Notes from April 2008 Vestry Meeting	News Added - 24/04/08
·Father David paid tribute to the Choir and Congregation for their support and reverence at the two recent funerals of beloved members of our congregation. ·Joyce Mumford is progressing in her training as Lay Reader and we will shortly have to consider how she should become involved in our worship and mission ·On Buildings; Estimates have been obtained for secondary double glazing for the church, but DBAC approval will be needed before proceeding. We are still waiting for final approval by Diocesan Officers for the disposal of redundant pews. Various site meetings have taken place to progress the new heating. The Diocesan Building Inspection Team will visit 10th June. ·MISSION COMMITTEE.Following our meeting with Dean Fostekew to look at our Continued Congregational Development, Father David proposed setting up a Mission Committee to help us explore and develop our mission and ministry. The Vestry was very supportive of this and asked him to approach possible members. This would be open to non vestry members especially, and if you would like to be involved please speak to Father David. ·CHURCH HALL. Following the award of a grant for a Feasibility study for a new or refurbished church hall, the vestry appointed a small team to interview possible consultants who would lead this study for us. This team recommended the appointment of Elisabeth Hill of Hill Logan ltd as our consultant, which was accepted by the Vestry. The Vestry also agreed that the same team should supervise and liaise with the consultant during the study ·The Treasurers report indicated that we were on course for a budgeted deficit of about £10,000 for the year. The Rector indicated that we would soon need to look seriously at a Stewardship campaign as some of our most regular donors are no longer with us. ·Use of Hall. The Vestry agreed fees and terms of use for groups using the Hall ·Rainbow Shop. Reported that new door grill fitted and new sign showing that the shop is part of St Andrew's Church is actively being pursued. ·HEATING APPEAL. To date we have received donations of £3585, receiving 27 responses from the 55 letters sent out. This total will increase, as many donations were "Gift Aided" . Many thanks to all who contributed. Brechin Arts Festival. Festival takes place 12th -28th September. The Church will have and exhibition of sculptures and the hall will be used for music workshops
Where to Now?	News Added - 21/04/08
The Vestry met with the Provincial Mission & Stewardship Co-ordinator to review their journey since the last meeting three years ago and to look to the future. The aims of the session were: a.. To discover where we have been? b.. What we have done/not done? c.. What are our strengths? d.. What are our weaknesses? Various things were identified that were on the whole positive and mission minded. It was commendable that there had been much refurbishment of church property and more planned that had led to an increased use of that property by the local community. The things not done were identified as: a.. Not having the church open daily. b.. That finances were not on a sound/long-term footing and stewardship issues need to be addressed. c.. That the Rainbow Shop could be used for other outreach/information exchange aims as well as a fund raising body. d.. There has not been established a specific mission committee to explore and oversee the development of mission/ministry goals. Over the past three years the congregation was seen to have grown in strength and fellowship and despite losing a few members was looking to the future with an open mind and heart. The vestry was also asked to consider what was important to keep and what was important to let go. To keep identified such things as: the people, the rector, the choir and organist, the willingness to be open to change, good leadership and fellowship, the outreach of the Rainbow shop and liturgical variety. To let go of: certain service times, the concept of a full-time rector, fear of the future, church buildings and fittings. When asked to do some 'blue-sky' thinking the following individual hopes for the future were shared: a.. An active congregation providing support to the community b.. Not having to worry about finance all the time c.. Becoming a centre of spirituality d.. Encouraging more people into the church e.. Growth and fellowship f.. Doubling the size of the congregation and becoming St.Andrew's Community Centre g.. A congregation centred on the Eucharist that is both a sign and instrument for the Kingdom of God h.. A living, loving church i.. A church that keeps moving forward - open minds with a willingness to change. TO DO IN THE COMING MONTHS: Try to discern what God is calling us to be and become from the blue-sky hopes we expressed. Look again at these hopes and try to see what common threads arise, these are probably going to be our long-term aims. Once we have identified these aims, we will need to 'brainstorm' them to identify and discern the objectives (small steps) that we can do in order to start turning hopes into reality. It also important, to use these aims and objectives to begin to form a vision of the future - 'Constructively Gossip' about them with the wider congregation. Listen to what each other and God has to say to us too. Once we have the vision we can then weave stewardship through it because we will have a clearer idea of what it is we are asking others to commit their time, talents and money too - a clear vision leads to a good response.
