at all, since emotions and sexual feelings come from God The Creator, who made us and it was good.
Back to yesterday. I got on the train home, and found myself sat or sitting next to a beautiful woman, a Mum, originally from The Gambia. She told me she had left the Muslim faith behind and was now a Christian. I listened with deepening respect as she told me she had three jobs- hairdresser, chef, and cleaner. She also seemed so hard working and ambitious, rightly so- that she could bring up her two children alone, her husband having left her.
I hope and pray she is able to keep working, and finds a nice flat in an area she feels safe, so that life keeps improving for her and her family.
Back to yesterday. I got on the train home, and found myself sat or sitting next to a beautiful woman, a Mum, originally from The Gambia. She told me she had left the Muslim faith behind and was now a Christian. I listened with deepening respect as she told me she had three jobs- hairdresser, chef, and cleaner. She also seemed so hard working and ambitious, rightly so- that she could bring up her two children alone, her husband having left her.
I hope and pray she is able to keep working, and finds a nice flat in an area she feels safe, so that life keeps improving for her and her family.
Tuesday 19 July 2016
So, we had a wonderful day of hot summer...."shades" of the Med...then we are to be thundered upon...ok!
Yesterday's visits were fine. I called in on a lovely couple from the church on my way to visit number 3. I am trying hard not to use any "pastoral identifiers"- which means that anyone reading this, would be able to say "Ah! Dot is describing X or Y" Further to my decision on whether to have tea or not...one visitor had prepared a plate of sandwiches and cakes, so I couldn't very well refuse ! Then at house no 2, nothing, zilch, not even a whiff of a kettle on the boil. Extra visit ...a choccie biscuit and lovely hot tea from a teapot, and Visit 4 another choc biscuit and a colder cup of tea.....oops too many sweet things in one day " I have sinned Reverend Mother" Anyone know which film that choice phrase comes from??? Answer tomorrow. Byeee
Yesterday's visits were fine. I called in on a lovely couple from the church on my way to visit number 3. I am trying hard not to use any "pastoral identifiers"- which means that anyone reading this, would be able to say "Ah! Dot is describing X or Y" Further to my decision on whether to have tea or not...one visitor had prepared a plate of sandwiches and cakes, so I couldn't very well refuse ! Then at house no 2, nothing, zilch, not even a whiff of a kettle on the boil. Extra visit ...a choccie biscuit and lovely hot tea from a teapot, and Visit 4 another choc biscuit and a colder cup of tea.....oops too many sweet things in one day " I have sinned Reverend Mother" Anyone know which film that choice phrase comes from??? Answer tomorrow. Byeee
Monday 18 July 2016
Monday 18th July
Great sadness to hear of the death of one of the Diaconate's most influential Deacons. I had recently had a long conversation with Moyra MacCallum DCS at June annual conference in Dundee. We were discussing
" children should be seen and not heard- in church." It was a super conversation with great insights from Moyra from past and present. She will be sorely missed.
Today I hope to visit 3 homes.
I used to think an hour was a long time for a pastoral visit. I now realise how quickly the time goes and that in an hour, we have barely got started! Sometimes I enjoy a cuppa with the person. Most times I don't
a) Because I don't like anyone to go to any bother for me
b) If it relaxes them, then fine, but too many choccie biscuits is deadly for my muffin tops!
c)Would rather speak to the person face to face and build our relationship, than have them "faff" about in a kitchen. I take myself to the kitchen anyway, so we can keep chatting and I can help with it if the person is infirm.
One of the visits is to encourage a couple (who have been coming to church for a few years) to finally join the church. I've tried to take out all the "scary" language and make the process as enjoyable and relaxed as possible, whilst sharing with them that they are about to take a big step in making vows to God and the congregation.
Let you know how it went tomorrow. Dot
Great sadness to hear of the death of one of the Diaconate's most influential Deacons. I had recently had a long conversation with Moyra MacCallum DCS at June annual conference in Dundee. We were discussing
" children should be seen and not heard- in church." It was a super conversation with great insights from Moyra from past and present. She will be sorely missed.
