To

celebrate the New Year, we thought it would be good to update our magazine with a nice glossy colour cover.

Then, we thought to go one stage further, and ask our readers (young and old), to come up with a new name for our Inter- denominational Church Magazine.

Our judging panel (from Skene Parish, Westhill Episcopal and Roman Catholic churches) will then pick a winner and use the new name for our May magazine! Our winner will also receive a prize.

Please email skeneparish@mail.com or write to Rosanna, at the church office at Trinity. Please title your email message or envelope church magazine rename Deadline for all entries is Friday, 29th March 2013.

Please note we need the following information from you:

Your address/telephone number Your name for our and email address if you have one church magazine We look forward to receiving your entries!

Your Full name

The Manse Manse Road Kirkton of Skene Aberdeenshire AB32 6LX Tel: 01224 745955 Email: Minister.skeneparish@mail.com Dear Friends, Im sitting at Aberdeen airport waiting for my flight to depart. Snippets of conversations drift in and out of my hearing. The lives of hundreds of folk interweaving this morning as our paths intersect. Some coming. Some going. All with a story a past, a present and a future. All on route to a destination and not just another airport. One of the most precious gifts of my first year here in Skene has been the privilege of getting to know you as a community, as a congregation and as families and individuals. To share, albeit sometimes briefly, in your lives. To hear where you have been and to explore with you where you are going. Thank you so much for welcoming me in, not just to your homes, but to your lives. It has been a fantastic year for me, and I thank God and you for the support and help I have received in it. You might be wondering where my flight is going to? Well, Im off to London to visit a friend and her new born daughter. To celebrate the fabulous bundle of life that arrived just before Christmas and to look forward with my friend to the adventure that has only just begun for her and her family. Each year offers us new opportunities to learn, to grow, to move on in life and in our faith. I am really excited about discovering Gods plans for this parish in 2013. In the coming weeks and months we will be digging deeper and learning how we can love God more. During Lent our worship series will be Christianity Explored and on Wednesday evenings at 7.30pm there will be time for discussing the material in more detail. It will help us to prepare to journey once more to the cross with Jesus and to celebrate the good news of His resurrection on Easter Day the good news at the heart of our faith. Wherever you are on your journey of faith beginning; stuck; closer to the end than the start come and join us. We would love to share in your story. My prayer for 2013 is that it is a year in which our faith takes off bringing us closer to God. Speaking of take-off, theres the call for boarding. Better not let them go without me! Yours sincerely, Rev Stella Campbell

CONTACT THE MINISTER

For pastoral issues, Weddings, Baptisms etc, please do not hesitate to contact the Reverend Stella direct. The Manse telephone number is 01224 745955 or you can e-mail - Minister.skeneparish@mail.com.

MIDWEEK WORSHIP
Each Wednesday from 7.00pm to 7.30pm there is a service in the Chapel of Trinity Church. (Except for the first Wednesday in the month)

COMMUNION SERVICES
Please note that the sacrament of Holy Communion will be celebrated on the following dates: Sunday Sunday 3 March at Trinity Church at 10.00am and 7.00pm th 10 March at Skene Church at 9.30am and 11.15am
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Members are invited to attend and your elder will visit you in advance of Communion to give you an invitation. There will also be communion at our Afternoon Tea Service on Wednesday 6 March 2013 at 2pm.
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HOLY WEEK SERVICES

Palm Sunday Palm Sunday Wednesday 27th March Maundy Thursday 28 March th Good Friday 29 March Easter Sunday
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All age worship at Trinity 10am and Skene at 11.15am Messy Church 4-6pm at Trinity Church Annual Stated Meeting followed by Candlelit Service 7pm at Trinity Church Communion at Skene Church 7pmReflective Service at Trinity Church at 12pm All age worship at Trinity 10am and Skene at 11.15am

SOUPER SUNDAY 28 APRIL

Area grouping joint service followed by lunch at Echt Church. We will meet with Echt and Midmar to worship and then have lunch to support the Church of Scotland HIV project. More details to follow

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TRANSPORT TO CHURCH
It is appreciated that some members may have difficulty in attending Sunday morning Church Services owing to a lack of transport. A Transport Group has been established that is willing to transport people to and from Church. Anyone wanting a lift to Church should contact Iain Miller on 741406.

