Babs Stevenson
- Oct 12, 2021
- 52 min read

PRESBYTERY NEWS 10th june 2023

Updated: Jun 10

PRESBYTERY OF FIFE

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF MISSION

June 2023

We don’t need to be reminded that these are challenging days in the Church of Scotland. There are the financial and ministerial constraints and ofcourse the implementation of the Presbytery Mission Plan. With all these things it can be easy to grow despondent or to get caught up in process or meetings – and in doing so lose sight of “mission” and the call to make Jesus known in Fife and beyond. Meetings and process are important, and often necessary, but our main purpose is to be mission so that people might have the opportunity to know Jesus for themselves.

2 Mission and Discipleship Task Group

2.1 Funeral Training Course. Unfortunately the proposed Pilot Funeral Training Course will not happen in Fife Presbytery asthere was a breakdown in communication between Faith Nurture and the M&D Task Group so we were not ready to begin the course this summer. They hope we will be able to participate in future.

2.2 Discipleship Course

Having successfully run two of the Pilot Discipleship Courses we were sorry that this has been shelved by Faith Nurture. We hope we can identify people who have participated in the course here who could facilitate further courses in Fife. Courses would be done in a cluster with neighbouring clusters invited. We are looking to identify suitable facilitators and if you are interested then please contact the Mission Director.

2.3 Weaving Worship

The following people have successfully completed the Weaving worship course and we would ask Presbytery to approve them as local worship leaders.

Cairneyhill: Marion Donald, George White Limekilns: Sandra Peebles, Elaine Souter

Lochgelly St. Serf’s : Wendy Anderson, Nancy Olzok, Laura Pepperday

The second level follow on courses were well attended with around 25 – 30 each time and most coming for all four meetings. The sessions were well received and gave food for thought. We hope to run a new beginners course in the autumn and look to do more follow up sessions

2.4 Messy Church

The Messy Church Facebook page reaches many people across Fife Presbytery and we are aware of more Messy Churches and similar groups starting or restarting. We are considering a Messy Church Network day later in the year to bring people together, share resources and ideas and support and encourage each other.

3 Ministries

3.1 Study leave

Study leave applications have been received from Rev Allan MAcafferty and MaryAnn Rennie and were approved by the Board.3.2 Assistant ministry posts.

With the continued lack of vacancies within the Church of Scotland there continues to be the provision of 18 month posts to those who are completing their familiarisation or probationary appointments.

Rev Adriaan van Tonder has almost completed his familiarisation placement and plans are being finalised for him to continue within the Glenrothes Covenanted Partnership.

Trudi Newton completes her Probationary period at the end of June and plans are being finalised for her to be ordained as an assistant minister which would include locum duties in St Bryce Kirk and a Presbytery wide role in supporting and promoting intergenerational ministry and worship.

3.3 Candidates for the ministry

Lee Whitecross and Elliott Mitchell have recently been accepted as candidates for the ministry of words and sacrament and are seeking nomination from the Presbytery.

3.4 Readership Consultation

The consultation sent out to members of Presbytery received 15 responses, which was a

disappointingly low number. One of the lessons from the consultation is that the roles of both Reader and OLM need to be more widely known along with the work that they are currently doing. There are also opportunities for more creative use of these ministries, potentially in pioneering roles and different forms of ministry. We would encourage clusters to think about how they might best use Readers and OLMs in new and more creative ways.

4 Pioneering

4.1 A key aspect of the Presbytery Mission Plan is that of developing fresh expressions and

pioneering. Over the past year we have been greatly helped in this through the work of Alan

McWilliam from Cairn. He has led several pioneer introduction courses as well as mapping

exercises to help people think about the opportunities that there are in their local communities.

Following these initial discussions he is able to meet with people to work through their vision and we hope that in the next couple of years that we will see the emergence of some fresh

expressions. Our contract with Cairn comes to an end on June 30th and the Board agreed to extend this until the end of the year, with the hope that funds for this vital and exciting work will be available in the budget to extend it into 2024.

5 Church and World

5.1 The church and world taskgroup have been looking at the following areas as they seek to develop their work:

• How best to highlight prominent events occurring within Fife Presbytery and close-by

regarding Church-related efforts to raise awareness of poverty, turmoil and political upheaval across the globe to our own church parishes and all of the parishes across Fife

• Exploring the idea of a potential Presbytery Twinning between Fife Presbytery and another

interested international Presbytery

• Raising interest in re-starting smaller Common Interest Groups to further discuss and

explore topical issues affecting people, communities, countries and societies in today’s world

• Compiling a resource list of potential books, articles, websites, libraries, social media sites

that detail issues, projects, fundraising endeavours for a variety of topics affecting communities and people both across the world and within our own parishes

• Connecting with our Mission Partners to discuss the above and explore ideas together.

6 Interim Mission Director Giles Dove was appointed as our Interim Mission Director in May for a three month period and he has been a valuable addition to our team as we seek to implement the Presbytery Mission plan and also to keep our focus on mission and sharing Jesus in our communities.

Property. In line with the Presbytery Mission Plan, the proposals are being made, supported by appropriate congregational votes and by the Board of Management to sell or otherwise

dispose of the following buildings:

 Ceres, Kemback and Springfield Parish Church – Kemback Church

 Edenshead Parish Church – Strathmiglo Church

Presbytery is invited to support these proposals and communicate that support to the

General Trustees so that matters can be progressed.

Proposed Union (St Andrews Cluster)

As steps towards the wider implementation of the Presbytery Mission Plan in St Andrews,

the following congregations have voted to unite: Holy Trinity and Boarhills and Dunino Parish Churches The basis of union have been agreed by the Board of Mission and subject to final confirmation from the Law Department of the Church of Scotland, Presbytery is invited to agree to the unions progressing and to arrange in due course for services of union.

Cluster Facilitators

Rev David Clark has resigned as facilitator for the Eat Neuk to focus on the development of a Local Mission Church in St Monans. Presbytery is invited to thank Rev Clark for his work.

Rev David Sinclair has agreed to be facilitator for the North Fife Cluster.

Presbytery Prayer Gathering - Tuesday’s @ 9am via Zoom An informal weekly gathering for prayer via zoom. All are warmly welcome. Meeting ID: 317 522 8773 Passcode: PRAYERROOM https://zoom.us/j/3175228773pwd=SjJpWmlqWGVQSGlIeUFIeTd6TXEyZz09

The first full course will be delivered over 6 Wednesday sessions: 19th Oct - 23rd Nov - 7.00-9.00 pm in a South Fife location and repeated in a North Fife location in the Spring 2023. All sessions are required.

Topics covered:

- What is pioneer mission?

- What is required to be involved?

- What is possible in my area / parish?

- What are the first steps required in making this happen?

For more information please contact: neil.campbell@churchofscotland.org.uk

Training for Leading Worship in a Local Context September - December 2022 This course will be of interest to those who wish to explore the possibility of leading worship in their local church setting. It will focus on the history, theology and structure of worship services in a variety of styles, in order to ground current practice in its wider context. The course will be run in partnership with the Faith Nurture Forum of the Church of Scotland, the Presbytery of Edinburgh and the Scottish Episcopal Institute. It will be led by experienced academics and practitioners. All of the components of a church service will be considered in theory and from a practical perspective. Participants will have opportunities to prepare prayers, children’s talks and sermons, and to construct meaningful orders of service. Course organiser: Dr Alison Jack Classes will take place at New College and online, September-December 2020: • Six evening classes, 6-8 pm • Two Saturday gatherings This course is open to all. Participants are likely to be active in their local Church. Course fee is £200 (whether for credit or not) To register your interest, please email NewCollege@ed.ac.uk

Designing & Leading Christian Worship Online Short Course with Trinity College, Glasgow October 3rd - November 28th 2022 Course Description This course is an introduction to designing and leading Christian worship services utilising theological and historically rich patterns and practices and adapting these to participants contemporary church context. It will stimulate participants to be reflective, recognise how worship works and become more skilled at designing and leading meaningful, participatory acts of church worship. This course is accessible to those in a church who are beginning to lead acts of Christian worship and for local church leaders who wish to refresh their understanding and practice. This is an open access course available as a 10-credit course (accredited by the University of Glasgow) or audit-only for those who just wish to engage with the learning programme for their own personal benefit. For more information see: https://www.trinitycollegeglasgow.co.uk/designing-and-leading-worship

Bible Alive Training Course

23rd - 26th August

Lendrick Muir, Kinross

Bible Alive is an exciting programme which teaches children in P5–P7 the whole story of the Bible!

