Welcome

Well January seems to have flown by and things are moving in the right direction.

We don't want to wish the year away but things need to get done if the Presbytery Plan is to be implemented.
Safeguarding training has started and a number of folk have already completed their food hygiene training.
Things are moving - slowly but surely.

It was decided to run the Prayer meeting fortnightly because people are so busy with church business.
We also need to make time for our own families.

The annual Inspection of Records is due in March and that requires a lot of work as well.
If I forget to do something it is probably because of all the demands at this time so please bear with me and remind me if necessary.

Denise

Thoughts on moving forward

Just this week at a "Getting to know you" with Clincarthill a phrase was used that has stuck with me.
We need to hurry slowly. We have been in limbo for quite some time and have been treading water. We need to know where we are going and to see this in action but we also need to consider our actions.

We all want to see our church grow so that we are bringing God's word to our community. It is in our very nature that when we things move along we are inspired and positive but when the wheels slow down or seem to stop we are easily frustrated
At Maxwell we have a far smaller "people base" upon which to draw, when we need to get something done.
This really means that we ALL have to step up if we want to move things along.

It has been difficult because we have been without a permanent minister for so long and we do need a leader to steer the boat.
Several people have kept the boat afloat practically mostly by reacting to things needing done in and around the halls.
We also need to be pro active with plenty of things going on to draw folks in.

If you have any ideas don't be shy - share then with someone who may be able to take it forward 

Denise

Mearns East Community Council

This Tuesday MECC meets in Mearns Castle High School.

Find out about local issues and how they affect the community.

7.00 pm - 9.00 pm














 

East Ren Good Causes

Following the article in the magazine a few weeks ago a few folk indicated to me that they would be happy to help out with delivering Love Your Neighbour Club packs in the local area.

Can I ask that they, or anyone else who would be up for helping on occasions, send Russell a photo to allow him to make up a volunteer identity badge. 
info@ergoodcauses.co.uk

We have already put out 11 packs, mainly in the Barrhead area, this month but have another 16 about to go out now, including some in the local area.

Speak to Russell or myself for more information

Andy Sinclair

Jam jars required

Janette is looking for empty 1lb jam jars for her marmalade. If you have any please leave them in the blue container at the back of the church that is situated under the table.

I have replenished the jam and there is also chutney which goes well with cheese and crackers or in a sandwich. Also great with / in a curry .

All proceeds from the jam / marmalade / chutney go to buy items for the Blythswood Shoeboxes.

Castle Cafe 

The next meeting will be held on   

Thursday 6^th February at 2.00 pm. in the West Room.

George Cuthbert will be our speaker.

It's a great way to get to know members of our Church family and to strengthen relationships.

Everyone is welcome so please come along and enjoy the chat and a cuppa

Jackie and Norman

Flower Rota 

FEBRUARY
2nd  -     Marlene S
9th   -     Karen M
16th   -   Liz G
23rd   -   Yvonne McM

March
2nd  -   Karen M
9th   -    Margaret C
16th  -   Kirsteen G
23rd  -   Myra  S
30th  -  Isobel L


Should something crop up you can always change with someone.

Liz Gillis. 

Clothes Recycling Bin 

Just a reminder about the clothes bin in the church car park.  

If you have unwanted/worn out clothes they can benefit church finances.

Place the clothes in a carrier bag, tie it securely and place in the recycling bin.

It is emptied regularly and the church receives a bank transfer quarterly.

If the clothes can be reused they are passed on but even worn out/ torn items have a value.

Charity shops really only use clothes that are in season but the recycling bin takes all clothes at all times.

Denise

PRAYER GROUP - EVERY FORTNIGHT

The prayer group will next meet
WEDNESDAY 12 FEBRUARY at 7.30 pm. for an hour in the WEST ROOM.
ALL will be welcome.
You may pray aloud or in silence.
"Where two or three gather in my name there am I with them" Matthew 18:20

"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from Heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place."

Norman

Tea and Coffee Rota

2025
February
2  February - Gloria and Sandy L., Shona L
9  February - Karen M, Lynnette H, Sheila R
16 February - Jackie and Norman M, Ann M.
23 February - Lorna McN, May and Ken W

May this year bring us closer as a community, filled with love and shared moments over a cup of tea or coffee.

Thank you all for your time and helping out with our rota, this is a cherished part of our church experience and it wouldn’t be possible without your contributions.

Also, a gentle reminder, if possible please bring your own cup! As we are really trying to become greener ~ thank you!

Thank you
Shona L and Lorna McN

Maxwell Pray Now Group Pray Now is a WhatsApp group for Maxwell members

This group sends out occasional requests for prayer. In particular those which might be regarding things more acute or immediate. At present there are 17 of us who, when we receive a request for prayer, stop what we are doing and pray for whatever has been asked.

Are you on the Pray Now WhatsApp Group? If you want to be added to the group to receive prayer news then simply ask Denise and she will add your number to the list.

If you have a matter that you would like to be prayed about in this way, you can contact Denise and she will organise for news to be sent out.

Getting To Church  

Should anyone require a lift to Maxwell Mearns Castle Church or to the Castle Cafe, then please do let us know.
If you are willing and able to offer a lift please speak to Norman or Denise or
Please email: office@maxwellmearns.org

Safeguarding At Maxwell Mearns 

Safeguarding – Ensuring a Safe Church for All 

If you suspect or witness harm or abuse, or it is reported to you, you must immediately report it to one of the Safeguarding Coordinators:

Rev. James (Jim) Gemmell
email: jgemmell@churchofscotland.org.uk

May Walker
email: safeguarding@maxwellmearns.org