CRECHE
Crche facilities for children ages 0-3years are provided during morning worship in both Churches. Sheila Smith organizes the Trinity Church Crche and can be contacted via the church office (tel 742512) while information on the crche at Skene Church can be had from the Minister.

AFTER SERVICES TEAS/COFFEES

Sunday teas are held in both Skene and Trinity services. Skene has teas on the last Sunday of the month. Trinity has every Sunday in the lounge. We are in need of some more people to help on a Sunday after the service at Trinity as some people are coming off the rota this year. If you would like to help contact, Ann Findlay (Trinity) 741591 or Margaret Mearns (Skene) 740176.

HOSPITAL VISITING
If you or a relative, friend or neighbour are going into hospital please let us know so that a visit can be arranged. You can either contact Rev Stella Campbell (tel: 745955) Marion Stewart (tel:743407) or the church office (742512).

LENT SERMON SERIES: CHRISTIANITY EXPLORED

Our Sunday morning worship during Lent (beginning on Sunday 13 February) will be based on Christianity Explored. We will be looking at the following seven questions: Good news: What are we doing here? Identity: Who is Jesus? Sin: Why did Jesus come? The cross: Why did Jesus die? Resurrection: Why did Jesus rise? Grace: How can God accept us? Come and die: What does it mean to follow Jesus?
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On Wednesday evenings we will be exploring the material in more depth, allowing time to ask questions and to discuss in groups our response to Marks Gospel. If you want to know more about Christianity, please come and join us. If you are considering joining the Church, please note that it is necessary for you to attend this sermon series, in addition to the membership classes.

LENTEN REFLECTION & SOUP LUNCH DATES 2013

Its hard to believe that as we tidy up after Christmas we are already looking ahead to Lent & Easter. Here are the dates for this years Lenten Reflection & Soup Lunch.

Reflection in the Chapel at Trinity 12noon followed by a Soup Lunch at 12.30pm.

Luncheon Hosts: th th 15 February and 8 March nd th 22 February and 15 March st nd 1 March and 22 March

Church of Scotland Roman Catholic Congregation Scottish Episcopal Congregation

Each year our donations for lunches go to a charity. Last year we supported Ian & Heather Ferguson with their twin Congregation in SA. Have a think about who we might support this year.

Good Friday Reflection 29 March 12-1pm in Trinity Church.

Marion Stewart Deacon Skene Parish Church

NEW MEMBERS
We welcome to the Congregation the following new members: Keith Center, 4 Grant Close Lisa Craigie, 49 Bruntland Crescent Gillian Robson, 16 Hilltop Crescent Angela Duncan, 2 Eday Court, Woodend

BAPTISMS
It has been our pleasure to welcome to our Church Family by Baptism: Euan Gilmour McGrath, Foveran

DEATHS
We remember with thanksgiving those who have died recently, and we offer their relatives our prayerful sympathy: Jessie Gavin, 40 Westdyke Avenue John Paterson, Kirkton House Annie Margaret Sturton, 24 Blackhills Court Kathlyn Hamilton, Grove Nursing Home Millie Walker, 11a Arnhall Drive

WEDDINGS
As they begin their married life together, we offer our congratulations to: Leslie Hardie to David Marnoch, 4 Carnie Avenue

NEW MEMBERS
If anyone is interested in becoming a member of the church, please contact Rev Stella. Membership st evenings will be running in March, in advance of admission of new members on Sunday 31 March (Easter Sunday). Please note that there is an expectation new members will attend the Christianity Explored sermon series

STEWARDSHIP
You will remember the Stewardship Season of 2012, where our focus was on money. We are delighted to report that we received a fantastic response. Over 80% of the commitment cards were completed and returned (thanks to our elders for their hard work in distributing and collecting them). On reviewing the cards, there has been an increase in the number of people who want to give to the life of the church and increases in the amounts that people regularly give. A number of our folk have moved from Freewill Offering Envelopes to standing order and there was also an increase in those gift aiding their donations. We received one-off donations during the Stewardship Season and are incredibly grateful at the generosity of all those who participated. We are already beginning to see the benefit of the season in our weekly giving and we are projecting a 20% (approximately) increase in our giving for 2013. This is wonderful news and we want to thank everyone for their help and support. In 2013, our Stewardship Season will be focussing on time. Look out for more information as the year progresses.