It's part of the curriculum in a series of interactive multi-media lessons using storytelling, music, drama, props, costumes, quizzes, activities and British Sign Language. This training course is for people who would like to take Bible Alive into their local schools. It will include demonstrations and practice in various story telling techniques as well as advice on putting together a Bible Alive programme, planning lessons and communicating effectively with schools.

For more information see: https://www.suscotland.org.uk/events/bible-alive-training-lendrick-muir-residential#

Scripture Union: Back to School with God

Summer is almost here… and we are already prepared for what comes next! Check out our brand new 2022 Back to School with God resources on the theme God’s Golden Rules. There is everything you need to hold an all-age church service or children’s talk, plus crafts, prayers and activities for use in Sunday School. Visit www.suscotland.org.uk/bsg to find out more and to register

Click Me

For more information see: talkingjesus.org

This course was created to inspire Christians to share faith naturally and relevantly. There are six video-based sessions with films, testimonies, real-life examples, and an easy-to-follow coursebook.

Raise Up Faith is a brand new curriculum platform.Easy-to-use, high-quality, Bible-based multimedia content. Hundreds of searchable lessons with thousands of accompanying and related activities, including media clips, songs, prayers, crafts, and games. An annual subscription costs £210 (a free trial is available).multimedia content. Hundreds of searchable lessons with thousands of accompanying and related activities, including media clips, songs, prayers, crafts, and games. An annual subscription costs £210 (a free trial is available).

For more information see: https://www.raiseupfaith.com/

Over the 30+ years of pioneering new, contextual forms of church we’ve found that the part of the Fresh Expressions/Loving First journey people struggle with the most is introducing a spiritual element to their gatherings in a sensitive and contextual way which is why we created this resource.

Sharing Jesus adopts an open-handed, walking together, learning from one another, asking questions approach. It’s not about telling people what to believe, but about saying to friends: “This is what I am finding helpful. What do you think? Might we explore this spiritual path together?” It includes seven topics, each with video animation, a video story, and a short downloadable guide with additional ideas and explanations. The resources are arranged logically to give them a shape, but please don’t follow the order! Go to the section that most interests you.

For more information, see: http://sharingjesus.life/?mc_cid=12ebbcebb2&mc_eid=70f95ab914

View this email in your browser Hello, Babs Stevenson Welcome to the Fife Presbytery Mission Bulletin! July 2022

We are delighted to bring you our latest newsletter filled with News, Events, Training and Funding information. All sections have updates in this edition! We’re here to encourage and support you in our shared Christian mission across Fife. Please email your stories, news and suggestions for our next Mission Bulletin to Lorraine via fife@churchofscotland.org.uk Remember to follow us on Facebook to keep up with our latest news. Please share this e-newsletter on to interested members, elders and leaders. You can subscribe directly to this newsletter by following the “View this email in your browser” link at the top of the page and clicking subscribe in the top left corner.

News

Pentecost Prayer Flags at Tayport Church Tayport Church celebrated Pentecost and made Prayer Flags! Using the prayer weaves on the church railings from Lent/Easter they were tied to flags as Pentecost Flames of the Spirit. The flags drew the attention of local people and helped to start a lot of conversations with passers-by about the installation. The community really enjoyed it!

Messy Church Fun across Fife! A number of Messy Churches have started or restarted in recent months, with families enjoying hearing the Good News being shared through arts & crafts, drama, games, songs and storytelling!

Everyone’s listening to the story at Townhill & Kingseat Messy Church

Look at the bird feeder craft made at St Serf’s Messy Church!

Toasting marshmallows at Templehall & Torbain Messy Church! Did you know there is a Fife Presbytery Messy Church Facebook Group? It’s a great place to share ideas and find inspiration for messy church and similar activities. You can find it here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3844012399035766 or search Fife Messy Church + on Facebook.

Events

Pioneer Course with Alan McWilliam Taster Session, 7-8pm, Sep 21st via Zoom Register via: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/pioneer-intro-taster-tickets-362910975497 Building on the interest and success of our recent Mission Mapping Sessions, we are planning two runs of the popular Pioneer Course to explore further the core concepts of Pioneering. The Taster Session will introduce the course and explain what is involved. The full course will allow people interested in Church Planting and pioneer mission to grasp the core concepts and possibilities. The first full course will be delivered over 6 Wednesday sessions: 19th Oct - 23rd Nov - 7.00-9.00pm in a South Fife location and repeated in a North Fife location in the Spring 2023. All sessions are required. Topics covered: - What is pioneer mission? - What is required to be involved? - What is possible in my area / parish? - What are the first steps required in making this happen? For more information please contact: neil.campbell@churchofscotland.org.uk

Magnitude Gathering Saturday 23rd - Wednesday 27th July Magnitude is back for 2022, and this year are planning to be in person at Lendrick Muir! Gathering from Saturday 23rd to Wednesday 27th July, join us for a five-day adventure in the heart of Scotland, designed specifically to enable young people aged 11-18 to encounter more of the magnitude of God: in His Word, in worship, and in wonder at His creation. We are also extending the super early bird discount until the end of February, meaning there is plenty of time for you to secure your booking at the best price! Head to magnitude.org.uk/booking for more information!

Opportunities & Training

Volunteering Opportunity - Iona Abbey Ever thought of joining the team on Iona? We have a few short-term volunteer spaces, for specific roles, at Iona Abbey this summer. You'll find details on our website www.iona.org.uk/about/vacancies The Abbey team welcomes guests from many countries to Iona each week to explore issues of common concern - including the environment, peace-building, poverty & inequality, racism, refugees, inclusion & diversity, interfaith dialogue. We work together, we worship together and we share meals as part of our common life. We look forward to hearing from you Get in touch with us, VolunteerApplications@iona.org.uk if you'd like to find out more.

Church of Scotland ASCEND Ascend is the training, support and development centre for all those involved in ministries across the Church of Scotland. For all the latest training and support information see: https://ascend.churchofscotland.org.uk/events/

Messy Church Masterclass 11-12.30, 14th July via Zoom Have you recently returned to or are you planning to restart onsite Messy Church? This 90-minute training session on Zoom is an opportunity to explore and discuss different approaches to reboot or refresh your Messy Church. For more information and to book, see: https://www.messychurch.org.uk/.../messy-masterclass...

Training for Leading Worship in a Local Context September - December 2022 This course will be of interest to those who wish to explore the possibility of leading worship in their local church setting. It will focus on the history, theology and structure of worship services in a variety of styles, in order to ground current practice in its wider context. The course will be run in partnership with the Faith Nurture Forum of the Church of Scotland, the Presbytery of Edinburgh and the Scottish Episcopal Institute. It will be led by experienced academics and practitioners. All of the components of a church service will be considered in theory and from a practical perspective. Participants will have opportunities to prepare prayers, children’s talks and sermons, and to construct meaningful orders of service. Course organiser: Dr Alison Jack Classes will take place at New College and online, September-December 2020: • Six evening classes, 6-8pm • Two Saturday gatherings This course is open to all. Participants are likely to be active in their local Church. Course fee £200 (whether for credit or not) To register your interest, please email NewCollege@ed.ac.uk

Bible Alive Training Course 23rd - 26th August Lendrick Muir, Kinross Bible Alive is an exciting programme which teaches children in P5–P7 the whole story of the Bible! It's part of the curriculum in a series of interactive multi-media lessons using storytelling, music, drama, props, costumes, quizzes, activities and British Sign Language. This training course is for people who would like to take Bible Alive into their local schools. It will include demonstrations and practice in various story telling techniques as well as advice on putting together a Bible Alive programme, planning lessons and communicating effectively with schools. For more information see: https://www.suscotland.org.uk/events/bible-alive-training-lendrick-muir-residential

Resources

Scripture Union: Back to School with God Summer is almost here… and we are already prepared for what comes next! Check out our brand new 2022 Back to School with God resources on the theme God’s Golden Rules. There is everything you need to hold an all-age church service or children’s talk, plus crafts, prayers and activities for use in Sunday School. Visit www.suscotland.org.uk/bsg to find out more and to register

Sharing Jesus is a resource designed to help people add a spiritual dimension alongside what you’re already doing. It has ideas for sharing Jesus in a new worshipping community, Fresh Expression of church, missional community or church plant as well as community groups. Over the 30+ years of pioneering new, contextual forms of church we’ve found that the part of the Fresh Expressions/Loving First journey people struggle with the most is introducing a spiritual element to their gatherings in a sensitive and contextual way which is why we created this resource. Sharing Jesus adopts an open-handed, walking together, learning from one another, asking questions approach. It’s not about telling people what to believe, but about saying to friends: “This is what I am finding helpful. What do you think? Might we explore this spiritual path together?” It includes seven topics, each with a video animation, a video story, and a short downloadable guide with additional ideas and explanation. The resources are arranged logically to give them a shape, but please don’t follow the order! Go to the section that most interests you. For more information, see: http://sharingjesus.life/?mc_cid=12ebbcebb2&mc_eid=70f95ab914

