• Job descriptions have been issued for Junior Church for M Hurst, L Ferguson, J Duffin, L Duffin, G Yule, I Johnston. All have been through disclosure process and accepted.
• BB Disclosures are through for J C Ralston, J P Ralston, B Ralston, P Anderson, and D Todman.

Bill joined the ladies of the Guild on 16 Oct at their Quiz night. About 50 attended the excellent quiz organised by Mrs Thompson, assisted by Betty Laing and Sheila Murray. Bill’s table did not so well. A meeting was held at the end to decide on the disbursement of funds – various bodies benefiting, including the church who received £100. The Guild is in good heart and doing a lot of good things. They are an integral part of our church and I hope they remain so for years to come. The tea and cakes were as usual, much enjoyed but not my only reason for attending!

JAM – M Millan & A Conway

This was a first visit by elders to JAM. Mary and Anna found 22 very enthusiastic children from P4 to 7 attended this worship session lasting 1 ¼ hours. Organised by Frances with 4 adult helpers these children enjoyed a wonderful mix of activities inc. singing, team games, earning points for their teams, operating overheads and losing points for misbehaving/not listening. A number of new children were taking time to be familiar with the routine but all responded well to the teaching of the story of Saul/Samuel. At the end of the session the children had the opportunity to borrow resources from a small library. It was evident that those who attended really enjoyed their afternoon though through their eyes it would not been seen as worship.

Are doing well. Afternoon tea on the 22 nd October was a great success. A big thank you to those who helped with the catering by those outside the group. After some consideration, 10 Christmas hampers will be done again this year. The memorial service will be held on 25 Nov at 2pm. Elders should advise of anybody who may appreciate an invite. Any birthdays and anniversaries – let the group know.

There are 4 xplorers clubs running at lunchtimes now working with approx 72 children. We now have enough materials to cover a 3 year programme, Frances hopes to have this ready by December. JAM continues to meet once a fortnight, this session following a programme “I am JAM” where we look at the 6 “I am” sayings of Jesus in John. Currently up to 24 children attend, with 40 on the mailing list. JAMBusters has begun again with a new batch of P7’s with up to 6 at any one session with all from paradykes this year. Here we explore the Christian faith more deeply and thinking about questions like “Why did God make the world?” and “Why did Jesus have to die?”. This year Laura Duffin has been a permanent helper this year.

Some time was spent last week at LHSC on anti-bullying as part of PSE. Very postive feedback has been received from LHSC who are now keen to have church more involved. The same openness not found at Beeslack.

Everything has been passed at Presbytery. A service to mark the start of the partnership is to be held on Thursday 15 th Nov, 7pm at Newton.

OSCR – Advice received that all documents prepared and sent out by Registered Charities must now show the charity’s registered number on.

CWW – information re. the national gathering.

Parish grouping staff – Agreed that the locum will be staying however, if he goes another will be appointed. A parish asst may work more in Loanhead to start with until work develops at Danderhall but longer term most of their work will be in Danderhall.. The Advert is going out round folk already around church and then in Jan Life and Work if no interest. It is unlikely someone will be appointed before Easter so not much will change by then.

Children & Youth worker – Have advertised in Life & work and Christianity magazine and only one person has requested an application form. Need a committee to take this forward. GLD, Alison Notman, Margaret Harkness, Gordon Waugh and Gayle Jones agreed to be on this. The meeting agreed to let the group shape the role required and use different publications where it felt necessary.

Adult & Family worker

As the only applicant from the original advert was not suitable, it was agreed to advertise all 3 posts in one go.

Leaflets – The meeting agreed to send 3,000 DIY leaflets regarding the Christmas services to local homes.

Services – Per agenda, need consider numbers at the Christingle as this can be oversubscribed!

Gifts – Salvation Army have sent a letter enquiring about this year’s gift service. The meeting agreed that the SA would again be a suitable partner to distribute the gifts.

Meal – to be held at The Steading on 23 rd January 08 ( Norman’s birthday)

Fayre – to be held on Sat 1 st December

Mission Statement – suggestions were given in the groups as to how this could be shortened, it was decided to complete this at the next meeting.

Hymnary – Church Hymnary 4 is £10.80. The BB’s donated money for 10. The groups were undecided on whether it would be good to have new ones, or not. The meeting decided to leave this just now and give the BB’s back their money.

Industrial Chaplaincy – All the groups were unanimous that this was not the right time to do follow this idea but perhaps revisit at a later date.

Clavanova – gifted by Margaret Elrick in memory of Alec. To be dedicated at the end of November.

Communion chairs – belonging to the East Church, do we need them/use on display? Agreed to put back.

Contact – request was made that this be available in large print; however this would be difficult to do. The easiest option may be to increase on the photocopier.

Christmas tree – the meeting agreed that we should have one, Eric Monteith to arrange as normal.

Middle collection – are 2 people needed? Could we reduce to one person and try to make it someone not involved in other duties.

The meeting ended with the saying of the grace together.

Next Meeting: Wednesday 9 January 2007 at 7.30pm

1. Joint Services. Next one is due on 23rd Sept at St Mungo’s however the Minister is moving to Falkirk so GLD is confirm whether this will go ahead.

2 Presbytery Twining Programme India. Gayle Jones reported she had spoken with Hugh Trevor, who is involved in the twining programme. The basis of twining is that of communication, exchange of information and in prayer. Some churches have extended this by making exchange visits. 7 churches are currently twinned from the 26 available. As the Indian church was founded by Scottish missionary’s they are keen to retain these links. If we wished to take this further we should send a description of our church to HT in order to be twinned with a similar type of church. The meeting agreed that we should do this. Margaret Moffat agreed to continue to be the point of contact.

3. Industrial Chaplaincy – Other Sessions have not a chance to discuss this fully and so will be held over to a later date

4 Autumn Courses.
Friday Night course – due to various reasons this didn’t go ahead, has been postponed to another time.
Enquirer course - This will run on Wednesday nights from 12/9.
Sunday evening youth event. First of these were held on Sunday to which 20 or so attended and was enjoyed by all. The discussion groups went very well. The plan is to do something every Sunday evening, including Tribal Generation at Penicuik once a month, these nights our informal communion will be held. GLD is to hand over to Alan Duffin, Gary Yule and Kayleigh Brown to lead the youth fellowship with adults there as a support (Alex Brown, Willie Cherrie, Alison Notman). Those with musical gifts are also been encouraged as part of this.
Lasswade High – GLD and Frances Henderson are going into LHSC as part of their anti-bullying week in November. Throughout the week they will be involved with assemblies, social education and RME classes.