PRAYER AND PUDDING 1

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WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH

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Our next prayer and pudding will be on Wednesday 6 February at 7pm at Trinity Church. Come along, enjoy some time in prayer and some pudding for afters. It is a great way to be involved in the life of the church and to take some time out with God.

MESSY CHURCH

Skene Parish Church is excited to invite you to our new Messy Church starting in 2013. A wonderful mixture of singing, craft activities, fun, bible stories and food. Come along, make friends and worship God in a relaxed, family friendly way. Sunday 27 January 2013 4-6pm th Sunday 24 February 2013 4-6pm th Sunday 24 March 2013 4-6pm Trinity Church, Westhill
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A warm welcome from the church office!

Skene Parish Church website: As you read this, we will be reviewing our church website, www.skeneparish.com to make it even more interesting and up-to-date as possible. Although, we get an average 100 to 120 daily page views, we are always trying to improve our website usage. If you have any suggestions, then please do not hesitate to contact us at the church office. Please ring 01224 742512 or email skeneparish@mail.com Communion visits: Our next Communion services are in early March, so your Elder will be making arrangements to visit you in advance of this. As you will remember, our Kirk Session decided not to continue with Communion cards last year and all are welcome to attend these special services in our church calendar. To help with these visits, please contact me to advise if you have moved or are planning to move home. Perhaps, you have recently got married or your telephone number or email address has changed. Office Hours: Please note the church office is open 9 to 12noon, on Mondays and Fridays. On a Wednesday, the office is open from10am to 12noon, as there is a weekly meeting from 9 to 10am. Best wishes, Rosanna

STATED ANNUAL MEETING

The Stated Annual Meeting of the Congregation to elect members to the Congregational Board will be held th on Wednesday 27 March in Trinity Church at 7.00pm to be followed by a Candlelit Service.

STATED ANNUAL ACCOUNTS AND REPORT

All Scottish charities are required to submit an Annual Report and Accounts to the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator, and copies of this will be available for our members at some point in March onwards once the accounts have been approved by our independent examiner. These can be viewed on the Church website or examined in the vestry at Skene Church or the Office at Trinity Church .

Greetings from Elaine Percival, Margaret Mearns & Marion Stewart, your new Christian Aid Team people! Last year 10,000+ was raised in the Westhill & Skene District, during the door-to-door collection for Christian Aid Week in May. This was a fantastic amount of money BUT lets not forget that it was thanks to the efforts of around 80 press-ganged volunteers covering 82 areas of Westhill, Elrick, Skene & Lyne of Skene that we were able to raise the above sum. If a similar amount is to be raised this year, lets not sit back on our laurels. Lets stand up and be counted and sign up for this years Christian Aid Week. We need to know NOW. The more people there are the better. You might want to collect in your own street..

We are waiting to hear from you! Elaine 742925; Margaret 740176; Marion 743407

ARTHRITIS SUPPORT GROUP

If you have arthritis in any form and fancy an occasional evening out, why not join a small group of all ages with similar problems who meet in the Church Hall usually on the first Wednesday of the month between 7.30 and 9.30pm. We have speakers most evenings on various subjects, some medical, some more general with a cup of tea or coffee and afine piece to finish. Come and give it a try. If transport is a problem or for any other information required phone Chris (741800) or Norman (740951)