Funding Looking for funding for a church project or mission initiative? Fife Presbytery now has access to a large UK-wide funding database. Funding searches can be specifically tailored for the purposes and focus of church projects or mission initiatives. Churches/projects can arrange a funding support session with the Mission Director to explore the database and funding possibilities. If you would like to know more and to arrange a funding support session, please get in touch via: neil.campbell@churchofscotland.org.uk Church of Scotland 2022 Small Grants Fund The Church of Scotland Small Grants Fund has now launched with grants up to £1,000 available. Applications are welcomed from those successful in 2021. Information including application forms are available via the web page. Church of Scotland Pioneer Mission Fund A new Church of Scotland fund, has grants available up to £10,000 for projects between 3 and 24 months duration. Further details available by contacting grants@churchofscotland.org.uk in the first instance. Further details will be available online shortly. Funding to Support and Develop Those Involved in Youth Work The National Voluntary Youth Work Organisations Support Fund A pot of £100,000 is available to voluntary youth work organisations including those in faith-based work such as Presbyteries and churches. This Scottish Government fund can provide grants capped at £10,000 for regional organisations and £5,000 for local ones. Note that the fund supports workforce development and not direct delivery to young people. The purpose of this fund is to support workforce development within the voluntary youth work sector in order that that the sector can continuously improve and offer high quality youth opportunities that meet the needs of all young people in Scotland. What can Funding be Used For? Funding can be used to help support staff and volunteers involved in youth work with activities which aim to make improvements in one of the following areas: a) Improved recruitment/engagement and support of volunteers b) Increased access to essential workforce development opportunities for paid staff and/or volunteers c) Increased access to leadership development opportunities for senior managers and/or senior volunteers d) Enhanced capacity of youth work organisations, staff and volunteers to reach and support young people with protected characteristics Deadline The National Voluntary Youth Work Organisations Support Fund is open to applications until 22 July. Any money received from the fund needs to be spent by 31 March 2023. Full details of the Fund can be found here: National Voluntary Youth Organisations Support Fund | YouthLink Scotland Ballie Gifford Awards Status: Open Deadline: 28th April 2022 This fund is aimed at supporting grassroots community organisations across Scotland. Grants are up to £15,000 over three years (i.e. up to £5,000 per year). Priority will be given to projects that can demonstrate a fit with one of the following priorities:

Reducing isolation in Scotland’s communities: this includes all forms of isolation whether due to health, disability, rurality, or projects which aim to tackle barriers to inclusion
Supporting financial inclusion: this can include food poverty-related projects and those that seek to maximise the income of families that may be struggling due to the impact of Universal Credit, disability, in work poverty and so on
Overcoming homelessness: this includes any work to tackle homelessness in our communities
Improving employability and enterprise, particularly in young people.

They clearly state: ‘religious groups may apply for funding for non-religious activity that will benefit the wider community beyond their own specific congregation and is open to all on a non-denominational basis.’ For further information and access to the application process click on this link: https://www.foundationscotland.org.uk/apply-for-funding/funding-available/baillie-gifford-multi-year People’s Health Trust The Active Communities programme is now open to applications if:

Your organisation supports people to create or shape local projects that will help their community or neighbourhood to become even better
You are a not for profit organisation or group (for a full list of eligible organisations, click here)
Your income is less than £350,000 a year, or an average of £350,000 or less over the last two years
You have less than six months’ annual running costs in savings (with no restrictions on the money) after you have deducted the grant you wish to request from us
Your organisation has been constituted for at least three months For more information, please see: https://www.peopleshealthtrust.org.uk/apply-for-funding

Church of Scotland Small Grants Scheme Church of Scotland Small Grant Scheme is now open for grants of up to £1k: See: https://www.churchofscotland.org.uk/connect/small-grants-fund SCVO Funding Scotland Funding at your fingertips Find funding for your charity, community group or social enterprise using our free online search engine. From small grants to funding for big capital projects, we can help you track down the funding you need to make a difference in your community. See: https://fundingscotland.com/ The National Lottery Community Fund Improving Lives The National Lottery Community Fund's Improving Lives programme is open to voluntary or community organisations. The programme aims to help people facing challenging circumstances, especially activities that mean people: are better able to identify ways to take control over their lives and build resilience:

are able to shape the activities and services they use to better meet their needs
have more access to support and opportunities to improve their lives

The grants range from £10,001 to £200,000. See: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/funding/programmes/grants-for-improving-lives

AllChurches Trust AllChurches Trust likes to fund projects that demonstrate an impact on people and communities. Applicants should include clear (and where possible, measurable) outcomes for projects and demonstrate how they will ensure sustainability beyond our funding. It’s also important to show how additional funding support will be sought to enable the project to be completed. Our open grants normally fund capital projects and equipment, not salaries or running costs, with the exception of our transformational and Hope Beyond programmes. In most cases, we give a small percentage of the project cost as this enables us to say yes to more worthwhile causes, although we do occasionally give larger grants. See: https://www.allchurches.co.uk/what-we-fund National Church Trust Funding available for Scotland's cash strapped churches and chapels A range of grants are available from the National Churches Trust Churches and chapels in Scotland needing funding for urgent repairs and maintenance are being encouraged to apply for grants from the National Churches Trust. In 2021, the church support charity expects to allocate more than £1.5m to churches and chapels throughout the UK. Any church, chapel or meeting house in Scotland that is open for regular public worship can apply. See: https://www.nationalchurchestrust.org/news/funding-available-scotlands-cash-strapped-churches-and-chapels Scotland’s Churches Trust Scotland’s Churches Trust helps sustain and support Scotland’s places of worship through a range of grants, bursaries, advice and support. Scottish Churches Trust offers grant support to help with: - restoration projects in the repair of buildings and windows - cost of routine preventative maintenance - organ educational awards - support towards organ concerts See: https://scotlandschurchestrust.org.uk/

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Pioneer Practice with Jonny Baker

Dundee, Fife and Perth Presbyteries together hosted and welcomed Jonny Baker (Church Mission Society) and Gav Mart, in Perth North Church, to distil Jonny’s wisdom from a decade of training church pioneers. The session included bible reflection, inspiring stories, poetry and music, and dream-mapping together.

Mission Mapping with Alan McWilliam

It was so good to see so many of you in person at our Missional Mapping sessions at Dalgety Bay and Cupar St Johns.

What an interesting night it was as we saw the our maps filling up with all sorts of inspiring ideas!

We would love you to follow our discussions by filling out a Growing Missional Ideas form.

Pictures of all our maps and the Growing Missional Form is available via:

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/b2xqf2fr5oi75m1/AADT4-ZqxlQCJdEjY66U4Kxka?dl=0

This is really for those who want to take one of the ideas further, with support from Presbytery in doing this.

Please return the forms via: neil.campbell@churchofscotland.org.uk , and Alan and I will be in touch to discuss how we could take these things forward.

Christian Aid Week - 15 - 21st May For the first time in a generation, global poverty is rising. The combined effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, conflict, and drought have robbed communities like Jessica's of the power to provide for their children. It's unjust.

This Christian Aid Week:

We stand with the resilient women - like Jessica - who are determined to lift their families out of hunger
We raise our voices to call for climate justice
We pray that families will stay strong during times of drought

Together, we hope to restore justice to our world, and protect the future for our children and grandchildren.

Please give to help women grow crops that survive in the drought. You can help turn hunger into hope.

With every gift, every action, every prayer, every one of us can change lives. For more information and resources see: https://www.christianaid.org.uk/appeals/key-appeals/christian-aid-week

The Abbey Summer School: Entertaining Angels Unawares

16th - 18th June

Newhaven Church, Edinburgh

What does it mean to show hospitality? To strangers, who might be angels? (Hebrews 13:2) To our neighbours? How do we practise a liturgy of welcome? How radical must our hospitality be and how ordinary? Come and explore these questions and more at the Abbey Summer School.

This year we will be joined by the renowned theologian, communicator and social entrepreneur, Dr Krish Kandiah. Krish is known for his passion to offer hospitality to those most overlooked and marginalised. In addition there will be workshops, discussion groups, a half-day pilgrimage and the return of our ‘open mic’ night. In keeping with this year’s topic, coffee breaks and meals together will be a priority.

Early Bird tickets are now on sale (here).

Thy Kingdom Come is a global prayer movement that invites Christians around the world to pray for more people to come to know Jesus. For 2022, the event will be held from Ascension Day on 26 May until Pentecost Sunday on 5 June.