Jonathon Fraser and his wife Susie have now left for the USA. A presentation was made to JF at a praise night in August.

Midlothian Council – Margaret Harkness has been appointed as a religious representative with MC and has been to her first monthly meeting.

Summer Services. The meeting agreed that again these went well this year. The offerings over July and August were only £40 down on 2006, which were significantly up on 2005. The traditional services were enjoyed and it was good having different folk involved in the family services. The downside suggested that would prefer to only do these over July and August, not from June. The meeting agreed this for 2008.

5 Child Protection

• Formal approval was given for Margaret Harkness to be appointed for her work with JAM and JAMbusters.
• Job descriptions have been issued for the Creche and Junior Church.
• Guidelines have been issued for managing Safeguarding complaints. It is recommended good practice for Kirk Sessions to have a complaints procedure in place. We currently follow that detailed in the Child Protection handbook and have a panel to assist dealing with complaints or concerns – Graham Duffin, Gayle Jones and Alison Notman.

BB Leader Registration forms:
Approval from the meeting was given for first time registrations for Paul Anderson and Douglas Todman.

Re-Registration was approved for David Thornton, Jim Ralston, Jim Ralston Jnr, Beatrice Ralston.

6 Visits to Organisations
1st Loanhead Brownies – Margaret Hurst & Sheila Watson
A visit was made just before the summer break. 24 girls were present, many of who were being presented with craft and collectors badges. The leaders were busy clearing out cupboards ready for the move to the church. Being a rare warm evening the girls were outside for an obstacle race then finished off with a game of Shops. As usual the girls were having a great time and we were made to feel very welcome.

7 Pastoral Care Report
The first meeting is due to be held on 19th Sept. at 2.30pm. During the summer break the team have continued to visit, send cards and deliver flowers. Margaret Williamson and Annie Adams resigned from the group after many years but are still doing some visits. Sheila Murray was welcomed into the group. The next afternoon tea is on Mon 22nd October. 72 invites will be sent out – let the group know if there is anyone who will not receive an invite but would like to go. Help with the catering and transport would be very much appreciated.

A note was passed out updating which elders are to visit organisations. Two elders are needed to visit JAM. Letters to be sent in thanks to the organisations.

Board rota was also distributed. GLD to be advised if anyone has a strong wish not to serve their rotation on the Board.

8 Clerk’s Correspondence

Communication Strategy. The Church of Scotland have issued a booklet detailing this and issued some topics for discussion – to be considered at a future meeting.

Visitors Strategy. The Church of Scotland has asked churches to complete a short questionnaire to find out what they currently do in order that they may try to formulate a church visitor and tourism strategy.

9 AOCB – There were no AOCB items


10 Harvest Thanksgiving

After the success of the Farm Africa Goats project in 2006 GLD has been gathering alternative ideas for this year. The meeting agreed that this type of project caught the imagination of all those around the church and that we should do something similar this year, but perhaps with a different animal.

Farm Africa also run a scheme where £250 will supply 5 schools with 15 chickens and 1 cockerel. The meeting agreed that this is what we should do this year!

11 Newton Partnership

At the last meeting of the Newton group there were concerns over the Pastoral work at Newton and that this must be covered by staff at Newton and not GLD. The proposal is to employ at Parish Assistant to cover Pastoral work along with the locum along with some children’s and family work. They would spent approx one day in Loanhead.

Newton finances looked healthy enough to cover these costs as they had £43k capital shares (at worth £50k), £12k Revenue reserves and £560 per month rental income from the manse. However the trustees decreed that this income could only be spent on the fabric of the building. This may mean that the whole Newton proposal wouldn’t work if money couldn’t be released.

However, Neil Dougal came back and confirmed that in 2003 the Church Without Walls programme outlined that if churches had £50k invested then they could release the rest of their money. As this partnership effectively is CWW then their cash should be made available. The Newton Board met last week and agreed to release the shares and bank the £50k of cash.

The final decision by Loanhead will be made after the service on the 23rd September, with Neil Dougal leading the meeting.

12 National Gathering – 3rd & 4th June 2008

The Church Without Walls (CWW) group are planning this for 2008 at Ingliston. Churches pay £300 for a tent and create displays with the tent depicting what church life is like for them – what we do, who we are etc. The tent then goes to the 3rd world. Each church is given 10 free tickets which can be used for folk to “man” the tent over the weekend. The meeting agreed to send for more details (no financial commitment at this time).

Discussion Groups

Mission Statement – Does this need changed/tweaked?
Two of the four groups felt that a slight tweak was probably needed “open, lively and compassionate”. GLD would like to shorten it to something that is easy to remember.

Staffing – what are out priorities and what staff do we need to do it?
All groups agreed that we need to focus on the 20’s to 40’s age group as well as children/families and so we should look to recruit two folk. WE must however, ensure that the good work currently in place for children must continue and not lapse.

GLD will speak to the Parish Development fund and other funders to ensure they are happy with this change and ensure that the funding will continue. FH and GLD to identify how much time is needed for the children’s work specifically in order that we can move quickly to advertise this post.

The 17’s to 40’s group is a long term work. GLD found during his study leave in the summer that it would take at least 6 years to see results so we have lots of ground to make up.

The meeting agreed this.

Supper Evening

Suggested date was the Tuesday 9th October. Proposed that this would run in the same way as the last one in that a number of folk would arrange invites and cater for the folk that they invite. The Rainbows would be asked to meet elsewhere that night (or treated to a night somewhere)

The meeting ended with the saying of the grace together.

Next Meeting: Wednesday 7 November 2007 at 7.30pm

1. Attendees: The Moderator, 19 Elders, J Fraser, F Henderson.

Apologies: J Ralston, M Hurst, M Elrick

2 The meeting opened with a reading from Peter 2 Chap 1 and in prayer.

3. The minutes of the meeting held on 3rd March 2007 were approved with no amendments.

4 Matters Arising

Appointment of New Elders. Gordon Watt has withdrawn from training as he felt it was not right this year personally for him to continue.