Rectors Notes April 2008	News Added - 14/04/08
A Spiritual Journey: Being a Christian is a great deal more than simply proclaiming a right set of beliefs. It is a whole way of life. We are called open our lives to the love of God, to grow in that love and to share it with others. Being a Christian is not something we live as isolated individuals for we are all members of the church. It is as part of the people of God, the church, that we make our journey towards God. It helps if we have a framework, a discipline, for our Christian life. That is what discipleship is about. A framework - a rule of life it was called traditionally - helps us when the spirit is weak, sustains us in the face of temptation and helps us not to focus too narrowly on one aspect of our religion. So here is one simple nine point rule... 1. I take part in the Eucharist and make my communion, especially on Sundays and other important Christian festivals. What preparation will I make for my communion? 2. What can I do to learn more about the faith? Can I attend a study group? Can I set time aside for Bible reading - perhaps looking each week at the gospel set for Sunday. 3. What time can I set aside each day for prayer, whether at home or in church? How can I regularly offer prayers for friends and family, the church and the world? 4. How can I set time aside for looking back over my day and examining whether my life is leading towards God? Do I feel called to make a regular sacramental confession to a priest? 5. What opportunities do I make during a year to have a special time with God? Perhaps through a quiet day or a retreat. 6. How can I use my gifts and talents to support the work of the church? 7. How can I use my gifts, time and talents in the service of others. If I have a choice, how far is my paid employment part of my service to God. What use do I make of my possessions and how do I exercise responsible stewardship? 8. Pray and work for justice and peace and the coming of God's kingdom 9. Do I have someone that I talk to from time to time about my spiritual journey, someone that I trust and can be honest with...and someone who will also, in love, be honest with me. If not, find someone! Father David
Rectors Notes 2008	News Added - 25/01/08
Temptation: Temptation is real. Temptation is to be resisted. Temptation is about being tested - being put to the proof. It is indeed a time of trial. It is not to be trivialised, like advertisements for chocolate on the TV. Indeed temptation is so serious that Jesus included a specific petition on the matter in the Lords Prayer. Temptation challenges us to wrong choices. We have free will. We can choose how we respond to situations. We can choose whom to follow. And sometimes these are indeed choices of life and death. Do we choose to go with God....or to go away from God. Sometimes we do what we know is wrong out of self-gratification; or perhaps because we are afraid of what our friends or family will think. Sometimes the temptation is more insidious - a temptation to stop trusting in God and try to do things in our own power. Soon after Jesus's baptism, Jesus himself was tempted. He focussed on the scriptures (what we would call the Old Testament) to help him resist temptation. We have the scriptures - both the Old and the New Testaments - to help us resist temptation. But, above all, we have Jesus himself. He gave us an example in his own life of resisting temptation - of keeping faith with his Father to the end. Through that keeping of faith he won our salvation and we shall celebrate that anew on Easter Day. Let us live this Lent conscious of the light of Easter; let us pray for the grace to be faithful on our own pilgrimage towards God. Father David
Notes from January 2008 Vestry Meeting	News Added - 25/01/08
The Diocese has given permission to remove the pews from the rear of the Church and install the overhead heating. Assuming that there are no formal objections from anyone during the statutory period, at the next vestry, the formal approval to commence works will be sought. A vestry away day, facilitated by Rev Dean Fostekew, will be held to discuss ways forward in Ministry for St Andrews. This will be held in the Church Hall on Saturday 19th April. Bring and Share Lunches will be re-instated on the Third Sunday of each month,commencing on the17th February. This will also be an opportunity for the congregation to "talk about sermons" as previously requested by some members Charges: It was agreed that for non members of the congregation, in future there would be charges for use of the church for Weddings (£200) and Funerals (£100). Charges for the use of the hall were also agreed.
Fund Raising Activities 2008	News Added - 25/01/08
SATURDAY 15th March - AFTERNOON BINGO FRIDAY 25th April 7.00pm - BEETLE DRIVE SATURDAY 17th May - FETE IN CHURCH GARDEN SATURDAY 1st JUNE -BRECHIN PAGEANT TUESDAY 2nd September - QUIZ NIGHT SATURDAY 27th September - SALE IN TOWN HALL
Brechin Churches Together Information	News Added - 25/01/08
Tuesday 15th February - 6.30pm Shrove Tuesday Pancakes at the Baptist Centre Wednesday 13th February 7.00pm First session of Joint Lent Course in Snug of Brechin Arms,thereafter every Wednesday evening Monday 17th March 7.00pm Holy Week Service - Cathedral Tuesday 18th March 7.00pm Holy Week Service- Gardner Memorial Wednesday 19th March 7.00pm Final Lent Group Thursday 20th March 7.00pm Eucharist and Washing of Feet at St Andrews Friday 21st March At St ANDREWS 12.00-1.00 Devotions 1.00 -2.00 Stations of the cross 2.00 - 3.00 Good Friday liturgy
Rector's Notes October/November 2007	News Added - 19/10/07
You will see from the diary that in November there will be a couple of meetings in the Rectory at 8pm after the Thursday evening Eucharist. The pattern of both of these will be an introductory talk followed by discussion. One of the meetings, on Thursday 8th November led by myself, will be on the history of the Scottish Episcopal Church. It has been a source of interest and fascination for me to discover more about how the SEC developed and the way in which the situation in Scotland influenced and was influenced by the Episcopal Church. A very accessible book called 'God's Scotland?' compiled by Ann Pagan was published in 1988 and is a collection of talks given on Radio Forth. History tends to be written by the winners and the book is a very useful corrective to the view that it was inevitable that Presbyterianism should become dominant in Scotland. The SEC has valued both episcopacy and the Scottish Liturgy. It has always had its tensions between anglicising and Scottish influences. Anglicising influences came through the qualified chapels,through immigration from England both of clergy and laity (bringing with it a wider range of churchmanship than was usual for the SEC in its niche between Calvinism and Roman Catholicism) and through the English Book of Common Prayer. The Scottish influence was through a restrained but deep devotional life, nurtured by the Liturgy, respecting bishops and tempered through persecution. Over the past fifty years the SEC has moved towards being a more open and inclusive church and values