Over the course of these 11 days, it is hoped that everyone who takes part will:

Deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ
Pray for five friends or family to come to faith in Jesus
Pray for the empowerment of the Spirit that we would be effective in our witness

Lord Wallace, the Moderator of the General Assembly, is encouraging everyone to take part this year and has sent a letter inviting congregations to embrace the event. For free resources and ideas, see: https://www.thykingdomcome.global/prayer-resources

Talking Mission with Andrew Bennett, Youth for Christ

7.30pm, Tuesday 24th May via Zoom

Registration via: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/talking-mission-with-andrew-bennett

Andrew Bennet, local Pioneer Development Coordinator with Youth for Christ, will reflect on sharing the good news and seeing young people’s lives changed by Jesus, considering our post-covid context and issues of poor mental health many young people experience.

Hosted by Neil Campbell, Mission Director

Scripture Union: Back to School with God

Pentecost 2022: Pentecost Picnics, Kites and all that… In the light of all the restrictions over the last two years, it is time to get out again and to celebrate! Let’s bring some of the fun and excitement of Pentecost to the streets of our towns and villages and draw people in from the highways and byways to mark the birthday of the church.

There are plans afoot to encourage congregations and communities to host a Pentecost Picnic. Let’s get out into the church garden, or better still, into the local park, or onto the beach or climb to the top of a hill on June 5th – to enjoy each other’s company and to let the wind of God’s Spirit refresh and excite us all over again!

How about making kite flying the centre piece of the gathering and see if we can fill every part of the sky over Scotland with brightly coloured, homemade, kites? Just imagine!

And kites just happen to have a cross as a frame. Why not use each of the 4 sections to write a prayer on? A prayer for your congregation, for your community, for the country and for the world? That way the skies will also be covered in prayers! For more information and resources, see: https://www.sanctuaryfirst.org.uk/res.../view/pentecost-2022

es of webinars [March 31-June 16] to encourage renewed vision and inspire new ways of thinking for our church life and worship.RENEW: Being church and ministry with children and young people About this event These Zoom webinars will provide an opportunity to explore new ideas and approaches in ministry with children, youth and family, and ways of being church. Register: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/renew-church-and-ministry-with-children-and-young-people-tickets We are facing great changes as a church and as we emerge from Covid-19, but we also have opportunities to explore new ways of connecting and sharing faith. How can we prioritise ministry with younger people within our communities of faith in new ways?

Each webinar will offer inspiration from specialists; stories from people who have renewed their approaches; and opportunities to discuss with others how you might explore this area in your context.

These seven webinars are a great opportunity for members of the Kirk Session, Ministers, Paid Workers and Volunteers to come together to explore how to develop and deepen what you may already be doing, or to consider new approaches.

Thursday 2 June, 7.30-9pm: ReNew - Faith at Home With Gill Lyth, from Care for the Family

Thursday 9 June, 7.30-9pm: ReNew - Be Bold, Be Brave: Smaller Churches, Bigger Community? With Rev Douglas Creighton, Minister of East Neuk Trinity linked with St Monans

Thursday 16 June, 7.30-9pm: ReNew - Messy Church, Intergenerational Discipleship With Jane Butler and Aike Kennett-Brown, Messy Church Training & Development Leads

Easter Celebrations!

Churches across Fife Presbytery have enjoyed celebrating Easter together - some gathering in person for the first time in over 2 years! Many have described a sense of joy as congregations, young and old, gathered to worship the risen Jesus. He is risen! Alleluia!

An interactive morning of exploring the exciting potential of pioneering forms of Christian mission and church.

Together with local pioneers, we will explore four themes: ‘be you’, ‘see’, ‘build’, and ‘change’ – and hear stories of local pioneering.

Additional option to catch up over lunch with local pioneers. About this event Jonny Baker is Director of Mission Education at the Church Mission Society in Oxford, and a renowned writer and inspirer on ‘pioneering’ forms of mission and ministry. He is touring with musician and artist Gav Mart – and working with local pioneers – to explore key themes of ‘Pioneer Practice’, the name of his recent book. Booking is essential so register now to secure your place.

Bible teaching A look at the world of a Scottish child in 2022 Creative ideas for engaging children A choice of seminars including online safety and supporting ASN Coffee and cake

The morning is free of charge and anyone interested can book using this link form.jotform.com/220795161880359]form.jotform.com/220795161880359

FX RURAL GATHERING, 10TH-12TH MAY Are you involved in pioneering, exploring doing church in a different way, leading a fresh expression of church? Are you in a rural context? Then why not come and join us….. and as we journey together, share, worship, listen, speak, and eat, our prayer is that God will meet us where we are and we will encounter God in the midst of our lives.….and that as you leave you will do so with a sense of God can and God will….a sense of expectation, whether it be huge or as small as a mustard seed.. to be co-workers in the Kingdom. As we gather from across our rural contexts, after having prayed and listened to one another and to God we have taken our theme from 1 Corinthians 3; in particular those words “..but only God, who makes things grow.” To find out more and book your place, CLICK HERE.

Rachel Summers, Pioneer, Forest School practitioner & author will lead a practical session on engaging with God in nature. Forest Church Training with Rachel Summers Sat, 14 May 2022, 09:30 – 13:00 Northesk Parish Church, 16 Bridge Street, Musselburgh, EH21 Rachel Summers, Pioneer, Forest School practitioner & author will lead a practical session on engaging with God in nature

We start with coffee/tea & a roll. Rachel will then lead us in our thinking about growing Forest Church. We will start off inside but we will go outdoors onto the beach and the local area so be prepared for whatever the weather holds! Sun cream or kagool!

Please bring a picnic as we will finish by eating together. Do stay around so that we can chat further about how to take your Forest Church group forward. For more information and to register see: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/forest-church-training-day-tickets-304223579917?utm_source=Church+of+Scotland&utm_campaign=9b2b32657e-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_02_07_01_15_COPY_04&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_7120bc6aa0-9b2b32657e-34177421

Talking Mission with Andrew Bennett, Youth for Christ

7.30pm, Tuesday 24th May via Zoom

Registration via: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/talking-mission-with-andrew-bennett

Hosted by Neil Campbell, Mission Director

Thy Kingdom Come Thy Kingdom Come is a global prayer movement that invites Christians around the world to pray from Ascension to Pentecost for more people to come to know Jesus.

Since its start in May 2016 God has grown Thy Kingdom Come from a dream of possibility into a movement. Christians from 172 countries have taken part in praying ‘Come Holy Spirit’, so that friends and family, neighbours and colleagues might come to faith in Jesus Christ. There are lots of opportunities for individuals and groups to be involved in the Thy Kingdom Come prayer initiative. There are printed resources available to order and lots of online resources and videos.

Prayer resources and prayer station ideas
Cheeky Pandas videos
Youth videos and Escape Room
Family Prayer Adventure and resources
and much more

This runs between Ascension and Pentecost: 26 May until 5 June. For more information and resources, see: https://www.thykingdomcome.global/

Magnitude Gathering Saturday 23rd - Wednesday 27th July

Magnitude is back for 2022, and this year are planning to be in person at Lendrick Muir! Gathering from Saturday 23rd to Wednesday 27th July, join us for a five-day adventure in the heart of Scotland, designed specifically to enable young people aged 11-18 to encounter more of the magnitude of God: in His Word, in worship, and in wonder at His creation. We are also extending the super early bird discount until the end of February, meaning there is plenty of time for you to secure your booking at the best price! Head to magnitude.org.uk/booking for more information!

Opportunities & Training

Church of Scotland ASCEND

Ascend is the training, support and development centre for all those involved in ministries across the Church of Scotland.

For all the latest training and support information see:

https://ascend.churchofscotland.org.uk/events/

A series of webinars [March 31-June 16] to encourage renewed vision and inspire new ways of thinking for our church life and worship.RENEW: Being church and ministry with children and young people About this event These Zoom webinars will provide an opportunity to explore new ideas and approaches in ministry with children, youth and family, and ways of being church. Register: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/renew-church-and-ministry-with-children-and-young-people-tickets We are facing great changes as a church and as we emerge from Covid-19, but we also have opportunities to explore new ways of connecting and sharing faith. How can we prioritise ministry with younger people within our communities of faith in new ways?

Each webinar will offer inspiration from specialists; stories from people who have renewed their approaches; and opportunities to discuss with others how you might explore this area in your context.