Joint Services. 24th June at Penicuik South, 19th August at Glencourse, 23rd September at St Mungo’s.

Inter Church Quiz. Being held Friday 5th May. No takers from the meeting

Presbytery Elder. Willie Cherrie has agreed to continue this post this year.

National Youth Assembly. No response from those eligible to attend.

Presbytery Twining Programme India. Outstanding.

Industrial Chaplaincy – Letters have been sent to all suggested at last meeting.

Discipleship/Enquirers Courses – See discussion groups.

5. Child Protection

Job descriptions for all those involved with JAM and Explorers continue to be drawn up. The meeting gave approval to five workers. GLD to look at job descriptions for those working in Junior Church, Christian Adventurers and the Crèche. All disclosures submitted have been processed successfully to date. Alison is waiting for 3 forms. The Child
Protection register was submitted to Presbytery for the annual record checks.

Fact files containing basic information to keep both children and workers safe have been purchased and distributed to the leaders of Junior Church, Christian Adventurers, Guides/Brownies and the BB’s. Copies are also held by Graham, Frances and Alison and are available for anyone working with children to read.

6 Visits to Organisations

Pastoral Care Report – A Saunderson
Diane Pearson was welcomed as a new member to the group. Maureen Rice has stopped doing the cards however Nan Taylor has taken this on. 36 bunches of flowers were distributed after the Easter service mostly to folk in care and hospital. 86 invites were sent out for Afternoon tea of which 63 accepted but only 52 actually came due to illness or forgetting it was on. Margo Macdonald MSP and her husband Jim Sillars joined in (due to cross wires!) but they had a great time anyway. Thanks to Margaret Harkness for the entertainment, all those who catered and the drivers. Everyone had a great time. Anyone interested in helping should let Ann know.

Anchor Boys (21st March) – A Haig
There are currently 17 Anchor boys, 13 of whom were present on the evening of the visit. David Ralston was in charge, ably assisted by Jane Duffin and Jaquie Smith. The boys were being encouraged to take part in a colouring in competition, followed by a chaotic game of Traffic Lights. The boys were then divided into 4 groups – 3 doing relay races and 1 catching up on badgework which consisted of cutting out cardboard shapes, pinning them together to make a Mr Man – appropriately called Mr Impossible! Back in the hall the others were playing basketball and a game of dodgeball rounded off the night.

1st Loanhead Rainbows (24th April) – L Ferguson & A Saunderson
A very enjoyable visit to the Rainbows was had – the group being led by Mhairi and Eilidh. The regular leader Jill was unable to be there. There were 7 very happy active rainbows in attendance. The numbers are lower due to the older rainbows moving up to Brownies. The group will be moving to meet in the church soon but there is a concern that there will be nowhere for them to meet due to the small hall refurb.
The girls were making flower plant pot sticks which they put in their plant pots after planting sunflower seeds. To burn off some energy we went to the big hall and played a variety of games. As always we were made very welcome and enjoyed taking part. We look forward to visiting again later this year.

2nd Loanhead Rainbows (30th April) – Sheena Ormiston & Agnes Munroe
There were 19 Rainbows at this meeting who were all desperate to have a good time. They played a game and then made glove puppets from a sock which they had brought with them. The hours spent with them passes very quickly and there is great enthusiasm amongst both Rainbows and leaders.

Guild (1st May) – Ron Pearson
Diane & Ron were warmly welcomed by Margaret Thomson along with the other invited guests Jane Duffin, Bill Allen and Bill Murray to the Floral tea. Bill McIntosh couldn’t make it due to urgent ‘Teuchter’ business. After a sumptuous repast provided by the members they were entertained by George Clark & family who gave us a medley of music to get the feet tapping. The meeting was brought to a close with a vote of thanks to all involved in making the evening so enjoyable. It was gratifying to see such a well run organisation with members who enjoy being part of the Guild.

BB Company Section (26th April) – D Thornton
This visit coincided with the Parents Evening and Presentation of Awards. With the departure of G Stephenson David does not have a visiting partner. The Company Section has 4 officers, 2 staff sergeants and 21 other ranks who were all present. The company paraded and were inspected by the Lord Lieutenant of Midlothian Mr Patrick Prenter CBE. Good discipline and smart appearance was displayed. The drill display was admired with the company carried out a string of commands in extremely limited space. The games were all competitive events including skipping, human wheelbarrow races, ball bouncing and tug o’ war. The boys were obviously whole-heartedly involved, keen and having fun. Overall there is much enthusiasm and comradeship stemming from the dedicated service of the Captain and other officers over the years. The retiring collection at the end of the evening in aid of Stedfast appeal was £401.

Letters to be sent in thanks to the organisations.

7 Session Clerks correspondence

Information had been received re. the Enquirers conference and the Session Clerk’s training at Carberry.

8 AOCB

Christian Aid. Harry Fisher was looking for more collectors due to 5 withdrawals. Last year £3,200 from the £3,800 raised came from the door to door collection.

Readership. Mary Millan going to Carberry this weekend to keep her training up to date. The course, with Peter Neilson, is The Changing Church and Changing World.

G Duffin. Is entitled to 2 study weeks per annum and will be taking these the week of the Gala and 20-24 August.

Session & board Directory. Please check details and confirm to Gayle.

The meeting split into 4 groups to discuss the following:

9 Youth & Children’s Ministry Review

A paper was circulated prior to the meeting detailing the review carried out by the separate review groups, proposed developments and staffing information.

Frances Henderson gave the meeting a further explanation of how children’s work using the pyramid structure as an illustration which is a good way to examine where we were going with youth work and secondary youngsters. This showed that in the 11 to 14 age group we have few committed youngsters. The model was also used to look at the youth work.

Staffing concerns raised were raised on how to continue:

1. The work Frances is doing (FH leaving Jan 08)
2. The work Jonathon is doing (JF leaving summer 07)
3. The music JF does for us.

The meeting was asked to consider:

1. Do you agree with the proposal that the priority for development is with the 12 to 15 year olds while maintaining the work with the 8 to 11 years.
   All groups agreed with this proposal.
   