its place as part of the world wide Anglican Communion. The other meeting on Thursday 15th November will look at the Scottish Liturgy and Ursula will be leading this. We celebrate the Eucharist every Sunday and this meeting will give us an opportunity to think and reflect on the liturgy that we use. I find much continuity between the 1549 Prayer Book, the 1637 liturgy of the Scottish bishops, the 1764 Liturgy through to the 1970 and 1982 liturgies that we presently use at St Andrews. The invocation of the Holy Spirit in the Eucharistic prayer is present (unlike the English Books of Common Prayer of 1552 and 1662). The Scottish liturgy is very clear about the real presence of Jesus in the consecrated bread and wine whereas the English Prayer Book looks more to the reception in faith by the communicant as being the crucial factor. The Scottish liturgy allowed for the reservation of the Blessed Sacrament and for its use for sick communions at a time when the English Prayer Book required that all the consecrated elements be consumed at the end of the service. Do come along to one or both meetings. Father David
Proposed Heating System for St Andrews	News Added - 19/10/07
Following consultations, site survey and subsequent recommendations from the heating and environmental engineer used by the Church of Scotland, Andrew MacOwan Associates, the building committee entered discussions with "Stewart King Environmental Engineers" about the possibility of installing an energy efficient electric radiant heating system. The vestry has agreed to proceed with the installation of a new heating system based upon the AlfaHeat long wave radiant heating system as recommended by Stewart King. The AlfaHeat system uses overhead mounted heaters, known as AlfaStrips to provide a comfortably warm area at the base of the building and in the seating areas. Unlike existing Infrared type radiant heaters, the elements do not glow and there are no local zones of fierce heating. The AlfaStrips are highly energy efficient and are specifically designed for large buildings. St Andrew's buildings committee has visited two churches in Perth which have this system installed, and discussed its operation with the users. It is intended to suspend the heaters from the second roof purlin along the body of the Nave and Chancel of the church,approximately level with the roof eaves. The church will be split into zones to allow the heating and temperature control of separate areas at different times. The other rooms in the church will also be heated using this system. As there are possible plans to provide an additional chapel and welcome area at the west end of the church, wiring will be provided for future additional AlfaStrips. Installation of the recommended heaters will probably overload our existing power supply capacity, and the vestry has agreed to upgrade the power supply and switchgear to account for future needs as a part of this project. Additionally, all of the existing Infrared heaters and associated wiring will be removed, the existing foot level tubular heaters will be examined and any which have reached the end of their useful life will be replaced. The heaters mounted on the vertical pews ends at the front and rear of the church will be removed. Two electrical water heaters will be fitted to the existing sink units,which will be capable of being removed to new sink units in future. The AlfaStrip heaters in the toilet and kitchen will be wired to frost protection thermostats.
Removal of redundant Pews at rear of Church	News Added - 19/10/07
Currently there are a number of pews stored at each side of the back of the church and also three pews at the rear of the aisle on the north west side. These redundant pews were adversely commented upon during the Diocesan Buildings Committee visit in 2006, and also during vestry discussions in March 2006, as giving a somewhat untidy appearance to the rear of the church. Which is the area Visitors see first! At the Vestry meeting of 20th August 2007 a unanimous resolution was passed agreeing that these pews be disposed of. Clearing this space will allow us to think about creating a small chapel and prayer area at the rear of the Church and improving the welcoming area.
Church Interior - Vestry meeting 20th August	News Added - 06/09/07
Notes from the Vestry meeting of 20th August Father David had produced a detailed report detailing possibilities for the Interior of the Church, which had been received by the Vestry members prior to the meeting. Following detailed and lively discussions, two resolutions were adopted Unanimously: "That the Vestry decides in principle to install Alfastrip overhead electric heaters to heat the church and instructs the building committee to draw up specific plans for the sighting of an adequate number of heaters, to submit these plans to the Diocesan Buildings Committee and to display them at the back of the church.It further instructs the Buildings Committee to obtain firm estimates for the heaters and installation costs." (Peter Nelson has been asked to liaise with the supplier to obtain sufficient details for a full DBAC application and also to prepare documents to obtain three tenders from electrical installers) "That the pews which are currently being stored at the back of church together with the three pews at the rear north-west of the church be disposed of." (Again a DBAC authority will be required) The general points made in the discussion of Father David's report were:- Visual representations of the various suggested changes would be helpful Opinion was divided about the desirability and suitability of the back of the church for coffee after services. Concern was raised about the costs of any changes. The facilities need to be improved within the church if it is to become a tourist attraction. The flower vestry could be improved to provide a disabled toilet and basic kitchen facilities. There was considerable difference of opinion about replacing the choir pews with chairs and anxiety about the visual impact,sufficient space for choir,clergy and servers. For concerts the removal of the pews would be an advantage. It was agreed that the lighting and the PA system need reviewing and improving. The Rector had asked Audio Light Systems (Edinburgh) for an initial quotation for the lighting. That the pews being stored at the back of the church and those 'in situ' in the north-west of the church be removed and the area be reordered to provide a chapel and prayer space. Also this would make the entry to the church more welcoming. Fr. David summarised the discussion:- Agreement that the facilities in the flower vestry to be upgraded, and that a disabled toilet be installed here if possible. The high altar to be placed back against the east wall. It was agreed in principle that the church should be open longer but further discussion is needed on how this can be achieved and what level of staffing would be required. The rearranging of the pews is still contentious , further discussion of practicalities to reach a consensus. For the back of the church there was agreement, and chairs will be needed to provide additional seating.