Thursday 28 April, 7.30-9pm: ReNew – Worship for All With Nick and Becky Drake, authors and worship leaders

Thursday 5 May, 7.30-9pm: ReNew – Young Children and Families With Mary Hawes, Church of England National Children and Youth Advisor

Thursday 12 May, 7.30-9pm: ReNew – Church Vision for Children and Young People With Ali Campbell, Youth and Children's Ministry Consultant

Thursday 2 June, 7.30-9pm: ReNew - Faith at Home With Gill Lyth, from Care for the Family

Thursday 9 June, 7.30-9pm: ReNew - Be Bold, Be Brave: Smaller Churches, Bigger Community? With Rev Douglas Creighton, Minister of East Neuk Trinity linked with St Monans

Thursday 16 June, 7.30-9pm: ReNew - Messy Church, Intergenerational Discipleship With Jane Butler and Aike Kennett-Brown, Messy Church Training & Development Leads

Bible Alive Training Course The next non-residential course takes place at Falkirk Free Church on Tuesday 10th, Wednesday 11th and Tuesday 17th May. The course runs from approximately 9.00am-5.30pm each day and the cost is £85, including lunch and refreshments as well as training materials. The closing date for this course is Friday 8th April and the booking form can be found at https://forms.office.com/r/wTnkykmH5r For more information please contact: lesley.crawford@suscotland.org.uk

Vacancy - University of St Andrews Assistant Chaplain (Interfaith, Environmental & Digital) Salary: £34,304 - £40,927 per annum pro rata Part time, 18.125 hours per week Start: 1 September 2022 or as soon as possible thereafter The University of St Andrews Chaplaincy supports the experience of students, staff and others, enhancing University life, through the provision of meaningful and beautiful worship, sensitive pastoral care, ecumenical and interfaith encounter, support for international students and more. This is a new and exciting opportunity within the Chaplaincy team, for a 0.5 FTE Assistant Chaplain with specific responsibility for Interfaith, Environmental and Digital Engagement. This new Assistant Chaplain could be from any faith or philosophy of life but will be in sympathy with the Chaplaincy’s ethos, of respect for different faiths, cultures and traditions. The successful candidate will develop our support for students and staff in exploring interfaith engagement, in participating fully in University-wide Diversity initiatives, in expanding and improving our digital provision, in deepening our environmental commitments and in liaising with others in the University over creating and maintaining a Garden for Reflection. The post-holder will not have regular responsibility for worship, but will be able to support the existing Chaplain's and Assistant Chaplain's provision of pastoral care for students and staff. The Assistant Chaplain for Interfaith, Environmental and Digital engagement will be a graduate with experience in a religion or belief setting and of pastoral care, ideally with university or chaplaincy experience, or other experience working with students. The expected start date is 1 September 2022 or as soon as possible thereafter. Further information and informal enquiries may be directed to the Chaplain, Revd Dr Donald MacEwan, email: dgm21@st-andrews.ac.uk, Tel: 01334 462865. Applications are particularly welcome from under-represented faiths and philosophies of life in the Chaplaincy team, people from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community, and other protected characteristics who are under-represented in professional posts at the University. This post will be primarily based in the Chaplaincy building in the historic heart of St Andrews. Closing Date: 12 May 2022 Interview Date: 20 June 2022 (if possible) See https://www.vacancies.st-andrews.ac.uk/Vacancies/W/1444/0/342070/889/assistant-chaplain-interfaith-environmental-and-digital-ad2490sb for the full advertisement, and links to further particulars, and to make an application.

For more information see: talkingjesus.org

For more information see: https://www.raiseupfaith.com/

Sharing Jesus adopts an open-handed, walking together, learning from one another, asking questions approach. It’s not about telling people what to believe, but about saying to friends: “This is what I am finding helpful. What do you think? Might we explore this spiritual path together?” It includes seven topics, each with a video animation, a video story, and a short downloadable guide with additional ideas and explanation. The resources are arranged logically to give them a shape, but please don’t follow the order! Go to the section that most interests you.

For more information, see: http://sharingjesus.life/?mc_cid=12ebbcebb2&mc_eid=70f95ab914

Reducing isolation in Scotland’s communities: this includes all forms of isolation whether due to health, disability, rurality, or projects which aim to tackle barriers to inclusion
Supporting financial inclusion: this can include food poverty-related projects and those that seek to maximise the income of families that may be struggling due to the impact of Universal Credit, disability, in work poverty and so on
Overcoming homelessness: this includes any work to tackle homelessness in our communities
Improving employability and enterprise, particularly in young people.

Your organisation supports people to create or shape local projects that will help their community or neighbourhood to become even better
You are a not for profit organisation or group (for a full list of eligible organisations, click here)
Your income is less than £350,000 a year, or an average of £350,000 or less over the last two years
You have less than six months’ annual running costs in savings (with no restrictions on the money) after you have deducted the grant you wish to request from us
Your organisation has been constituted for at least three months For more information, please see: https://www.peopleshealthtrust.org.uk/apply-for-funding

Church of Scotland Small Grants Scheme Church of Scotland Small Grant Scheme is now open for grants of up to £1k: See: https://www.churchofscotland.org.uk/connect/small-grants-fund SCVO Funding Scotland Funding at your fingertips Find funding for your charity, community group or social enterprise using our free online search engine. From small grants to funding for big capital projects, we can help you track down the funding you need to make a difference in your community. See: https://fundingscotland.com/ The National Lottery Community Fund Improving Lives The National Lottery Community Fund's Improving Lives programme is open to voluntary or community organisations. The programme aims to help people facing challenging circumstances especially activities that mean people: are better able to identify ways to take control over their lives and build resilience:

are able to shape the activities and services they use to better meet their needs
have more access to support and opportunities to improve their lives

The grants range from £10,001 to £200,000. See: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/funding/programmes/grants-for-improving-lives

AllChurches Trust AllChurches Trust like to fund projects that demonstrate an impact on people and communities. Applicants should include clear (and where possible, measurable) outcomes for projects and demonstrate how they will ensure sustainability beyond our funding. It’s also important to show how additional funding support will be sought to enable the project to be completed. Our open grants normally fund capital projects and equipment, not salaries or running costs, with the exception of our transformational and Hope Beyond programmes. In most cases, we give a small percentage of the project cost as this enables us to say yes to more worthwhile causes, although we do occasionally give larger grants. See: https://www.allchurches.co.uk/what-we-fund National Church Trust Funding available for Scotland's cash strapped churches and chapels A range of grants are available from the National Churches Trust Churches and chapels in Scotland needing funding for urgent repairs and maintenance are being encouraged to apply for grants from the National Churches Trust. In 2021, the church support charity expects to allocate more than £1.5m to churches and chapels throughout the UK. Any church, chapel or meeting house in Scotland that is open for regular public worship can apply. See: https://www.nationalchurchestrust.org/news/funding-available-scotlands-cash-strapped-churches-and-chapels Scotland’s Churches Trust Scotland’s Churches Trust helps sustain and support Scotland’s places of worship through a range of grants, bursaries, advice and support. Scottish Churches Trust offers grant support to help with: - restoration projects in the repair of buildings and windows - cost of routine preventative maintenance - organ educational awards - support towards organ concerts See: https://scotlandschurchestrust.org.uk/

Presbytery Conference - Mission Mapping with Alan McWilliam The conference will identify future mission opportunities across Presbytery, which could include Presbytery wide initiatives, and could be resourced by our next Presbytery Mission Fund. - Wednesday 27th April, 7.00-9.00pm at St Bryce Kirk, Kirkcaldy For churches in clusters: Burntisland/Kinghorn, Cowdenbeath/Lochgelly, Dunfermline, Forth, Kirkcaldy, Levenmouth, West Fife - Tuesday 3rd May, 7.30-9.00pm at Cupar St Johns For churches in Clusters: Cupar, East Neuk, Eden Tay, Glenrothes, North Fife, St Andrews Attending churches should be represented by 2 or 3 persons.

Pioneer Practice Tour Local Event organised by Dundee & Fife Presbytery Saturday 7 May 9.30am-12pm - £8 (9.30am-1.30pm £12 with lunch) North Church, 209 High St, Perth PH1 5PB Booking via: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/exploring-pioneer-practice-4-7-may-2022-tickets-272673472697 An interactive morning of exploring the exciting potential of pioneering forms of Christian mission and church. Together with local pioneers, we will explore four themes: ‘be you’, ‘see’, ‘build’, and ‘change’ – and hear stories of local pioneering. Additional option to catch up over lunch with local pioneers. About this event Jonny Baker is Director of Mission Education at the Church Mission Society in Oxford, and a renowned writer and inspirer on ‘pioneering’ forms of mission and ministry. He is touring with musician and artist Gav Mart – and working with local pioneers – to explore key themes of ‘Pioneer Practice’, the name of his recent book. Booking is essential so register now to secure your place.