   
2. Are you supportive of the developments envisaged with the 12 to 15 yr olds?
   All groups were in support of these developments although there was concern there was lots to take on and how work with Beeslack & LHSC could be achieved.
   
   
3. Do you have firm view how staffing will be provided?
   There was mixed reaction to how staffing should work. 3 out of the 4 groups agreed that 2 or 3 folk would work well giving team support and flexibility of skills. The last group felt one person would be better than lots of bits.
   

10 Newton Partnership

G Duffin gave an overview to the meeting of this possible partnership.

Newton Parish has been struggling over the past few years and in a parish around the size of Loanhead currently has approx 30 of a congregation on a Sunday. They have been without a minister for some time now and currently have a locum working around 1.5 days per week. When Francis Murphy was here Francis, Alex Brown and Jane Duffin did some afternoon worship with the congregation so we have some connections in place.

Presbytery’s Parish Resources Committee had been considering a number of possibilities, none of which had come to fruition. As a result, GLD had mentioned the possibility of a partnership between Loanhead and Newton. This would mean an additional member of staff (not necessarily a minister) – perhaps with pastoral skills - working mostly out of Newton but who could add some experience to the Loanhead team.

GLD would technically be the interim moderator, as he was with Cranston and Penicuik South. He would consider preaching once a month at Newton as he had done when interim moderator previously.

GLD explained he felt that the congregation here is in a strong position and is a positive thing to be able to offer support to the other congregation, taking them under wing until they are strong enough to go it alone.

The meeting was asked to consider:

1. What benefits do you see for the work at Loanhead?
   Others get to preach and use different skills.
   That this is positive. Loanhead in this position 5 years ago we can help them and helps us reflect using our experience.
   The additional skills of a parish pastoral worker would be effective for us.
   
   
2. What potential drawbacks do you see for the work at Loanhead?
   Concerns over the attendance on a Sunday if GLD isn’t preaching as much.
   Workload of GLD – detriment to family life
   Folk being able to get there to help if they don’t have transport
   More of a rescue mission than partnership
   Tied in for too long if no get out clause
   
   
3. What benefits do you see for the work at Danderhall?
   Having GLD working with them
   Support, rejuvenate, familiarisation
   
   
4. What potential drawbacks do you see for the work at Danderhall?
   May feel threatened
   We can’t takeover and let them be dependent on us
   Not to erode their decision making. If to survive they must drive it, we are just their catalyst.
   They may get a taste of GLD ministry and make more demands of his time.
   
   
5. Is this something we should pursue further?
   Unanimously yes, as long as we don’t lose GLD and it’s not to our detriment.
   The meeting agreed that GLD, G Jones, H Fisher, A Saunderson and M Millan should meet with Presbytery’s Parish Resources Committee to pursue further.
   
   

11 Courses & Groups

A paper was distributed to the meeting looking at suggestions for courses and groups to be run in the Autumn.  The meeting was asked to consider:

1. Which of the groups/courses appeals to you
   Most of the groups felt that courses 2 or 3 would be appealing – but recognised that course 1 would certainly have appeal to many folk around church
   
   
2. Would you reshape what is being planned in any way?
   Generally most groups felt that the courses were well planned and not much change would be required and that it would very much depend on personal circumstances as to which theme in course 2 would appeal.
   
   

The meeting ended with the saying of the grace together.

Next Meeting: Wednesday 27th June 2007

Attendees: The Moderator, 19 Elders, J Fraser, F Henderson.

Apologies: D Thornton, L Ferguson, M Moffat, L Moffact, A Elrick. W Cherrie

1 The meeting opened with a reading from John’s 1st Letter and prayer

2. The Minutes from the meeting 3rd May were agreed without amendments

3 Matters Arising

Summer Services
This year’s format worked well. Giving increased by £495 over the 9 weeks. Attendance increased with approx 65 at 2nd service and 40 at the 1st so the choice suiting many folk. The meeting agreed that the same format should be used for summer 2007.

Overseas Partner Plan
No update from Margaret Moffat.

Joint Evening Services
Two have been held at Howgate and Penicuik North. The Howgate service was well attended with a good atmosphere. One to be held on the 1st October has been cancelled due to many factors; another date is to be confirmed.

4. Building Work

Eric Monteith reported that all work was completed on time and was a great experience with lots of help by many folk. Most of the contractors were very good, with exception of the heating contractors; however a great deal of work was put in to ensure we were back in church for the September communion.

Harry Fisher reported that the Roof work and new toilets are to be paid for by WREN. The rules of this grant states that someone has to pay 10% of costs and so a donation was held back from the special appeal to set against this. An additional grant £6,000 has been received from the Trustees – with no ties.

5 Children’s & Family Worker Report (Frances Henderson)

This year’s holiday club was a fantastic week and would not have happened without all the volunteered help. This year was a bigger scheme due to the space restrictions and also to encourage the older primary kids to attend. More flexibility resulted in more volunteers. There were less p1 to p3’s and double the p4’s to p7’s. The week concluded with a trip to Vogrie. The children were charged £1 per day for the first time however parents were happy about this. The Donations and fees collected means that the holiday club cost the church £15 (mini bus costs still to come though). Next year will be considered at a later date.

6 Youth Worker Report (Jonathon Fraser)

The teenagers evening followed similar material but for youth type activities with each evening taking the format of band, teaching, activities, reflection, games concluding with some worship. More teenagers than anticipated came along, with more joining as the week went on. The week concluded with a tubing trip. Like the children’s holiday club this was a great success.


7 Autumn Services

24 Sept – Harvest Thanksgiving
08 Oct – Guild Dedication
29 Oct – Youth Dedication
12 Nov – Remembrance

Sunday’s are quite congested this autumn and are exacerbated by being Penicuik’s Interim moderator and the youth weekend to Comrie. Things are progressing well at Penicuik with interviews and preaching this month. A decision should be reached by the end of September.

Harvest: It was agreed to decorate the church as usual. It was agreed that a collection be taken to buy some goats through Farm Africa rather than members bringing food. Envelopes to be distributed for the collection.