THE GRID GROUP

GRID is the senior Sunday School programme - beginning in Primary School Year 7 (P7), running to Academy year 3 (S3). It is run by Chris Pinnell, Euan Bruce, Kieran Rorie and Alastair Cozens. When the youngsters leave the main church service each Sunday morning, we follow a lively programme of Bible based games and discussions, aided by Scripture Union material. As a minimum, our aim is to help keep the Church interesting for the youngsters, and to encourage them to hold on to Christian values in their lives. We are also working with Rev Stella, to develop extra opportunities for supporting those who wish to explore the big questions about faith. Apart from Sundays, we have contributed to various Church activities, such as decorating the Christmas trees at Trinity and Skene; this was kindly organised by Rosanna Rorie. For S2 - S5, we have started a monthly Saturday evening club - "the Brand". This is mainly about sharing a meal together and having wholesome fun. Rev Stella also provides a period of spiritual reflection - this has been very well received - perhaps because pudding is served at the same time! All S2 - S5 youngsters are welcome - if you know of someone who would like an invitation, please give their details to Rosanna in the Church Office.

DISCOVERY GROUP

We are a group who meets on the 1 and 3 Tuesday of the month in Trinity Lounge at 7.30pm. We come together and encourage each other in faith through Bible Readings, videos, speakers, etc. You are not asked to pray, sing or read out loud come along and simply listen and enjoy the fellowship. The Discovery Group resumes meeting on Tuesday the 5th February, 7.30 Trinity Lounge. We will be continuing our study Discipleship Explored. It doesn't matter if you have not attended previous studies as each week covers something new. Come along and join us, all are welcome! Please do not feel you have to come every week, we will be delighted to see you whenever you can make it. As we said, these meetings are to encourage one another, and those of us who are there find them challenging and comfortable. For further information please phone: Iain and Dawn Miller 741406 or John and Susan Anderson 743503

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ACTION GROUP
The Wednesday afternoon services continue to be a success and it is hoped to celebrate Communion th th st th during the March service. The dates for the next few services are 6 February, 6 March, 1 May and 5 June. Please note that there will be no service in April. If you are on our transport list and are unable to come at the last minute, my phone number is 741672 The Parties this year will be on the 22 and 23 March and invitations for these will be sent out early in March. We do have a list of names for these invitations but if you not on our list, would like to be and are 65+ and a church member, please call the Church Office. This year we have decided to have a Daffodil Tea instead of a Coffee Morning and this will be held on th Saturday, 20 April from 2-4pm.There will be the usual stalls and tickets will be available at a later date. Morag Hendry Action Group Mini Committee
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SKENE SINGERS

Our Christmas Concert on the 19 December in Skene Church was a great success with 660 being raised for the Horizon Hospital in Gambia. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who supported us and the donations of Christmas pies and shortbread. Contact Morag Simpson on 07818464546 or Ann Findlay on 741591 if you would like to join us

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BADMINTON GROUP
The attendance on Monday nights has been increasing but there is still space available for new and old players to whack about a shuttlecock and enjoy a chat between games. We enjoyed a night out at the Shepherds Rest in December but will definitely have to burn off the calories in 2013. The group meets on Mondays at 07.30pm except when the Guild are meeting on 2nd Monday in Month More information can be had from Isobel and Alastair Kinnon 742941

WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON TEAS

Our Golden Jubilee Tea was a great event allowing us to send a substantial cheque of Five Hundred and Ten Pounds to Help the Heroes, Two Hundred Pounds was donated to the Presbytery Appeal for a new generator for Nkomo Hospital in Malawi with a further two hundred pounds being added to the churches Christmas Appeal. During the summer we held a Strawberry themed Afternoon Tea in Skene Parish Church, which was enjoyed by many. The Team would like to thank you all for your support and also to those behind the scenes who help make these events such a success, to the bakers, helpers and the gentlemen that set the tables out each week. If you would like to be part of one of these teams please give us a call. With the money raised throughout the year we have been able to support the different projects as detailed above and within the next few weeks we hope to have new Hot Water Boilers fitted in the Trinity Kitchen as well as in Skene Church doing away with the old urns. We hope that all organisations using the kitchens at Trinity and Skene will benefit from these upgrades We trust that you will continue to support us and to enjoy your fine pieces and limitless cups of tea and coffee. Carol Green 741965 Sheila Gray 744951 Ann Findlay741591 Jill Chessor742823