Some Key Outcomes of our Visits to other Churches	News Added - 06/09/07
Members of the congregation visited three churches in the Diocese. Each person completed a report for each church and these reports were then consolidated into an overall view. There were a considerable number of good ideas identified from this overview, which could be adapted for use at StAndrews. Starting at the entrance: It is important to appropriately greet all people as they come to church, either a member of the clergy team or someone from a greeters rota. There should be a welcoming area, with up to date and tidy information notices, possibly an intercession board and preferably with some comfortable chairs and a small table. This area should be used for social meetings and coffee after services; the congregation should not be allowed to escape! The example of numbers increasing for midweek services after the introduction of socialisation/coffee is encouraging. The area could also be used for small business meetings. The church should be open during the day to allow access for visitors and private prayers. The church should appear to be light, clean, warm and welcoming. We need to have an easily accessible, warm and quiet prayer chapel, with aids to prayer, e.g. Icons, stones, crosses, music and possibly a votive candle stand. The Blessed Sacrament could also be a focus for prayer. We need to develop a special area for children, which they can "own", connected to the service through an extension speaker. The seating, of whichever form, should be comfortable and organised to give an inclusive feeling to both regular congregation and visitors and allow liturgical development. These are some of the basic points that were abstracted from the combined reports from the visiting team and reported to the Vestry. Most of these will need some re ordering of the space within St Andrews, and some will require a change of routine, however, with a willingness to seize the opportunities present within any process of change, it is possible to make our church more welcoming as a place of worship within Brechin. Peter Nelson Lay Represntative
Father David Instituted as Rector of St Drostan's, Tarfside	News Added - 28/08/07
On Saturday the 11th August, Father David Mumford, the Rector of St Andrew's Episcopal Church, Brechin was Instituted as Rector of St Drostans Episcopal Church at Tarfside by The Bishop of Brechin, The Rt RevDr John Mantle. Father David will continue his role in Brechin in addition to serving the Episcopalians in the Glenesk area. A congregation of over one hundred visitors and guests greeted Father David after the Institution, with formal messages of greeting being given on behalf of the local Churches by the Reverend Alan Watt of Edzell, and on behalf of the civic community by Councillor Robert Myles. A feature of the ceremony was the ringing of St Drostans Church Bell. This bell, which forms an architectural feature of the outside of the church, has not worked for over twenty years, but thanks to the considerable efforts of local slater, Garry Alexander of Edzell, it now rings out over Tarfside for the regular services which are held every second Sunday of the month between Easter and October. Although there is only a relatively small congregation at St Drostans Church, the associated St Drostan's Lodge, which provides low cost self catering accommodation for groups and families of up to seventeen people in the heart of Glen Esk, has a great number of regular users. Some groups have been attending the Lodge annually for over fifteen years, and the Institution gave them an opportunity to meet the new Rector, and with each other, at a reception in the Lodge following the Institution.
Rectors Notes, July 2007	News Added - 03/07/07
An attitude of gratitude....... I wonder if you are a 'morning person' - happy to get up at the crack of dawn (which is early in Brechin in summer) or even earlier. I am not. One of my minor images of perdition is being talked to at breakfast and being expected to respond coherently. Waking is up for me is,at its best, a prelude to turning over and going back to sleep. Yet, every new morning is a gift from God: full of immeasurable potential and untold possibilities - if only we have eyes to see and ears to hear. John Keble wrote in his hymn: New every morning is the love Our wakening and uprising prove; Through sleep and darkness safely brought, Restored to life, and power and thought. So, at this time of the long days and short night, it would be good if we welcome each day as a gift from God; if we take a few seconds when we wake to acknowledge God's goodness and commit to him the day which lies ahead. Let us remind ourselves of the possibilities that each day brings - occasions for love and joy, service and fulfilment. As we consecrate each day to God's service, it is also an opportunity to thank Him for all the blessings of life. God always has something for us to do each day - often our task is to discern what that task is. One of God's tasks for us to grow in grace and holiness: to reflect his glory in the world. In the Eucharist Jesus comes to us to feed and nourish us and to help us let Him dwell in us more fully. The very word Eucharist means 'giving thanks'. A disposition of giving thanks - of gratitude for all that God has done and is doing and will do for us - is a disposition that helps us to walk more closely with God. The prayer of St. Richard of Chichester is a good one to use at the start of the day: Praise to thee, Lord Jesus Christ, for all the benefits thou hast won for me, for all the pains and insults thou hast borne for me. Most merciful redeemer, friend and brother, may I know thee more clearly, love thee more dearly and follow these more nearly, day by day. Amen. May each day draw you closer to Christ. With every blessing, Father David.
Review of Worship space in St Andrews-looking at Others	News Added - 27/06/07
SHARING IDEAS: HOW DO OTHERS USE WORSHIP SPACE? Join a party from St Andrew's on 22July as we visit some other churches to see how they use their worship spaces The programme is as follows: 12.30 to 1.10pm Sandwich lunch in Hall. Discuss the key points we wish to discover (what works well, what could be improved?) View short Video Clip of proposals for modifications to "Steeple" church in Dundee (this to see possibilities of using "virtual reality" when considering changes) 1.10pm Travel to St Mary and St Peters Montrose( Rev Canon Ian Stewart) 1.30 Arrive Montrose spend about 45 minutes finding out how space is used, Then travel to All Souls Invergowrie 3.30 Arrive Invergowrie (Rev Ashley Cummins), 4.15 travel to St Salvador Dundee 4.45 Arrive St Salvador Dundee (Fr Clive Clapson ) Join in an evensong service at 5.00pm This visit is open to all, If you wish to come along please add your name to the list in church and indicate if you need a lift or can provide a car. WORSHIP SPACE IN ST ANDREWS The Vestry meeting on the 16th July will be in the Church to start to view items needing repair, any improvements and general space planning. Thoughts generated at this meeting will be part of our input into the visits to other churches on the 22nd of July. Some may recall that in March 2006 we asked the congregation for their ideas on the use of the church space prior to a vestry meeting, some ideas from the congregation were sought ; Three views submitted were, 1) Fix Heating, clear out back of church, tidy Choir Vestry as a Chapel. Consider Organ Vestry as a family room. Remove Pews, get some comfortable chairs. 2) Fix Heating, make back of church a hall by putting in a partition. 3) Clear out church pews, get some comfortable seats, make church more family friendly. In addition the Vestry meeting on 27th March 2006 came up with the following ideas: Heating: review former proposals and geothermal / solar. Removal of remaining two pews at rear of church Sale/complete removal of three pews stored in rear of church. Clearing of rear part of Church and provision of better display and social facilities. Complete removal of all pews and replace with comfortable chairs. Clean & tidy Lady-Chapel. Convert flower vestry into family room with new toilet, heating, and cupboard facility for flower ladies .Remove pipe organ and convert organ loft into storage space/office. Convert back of church into a hall - create a glass front? Disabled access/wheelchair ramp; replace gravel with tarmac or smooth surface? Protect windows - removal of grids/old glass fibre and install polycarbonate. Replace existing toilet Alternatively, install new disabled toilet in entrance to flower vestry. Install water heater. Replace missing cushions on pews. Screen off tower.Lower lighting/install up lighting. As you will see, there are lots of ideas to consider, please do join us on the 22nd July when we will be looking at how others use their Worship space
Rainbow Shop News	News Added - 27/06/07
The Rainbow shop committee agreed Shirley Crozier and Brenda Smith will jointly take on the role of coordinator, it was felt by all members that Shirley and Brenda would be a good asset to the shop and have shown in the past their good organizational skills.
