No. 229 2nd May 2025
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Sunday
2nd May 2025
10.30am Morning Service with Rev. Michael Gargrave
Scripture Reading: John 20: 19-31 Reader - Pamela A.
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Welcome
We will have all noticed how the gardens are starting to bloom in this lovely warm weather.
Bulbs that had lain hidden beneath the soil are responding to the warmth and longer hours of daylight.
Plants are growing and we need to keep an eye out for the weeds. We are getting on at home with things that need doing and making plans for holidays etc.
At Maxwell the signage has been greatly improved, holes in the paths and road have been filled and many other things have bettered the look of the place including the colourful planters.
The preparation needed for all these things takes hard work and vision. We still need to work on our vision for Maxwell if we wish to thrive.
Please remember the Prayer Group which meets this coming Wednesday - details below.
Denise
Blythswood Care 
We would like to thank all the people who have been leaving items for this years shoebox appeal in the box at the back of the church.
We have used most of them in boxes prepared for uplift in November.
If you are having a clear out and you think we may be able to use an item in a shoebox, please feel free to speak to us or leave it in the box. We can use most items and there are leaflets at the back for you to peruse.
Lesley and Denise
Jam, Marmalade or Chutney for Blythswood Funds

At the back of the church there are jars of homemade jam, marmalade and chutney.
If you would like to try a pot or take one to pass on just leave a donation in the plastic container. All funds are used to buy items for the shoeboxes.
Castle Cafe 
Is taking a break until after the summer break.
All of us who have enjoyed times there would like to thank Jackie and Norman for all their hard work.
It's been a great way to get to know members of our Church family and to strengthen relationships.
Flower Rota 
MAY
4th Gloria L
11th Mary McL
18th Dave McL
25th Shona 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.
If the clothes can be reused they are passed on but even worn out/ torn items have a value.
It is not just clothes that are recycled
curtains, sheets, pillowcases, towels, blankets all are acceptable.
Charity shops really only use clothes that are in season but the recycling bin takes all clothes at all times.
Denise
PRAYER GROUP 
The prayer group next meets
Wednesday 7th May at 7.30 pm.
It is held in the West Room and 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
MAY
4th May - Myra S. Craig, Shona L.
11th May - Janette F. Sheona K. Lesley Y.
18th May - Gloria + Sandy, Sheila R.
25th May - Karen M. Lynnette H. Ann M.
May we continue to grow 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!
Shona L and Lorna McN
Maxwell Pray Now Group
Pray Now is a WhatsApp group for Maxwell members |
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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