Today I hope to visit 3 homes.
I used to think an hour was a long time for a pastoral visit. I now realise how quickly the time goes and that in an hour, we have barely got started! Sometimes I enjoy a cuppa with the person. Most times I don't
a) Because I don't like anyone to go to any bother for me
b) If it relaxes them, then fine, but too many choccie biscuits is deadly for my muffin tops!
c)Would rather speak to the person face to face and build our relationship, than have them "faff" about in a kitchen. I take myself to the kitchen anyway, so we can keep chatting and I can help with it if the person is infirm.
One of the visits is to encourage a couple (who have been coming to church for a few years) to finally join the church. I've tried to take out all the "scary" language and make the process as enjoyable and relaxed as possible, whilst sharing with them that they are about to take a big step in making vows to God and the congregation.
Let you know how it went tomorrow. Dot
Saturday 16 July 2016
When I was in Hieton Writers Group ( Hamilton) many moons ago, I remember someone saying how vivid memories are, when evoked by our sense of smell.
Well, today as I took out my bike from the garage, I caught a distinct whiff of creasote !
This took me back to my childhood and my Grandpa's shed which held his own higgledy- piggledy hardware shop. That tarry smell on saturated wooden slats makes me nostalgic...wish I'd been naughtier than my cousins and hosed them back with the water on the huge lawn on hot summer days. But I was one of the youngest and they were all bigger and English !?
My loving Grandpa always called me a "meddlar" because I loved exploring the hidden depths of his dark cave that was his shed.
Grandpa reminds me of a faithful white haired man who used to cry at Easter time when he heard the hymn "There is a Green Hill Far Away.' Sadly my cousin Rose and I ( we must have been about 5 and 7 yrs old ) used to laugh at him crying. I wouldn't now...I realise why he was weeping...
That Jesus Christ should take my place on Calvary's Hill to show how much He loves and values me...
All this from that gorgeous coal tarry browny black treacle smell of creasote !
Well, today as I took out my bike from the garage, I caught a distinct whiff of creasote !
This took me back to my childhood and my Grandpa's shed which held his own higgledy- piggledy hardware shop. That tarry smell on saturated wooden slats makes me nostalgic...wish I'd been naughtier than my cousins and hosed them back with the water on the huge lawn on hot summer days. But I was one of the youngest and they were all bigger and English !?
My loving Grandpa always called me a "meddlar" because I loved exploring the hidden depths of his dark cave that was his shed.
Grandpa reminds me of a faithful white haired man who used to cry at Easter time when he heard the hymn "There is a Green Hill Far Away.' Sadly my cousin Rose and I ( we must have been about 5 and 7 yrs old ) used to laugh at him crying. I wouldn't now...I realise why he was weeping...
That Jesus Christ should take my place on Calvary's Hill to show how much He loves and values me...
All this from that gorgeous coal tarry browny black treacle smell of creasote !
Friday 15 July 2016
Bit dreech ! Just done an online shop with a new supermarket cos I got £18 off a £60 shop. Worth the wait -but may go back to my other one after this. Like to keep them guessing !!??
All my "favourites" are on my other supermarket groceries which means I can do a shop and have it delivered pronto. Family comes first today, so hoovering, havering and ironing..
Have good days yourselves !
Dot
All my "favourites" are on my other supermarket groceries which means I can do a shop and have it delivered pronto. Family comes first today, so hoovering, havering and ironing..
Have good days yourselves !
Dot
Thursday 14 July 2016
Had a wonderful sunshiny trip across to Rothesay today on the Isle of Bute ( or isle of beauty!)
T'was lovely watching the foamy entrails from above on the stern upper deck of the Cal Mac ferry. Visited the Scripture Union team based in one of the church halls. Over 30 keen youngsters under 12. And the age of volunteering is not gone !...younger and older leaders from Newton Mearns, Glasgow, Rothesay itself,and Prestonpans near Edinburgh- all gelling together as a team to share the Good News of Jesus the Healer Who can raise people from the dead. Hallelujah!