Notes from Vestry Meeting of 11th of June	News Added - 27/06/07
The Rector will send a list of Servers for approval to the Bishop; naming Michael McKnight, David Christie, Barbara Watson, Derek Rose and Jim Watson. Helen Christie will take on the Officer for Vulnerable Adults post on a temporary basis until the AGM. We were reminded of the Diocesan Music Bursaries available for young musicians wishing to train in church music. The Vestry was reminded thatthey should still have some money set aside for a music scholarship. Hall - The interior painting and wall repairs are progressing very well. Vestry agreed to use the remainder of Miss Margaret Miller's bequest on a replacement carpet for the hall; Shirley Crozier was appointed to organise this. All the congregation are delighted and very much appreciate the hard work that Paul Roberts and a few others have been doing in the hall and wished to convey their thanks, well done Paul it is a great improvement already! September Sale - Jim Watson had placed a list of Stall Conveners at the back of church. If anyone is unable to take their allocated stall, please contact Jim. Secretary. David Robinson volunteered to take on the post of Secretary to the Vestry and Rev Ursula Shone volunteered to take on the post of Minute Secretary in order to relieve Gillian to take up the post of Treasurer from 1st October.
Burn Walk 7th July 2007	News Added - 27/06/07
Burn Walk "Family day" LABYRINTH AND BURN WALKS At "The Burn" Edzell Saturday 7th JULY 10.30am - 2.30pm Coffee and tea will be provided COST £1.50 Please bring a packed lunch I t would be helpful to let us know if you are attending. Please respond to Mrs. E Whitson tel 01356 648853 There is no charge for the day but donations to The burn would be gratefully received
Rectors Notes MAY 2007	News Added - 16/05/07
Why 'Father'? It is traditional for Roman Catholic priests and for many Orthodox, Anglican and Episcopalian priests to be called 'Father'. Many service chaplains are called 'Padre' - which is exactly the same. Yet Jesus (Matthew 23:9) expressly said, "Call no man on earth your father, for you have one Father who is in heaven." In the same passage, Jesus told his hearers to call no one rabbi - yet when Mary Magdalen (John 20:17) or the disciples (eg Mark11:21) address Jesus as teacher/rabbi, they are not rebuked. The apostle Paul describes himself as the father in Christ of the church in Corinth (1 Corinthians 4:14-15) and his relationship with the church in Thessalonika as being like 'a father with his children' (1 Thessalonians 2:11). So one verse should not be taken out of context, but needs to be understood in the light of the passage as a whole and the practice of Jesus and the early church. The broader context of the passage (23:1-12) is that Jesus wants to emphasise that 'the greatest among you must be your servant' (23:11) and that anyone who tries to exalt himself will be humbled (v12). Jesus came among us as a servant king. His church is called to service. Through the sacrament of orders, bishops, priests and deacons are appointed to be servants of the people of God. The fullness of the local church is shown when the bishop celebrates the Eucharist in the presence of all the priests, deacons and people of the diocese. The bishop shares parts of the episcopal oversight of the people of God with priests who minister to particular congregations. So I am called to exercise a priestly ministry in Brechin and Tarfside. Ordination does not make me a better Christian - I am a sinner and I need people's prayers. Ordination does not place someone as an intermediary between themselves andGod - we all pray directly to God. Ordination does not give a priest authority over the many practical aspects of running a church - it does not make me any better at managing the Rainbow shop, or mending a leaking roof or decide where the Guild should go on their annual outing. Any exaltation of priestly status to imply personal superiority is wrong. Ordination does, however, give me the authority to teach on behalf of the Church, to preside at the Eucharist and a share in the bishop's pastoral responsibility for that part of the people of God in Brechin and Tarfside who look to the Episcopal Church. Every time someone calls me Father it reminds me of my pastoral responsibility under God for those committed to my care. It reminds me that I must with God's help do my best to help people on their journey to God and to try and ensure that the local church shows in its own relationships the signs of charity, forbearance and love. And the relationship between priest and people only works if it is founded upon mutual love and respect. A priest is both a fellow Christian with the local congregation and also someone who is slightly separated for service - and that degree of detachment enables the priest to exercise authority where required, to be trusted to keep confidences and to minister counsel and consolation. So 'Father David' - Father as a term of loving respect and David showing that I am a fellow Christian and human being. Having written all the above, if anyone feels that Father is a term of address with which they are not happy, I shall respond most cheerfully to David or Rector.