SU Scotland: Getting it right for every child Sat 7th May, City Church, Dundee SU’s upcoming training morning for anyone involved in ministering to children in any context (i.e. family members, friends of family, church workers/volunteers, schools workers etc). We meet on Sat 7 May from 9.30-12.30 at City Church, Tullideph Road, Dundee for a morning which includes: Bible teaching A look at the world of a Scottish child in 2022 Creative ideas for engaging children A choice of seminars including online safety and supporting ASN Coffee and cake The morning is free of charge and anyone interested can book using this link form.jotform.com/220795161880359]form.jotform.com/220795161880359

The Haven opens at Glenrothes Kingdom Shopping Centre

At the start of Lent, the Haven Project recently opened it’s doors to the community of Glenrothes. Based at Glenrothes Kingdom Shopping Centre, the Haven is a place sanctuary welcoming the community with a space to find support, reflect and encounter God.

The Haven offers a variety of activities supported by local church volunteers, ministers and ministry staff. With an Arts & Craft area, Children’s area, Prayer space and lounge - the Haven provides a space for everyone.

Developed by the Glenrothes Area Covenanted Partnership, this new mission initiative hopes to develop local partnerships to meet community needs. It has already been warmly and decided to extend its opening until at least Pentecost, responding to the growing interest and opportunities.

For more information about this exciting new mission initiative, please contact Irene Ure: Iure@churchofscotland.org.uk

Peace Pole Ecumenical Service

There will be an Ecumenical gathering at the Peace Pole in Pittencrieff Park in Dunfemline on the last Sunday of every month at 3pm.

Rev MaryAnn Rennie, Minister of Dunfermline Abbey, will lead a short time of reflection and prayers for those enduring wars and unrest at the time.

All are encouraged to join together and share in this time of stillness.

Talking Mission: Church Vitality with Very Rev Dr Martin Fair Recording now available via YouTube: https://youtu.be/6fN0rxYUkpo

We start our second series of Talking Mission with Very Rev Dr Martin Fair, former Moderator of the General Assembly, Minister at Arbroath: and host of “To Be Fair” Podcast. Martin summarises his experience by saying he exhibits a passion for creativity and mission.

Martin will consider church vitality, drawing on his broad experience working across the Church of Scotland to ask the question: what makes for a healthy church?

Presbytery Conference - Mission Mapping with Alan McWilliam The conference will identify future mission opportunities across Presbytery, which could include Presbytery wide initiatives, and could be resourced by our next Presbytery Mission Fund. - Wednesday 27th April, 7.00-9.00pm at St Bryce Kirk, Kirkcaldy For churches in clusters: Burntisland/Kinghorn, Cowdenbeath/Lochgelly, Dunfermline, Forth, Kirkcaldy, Levenmouth, West Fife - Tuesday 3rd May, 7.00-9.00pm at Cupar St Johns For churches in Clusters: Cupar, East Neuk, Eden Tay, Glenrothes, North Fife, St Andrews Attending churches should be represented by 2 or 3 persons.

Discipleship Course with Hannah Sanderson From Monday 25th April, 2.00-3.00pm at St Bryce Kirk, Kirkcaldy. A Presbytery-wide Discipleship Course will run for 6 weeks at St Bryce Kirk, Kirkcaldy. The course follows from the information sessions ran last month. This course is open to anyone across Presbytery. For more information about the course, see: https://www.churchofscotland.org.uk/resources/exploring-discipleship Please register via: fife@churchofscotland.org.uk FAO Lorraine

An interactive morning of exploring the exciting potential of pioneering forms of Christian mission and church.

Together with local pioneers, we will explore four themes: ‘be you’, ‘see’, ‘build’, and ‘change’ – and hear stories of local pioneering.

Magnitude Gathering Saturday 23rd - Wednesday 27th July

Church of Scotland ASCEND

Ascend is the training, support and development centre for all those involved in ministries across the Church of Scotland.

For all the latest training and support information see:

https://ascend.churchofscotland.org.uk/events/

A series of webinars [March 31-June 16] to encourage renewed vision and inspire new ways of thinking for our church life and worship.

RENEW: Being church and ministry with children and young people About this event These Zoom webinars will provide an opportunity to explore new ideas and approaches in ministry with children, youth and family, and ways of being church. Register: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/renew-church-and-ministry-with-children-and-young-people-tickets We are facing great changes as a church and as we emerge from Covid-19, but we also have opportunities to explore new ways of connecting and sharing faith. How can we prioritise ministry with younger people within our communities of faith in new ways?

Each webinar will offer inspiration from specialists; stories from people who have renewed their approaches; and opportunities to discuss with others how you might explore this area in your context.

Thursday 31 March, 7.30-9pm: ReNew – With Creation With Lucie Hutson from Muddy Church

Thursday 28 April, 7.30-9pm: ReNew – Worship for All With Nick and Becky Drake, authors and worship leaders

Thursday 5 May, 7.30-9pm: ReNew – Young Children and Families With Mary Hawes, Church of England National Children and Youth Advisor

Thursday 12 May, 7.30-9pm: ReNew – Church Vision for Children and Young People With Ali Campbell, Youth and Children's Ministry Consultant

Thursday 2 June, 7.30-9pm: ReNew - Faith at Home With Gill Lyth, from Care for the Family

Thursday 9 June, 7.30-9pm: ReNew - Be Bold, Be Brave: Smaller Churches, Bigger Community? With Rev Douglas Creighton, Minister of East Neuk Trinity linked with St Monans

Thursday 16 June, 7.30-9pm: ReNew - Messy Church, Intergenerational Discipleship With Jane Butler and Aike Kennett-Brown, Messy Church Training & Development Leads

Bible Alive Training Course

The next non-residential course takes place at Falkirk Free Church on Tuesday 10th, Wednesday 11th and Tuesday 17th May.

The course runs from approximately 9.00am-5.30pm each day and the cost is £85, including lunch and refreshments as well as training materials.

The closing date for this course is Friday 8th April and the booking form can be found at https://forms.office.com/r/wTnkykmH5r

For more information please contact: lesley.crawford@suscotland.org.uk

Bring to life what Easter is really all about and take part in running your own Easter Adventure Holiday Club! This two-and-a-half-hour holiday event takes children on a journey from Palm Sunday to the Resurrection, and includes drama, games, Bible teaching, crafts and songs, and there’s even a Bible devotional booklet you can print to take home. Ideal for use by churches, messy church teams or holiday club teams.

Find out more and download this resource today: suscotland.org.uk/easteradventure

SHINE: Influencers SHINE is all about providing resources for EXPLORING the Christian faith.

This year the theme is INFLUENCERS.

Who influences you the most? What would life look like if Jesus was your greatest influence? What do you think of the fact that Jesus was voted the number one greatest influencer of all time?

Be part of something bigger across the UK and Ireland as both school and youth groups sign up to be part of SHINE.

Sharing Jesus adopts an open-handed, walking together, learning from one another, asking questions approach. It’s not about telling people what to believe, but about saying to friends: “This is what I am finding helpful. What do you think? Might we explore this spiritual path together?” It includes seven topics, each with a video animation, a video story, and a short downloadable guide with additional ideas and explanation. The resources are arranged logically to give them a shape, but please don’t follow the order! Go to the section that most interests you.

For more information, see: http://sharingjesus.life/?mc_cid=12ebbcebb2&mc_eid=70f95ab914

Reducing isolation in Scotland’s communities: this includes all forms of isolation whether due to health, disability, rurality, or projects which aim to tackle barriers to inclusion
Supporting financial inclusion: this can include food poverty-related projects and those that seek to maximise the income of families that may be struggling due to the impact of Universal Credit, disability, in work poverty and so on
Overcoming homelessness: this includes any work to tackle homelessness in our communities
Improving employability and enterprise, particularly in young people.