MILNE HALL- KIRKTON OF SKENE

The recent accordion night, Christmas Eve Film Show and Hogmanay Ceilidh at the Milne Hall were all a great success. Each event had a good turn out and the feedback from those attending was very positive. The Hall Committee run these events to put the hall to good use for the local people and to raise money to maintain and improve the hall, so its great to see them so well supported. The committee have managed to obtain planning permission for alterations and improvement to the toilet facilities and hope to have news about some significant grant funding in the next edition. The presence of a village hall in the Kirkton of Skene is a fantastic asset to the area. Voluntary support and assistance in running the hall, with no requirement to be a committee member would be made most welcome and appreciated. Regular activities open to everyone: Zumba, 7.00-8.00pm every Monday. A Social Tea Dance Group meets on Tuesday afternoons 2-4.30pm. Skene Indoor Bowling Club meets on Tuesday evenings. For P1-S1 children, the Youth Club meets on Thursdays 6-7.00pm.

Jazzercise, 7.30-8.30pm every Thursday. Highland dance classes on Friday evenings.

The famous Kirkton of Skene Gala & Cartie Races and the 2013 date will be announced later in the spring. For any queries about the Milne Hall, contact the committee chairperson, Elaine Freeman on 742804 or Steve Cole 744312

ABERDEEN ORPHEUS CHOIR

Aberdeen Orpheus Choir will perform in Skene Parish Church on Friday 17th May, 2013 at 7.30 pm. Tickets priced at 5.00 will be available from Margaret Mearns (740176) nearer the time. All proceeds will go to Christian Aid. DO COME ALONG TO WHAT PROMISES TO BE A MUSICAL DELIGHT! Margaret G. Mearns

CROSSREACH
On behalf of Crossreach, thanks to all who ordered Circle of Care Calendars for 2013. 48 were purchased. In addition, I was able to send a small cheque to Crossreach - the result of several donations and extra monies collected. Crossreach Christmas Card Competition - a reminder! For those of you who are interested in designing a Crossreach Christmas Card for 2013 the entry date is drawing near - 28th FEBRUARY. See the posters in both Churches or phone me if you need more details. (tel: 741656) Ann Stewart

SKENE PARISH CHURCH GUILD

Our Handbag Auction in November for Guild week was a great success and we had a th great response from all who attended the service at Trinity Church on the 25 Nov so we will see what we can do at our next venture. Our Party at the Holiday in December was as usual a great night with members and friends and a lovely meal, with entertainment by Alison Hendry and her son Craig and friend Jessica. It is hard to believe that Christmas has come and gone and another New Year has started, I hope you all enjoyed being with family and friends. Our March meeting will be our AGM and will be held in Skene Church at 7.30pm when the Reverend Stella th Campbell will be telling us a little about herself. April 8 Trinity Church 7.30pm is our open night and we th will be entertained by Chimes, our final meeting on May 13 at 7.30pm also Trinity Church, will be a very interesting one with a Hand Writing expert giving us a little insight into his profession.

GUILD FAYRE
Trinity Church Sat. 1st June 2-4pm
Tickets will be on sale beforehand hope to see you there. Any Queries contact Ann Findlay on 741591 or Flora Buthlay on 741186