Notes from the Vestry meetings of 11th April and 9th May	News Added - 16/05/07
Weekday Eucharist's. Father David is seeking ways to increase the attendance at the weekday Eucharist's. There are some regular attendees at the Tuesday and Wednesday services, and he is willing to adjust the timing on the other days, if there any persons who would to commit to attend at a time which suited them better, on any of the other days. If you wish to take part regularly on another day, please speak to Father David. The Saturday Easter vigil was well received by those who attended and the Ministry Team are looking at using other feast days as possible opportunities for this type of service with candles and incense. This will give more opportunities for people to practice the rituals and involve others who are interested in actively participating. One suggestion was to hold a service like this once a month on a Thursday Gospel Procession. It is intended to re introduce the Gospel procession and reading from the body of the Church. Children. We need to provide a positive experience for children and identify those children and parents willing to attend on a regular basis. If you are aware of any families who may wish to attend, please speak to Father David. To be able to do this, we need volunteers from the congregation to help on a rota basis. If you are willing to take part in a rota please contact Father David. (Please note that volunteers will need to undergo a "disclosure Scotland" procedure). Liturgy/Lords Prayer. During discussions of a slightly modified order of Liturgy, the subject of the Lords Prayer was raised. There are two versions approved for the 1982 Liturgy, and the Bishop may approve others if requested. Many people have favourite versions, or do not fully understand the meaning behind some words in the approved versions. It was suggested that later in the year, we hold a study group,where we as a congregation may understand the prayer more fully and reach agreement on a version that we can all feel comfortable with. Please speak to any member of the ministry team or the Vestry if you have any thoughts on this proposal or wish to take part in the group. Charities Regulations. Five members of the Vestry attended workshops on the new Scottish Charities regulations. These regulations place certain obligations on vestry members as "trustees" of the charity, and also on how we report our affairs and finances Treasurer & Secretary. Gillian McKnight agreed to take on the post of Treasurer from Peter Grace at the end of this financial year in September. We now need a new Vestry Secretary! This job could be split into two, a "minutes secretary" and a " business secretary" who would be the formal point of contact and deal with correspondence. If you are interested in helping please contact any vestry member. You do not need to be a member of the vestry to help! Church Hall. Paul Roberts has volunteered to paint the hall during the week 21st May and is looking for help in clearing the hall, (possibly after the bring and share lunch on the 20th). Brechin PAGEANT-2nd June. We are taking part in this. Please donate bottles to Jim Watson and Fairtrade Goods to Gill who will be raffling a Fairtrade hamper. Help setting up will also be required on the day. Please see Jim! Building matters. The new central heating has been installed in the Rectory and has made a significant difference to the warmth and hot water supply! The church roof and guttering has been repaired and new notices have been erected at the church gate. Father David has commenced discussions with a heating engineer who deals with the Church of Scotland, in respect of a new heating system for the church. This is likely to be a gas fired system with radiators, which may require some disruption while it is being fitted. This would appear to be the time to consider any alterations to the church to make it more welcoming, improve prayer space and facilities for families. Some may recall that the vestry asked for ideas last year, and these were reported on and discussed at the vestry meeting held on 27th March 2006. Looking at other Churches: Before the vestry considers any re ordering and makes any firm proposals to the congregation, they have decided to visit other churches and see how they have prepared for worship in the 21st Century. The first set of visits will take place on the afternoon of Sunday 22nd July. Food Safety Officers. The vestry is required to appoint an officer to take responsibility for ensuring that the various Hygiene Regulation are complied with when we serve food to the public. Ken Melvin and Barbara Watson are suitably qualified and have agreed to jointly take this post.
St Andrews Liturgy	News Added - 16/05/07
St Andrew's Liturgy Some small changes explained. Enclosed with the latest edition of Pews Notes is a copy of a revised Liturgy,which itself is based on the 1982 Scottish Liturgy (the Blue Book). Father David and the Ministry team brought this to the Vestry for discussion and explained the reasons for the changes. The vestry had no objections to using this Liturgy for the Sunday 10.30 services from Pentecost (27th May). The first change is that the congregation will be welcomed with "Grace and peace" before the first hymn (1) Sharing of the Peace will now be after the prayers of Intercession and before the offertory hymn (14). This will give more time to circulate and share the peace with each other, at a more appropriate time, just before the Liturgy of the Sacrament commences. The Offertory prayers have been re ordered (16), and after all saying "Yours Lord.." the Sidespersons will then return to their seats. The Celebrant will then perform their ritual ablutions and then lead the two offertory sentences. The appropriate prayer for the day will be said after communion (23) Some of the language has been slightly modified to be more inclusive, and an invitation to all Baptised members of any Trinitarian Church to receive Holy Communion with us is printed at end of the sheet.