8 Magazine Editor
Margaret Elrick is standing down after filling in for one month – 5 years ago! Thanks were given to Margaret for all her work during this time. Margaret also thanked Alison McGlashan and Jim Ralston for their help in typing and printing. The meeting agreed that GLD was to approach and appoint a new editor. Alison and the rest of the collation team are happy to continue helping.



9 Fellowship Groups

3 groups are working well, GLD’s not so well. These start w/c 11th September. GLD Wednesday group mainly working folk who come and go depending on family and work commitments. The Tuesday group needs more members. Graham indicted that he also hoped to organise a new member’s course in the autumn.


10 Visits to organisations & Rota for 2006/07

The rota was printed on the back of the agenda.

Guides . Harry and Margaret treated the Guides to McFlurry’s in June as thanks for their help in the Garden.

Rainbows . Agnes and Sheena revisited the rainbows and joined in their Sponsored marathon of 26 events. The rainbows were on good form and had lots of fun.

Brownies . A donation of approx £250 was received for the refurbishment appeal – which was decided by the girls. HF has written to thank them.

Pastoral Care . Over the summer visits continued and flowers delivered – thanks to all involved. Could do with some more members in the group to undertake some visits.

Afternoon tea will be held Monday 2 nd October. 90 invites have been sent out. Would appreciate help with catering – baking etc.

11 New Members

The meeting agreed to admit Mrs Allison by resolution. In addition it was agreed to admit Paul and Catriona Anderson and Jim Gray by confession, at a date to be arranged.


12 November Conferences

These should be very interesting. Mark Green will be speaking on the Saturday conference in Stirling if folk can’t manage to the Wed conference in Loanhead. Need help with catering for the Wednesday conference.

13 Stewardship Campaign

It is 4 years since the last campaign. The refurbishment has taken our eyes off this recently but finances have been enough to see us through. The plan is to increase giving to see us through the next 3/4 years.

In the last campaign a leaflet was produced explaining about the aims and goals of the church. All fabric work outlined has been completed, and more. The meeting reviewed the previous presentation “Into the new millennium”. GLD feels we have gone a huge way to achieving our mission statement. The meeting recognised that we have achieved much of the vision presented at that stage, or have moved some way towards them; pastoral care, small discussion groups, worship with young folk, part of community, schools mission and different types of worship.

Need to start discussion plans for next campaign in groups.

14 Priorities for 2007 - 2012

The meeting was asked to consider what priorities should be set. All groups concluded that we should build on and continue the work already started:

• Encourage all age groups
• Spiritual growth
• Creating openness without commitment
• Develop evening services
• Develop community & school links
• Consider how to tackle the lack of the 30/40 age group attending church
• Pastoral care
• Replacement for Jonathon (eventually)

The meeting was asked to consider appointing new elders.


16. Youth Organistion Flags

The meeting was asked to consider what should happen to the dedicated organisation flags. The consensus was to keep the flags, however that they should be maintained somehow. Various suggestions were put forward as to how they could be displayed. In conclusion the meeting agreed that they would be replaced asap with advice taken as to the care of these flags.

17. ACOB
The meeting agreed that we should hold an Open Day for folk to come in and see the changes. Displays from organisations would be welcomed. This would be on Saturday 7th October. Young folk will do teas in aid of Comrie funds. Gayle to contact organisations.

The Bangladesh bag was circulated.

The meeting ended with the saying of the grace together.

Next Meeting: Wednesday 1st November 2006.

Attendees: Attendees: The Moderator, 22 Elders

Apologies: G Waugh, A Elrick, M Millan

1 The meeting opened with a reading from Matthew’s Gospel and prayer

2. The Minutes from the meeting 1 st March were agreed without amendments

3 Matters Arising

Smart Goals 2006
A review of these highlighted that all the goals in the top section are being attended to. The lower section requires attention although were not deemed essential.

Minutes of meetings (communion)
This is not a session act and it was suggested that we should stop minuting these. This was agreed by the meeting.

4. Building Appeal

This was launched Sunday 30 April. Appeal letters to be collected and distributed to Districts. Elders are not being asked to hand personally to members but to drop through doors is ok. Elders are being asked to drop now and follow up at Communion.

5 Children’s & Family Worker Report (Frances Henderson)

Children’s work continuing – Explorers, JAM sessions, Holiday Club during summer holiday. Thanks to those helping with children’s work. Been expanding into family side, planning some events through to November to help families become closer.

Care for the family – would like to run a “Drug proofing your kids” course, 6 x 2hr sessions on Thursday nights in Oct/Nov. This looks at our own attitude to substances and what is passed onto children, e.g. Chocolate and wine. A charity was set up by Ivor Forrest (who works for CFTF) which means the course can be subsidised which has a cost of £15 per person per course. £10 of this fee is for the booklet which is kept by those on the course. Max of 20 folk is recommended for parents of p3 to p6 children. FH would like the Session to consider a contribution. The meeting agreed to meet cost, less contribution by attendees.

6 Communion Retiring Offerings

Jun 06 – Bangladesh
Sep 06 – Mission Aviation Fellowship
Dec 06 – Hampers
Mar 07 – BB Nigeria Appeal (JR to confirm)


7 Visits to organisations

Guild Floral tea was enjoyed by the McIntosh’s, Bill Allan and Ron Pearson. A beautiful tea was provided with lovely music and singing. The Guild is very active with steady numbers, although no younger women are joining. Jetta Fisher is retiring as President and Margaret Thomson is taking on this role. Letters of thanks and Good luck respectively to be sent.

The Monday Rainbows gave a very warm welcome to Sheena & Agnes. 18 Rainbows were present from 20 – with more waiting patiently on a list. The evening started with games followed by the making of mothers day presents and cards which the mums will be delighted to receive. The Rainbows were given sponsor forms for their potted sports night at the end of May, raising money for Children with Leukaemia, which we hope to go to. Sweets were offered from the tuck shop but we declined due to lack of chocolates!