Your organisation supports people to create or shape local projects that will help their community or neighbourhood to become even better
You are a not for profit organisation or group (for a full list of eligible organisations, click here)
Your income is less than £350,000 a year, or an average of £350,000 or less over the last two years
You have less than six months’ annual running costs in savings (with no restrictions on the money) after you have deducted the grant you wish to request from us
Your organisation has been constituted for at least three months For more information, please see: https://www.peopleshealthtrust.org.uk/apply-for-funding

Church of Scotland Small Grants Scheme Church of Scotland Small Grant Scheme is now open for grants of up to £1k: See: https://www.churchofscotland.org.uk/connect/small-grants-fund SCVO Funding Scotland Funding at your fingertips Find funding for your charity, community group or social enterprise using our free online search engine. From small grants to funding for big capital projects, we can help you track down the funding you need to make a difference in your community. See: https://fundingscotland.com/ The National Lottery Community Fund Improving Lives The National Lottery Community Fund's Improving Lives programme is open to voluntary or community organisations. The programme aims to help people facing challenging circumstances especially activities that mean people: are better able to identify ways to take control over their lives and build resilience:

are able to shape the activities and services they use to better meet their needs
have more access to support and opportunities to improve their lives

The grants range from £10,001 to £200,000. See: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/funding/programmes/grants-for-improving-lives

Bank of Scotland Foundation Reach Apply for funding of between £1,000-£25,000 over one year. Funds can be used for many charitable purposes but not solely to advance religion. The fund opens on 7 March and closes again on 17 March. See: https://www.bankofscotlandfoundation.org/funding-programmes/reach AllChurches Trust AllChurches Trust like to fund projects that demonstrate an impact on people and communities. Applicants should include clear (and where possible, measurable) outcomes for projects and demonstrate how they will ensure sustainability beyond our funding. It’s also important to show how additional funding support will be sought to enable the project to be completed. Our open grants normally fund capital projects and equipment, not salaries or running costs, with the exception of our transformational and Hope Beyond programmes. In most cases, we give a small percentage of the project cost as this enables us to say yes to more worthwhile causes, although we do occasionally give larger grants. See: https://www.allchurches.co.uk/what-we-fund National Church Trust Funding available for Scotland's cash strapped churches and chapels A range of grants are available from the National Churches Trust Churches and chapels in Scotland needing funding for urgent repairs and maintenance are being encouraged to apply for grants from the National Churches Trust. In 2021, the church support charity expects to allocate more than £1.5m to churches and chapels throughout the UK. Any church, chapel or meeting house in Scotland that is open for regular public worship can apply. See: https://www.nationalchurchestrust.org/news/funding-available-scotlands-cash-strapped-churches-and-chapels Scotland’s Churches Trust Scotland’s Churches Trust helps sustain and support Scotland’s places of worship through a range of grants, bursaries, advice and support. Scottish Churches Trust offers grant support to help with: - restoration projects in the repair of buildings and windows - cost of routine preventative maintenance - organ educational awards - support towards organ concerts See: https://scotlandschurchestrust.org.uk/

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The newly established Presbytery of Forth Valley and Clydesdale has appointed its first clerk.

Rev Julie Rennick said she is "delighted" to have been invited to take up the position as part of a move to reshape the Church's structure and make it more suited to the needs of the 21st century The new presbytery is currently made up of the former Hamilton and Lanark presbyteries and it is anticipated that the General Assembly will approve a proposal to have Falkirk Presbytery formally join the grouping on the 31st of May. Mrs Rennick is currently the minister at Larbert West Parish Church and clerk to the Presbytery of Falkirk. She is expected to take up her new role in mid-May, initially as associate clerk and presbyters attending the presbytery gathering on the 19th June will be invited to appoint her as clerk when she will subsequently take the oath de fideli. POSITIVE ATMOSPHERE Speaking on International Women's Day, Mrs Rennick said: "I am delighted to have accepted the position. "I feel that the move to bringing presbyteries together will create a strong base for ministerial and congregational support, especially in these days of needed reductions. "My hope is that I will be able to build bridges to enable voices to be heard, create a positive atmosphere and encourage ministers to support each other in the tasks ahead. "I have been overwhelmed by the reactions of friends and colleagues who have been very encouraging and I have received many messages of congratulations." Before her move to Larbert, Mrs Rennick served as the minister of Earlston Parish Church in the Scottish Borders and she was depute clerk to the Presbytery of Melrose and Peebles. Prior to entering the ministry, she was a youth worker, a reader in the Church and worked for many years in retail management. Rev Bryan Kerr will continue to serve as interim clerk of the Presbytery of Forth Valley and Clydesdale until the presbytery gathering in June, working alongside Mrs Rennick to ensure a smooth transition and handover. She will remain the clerk to the Presbytery of Falkirk - which has been central to the new presbytery's decision making and strategic planning since the beginning of the year – until it officially joins. AMBITION FOR CHANGE Mr Kerr said: "I am delighted that following a competitive application process Julie has been appointed. "We are trying to ensure our new presbytery is built around care and support of both those engaged in ministry and our congregations. "Julie brings both experience and fresh perspective to the role and shares the same ambition for change and reform as the presbytery itself recently affirmed at its first meeting. "We have found a clerk to lead us in new and exciting ways." MISSION NEEDS The Presbytery of Forth Valley and Clydesdale, which has an office in Hamilton, recently, for the first time in a court of the Church of Scotland, appointed two co-Moderators, Rev Dr Shaw J Paterson and Jim Watt, for the first 20-month term. Like all Church of Scotland presbyteries, Forth Valley and Clydesdale are currently working on a draft Mission Plan to determine how limited resources should be allocated over a five-year period to ensure that the Church meets 21st century mission needs. A mission planning team is currently surveying Kirk Sessions about how the "Five Marks of Mission" impact congregational life and consultation on a building assessment has begun. Representatives of every congregation are being asked for their views and it is hoped that a final plan will be presented to the presbytery in September.

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Presbytery Prayer Gathering - Tuesday’s @ 9am via Zoom An informal weekly gathering for prayer for the Presbytery of Fife via zoom. All are warmly welcome. Meeting ID: 317 522 8773 Passcode: PRAYERROOM https://zoom.us/j/3175228773pwd=SjJpWmlqWGVQSGlIeUFIeTd6TXEyZz09 Fife Presbytery Africa Common Interest Group The next meeting will be held on Monday 7 March at 7pm via Zoom. Meeting ID: 817 3793 7188 Passcode: 015174

Discussion items include:

Do we wish to encourage exchanges, and for what purposes?
Are there things we can do regarding a focus for Fife Presbytery eg hosting zoom meetings with Mission Partners
Can we raise awareness of issues such the legacy of slavery, climate and global justice.
Further contacts for the Group – Coptic Church, with Cameroon, and with Gary Brough on boosting partnerships
Proposal for schools linking between Fife and Zambia

Poverty Forum 2 Tuesday 8th March, 7.00pm via Zoom Meeting ID: 938 4075 5671Passcode: 690583 https://zoom.us/j/93840755671?pwd=SkVZZU9mVnJTVS9Rb3V2MGRleXB6dz09 Jesus said, “ The thief comes only to steal and to kill and to destroy. I came that they have life and have it in abundantly” (St John 10 v10) With Shirley Grieve, Priority Areas Secretary; Jacky Close: Director Faith in Community; Gillian Paterson: Minister Wellesley Parish Church (Priority Area) & Elisabeth Cranfield: Methilhill & Denbeath Parish Church (Priority Area) A second opportunity to hear from experts and to share and ask questions about how we can defeat the ‘thief’ Jesus condemns with resilient abundance. The early stages of this work will be funded from Jane’s Moderatorial year (6th Feb ‘21 - 19th Feb, ‘22 Come and join the conversation! Jane Barron & Neil Campbell

Drop in with Carol Finlay (Faith Impact Forum) and Val Brown (Christian Aid) Thursday 24th March 2022, 11am - 2pm @ Dalgety Parish Church, Regents Way, Dalgety Bay A drop in for anyone in Presbytery who would like to meet up with them, hear what is happening as we come out of Covid, catch up on resources, events, ask questions etc. ”Italian Oranges, Malawian Pigeon Peas, Olive Oil from the Holy Land, Indian spices - Impact Forum and Christian Aid have been bringing the sounds, tastes and interests of the global church to your doorstep for many years, but for the last two, we have really missed interacting on a face to face basis with you. Carol Finlay and Val Brown are visiting Presbyteries across the country, looking to meet again with supporters, churches, and folks on Presbytery mission groups to let them know a wee bit more about how they can embed the issues and concerns of the World Church partners, and Christian Aid partners into the broader work of the church. As we all look to live out the Biblical mandate for justice where we are, it is often helpful to have a global perspective. We’re interested to hear what the churches locally are up to, and where we might be able to offer some support. We want to thank you for your continuing support and to seek a way forward post Covid-19. We’ll be at Dalgety Parish Church on Thursday 24th March from 11am till 2pm, so drop in and join us for a cuppa and a chat whenever suits. We look forward to seeing you.”

Exploring leadership

We have a special meal with leadership reflections for a limited number of youth leaders and it is completely free. Book before the 10th of March to secure a place on this evening. At a time when leadership is so needed why not join with others for this special event. Book at : https://yfcuk.brushfire.com/exploringleadership/528194

Welcoming refugee families in Scotland through Community Sponsorship

You are warmly invited to an information session for faith communities, Welcoming refugee families to Scotland through community sponsorship, on Thursday 3rd February 2022 at 5.30pm.