Rectors Notes	News Added - 25/03/07
Trident Against the recommendation of the leaders of all the major churches in Scotland, the Westminster parliament has voted for the replacement of Trident. Christians who espouse a non-violent approach (as I do) would clearly be opposed to any replacement. For Christians who take a 'Just War' standpoint the possession of weapons of mass destruction with a conditional intention to use them is unacceptable, the more so if there are no serious attempts to move quickly towards disarmament. Church ministers in Brechin have written a joint letter to the Brechin Advertiser giving our viewpoint on this matter. We hope that parliament will reconsider this matter, cancel the proposed replacement of Trident and move rapidly towards authentic negotiations for disarmament. Worship Christians are called to love God and their neighbour. One of the ways in which we show our love of God is through worship. The church building is itself a place for prayer and worship. I say morning and evening prayer in church most days. The times are on the church door and all are welcome to join me. Part of our responsibility is to pray for the communities in which we are set. If there are people or situations for which people would like prayers to be said, then please let me know. I also celebrate the Eucharist most days in church. It is probably only since the 1960's that the church has moved to make the Eucharist the main act of worship. Yet it is in the Eucharist that Jesus himself comes to meet us and to feed us. He gave us the command to 'do this in memory of me'. Many people are finding that a more regular participation in Communion helps them on their spiritual journey - not only on Sundays and major festivals but also at other times. At present I am experimenting with Eucharists at 10.30am most weekdays and 7pm on Thursdays but in the summer I would like to review the pattern. I would like to provide a wider range of worship possibilities outside the 8am and 10.30 Sunday services. Sometimes (as at the Easter vigil) this will involve more formality with the use of the high altar and incense. Sometimes a midweek service could be a healing Eucharist with anointing and the laying on of hands. Perhaps one of the midweek services could use the 1970 liturgy,or Taize music or include space for open prayer or for meditation. There could be a place for more formal devotions and we shall be using the Stations of the Cross in Holy week. Perhaps on occasion we could visit other churches and join in their worship. So that all may be done to the glory of God. Father David
Rector's Notes	News Added - 22/02/07
It is lovely to be here in Brechin. Many thanks from Joyce and myself to all who helped welcome us. The Rectory was cleaned and the garden attended to. The service of Institution went very well and the tea and reception was excellent. Worship and prayer are central to the life of the church and the Eucharist is at the core. Having a full time Rector makes it more possible to have regular public worship. So (apart from Fridays - my rest day), there will be a daily Eucharist in church and I shall say the daily offices in church. The services will be held in the choir vestry until the weather gets warmer. For some people it is part of their spirituality to make their communion mid-week as well as Sundays. I would encourage others to attend an occasional mid-week Eucharist and perhapsconsider making it part of their Lenten discipline. Father David
Highlights from the Vestry Meeting of 14th February	News Added - 22/02/07
We have been awarded a grant of £15,000 from the SEC towards the Rectory Building Work. The Treasurers Report showed that our current liabilities over the next few months marginally exceed the cash available in our local bank accounts. The Treasurer will claim the grant as soon as possible to ease our cash flow problems. The Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator has sent out new guidance notesfor charities. One of the implications is that all "trustees" i.e. vestry members who receive payments or expenses have to be identified in the accounts. Those who receive payments will also need a written agreement with the vestry. The Treasurer Peter Grace, has intimated that he wishes to resign, but will continue until the end of September to work in parallel with a new treasurer. A Budget for the next two years was agreed and the treasurer asked to report against the cost centres on a quarterly basis. Church Heating; It was agreed that we would commence the process of installing new heating by obtaining a heating engineers Survey. A buildings sub committee, to take on the role of "Property Convenor" was formed, Jim Watson, Mike McKnight, Paul Roberts. Fire Safety Recommendations; these were accepted and the buildings committee requested to action them. The next Vestry meetings are, Wednesday 14th March, Wednesday 11th April, both 7.00pm in the Church Hall. If you require further information or want to have any subject discussed,please contact any vestry member
December Appeal	News Added - 22/02/07
On behalf of the Vestry I would like to thank all of the congregation and friends of St Andrew's who responded so generously to the appeal which I sent out in December. To date we have received cash donations of £7,220, and as most who donated had also completed a GIFT AID declaration, we have had an additional contribution of £2,030 from the Inland Revenue, making a grand total of £9,250 Thank you again Peter Nelson, Lay Representative
The Institution of our New Rector	News Added - 17/02/07
St Andrew's celebrated the Institution of Rev David Mumford on Saturday 10th February. An assembly of over 150 Clergy, Lay Readers, Friends and Congregation members took part in the Service. The Chancellor, Prof. A Bissett Johnson read the Deed of Institution, members of the congregation brought forth the symbolic gifts of a bible, prayer book, oil,candle,bread and wine,and the church key. Bishop John then presented a stole, and led Father David to pray at the significant points in the church before finally charging him with his duty as Rector. Father David was then welcomed by the Earl of Dalhousie on behalf of the Lord Lieutenant of the County and various councillors on behalf of the local authorities. A reception in the Mechanics Institute following the service allowed people to meet Father David and Joyce in a less formal setting
St Andrew's Thanks Ursula and Jane	News Added - 17/02/07
The congregation of St Andrews Scottish Episcopal Church, Brechin, held a surprise party on Friday 26th January in St Andrews hall, to acknowledge, and give thanks, to their two part time non-stipendiary priests, Rev Ursula Shone and Rev Jane Nelson for the work and service they have given over the past two year, whilst the Church has been without a full time Rector. The party was organised by Mrs Shirley Crozier on behalf of the congregation. Ursula was presented with a flower vase and Jane with an evening bag. St Andrew's Woman's Guild provided a stovies supper, and Steven Carcary's young accordionists once again provided a superb evenings entertainment. Ursula and Jane are looking forward to working with Father David, and also to have a bit more time to pursue their respective retirement hobbies of rambling and ballroom dancing as well as spending more time with their families.