And the answer to yesterday;s "Gypsy Box" question, was, of course, b) because it travels with me if I have to change bedrooms due to David's 0430 wake up call or his return from a back shift @ 0100 hrs...
Well I need my beauty sleep. Night! Night!
T'was lovely watching the foamy entrails from above on the stern upper deck of the Cal Mac ferry. Visited the Scripture Union team based in one of the church halls. Over 30 keen youngsters under 12. And the age of volunteering is not gone !...younger and older leaders from Newton Mearns, Glasgow, Rothesay itself,and Prestonpans near Edinburgh- all gelling together as a team to share the Good News of Jesus the Healer Who can raise people from the dead. Hallelujah!
And the answer to yesterday;s "Gypsy Box" question, was, of course, b) because it travels with me if I have to change bedrooms due to David's 0430 wake up call or his return from a back shift @ 0100 hrs...
Well I need my beauty sleep. Night! Night!
Wednesday 13 July 2016
Gypsy Box
If I were to ask you what a "gypsy box" was, I wonder what you would say?
a) It's a box type kennel where a dog called Gypsy sleeps. I do know a gorgeous retriever called Gypsy
OR
b) A box where I keep a book, alarm clock and other bits and pieces?
OR
c) A trinket for jewellery where I keep my earings?
Tell you tomorrow, if I'm not too tired from a trip to Rothesay. Tell you about that too!
a) It's a box type kennel where a dog called Gypsy sleeps. I do know a gorgeous retriever called Gypsy
OR
b) A box where I keep a book, alarm clock and other bits and pieces?
OR
c) A trinket for jewellery where I keep my earings?
Tell you tomorrow, if I'm not too tired from a trip to Rothesay. Tell you about that too!
Tuesday 12 July 2016
What have you done today, to make you feel proud?" I searched for the hero inside myself and cycled 10 miles along the Forth Clyde Canal ( no hills: not many bumpy bits) from Anniesland to Bowling. Train to A, and back from B. A to B.....with DG. weather wasn't hot or rainy, so a very pleasant journey watching swans and locks and lily pads and people strolling with buggies and weans, ambling side by side or speeding past us in lycra. hope you have had good days too. Dot
Monday 11 July 2016
This morning was an emotional funeral for me to conduct: a church service, then the committal at the Crematorium. It never gets any easier to do these duties as you want to honour God as well as trying to capture the essence of the deceased. I had known this particular lady for over a year and grown to love her. Had a bite to eat in a favourite scenic eatery, and bumped into a colleague- now working in Hamilton Presbytery. Home for a "power nap," put on the dinner, check the emails, take back a sale dress for one of my daughters at M and S, and discovered a lot of perishable foods are reduced. ( if you want these, go after 5pm weekdays. They are all on a trolley in main aisle!) Who knew ?!
Bye for now. Thank You for sustaining me God.
Bye for now. Thank You for sustaining me God.
Sunday 10 July 2016
Well well, The Scotsman Andy Murray is up two sets against the Canadian, and I had fun this morning teaching the congregation the Childrens@ Golden Oldie song" Listen to my tail of Jonah and the whale."
No-one spotted my deliberate mistake. have you??
The song was light relief for a serious topic about the consequences of our disobedience. But with God there is always a second chance due to His mercy. Pity Jonah went into the huff about it but he's been given a second chance by God too. Why can we still be so nasty and want the "come uppance" of others...forgetting how much we've been forgiven. Pause for thought.
If God spares me, I have a funeral to conduct tomorrow. Hopefully not Andy Murray's.
Kindest Regardos to any one following
Dot
No-one spotted my deliberate mistake. have you??
The song was light relief for a serious topic about the consequences of our disobedience. But with God there is always a second chance due to His mercy. Pity Jonah went into the huff about it but he's been given a second chance by God too. Why can we still be so nasty and want the "come uppance" of others...forgetting how much we've been forgiven. Pause for thought.
If God spares me, I have a funeral to conduct tomorrow. Hopefully not Andy Murray's.