THE GUILD AND THE DIACONATE

During 2013 the Guild and the Diaconate of the Church of Scotland will be celebrating 125years.Most of us have heard about The Guild but have you heard of the Diaconate? Most of us know, or think we know what Ministers and Elders do, but what about Deacons? Know of any Deacons in the Bible? Stephen was a Deacon; he was one who took on the role of serving and caring for the poor and needy. (Acts 6). In Romans 16, mention is made of Phoebe and she is referred to as a Deaconess ( RSV) The Diaconate of the Church of Scotland and the Guild came into being at the same time thanks to the progressive thinking of Rev Dr Archibald Charteris. He was very much aware of the role that women played within the life and work of the Church - they were able to care for the sick, the poor, the elderly; for the widows & orphans within the Parish. He wanted this work to be recognised, for women to be trained. This was discussed at the General Assembly 1888 and in December 1888, Lady Griselle Baillie, became the first woman to be commissioned a Deaconess of the Church of Scotland, in Bowden Kirk, near Melrose. In 1989 men became part of the Diaconate and now all members of the Diaconate are known as Deacons. At the General Assembly 1990, it was agreed that Deacons could now be members of Presbytery in their own right as a Deacons. Until then only those Deacons who were Elders could be part of Presbytery. I was commissioned as a Deacon of the Church of Scotland on 2 Oct 1991, by Edinburgh Presbytery to serve in Richmond Craigmillar Church. I came to Skene in Sept 1994 and on 26 Nov 2002, I was ordained. The date was planned with the hope that our then new extension would be finished. Alas that was not to be and the building work was covered up with plastic sheeting but a good time was had by all and friends from the Roman Catholic & Episcopal Congregations joined to make a memorable occasion. Being ordained didnt change what I did, it simply was a change of wording, bringing Deacons into line with Ministers & Elders who are all ordained to their task of Ministry. (Truth be told it went way back to before women were ordained and a word had to be found, so commissioning seemed to fit!) In the Church of Scotland, a Deacon is a person who is selected, trained and ordained by Presbytery to Diaconal Ministry i.e. one of service and enabling; bridge building between Church & Community; encouraging ecumenical and World Church involvement. Many Deacons work in teams alongside a Parish Minister, sharing in worship, pastoral care, school Chaplaincy etc. All are able to conduct, worship, funerals and licensed to conduct weddings. Presbytery & Parish Deacons play their part in work of Presbytery and some have served as Presbytery Moderators. Some Deacons work as Hospital & Prison Chaplains, Chaplains to Armed Forces, Workplace Chaplaincy, Professional Counselling, Crossreach and Creative Arts. All Church of Scotland Deacons become members of the Diaconate of the Church of Scotland when they are ordained. The Diaconate of the Church of Scotland is part of World Diakonia which links us in with Deacons worldwide. It is an amazing organisation which every Deacon supports through prayer & giving. st The 21 World Diakonia Conference is in Berlin in July this year and I have filled in the forms to attend! The early Deaconesses showed strong leadership qualities, adaptability and willingness to go wherever they were required. It has been a strength of Diaconal Ministry through the years that it adapts to the changing needs of society. It is at heart and enabling ministry which encourages others to discover, develop and use their gifts and skills. (from Life & Work Jan 2013) Marion Stewart