URSULA SHONE CELEBRATES 25 YEAR MINISTRY	News Added - 02/12/06
On Thursday 30th November, St Andrew's Day, St Andrew's Scottish Episcopal Church in Brechin held a special service, followed by a social evening in the church hall, to celebrate Rev Ursula Shone's 25 anniversary in the Ministry of the Church, on All Saint's Day (Nov 1st). In 1981 she was made a Deaconess by Bishop Michael Hare-Duke of St. Andrew's Diocese. A deaconess had an authorised lay ministry because at that time it was the only ministry available for women. She was a non-stipendiary member of the team at St. Saviour's Church in Bridge of Allan and in 1985 moved to a stipendiary ministry in Lochgelly in Fife. In July 1986 she was ordained Deacon. From there she went to be an Industrial Chaplain and Chaplain at Coventry Cathedral. In 1990, Ursula moved to the Liverpool Diocese where she was Science Adviser and Curate in a parish. It was in 1994 that Ursula was ordained priest in Liverpool Cathedral, one of the many women who were ordained priest in the first year that it was possible in England. Ursula came to Brechin in 1999 when she retired, and has been an assistant Priest at St Andrew's since then. At the social evening in the Church Hall, two senior members of St Andrews Congregation presented a floral basket as a token of appreciation. An excellent buffet supper was provided by the Women's Guild and the congregation was entertained by some marvellous traditional accordion playing by the youngsters of Steve Carcary's Young Accordions
MAJOR REPAIRS AT ST ANDREWS RECTORY	News Added - 02/12/06
There have been many enquiries about the works taking place at St Andrew's Rectory, 9 Castle Street, Brechin. Contrary to rumours heard in the high street, the rectory is not being sold,nor is it being converted into flats! These works are all connected with making the Rectory habitable and comfortable for our new Rector, Fr David Mumford, who will be instituted on the10th February 2007. When the rectory was surveyed recently, it was found that the chimney was in a dangerous condition, the roof was leaking, which had brought down some ceiling plaster work, there was rising damp in the kitchen and most of the stonework required repointing. An old two story building in the garden was on the point of collapse and had to be demolished. The repairs could be delayed no longer and the work had to proceed as soon as possible to prevent further damage. The costs of the repairs alone are over £68,000, which will virtually use all of the money that St Andrew's Church has in its bank account. Because the Church itself also needs repairs to prevent rain water ingress, the Vestry of St Andrews has written personally to every one of the Eighty Households on its Register to ask them to make additional donations to help see St Andrew's through this cash flow crisis.
St Drostans Lodge, Tarfside, Glen Esk	News Added - 27/11/06
St Drostans Lodge provides low cost self catering accomodation for groups and families in the heart of Glen Esk. Accomodation Details; Self catering with bedding supplied Suitable for the less mobile and disabled Community, church groups and families welcomed, up to seventeen people Available for weekend use, mid-week use and for whole week use. Open ALL Year. No minimum size for groups. Exclusive use 2 twin en-suite rooms 1 single en-suite room 2 bunk bed rooms 1 twin room 6 single rooms Well equipped Kitchen/Refectory Cosy Lounge Large common/meeting room Modern central heating throughout building Sensory Garden and Picnic area. A deposit of £30 is required to confirm bookings. The management committee have decided that for 2008, the charges will be £15 per person per night or £12 for members of Brechin Diocese. Note;Dogs are not welcome, and if as a last resort you have to bring your dog, it must not be allowed into the Kitchen,Common Room or Forbes Room. Preferably it should be kept in the hallway or drying room. Bookings for 2009 are taken after the 1st April 2008. To Book or make further enquiries, contact Rev Jane Nelson by e mail or telephone; E MAIL; stdrostansbook@btinternet.com Telephone; 01569 730967
St Drostans Lodge - Now booking for 2008	News Added - 16/08/06
For the list of available dates for 2008 please contact Rev Jane Nelson e mail: stdrostansbook@ btinternet.com For 2008 the charges will be £12 per person per night for members of Brechin Diocese and £15 for non members
Services at St Drostans Church, Tarfside	News Added - 04/05/06
Evening Prayer will be said at 2.30pm on the Second Sunday of every Month between Easter and October. Additional services will be as indicated on the church notice board. For more information please contact Rev Jane Nelson.Tel 01569 730967
Extracts From PEWS NOTES, February March 2006	News Added - 30/01/06
Notes from Vestry 23 JANUARY 2006 · · It was agreed that we move forward to obtain a valuation of the Rectory, and also ascertain the cost of a more modern property in Brechin which would meet the requirements of the SEC, but would not have the high running and maintenance costs of the existing Rectory. · It was agreed that minutes of Vestry Meetings would be kept in the Church for reference by the congregation, and that draft agendas would be placed on the notice board at least one Sunday prior to Vestry Meetings. · The roles of Sidespersons were discussed as part of a welcoming church, but it was felt by some that present procedures are adequate. Many are not aware that a Visitors book has been located on the back table for some years. All visitors should be encouraged to sign this, so that we can keep in touch. · · No Smoking Laws. Churches and church properties are covered by this law and we will be required to display the statutory No Smoking signs on our properties · Re Pitching The Tent! The Bishop has recommended that the Vestry should read this challenging book, which deals with Church, and Church Property re ordering. It describes how Liturgical Space has developed since the time of Christ, and challenges us to provide a welcoming space for our mission today, rather than continuing to live in the lay out of property which suited the needs and mission of our forefathers. Some members of the Vestry have agreed to read this book. The book also provides outlines for a short series of meetings to assist congregations consider the actual property and lay out requirements of their mission in the Twenty First Century. Current Accounts! A look at our accounts over the past few years, shows that we have been sustaining significant losses on our current income and expenditure account, the regular loss, even with the dividend income, is around £12,000 a year. It is true that we have a very large Capital Fund, but if we aim to improve our buildings, and move ahead with the Hall, we do need to improve our regular income, other wise this capital will disappear. The basic cost of employing a Rector is now £27,628 a year. It needs at least 45 people contributing about £12 a week to cover this vital cost. Perhaps now is the time, in this interim period, for us all to re consider how committed we are to St Andrews. Do we give sacrificially? Can we increase our own contribution??