Kindest Regardos to any one following
Dot
Saturday 9 July 2016
Hi everyone, awakened by the Orange Lodge toots and flutes and boom booms this morning, which frightened the cat. I'm taking this as a day off because Jonah Service is done. You can always tinker and make wee changes right up till 11 o'clock on a Sunday, but I try not to do this. If I haven't said it by now........ So...off to Strathaven ( God willing) for a swim and a steam room to relax. Daughter 2 is asleep and Daughter 1 gone to Boots to work a Saturday shift. She forgot one of her medications so Dad will take these over to her...fetching and carrying never stops with your offspring whatever their age!
Wee PS on the DayOff...Locums ( like what I am) are usually paid for doing Sundays and two days a week ( or one day) However, as serving Deacon, we just do what needs to be done. Most weeks I do way more than two days a week..but it's a joy and responsibility to the flock of The Good Shepherd.
Wee PS on the DayOff...Locums ( like what I am) are usually paid for doing Sundays and two days a week ( or one day) However, as serving Deacon, we just do what needs to be done. Most weeks I do way more than two days a week..but it's a joy and responsibility to the flock of The Good Shepherd.
Friday 8 July 2016
Thursday 12 noon
My husband and I ( mei hasbande end ai) are preparing for our summer holiday. Checking whether we need to bring bedding and towels- a tall order when we are going all the way by rail ! Getting there.
Am still ruminating over the Bible story of Jonah, which I am speaking about on Sunday. Childrens' talk fine. I have a super resource which only requires us to do actions to go with the funny well written words.
I think Jonah is about obedience to God but it's also about second chances. God is merciful and will forgive us when we turn to him- no matter how long it takes us!?
See you tomorrow
Dot
My husband and I ( mei hasbande end ai) are preparing for our summer holiday. Checking whether we need to bring bedding and towels- a tall order when we are going all the way by rail ! Getting there.
Am still ruminating over the Bible story of Jonah, which I am speaking about on Sunday. Childrens' talk fine. I have a super resource which only requires us to do actions to go with the funny well written words.
I think Jonah is about obedience to God but it's also about second chances. God is merciful and will forgive us when we turn to him- no matter how long it takes us!?
See you tomorrow
Dot
Thursday 7 July 2016
This week's day in the life of a Deacon!
Couldn't wait to tell you that I met a little white poodle- crossed -with- a -Shitzu ( !?) ) dog at a flat this week. He'd just been clipped so was pristine white and a bit yappy ( whether that was in protest to my coming, or his haircut I don't know ! These difficult pastoral conversations can last anything from forty minutes to over an hour, depending on the folks concerned, their state of mind, and whether they have managed to put together a fitting tribute to their loved one.
Sometimes I have to ask a lot of questions to draw out information, and sometimes, as in one case this year, the daughter of the deceased had kindly typed up a full life story for me to use at the coming funeral service word for word.
Also this week, I went to a semi detached home of a dear couple who are in their nineties and still looking after each other. B had just had an online supermarket delivery! We had a laugh over my last visit, when a "big whig" from Social Work had come to assess how much help they needed, so I made the tea!
B and M sang two of their fave Christian songs from large print hymns that I'd brought with me. And I saw myself out...lovely couple!
Sometimes I have to ask a lot of questions to draw out information, and sometimes, as in one case this year, the daughter of the deceased had kindly typed up a full life story for me to use at the coming funeral service word for word.
Also this week, I went to a semi detached home of a dear couple who are in their nineties and still looking after each other. B had just had an online supermarket delivery! We had a laugh over my last visit, when a "big whig" from Social Work had come to assess how much help they needed, so I made the tea!
B and M sang two of their fave Christian songs from large print hymns that I'd brought with me. And I saw myself out...lovely couple!
Welcome to Deacon Pink !
Hi! This is my first ever blog. I've wanted to write one for so long- mainly to let all you readers know how varied a job I have and how my days and evenings are spent in a Parish and Community as a Church of Scotland Deacon.
Ok...see you tomorrow...... Deacon Pink
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)