St George's-Tillydrone Church of Scotland

Dear Friends - From the Minister
The Guild
The Real Person
Rev Ken Donald's Induction
Pictures from Egypt
Open Door - Points for Prayer
Friendship Hour
In Brief - News of People
Dates for your Diary
Chattanatta

From the Minister ...

Dear Friends

Tillydrone's regeneration; St George's Annual Stated Meeting; Easter. What do they have in common? The little word "hope" can embrace them. At first sight, the Tillydrone Community's hopes of securing cash to make much needed improvements to housing in Alexander/Hayton and to bring amenities to the area, were dashed when we heard that the bid for Scottish Office funding was unsuccessful. But individuals and groups refuse to give up hope for the regeneration of the area, and we salute those who continue to work hard to see that realised. They carry on in hope.

St George's Annual Stated Meeting attracted only a small attendance this year, and so people missed out on a message full of vibrancy - and hope - brought to us by Rev Margaret Benton (better known to some as Margaret Pearson from her time in membership of St George's). She introduced us to a book called In His Steps by Charles Sheldon which has had a remarkable impact on many Christians. The phrase "In His Steps" comes from 1 Peter 2:21 and speaks of our following the Lord Jesus. The challenge lies in the consideration to pledge ourselves to ask a simple question before taking any action as individuals or churches: "What would Jesus do?". The book describes the amazing outcome when people agreed to use the "WWJD" question. Margaret concluded: "Jesus doesn't call us to be successful, just obedient". We live in hope of his working.

Now it is Easter time again! This is the glorious celebration of the death and resurrection of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. He was willing to go through with the scandal of death on a cross - an innocent Man, condemned to die instead of us - so that we might be offered newness of life in Him, "regeneration" in a different sense of the word. Because of the Risen Lord, we live in hope of reigning with Him. Is that hope visible to those who know us?

We have just finished a series of studies in the letter to the Galatians in our evening services. Paul Mumo preached on Galatians 6:9 which reads "Let us not become tired of doing good: for if we do not give up, the time will come when we will reap the harvest.". These words were written by the apostle who had learnt how to live in hope. The church, the community, the world needs hope so badly.

With loving prayer,

We have come to the end of another session of The Guild. Our numbers have held up and attendance has been good. The Guild theme for the year was "Good News to the Poor" and we tried to reflect this with the choice of some of our speakers and in our actions, particularly in filling several shoe boxes with various categories of goods for babies through to elderly women. These were then delivered to the Blythswood Trust for sending to Eastern Europe. In addition we have contributed to the projects supported by The Guild.

We are, of course, part of a large organisation and some of our members attended meetings of our own Presbyterian Council or went further afield to join with Guildswomen from all over Scotland. The highlight of these get-togethers was the Celebration in Glasgow in September.

We had, of course, our own social occasions. The Christmas Party is always an enjoyable evening though this year's one turned out to be more exciting than anticipated - it went with a crash rather than a bang!

The high point of the year was our 30^th Anniversary Celebration in January - our guests included Margaret Wilson, the first secretary of the Woman's Guild here in St George's. Stewart and Margaret Jeffrey, Elspeth Kerr and Mairi Goldie from the Presbyterian Council and Nigel and Katie Parker with the Bucksburn/Stoneywood Worship Group. It was a memorable evening.

We now look forward to our summer outing and to restarting again in the autumn when we hope to have a flourishing Guild to take into the Millennium.

ARE WE HIDING BEHIND MASKS? DO WE MAINTAIN A PUBLIC PERSONA WHICH HIDES THE REALITY OF WHO WE REALLY ARE? PAUL MUMO REMINDS US OF HOW THE APOSTLE PAUL EXORTS US TO BE REAL WITH ONE ANOTHER

Talk of the real person brings a cold chill to almost everyone. The reality is that many people are content to wear a mask which hides their real self. Almost everything has moved into the sphere of privacy. However, reading Paul's letter to the Galatian Church (6:1-10) one is confronted with issues that concern the inner person, and which intrude into the private life of others. For example, there is talk of the weak being helped by the spiritual; the spiritual being on their guard lest they become weak; the boastful thinking twice; the reality of the God who knows everything; and lastly sowing in the right soil. All these address that 'real person' which no one feels comfortable to discuss, since the private life should not be interfered with for the sake of spirituality. This refusal to talk about the private life has perhaps brought negative results in society. People seem to be willing to discuss the private struggles of life either before the camera or in support groups. Nevertheless, the problems are often so serious that nothing can be done meaningfully. The question is, what can Christians do to help each other? Paul in Galatians 6:1-10 says that Christians should help each other before the problems become uncontrollable.

To become caught up in a sin is not as hard as many people imagine. The original sin (Gen. 3:1ff.) has left us susceptible to sin. Paul suggests therefore, the need for outside help (Gal. 6:1 "...if any man is caught in wrongdoing/trespass/sin, you who are spiritual restore such a one..."). In the light of what Paul says here, there is need for Christians to accept help from each other.