The Wednesday Brownies were visited by Ruby Haig & Margaret Hurst, with 19 there from roll of 22. They also were raising money for Children with Leukaemia by holding a 26 min sponsored silence. Half the money can be kept by the unit, however they decided in their pow wow to donate some money to Marie Curie. £5 had been saved from their Thinking Day Shiny Pennies, the Brownies had also agreed to forgo their easter eggs and donate this money to charity as well. Final amount raised was £15 each to PDSA and Sick Kid’s drop in appeal (inc donations from Ruby & Margaret!) Well done to them for their kind gestures. Some girls are going to Pack Holiday in May. The girls were given leaflets to give hand to friends to keep numbers up after the summer when some girls will be going onto Guides. The evening ended with games, and discussion about the Carnival Parade. The pack is in good spirits and will be very busy in the lead up to the Summer break.

A warm welcome was given to Bill Allan & Eric Monteith on their visit to the Boy’s Brigade Junior Section. 15 boys from 17 were present. The evening commenced with the flag ceremony, story, song & prayer. The section was preparing for the parent’s night – an excellent marching display without any prompting, the second part was to march into the hall singing to the tune “You May never fly like superman”. Not one but 3 ball games were played before BA & EM presented the boys with interest badges. The evening ended with lowering of the flag and national anthem. The visit was very much enjoyed.

Louise & Ann visited the Tuesday Rainbows. Jill was without her helpers this evening. The girls were practising for the sponsored marathon. Help was given to make badges with fun names and to colour in posters. Great fun was had and also helped with juice and selling sweets from the tuck shop.

George Bathgate gave his grateful thanks to the team of Chatterbox. They work very hard and should be congratulated that they are donating so much to our appeal.

8 Child Protection Co-ordinator

Letter received from Andrew Watson confirming his retirement from this position. Alison Notman has agreed to take this on. Session agreed this appointment.


9 Christian Aid

Districts ready to collect. Coffee morning at St Margaret’s Sat am. The hall is open on Friday night for donations.

10 Overseas Partner Plan

Helen Brannan (a doctor) is going to Bangladesh, no time was available for visits prior to her departure, however details will be sent along with a picture. She is taking up a post at Bollophur Hospital, in a very rural area dealing with all sections of medicine including a midwifery dept. There are no ex-pats near however Gillian Rose and James Pendar are not too far away. Watch this space.

Fair Trade. Posters are to be displayed. It was agreed to buy fair-trade products once current supplies has run out to use at Chatterbox and each Sunday in church. Will ask Guild to consider being part of this.

11 Summer Services

Two options were offered for discussion, the first being 2 short services with coffees in between and the second holding one 11am service in July and then holding 2 services in August.

The meeting agreed to opt for first option, with services being held at 10am (family type service) and 11.15am (more traditional service). The offering will be taken at the door – this must be notified beforehand.

The meeting was asked to consider whether this would be attended and what format would be preferred. None of the groups could decide on this due to being uncertain about whether this is instead, or as well as the weekly prayer meeting which held currently held each Wednesday. It was suggested that:

• There should be flexibility with regard to time of worship & prayer
• Some led from front and leading of prayers
• Some informal sharing in small groups
• Groups given topics and group formulates prayer.

The meeting was asked to consider appointing new elders. All groups agreed that this should be done but would wish time to consider who to approach. One group commented that there was a need for elders gifted in pastoral work and willing to take responsibility for a district.

This to be discussed further in September.

14. ACOB

Church Records are to be inspected by Presbytery. The meeting confirmed that all records were present.

Refurbishment – seats. The seats which had been agreed upon do not have storage for bibles or communion cups. As it is more expensive to add this to seats chosen at last board meeting it was agreed to get chair samples back and order seats which already has shelf. Decision to be made after service one Sunday.

Joint Services. The first of these to be held at Glencorse on 28th May.

The Bangladesh bag was circulated.

The meeting ended with the saying of the grace together.

Next Meeting: Wednesday 3 rd September 2006.

Attendees: Attendees: The Moderator, 21 Elders

Apologies: G Jones, E Monteith, Margaret Harkness, Margaret Elrick

1 The meeting opened with two short readings and prayer.

2. Harry Fisher was appointed clerk in Gayle’s absence

3 Approval of Minutes

The minutes of the meeting held on 4 th January 2006 were approved after the insertion of the congregational statistics for 2005 at item 4.

4 Matters Arising

CWW Events

These services were being arranged all with the same theme at Howgate, Roslin and Penicuik North Churches. They hope to arrange a Quiz Evening with teams from the local churches and a Ceilidh for elders either in Penicuik Town Hall or Bilston Miners club.

 Elders Meal

A card of thanks was received from Ina and George. This was enjoyed by all.

 Events for Elderly and Housebound

Afternoon tea with entertainment arranged for 6 th March.

 Services of Ordination

Thanks to those who provided the excellent catering both here and in Greenock.

5 Roll Amendments

Add by resolution of the Kirk Session Mrs Margaret Fullerton, 12 Mayburn Drive.

6 Building Renewal Plans

The moderator advised that the vote at the ASM had been 76 for and 24 against the refurbishment proposals. A number of points had been raised with the main argument of those against the proposals was that all the congregation should be consulted. A member of session asked if there could have been a secret ballot taken. The moderator did not think so. (Subsequent to the meeting he checked ‘practice and procedure in the church’ and a vote by ballot would not procedurally have been in order “if a vote is taken at a congregational meeting it shall be by standing up.” The exceptions are electing elders, vote on union, election of minister.)

7 Welcome Cards Feedback v 20 to 45 consultation

A list of the comments received is attached to this minute. Most of the replies were positive.

Frances commented on the satisfactory initial meeting she had with families and advised that a meeting time of around 5pm on a Saturday appeared to suit.

On the subject of communication an elder asked if the name of who was leading worship could be on the order of service. Various elders asked if more could be put on the web site. The moderator advised that more information would be welcome, and asked groups such as Chatterbox, Coffee and Chat, Pastoral Care to prepre information on their groups to be included on the site

8 Visits to Organisations

1 st A Brownies, Christian Adventurers, Youth workers report and Evening services report attached.

Children & Family Workers report

Frances Henderson advised the meeting that she now had 3 groups of explorers, primaries 4/5 and 6/7 at Paradykes and has just started on group in Loanhead Primary. All were over subscribed. She has 10 volunteers helping her.


9 2006 Smart Goals

The session broke up into groups to discuss and individually mark their priorities. While the moderator will prepare a detailed analysis at first glance the session were enthusiastic for:

• A holiday club for primary school age children in the summer
• Have a costed & agreed plan in place for the church refurbishment by April 2006.