PASTORAL CARE
As a parish church we endeavour to provide pastoral care to both our members and to people within the parish, which has grown and keeps on growing. To help with this, we are forming a pastoral care team. Between us we will be hoping to visit folks in hospital and at home, to provide a listening ear and to demonstrate the love of God. It is not always easy to get to visit everyone we would like to, and indeed sometimes we struggle to hear when someone is ill. This team is designed to help share the work of pastoral care and is in addition to the amazing ministry of our elders, who visit their districts twice a year. Alongside Marion and myself, here is a little bit about the other members of the team. Isobel Kinnon I have lived in the Westhill area for 37 years. I am married to Alastair and we have four grown up children and a grandson and granddaughter. Prior to my retirement I worked as a primary school teacher in Westhill and Aberdeen. I enjoy attending the weekly church services at Trinity Church and am a member of the Skene Parish Church Guild. I attend the badminton group which meets in the church, enjoying the exercise and fellowship. I am also a member of the Action Group which helps to organise the monthly afternoon services. In my spare time I enjoy dog walking, golf, bowling, shopping and my new interest knitting. Colin Kay I was born and brought up in Hamilton, Lanarkshire, one of three. I have a younger brother and sister. My mother, who is 93, lives on her own and all still live in Hamilton. I have three children and two grandchildren, all who live in Westhill. My background was in paint chemistry and having worked in all aspects of industry, industrial, marine and ultimately offshore I retired also 3 years ago in sales management. The church has always played a central role in my life, from the early days in Sunday School graduating to being in charge of the Young Worshippers League and part of the Sunday School both in nd Hamilton and Westhill. I also graduated through the ranks of the 2 Hamilton Boys Brigade Company, leaving with the Queens Badge and NCO Star. I moved to Westhill some 33 years ago and during that period served as a Board Member and Elder of Skene Parish Church. My hobbies include Senior Round Table, sailing, art, clocks, reading and collecting. Frances Smith My name is Frances Smith, I am 61 years old and was born in Torphins Hospital but was brought up in Finzean. My mum and dad ran a grocers shop and I have two brothers and two sisters. I was baptised, went to Sunday School, bible class, joined the church and got married, all in Finzean Church. I attended Finzean Primary School, then Banchory Academy, then Aberdeen Technical College where I studied Cooking and Catering. Before I retired, I worked mainly in school catering, in and around Aberdeen, before coming nearer to home and working in Skene Primary and Crombie Primary. I have been married to Dave for 39 years, having two children and two grandchildren, who all live locally. I have been a member of Skene Church for 35 years and have been a church elder for 21 years. I enjoy gentle pastimes, such as reading, puzzles and card games on my computer.

Sheena Swinhoe

Hello, I am Sheena Swinhoe and I am delighted to be part of the Pastoral Care group. Although I now live in Aberdeen, I spent 25 very enjoyable years in Westhill and have many good friends there. I have a grown up son and daughter who both live and work in Aberdeen. I work for Aberdeenshire Council in the Housing and Social Work service, developing new services for older people and family carers. Out with work, I enjoy cooking and baking. I go hill walking and curl during the winter time. I look forward to making new friends through the pastoral care visits during this year.

1st SKENE BOYS BRIGADE

During the weeks leading up to Christmas the Company Section boys delivered over 2,100 Xmas Cards around Westhill and Skene which had been posted in our boxes at both Trinity and Skene Churches. Our company funds benefitted from two bag packing sessions in November and December which raised over 1000. That said, Christmas is about fun and the Anchor Boys and the Junior Section got into the festive spirit during an evening at the Pantomime. We also organised an activity weekend at Braemar and a mountain bike outing in Kirkhill Forest. Photographs of these and our other activities can be viewed on our website: www.1stskenebb.co.uk In November, the company section was well represented in the Battalion Table Tennis Competition where Ethan Chapman won the Junior Singles and along with Jack Watson the Junior Doubles, while Ross and Jamie Horgan won the Seniors Doubles. Some of the boys also took part in Battalion Paintballing and Karting outings Across the three sections of the company, the boys are meantime engaged in a wide variety of activities, with the older age groups focusing on completing award programmes and participating in Battalion competitions. Over the next couple of months, the boys will participate in 5-a-side football, and badminton competitions. In addition 11 senior boys are due to attend a Queens Badge Competition residential course at Cullen and are on line to receive the award at the end of the session, while one boy is almost half way through the 2 year programme. In addition, two boys are about to complete the programme for the Presidents Badge. Although we are almost halfway through the BB session, it is never too late for boys to join and we do not have any waiting lists. Interested boys and parents can get a flavour of our activities on www.1stskenebb.co.uk or by contacting any officer. th Looking ahead, we will be departing to our Annual Camp near Aviemore on Friday 5 July for a week of outdoor activities. Donald Struthers Captain - 742262

MOVERS AND SHAKERS

If you have M.S. and are able to get out and about, why not join us for a chat and supper at our monthly meetings, usually held in one of our local pubs. For more information, please contact: Margaret tel 742929 or Brenda tel 745761