Taken at face value those Christians designated as 'the spiritual' may seem to be an elite group. On the contrary, the spiritual in the Bible are those men and women of God who are able to recognise their unspiritual condition. Take for example, the case of prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 6:5), who, when God came to commission him for ministry was exposed to his own sinfulness. If a person is willing to be exposed to God, such a one is spiritual. The Bible points the spiritual to the forgiving and preserving qualities of God (1 John 1:9). All that is needed is for one to speak about his condition in the same way God speaks about it. This willingness to bring to God the real person equals the designation 'the spiritual'.

There is no room to boast about one's spirituality in the sight of God. We like to think that others are more sinful than ourselves. However, such boasting leads to sin. The realisation that God knows everything about the real person is important in helping the Christian avoid hiding behind any vain disguise. 'God cannot be mocked,' the apostle Paul declares. Therefore, self-examination is very important, but it should not lead to self-condemnation.

The real person knows very well the kind of soil to plant in, be it natural or spiritual. No person, other than the inner person, can tell the real motive of any activity done either in public or in private. The sowing metaphor is a familiar one for Aberdonians since Aberdeen is surrounded by farms, and our parks and gardens are often full of colourful flowers. As spring comes with the daffodils, one will be able to tell which flowers are planted in rich soil. The motivation for planting in the spiritual soil is the fact that harvest time is coming soon, when eternal life will become a reality of life. No one would like to miss out in the harvest of everlasting life.

One may correctly ask, what has all this to do with me. This is a good question which we must answer now. St. George's Tillydrone is home to Christians from diverse backgrounds. Such diversity calls for a rich blend in Christian ministry. There are many opportunities to restore those who may be caught up in wrongdoing. The process of restoring others becomes an opportunity for spiritual examination. This process again becomes an opportunity to sow seeds of eternal value in the right soil. So, this word comes as a reminder to all at St. George's Tillydrone to take their place in the ministry of the Lord in a more positive way. In this way we will bring Christian love to each other. Maybe we all need some kind of 'heart to heart' with God and with each other. Let us therefore be bold enough to tear off the mask of life that has overshadowed the real person in us. The Church provides many opportunities for the members to get to know each other: coffee morning; Church lunch; coffee time after morning and evening services; just to name a few. Think of the value of knowing at least one person well per month and becoming a prayer partner in these difficult times. Think of greeting people at the door of the Church with your 'real person'. Think of the value of visiting at least some members within the year and getting to know them in a personal way. We all should form a core support group where each member feels secure enough to tear off the 'mask' and fellowship with others in the 'real person'. There is need for us to share our difficulties and failures with others in the Christian community without fear of being misunderstood or condemned.

On Thursday 4^th March, 24 of us set off by bus to attend the induction of Rev Ken Donald at East Wemyss in Fife. We were delighted to be there and to see the Donald family again. On arrival we were warmly welcomed by the congregation and were ushered to reserved seats. The evening started off with the singing of a hymn followed by a lovely sermon preached by the Rev Tilly Wilson, minister of Dysart Parish Church. The induction was conducted by Rev John Duncan, moderator of the Presbytery and a former student in Aberdeen who worshipped with us at St George's Tillydrone. We then enjoyed a welcome social which included the Choir singing followed by a musical item. Presentations were made to Ken from the Church Guild and Tuesday Club and also a presentation to Moira. Guest addresses were given by Rev Shirley Fraser and Rev Donald Thomson. We then adjourned to the hall where we had a most gorgeous supper enjoyed by all. We arrived home just after midnight after a very pleasant evening.

Only some of you will be able to see my slides and photos of my time in Egypt in January (I'll be speaking at the Friendship Hour on Thursday April 15^th and you are welcome to come along!). Here, then, are some verbal "snapshots" of my very memorable trip.

Cairo traffic. Everyone who is new to Cairo comments on it. Some quell at the thought of even crossing a road. Car horns are essential, though working headlights are not! I can only describe the traffic patterns in this huge polluted city as "synchronised driving". It is amazing that vehicles so rarely "kiss" (bump!) - but one does see quite a number of crumpled-looking cars. But .... I survived the traffic.

The Nile. Crossing the Nile by one of its bridges in Cairo was always a thrill, especially at night. Sailing up the Nile from Luxor to Aswan was the real "touristy" part of the trip and was fascinating. Felucca sailing is most relaxing!

Churches: The packed Coptic Orthodox Cathedral on a Wednesday evening: the many hundreds of young people at the main Evangelical Church (Presbyterian) for a wonderful Christmas Cantata and then for a Sunday evening service. The Christian stalls at the Cairo Book Fair, and the many showing interest in the Jesus video and copies of the Bible and Christian books were further memorable snapshots.

Mokattam and Zebelin: names which can be found in this month's literature from the National Bible Society of Scotland in its appeal for money for Bibles for people in the "Garbage City" of Zebelin. Most memorable of all was my visit to the half-built Evangelical Good Samaritan Society project in Mokattan (a building which will accommodate an orphanage, a day care centre for young children and a conference centre). There in the basement I found groups of children eagerly studying the Bible during the Eid holiday.