Items with less enthusiasm:

• Discuss the possibility of employing a pastoral assistant by October 2006.
• Run a Christian event at LHSC by December 2006.

10 AOCB

The session agreed that the retiring offering at the March Communion would be for Water Aid.

The moderator advised that he had the following commitments:

• Interim moderator at Penicuik South and Howgate Church.
• New charge development.
• Research Project and organising Conferences in conjunction with London institute for Contemporary Religion

The meeting ended with the saying of the grace together.

Attendees: The Moderator, 21 Elders.

Apologies: Sheila Watson, Bill Allan, Jim Ralston.

1 The meeting opened in prayer and reading from Mark 16. Paul’s Mission Journey.

2 Approval of Minutes

Approval of the minutes from the Meetings held on 2nd November and 7th December with no amendments.

3 Matters Arising

Church Without Walls Events
Nothing planned for now. A meeting is to be held on 31 Jan to discuss what events to hold with the Penicuik churches in 2006.

Welcome cards/bookmarks
Gordon Waugh assured these would be ready for 8th January.

Elders Meal Out
Gayle asked for confirmation from elders for meal. George & Ina Stephenson are to be invited as guests (cost to be covered by all). It was agreed by the meeting that a presentation of flowers should be made to Ina in front of congregation as well as at meal.

Event for elderly & housebound
A Saunderson reported that the next event has been arranged for Monday 6th March, 2 to 4pm. Alan McLaren is to be approached to give a slideshow/talk on Loanhead. Transport from any willing helper would be appreciated.

Presbytery Plan
Still in suggested format. No change for Loanhead or for any other church in Presbytery cluster. Once decided this will be in place for 10 years.

Christmas Services and invitations
Good feedback, particularly for the Christingle service which was very well attended. Although we don’t know if the invites matter, numbers attending Christmas services are rising.

Website – www.loanheadparishchurch.co.uk
This has now in its new format with the final amendments being made with new wording and photos to be added. Unique visitors to the site are up in numbers – 50 in the first fortnight. This is being helped with the new name more easily picked up by internet search engines. Menu down left side for new visitors and menu across top more for church members.

4 Congregational Statistics & alterations to roll

GLD took the meeting through the statistics for 2005. A number of amendments were agreed:

5 Re-arrangements of Elder’s Districts and appointment of District Visitors

Thanks to those who helped rearrange Districts, all now being covered. No-one has yet been approached about being a District Visitor. The meeting agreed that G Duffin should approach those he feels appropriate – Irene Allan, Andrew Watson and a couple of others as possibilities. It was noted by Harry Fisher that Elders should understand that these visitors are available as necessary to cover when elders are ill or on holiday, with initial contact through the minister.

6 Children’s and Family Worker

Frances Henderson starts 11th January 2006. It was agreed to change her job title to Associate Minister
(Children and Family Worker) in order to make it possible for her to be ordained following the completion of her training. Presbytery Business Committee is happy to recommend her ordination to Presbytery as is the Board of Ministry at 121. Thursday 23rd February is a possible date for ordination.

7 Service of ordination and induction

Francis Murphy’s ordination is on Tuesday 7th February 2006 in Greenock, 7pm. The meeting agreed to look into hiring bus – which could possibly be shared by Gorebridge. Gayle to phone for quotes.

8 Building Review – future meetings

After the last meeting G Duffin felt it was not clear how this should be progressed. Due to lack of dates to hold separate meeting it was agreed to hold another joint meeting after the Board meeting on Wednesday 1st February at 8pm (Board meeting to start at 7pm). GLD to co-ordinate with review group to get enough info to confirm decisions.

9 Appointment of Presbytery Elder

Our Presbytery elder needs replaced with George Stephenson leaving. This involves 8 meetings per year with no allocation to a committee until year 2. Willie Cherrie volunteered to do this, and the session agreed to nominate him as Presbytery Elder.

10 Visits to organisations

Junior Church – Margaret Elrick & Gordon Waugh
Our visit coincided with the beginning of advent and so “Being Prepared” was the theme. Each age group were involved in different activities relevant to helping them understand this theme with a mixture of activity, reading/listening, prayer and craft. We found JC to be well run and organised as usual with the religious content well mixed with activity. Margaret Hurst and her assistants are doing a wonderful job, long may it continue.

Guides – Harry Fisher & Margaret Green
14th November, Four brownies also attended that evening along with Violet and one parent. They were there to find out what it was like to be a Guide and ask lots of questions from the girls in the unit. The meeting was divided in two parts – the first being team games organised by Rachael, a Patrol Leader and the second being a birthday celebration for Gayle. The entertainment was singing and Fiona gave a very good display of Highland dancing. On the downside the number of Guides had decreased since our last visit though Barbara Shearer is not too concerned. On the plus side the number of helpers has increased – but it was not determined whether they have specific responsibilities. As usual we were warmly welcomed.

Gayle to send letters of thanks to each of these organisations.

11 National Budget consultation

GLD gave a presentation on the Budgets and Allocations Consultation and an explanation of Congregational budgeting. The allocations were changed 2 years ago. The Assembly also decided that congregations would not pay ministers directly with their stipend instead coming from a central pot. The change in allocations affects congregations finances as follows:

Figures were also given for how the central budget was allocated to the different Boards and committees.

Discussion groups were asked to consider questions surrounding these changes and allocations.

12 SMART Goals 2005

Although the majority of SMART goals set for 2005 had been achieved, some of those set for work with 20’s and 30’s were not. A pizza night may be held for those in this group once Frances arrives. It was noted that some in this age group have come and gone and we don’t know why. Others have come and stayed. This area of work will be progressed when Frances starts.

Lasswade High School Centre now has new Headmaster. GLD is timetabled to do some assemblies this year and so hopes to build relationships there from this.

Discussion Groups Feedback

Church of Scotland Budgetary Changes

Q1 - Which aspects of Parish Ministries & Mission and Renewal funds are essential?
• All of the work is regarded as essential in one way or another.
• Mission and discipleship important.
• Not enough is known to make an informed decision at this time.