For more details, please see: https://www.churchofscotland.org.uk/news-and-events/events/welcoming-refugee-families-in-scotland-through-community-sponsorship

Fit for Funding Workshops for Fife Faith Communities Tuesday 1st & Tuesday 8th February 7-9pm via Zoom Registration Via: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/fit-for-funding-workshops-tickets-230868944227 Fife Presbytery in partnership with Faith in Community Dundee are facilitating free online Fit for Funding Workshops for Fife Faith Communities and partner projects. This course is split over two evenings, Tuesday 1st and 7th February. The burden of applying for funding can often fall on the shoulders of 1 or 2 people, these free workshops are an opportunity to introduce others to the art of applying for funding! Please book BOTH workshops via Eventbrite (link below) as we will email you key material before the sessions. Attendance at both workshops is recommended.

Fit for Funding Workshops: Tuesday 1st February & Tuesday 8th February 7-9pm (on zoom).

Jacky Close and Alex Sandison from Faith in Community Dundee, will be facilitating this course, looking at how we apply for funding for our community focussed activities.

These practical and informative workshops will address the key aspects of applying for funding. These workshops are suitable for people who are new or newer to funding. During these workshops we will cover:

• How to communicate your ideas effectively in a funding application

• Project Planning checklist – do you have everything you need?

• Jargon – what are aims, targets, outputs, outcomes, indicators?

• Developing a budget

• Where to access funding – information about local and national funders (we will focus on Dundee Funders and national funders)

• If you’re successful – what about reports and budgeting?

Please book both workshops via Eventbrite, PLEASE BOOK BOTH DATES (@ Select a Date) via:

Fit for Funding Workshops Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite

Fresh Expressions: WHO ME? Online Event

Do you have a passion to share the good news of Jesus in new & creative ways but don't know where to start?

JOIN US for our next WHO ME? Online Event on Thursday 10th Feb 7:30 - 9pm and we'll help you! Register your place here https://us06web.zoom.us/.../tZYkf...

Who Me? Is an exploration into Fresh Expressions and your role in God's mission.

Come and take part in an informal evening about how everyday Jesus followers like you are involved in forming new vibrant Christian communities in every ordinary nook and cranny of life.

With stories from fx practitioners, space to unpack what God might be speaking to you about, an opportunity to share God-given dreams for your community as well as helpful resources on Fresh Expressions and how to get your idea or dream off the ground.

Let’s Explore Discipleship Course Tuesday 22nd and Thursday 24th February

We hear the word disciple and we might instantly imagine 12 bearded guys but what does discipleship mean for us today? Fife Presbytery in partnership Hannah Sanderson (Church of Scotland Congregational Learning Team), are going to be running some interactive small groups in 2022 exploring what it means to follow Jesus. We’ll be looking at how our relationship with God is life-long and ever changing. These small groups are open to anyone, you don’t have to be in leadership – it is about how we are disciples together: Faith is easier with friends! For more details about the course, see: https://churchofscotland.org.uk/resources/exploring-discipleship Information Sessions: Tuesday 22nd February, 1930 - 2100 @ Dunfermline Abbey Church Halls https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lets-explore-discipleship-information-session-tickets-249153453687

Thursday 24th February, 1100 - 1230 @ Cupar Old Parish Church https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lets-explore-discipleship-information-session-tickets-249155810737 You can register to attend the information sessions using the links above. Hannah explains more about the course via the video below:

Pioneer Gathering hosted by Irvine & Kilmarnock Presbytery 10.00 - 3.00pm, Saturday 19th February Kay Park Parish Church & Halls London Road Kilmarnock KA3 7AA This event is for people who are engaged in pioneer ministry and mission, as well as those who are considering developing such activities in their area. It is an opportunity to share good practice in establishing and growing pioneering activities, both in traditional church settings and in growing new worshipping and discipling communities. The event is being facilitated by the Church of Scotland, but is open to all.

Lunch is included in the fee, please notify the organisers if you have any dietary requirements. For more information, see: https://ascend.churchofscotland.org.uk/events/pioneer-gathering-by-church-of-scotland-presbytery-of-irvine-and-kilmarnock/

Christian Aid Scotland: The Gathering

Tuesday 22nd February

Christian Aid Scotland’s flagship supporter event takes place on Tuesday 22 February (10am-12pm). For the second year in a row ‘The Gathering’ will be an online event open to supporters across the length and breadth of Scotland.

Guest speakers this year include two members of Christian Aid’s South Sudan team: Yitna Tekaligne and Mbaraka Fazal.

South Sudan is a country hit hard by climate change, conflict and Covid-19. Extreme flooding has resulted in crops and livestock being destroyed. Seven million people do not have enough to eat.

The Gathering will look ahead to Christian Aid Week 2022 (15-21 May) which focuses on our partners’ work in Zimbabwe. You’ll hear plenty of inspiring fundraising ideas and have a chance to ask questions. We'll also bring you an update on the work we’re doing in Afghanistan.

To register to take part in The Gathering please email: edinburgh@christian-aid.org.

Africa Common Interest Group

The next Africa Common Interest Group is planned for 7.00pm, Tuesday 8th February 2022, via Zoom. All are welcome to attend. For more information please contact: Alan.Kimmitt@churchofscotland.org.uk

Zoom details:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82054005445?pwd=Y2NsVTM4YUNKLzVIT01Kd2V1ODB0Zz09

Meeting ID: 820 5400 5445 and password: 060419

Drop in with Carol Finlay (Faith Impact Forum) and Val Brown (Christian Aid)

Thursday 10th March 2022, 12 noon - 3pm

@ Dalgety Parish Church, Regents Way, Dalgety Bay

A drop in for anyone in Presbytery who would like to meet up with them, hear what is happening as we come out of Covid, catch up on resources, events, ask questions etc

For more information and to book online: bit.ly/3EsF1y0

Youth Evangelism Conference Scotland Saturday 5th March The first ever Youth Evangelism Conference in Scotland is just a matter of weeks away! Details for this event have changed. If interested, please contact neil.campbell@churchofscotland.org.uk

More Info: https://theyec.uk/

BOOK NOW and use the YEC Flash sale code LETSMEETUP to claim your £5 discount (valid until 23rd Jan)

FX National Gathering

29th - 30th March

First fully hybrid gathering; we're working with in collaboration with Wild Duck Productions to ensure those gathering online will have the same experience as those meeting in-person at the Hayes.

The theme is 'MORE THAN' and over the 2 days we'll be asking a number of questions including;

Is now, in this post-Covid world, the time when we are being invited to lift our eyes higher?

To dream in terms of multiplication not of addition?

To believe that there is MORE THAN we might be able to see, and to be confident in the abundance of God?

Is now the moment of 'Do It Again!' - the final circle in the fx journey?

The Gathering will include a Q&A with a panel of movement makers, seminars, a keynote session from Alan Hirsch and of course, time to connect, share stories, dream, be encouraged and have fun!

For more information and to book, visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/more-than-fresh-expressions-spring-gathering-tickets

Magnitude Gathering Saturday 23rd - Wednesday 27th July

Messy Church Masterclass - Starting your Messy Church

1.00 - 2.30pm, Tuesday 1st March, Online

This 90-minute training session on Zoom will give you a great starting point for finding out what Messy Church is, the resources you need to start and how to make it a disciple-making community from the very beginning.

For more information, please visit: https://www.brfonline.org.uk/collections/messy-church-events/products/messy-masterclass-starting-your-messy-church?variant=41256539881663

Church of Scotland ASCEND

Ascend is the training, support and development centre for all those involved in ministries across the Church of Scotland.

For all the latest training and support information see:

https://ascend.churchofscotland.org.uk/events/

Growing Others is a great opportunity to develop coaching skills Run by our friends in FX, Forge, Methodist and Salvation Army Churches. This is being run as a set of 4 workshops on 3 separate occasions over the coming year - at a cost of £55:

Feb 2022 - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/157072759853 If you or those working with you / supporting you are interested in this, but funding is an issue, please get in touch Steve Aisthorpe, Church of Scotland Mission Development Worker (Pioneering) via saisthorpe@churchofscotland.org.uk

Come and join us on the Easter Adventure - a brand new resource from SU Scotland! This programme can be used by churches, messy church, or holiday club teams, taking children on a journey from Palm Sunday to the Resurrection, engaging all of their senses and bringing to life what Easter is really all about.

Fife Presbytery: Mission Resources Hub - Coming Soon

A hub of great mission resources to support congregations is currently being compiled and will be launched via our website soon.

SHINE: Influencers SHINE is all about providing resources for EXPLORING the Christian faith.

This year the theme is INFLUENCERS.

Who influences you the most? What would life look like if Jesus was your greatest influence? What do you think of the fact that Jesus was voted the number one greatest influencer of all time?

Be part of something bigger across the UK and Ireland as both school and youth groups sign up to be part of SHINE.

PRESBYTERY NEWS 10th june 2023

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