People: too many to describe, but my final snapshot is of the Gendy family: Atef, Manel, and (bigger) Amir and Nayir. The latest Tom and Jerry and Superbook videos delighted the boys Our family trip to the Pharonic Village and the Pyramids, a few meals and one church service were all the time we had together, but they were precious. How good it was to visit Manel working in her office in the Bible Society of Egypt, and Atef in the Evangelical Theological Seminary, where he is Lecturer in New Testament. Do make sure that you get your own snapshot from Atef while he is back in Aberdeen.

Open Door

Points for Prayer

• Pray for our troubled world; remember especially Kosovo and the continuing troubles in Northern Ireland.
• Give thanks for organisations like Instant Neighbour and pray that ways may be found to prevent homelessness as well as seeking to alleviate the plight of those already homeless.
• Several churches in Aberdeen are without a minister. Pray for Vacancy Committees, Session Clerks, Interim Moderators, Locums and Congregations.
• Give thanks for our Prayer and Gift Day. Continue to pray that we will be able to fulfil our financial commitments.
• Pray for those who are ill, either at home or in hospital. Remember those who have been bereaved recently and pray that they will know God's comfort and strength.
• Pray for Cathie Aberdour in Brazil and for all who serve in the mission field throughout the world.

Friendship Hour

Transport required for Friendship Hour. 3^rd and 10^th June. See Mary Ross.

It was a joy to see Malia Mumo, daughter of our elders Paul and Mary being dedicated in St George's on March 6^th. We were joined by many of the Mumo's friends for the occasion.

Congratulations to our member Pam Ewen, on her marriage to Simon Barker on March 20^th. Pam was a pastoral assistant and her district will be looked after by Elizabeth Gatima. Mike Duncan has taken over Helen Stewart's district - our thanks to Helen for her service over many years.

We express our sympathy to the family and friends of Jean Hibbard of Meadow Court, who died in January after a long period of ill-health.

Some will recall Gordon Martin, who was attached to St George's when he was in training to be a Reader. It was with sadness that we heard of his death, and we remember his wife, Rosa.

It has been great to welcome Mike, Jane and Rachel Fucella back from Thailand. Mike spoke to the Friendship Hour on March 18^th, to St Machar Primary assembly and Donbank School (in our church) on March 23^rd, and our evening service on March 28^th. As the Fucellas will be in Edinburgh for eighteen months, we hope to be able to welcome them all to St George's for a Sunday morning service at some stage.

Jane Howitt with S.U. Latvia was in Aberdeen in February, when having a break. There is a need for more national staff workers in the Baltic countries.

Rhona Cruickshank was able to travel to Taiwan as well as Thailand, and had a very good mid-year break.

It will be good to welcome Ian and Fay Kirby back for a short time this summer, when Baby 3 is due to be born!

Rev Bill Hunter moved from Middlefield Church to Ruchazie in Glasgow and we are glad that Edmond and Elizabeth Gatima can move into the empty manse in Middlefield during the vacancy.

We said farewell on 28^th March to one of our associate members, Henry Kalowa.

On Sun 21^st Feb we said farewell and thanks to Ken and Moira Donald and their family. We presented them with a cheque and celebrated with a cake baked by Alan Duncan.

At our Annual Stated Meeting on March 9^th, Sarah Sunderland was re-elected and re-appointed Clerk to the Congregational Board, and Mike Duncan and Edmond Gatima were elected to serve on it.

Prayer and Gift Day. March 6^th. This year's theme was "The Way of the Cross", meditations on Christ's journey to Calvary. Gifts received so far have amounted to £592 (this is considerably less than in previous years, and our giving must be a matter for continued prayer and response)

We have now fixed a date and time for the next Alpha Course. It will start on Wed April 21^st (1.30 - 3.00 pm) and a crèche will be available. Look out for the Alpha display on the board opposite the toy cupboard, and leaflets encouraging anyone to come along to see if this basic course on the Christian faith will suit.

May 6^th. Scottish Parliamentary Elections. Look out for the information produced by Evangelical Alliance and the Scottish Churches Parliamentary Office.

The children at Chattanatta wish to say hi to everyone in the church. We come along each Saturday at 10.30 - 12 noon and have a breakfast of cereal, toast, tea or juice. Then we play games. The leaders of the group are Helen, Edna and Elizabeth. Thanks to Muriel, Win and Dot for helping us sing but we need people to help us and get to know us. If you're interested please speak to Helen McDougall.

The Chattanatta Club starts again on April 17th.

Church Telephone Directory
The church magazine in print includes a list of telephone numbers of contact persons within the church. We do not intend publishing this on our web site - however if you would like a copy, please e-mail George and we will gladly send you one.

St George's-Tillydrone magazine is edited by Alan Duncan. The church web site is at http://www.ifb.co.uk/~tillybin/stgeorge. Submissions are welcome by email, on disk or on paper (in that order of preference). Contributions may be edited. Copy date for the next magazine is 30 May 1999. Thanks to Ray Hepburn, Dorothy Irvine and Helen McDougall for regular help with photocopying, folding etc. Web site mastered by George McLeod at Tillybin.