Q2 – Does communication about central budgets need improved?
• We do need general picture with a bit more detail, could be improved overall.
• If session would like more info brought along then Harry could bring along anything important – but not information overload.
• Need to consider detail of information and skim readers v detailed readers
• If moving to central budgets the session should be more interested in looking at information and so we need to find some way of bringing this to the session.

Q3 – What priority should funding of ordained ministry have?
• No context to set priority in question
• As long as it covers costs – how do we know?
• Takes what it costs

Q4 – What priority should building maintenance have?
• As Q3, depends on need. Some buildings need lots of repairs and costs, others not.
• Regarded as a bit of a stupid question.

Q5 – Is the present level of our allocation preventing local mission initiative?
• No.
• If we had any more money we would spend it.

Q6 – Which system is preferable?
• New system preferable to old. If some wealthy churches are miffed they should look at approaching this with a Christian viewpoint!
• Would support smaller churches
• Don’t care about rich churches
• New system is fairer.

Church Life

Q1 – Are you encouraged or discouraged by the developments in church life in last year?
• Encouraged and will continue to be (past, present and future)
• Better attendance
• New friendship group
• Frances Henderson into schools (continuing from Francis Murphy)
• Crèche is popular
• Reaching out rather that expecting to come here
• Reaching more sectors than 2/3 years ago.

Q2 – Other areas to consider developing
• Christmas Nativity Play – we now have the parents to come and see. We could consider similar format at other times of year to draw in the families. This is something that perhaps Frances could pick up.
• Youth Work
• Assist 20-30 yrs with mechanics of actually coming to church and other activities.
Sunday evening service out to community to attract 20-30’s to come along.

13 AOCB

M Moffat updated the meeting on Bangladesh. James Pender is based on Dakar. Main aims are the prevention of trafficking of women and children. A request was made to write and tell us more. Still awaiting details to contact.

L Moffat advised the meeting that he is running short of tapes due to them not being returned. C90 tapes would gratefully be received.

14 Next Meeting

Wednesday 1st February 2006 at 8pm (joint meeting with Board)
Wednesday 1st March 2006 at 7.30pm

Attendees: The Moderator, 21 Elders, 3 Board members.
Apologies: Gordon Waugh, Alex Brown, Margaret Hurst, Anna Conway

The meeting opened in prayer and reading from Matthew 28. The Great Commission.

Session Clerk

Thanks were expressed to Ina Stephenson for commitment as Session Clerk and to both Ina & George Stephenson for all their help in the Church.

Gayle Jones took the oath of office as the new Session Clerk.

New Elder
Mrs Millan, who has moved recently from Aberdeensire had been approached about joining the Session, and was willing to join the Session at the earliest opportunity. The Moderator suggested she be admitted during a service in January 2006, and this was agreed.

Refurbishment Proposals

Eric Monteith gave a short presentation to the meeting on the background and range of possibilities brought forward by the group.

It was explained that these were developed in conjunction with looking at a solution to the ongoing Central Heating problems – which would result in major work within the church due to the removal of pipes. Follows is a summary of the work which it was thought might be considered.

1 Seating:
To remove the pipes in the church some pews might need to be removed for ease of access. It was possible to consider removing all pews in main body of church and replace with individual seats at this time.

2 Central Heating:
To replace current system throughout all areas of church and also remove asbestos insulation from under the floor space.

3 Front Entrance:
To provide a more welcoming entrance to the church by altering frontage or doors.

4 Expansion of buildings
A conservatory type structure to the north side of the building. Three various sizes and shaped structures were presented.

5 Changes to front area of church:
Three different options regarding the removal of dais and pulpit to allow a more flexible space.

The meeting was asked to consider 3 options in small groups discussing the advantages/disadvantages of each with regard to the worship, work and witness of the church.

The feedback from the groups were as follows:

It was clear from discussions that there was not unanimity on any one proposal.

A show of hands was requested by the meeting to vote on whether to progress with replacing the pews with chairs during the heating refurbishment. 22 were in favour and 5 against.

It was agreed not to rule out any of the other proposals, but to leave them for future discussion.

The question was raised whether the congregation could veto the decision to remove the pews. The answer was no, however at the Annual Stated meeting the Board and Session could be asked by the meeting to reconsider their decision, and an opportunity would be given for discussion at the ASM.

The meeting closed in prayer.

Next Session Meeting

Wednesday 4th January 2006 at 7.30pm

Minutes of the Loanhead Parish Church Kirk Session
Held: Loanhead Parish Church, Wed 7th September 2005

Attendees: The Moderator and 17 Elders.
Apologies: 9 Elders. All as recorded in the Sederunt

1 The meeting was opened in prayer and a reading from Colossians 1.

2 Approval of Minutes

Approval of the minutes from the Meetings held 4th May, 10th July & 14th August were given by the meeting.

3 Matters Arising

Church Without Walls Events
Evening Services – response to these have been good with the last service at end Sept. Benefits from having tea/coffee after services. Subgroup looking to arrange Cheildh for elders/partners of all churches involved.

Dunfermline Event – A&R Haig/A Saunderson attended this. Was a very good event however being outside was marred by the weather. Numbers attending were very low.

Inchcolm Event – Again an uplifting event which was very enjoyable, again weather not very good.

Usher Hall event – on Sat 10th Sept now to be held in Charlotte halls due to lack of numbers.

Conference – see (4)

Child & Youth workers meal – 2 letters of thanks received from Jim Ralston & Violet Munro and many verbal thanks. Was a good evening enjoyed by all.

Bereavement Course – had 4 on course. Was very worthwhile with Graham taking just as much as those on the course. Confident about running another one and would appear to be most effective for those bereaved for more than a year – very apparent that folks aren’t ‘fixed’ after the first year.

Lunch Club – Outstanding. Graham Duffin and Harry Fisher to speak to Miners Club

Welcome cards/bookmarks – Outstanding. Gordon Waugh not present to give feedback.

Summer Services – see Discussion points.

4 Report from CWW Conference

Audrey McLaren attended this event, held at the EICC, 28 May 05. She found this an exciting and encouraging event and has circulated a very detailed report to the Kirk Session on her experiences, giving a very useful insight from the Seminars attended.

5 Youth Worker

Jonathon Fraser is looking to join the ministry and so he is commencing his first placement with St Andrews & St