1 SKENE GIRLS BRIGADE

This session so far we have had a few new girls from P1-P3 which is great, the more the merrier, we have no waiting list. We held our Annual Body Shop Party on Monday 19 November 6-7.30pm, which was well attended and good fun as well as raising funds for the Company. We also had our trip to the Inverurie Panto on Monday 17 December, where we had front row seats, and the evening got us all into the Christmas spirit, adults and children. This next three months are very busy for us as we have competitions and displays in Aberdeen as well as th our own Open Night on Monday 25 March. Any enquiries please feel free to call Mrs Fiona Cumming (Captain) 01224 741576 or 07792 471199
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POEM FROM SALLY LEIPER A Little Hill It surely was an afterthought When the Deeside hills were made But I could lift my eyes to it, Each time I needed aid. Its just a very little hill. A hillock, a bump, or less. But to sit and to look at the view from there, Was a certain cure for stress. I could sit and absorb the silence there, In that lovely, blessed place. For even a little hill will do, When you seek Gods peace and grace SKENE COMMITTEE OF MACMILLAN CANCER SUPPORT
A ceilidh, featuring music by The Lochnager and other artists, was held at the Milne hall, Kirkton of Skene th on Saturday, 17 November. Thanks to all those who attended, to the companies who donated so generously to our raffle and to all who supported this event. The fantastic sum of 1,975 was raised. During the past year the committee have raised almost 19,000 through events, sponsor money, donations from individuals and various collections. The committee are very grateful for all the support given to Macmillan and to each person who helped raise this amount for such a worthwhile cause. As a local committee we are able to route this money for the benefit of the Grampian area. Our committee will meet shortly to plan this years events. If you can help in any way, please contact Kath on 01330 860226 Kath MacBeath

ECO CONGREGATION
What is Earth Hour?
Earth Hour is a worldwide event organized by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and held towards the end of March annually, encouraging households, businesses and organisations to turn off their non-essential lights for one hour to raise awareness about the need to take action on climate change. The event, first took place in 2007, when 2.2 million residents of Sydney, Australia participated by turning off all non-essential lights. Following Sydney's lead, many other cities around the world adopted the event in 2008. In 2011, Earth Hour saw hundreds of thousands of people across 135 countries switch off for an hour. But it also marked the start of something new going Beyond the Hour to commit to lasting action on climate change. In 2012, Earth Hour celebrated its largest event to date with more than 6,950 cities and towns in 152 countries and territories switching off their lights, and with hundreds of thousands of people accepting an IWIYW (I Will If You Will) challenge to take their commitment to the planet beyond the hour. With the power of social networks used to promote the campaign, Earth Hour is working towards an interconnected global community committed to creating a more sustainable planet.

When does Earth Hour take place in 2013?

Earth Hour 2013 will be held on Saturday 23 March between 8.30PM and 9.30PM

Earth Hour in Westhill

Skene Parish Church held a Candlelight Earth Hour Service in Trinity Church last year in 2012, joining hundreds of thousands of people across the world in celebration. This year, on March 23, we encourage you to take part in this amazing worldwide initiative and switch off non- essential lights and electrical items for just that one hour in your own homes!!

Find out more about Earth Hour

Visit the Earth Hour website and view the 2013 earth hour video clip and take part in the interactive activities offered there - http://www.earthhour.org

LETTING OF FACILITIES AT TRINITY CHURCH

Information on booking Trinity Church should be directed to the Letting Convener, Elizabeth Gray. (tel 740414).

THE CHURCH MAGAZINE

Material for the next edition of the magazine must be in by Monday 15 April 2013. This can be handed in to Donald Wallace, 5 Lawsondale Terrace, Westhill, or to the Church Secretary at Trinity Church Office on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. We would love to hear from any of our members young or not so young how about sending us something for the next edition! Material endorsed Church Magazine may also be sent by e-mail to doneli@tiscali.co.uk Some editing of material may be necessary, depending on the amount of space available. th The magazine will be available for uplifting by the delivery team on Sunday 5 May.

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LENT Lent is a time for taking our bearings on our journey with god, so that we can continue on our way less frustrated and more at peace, less grumpy and more content, less down cast and more joyful. The purpose of lent is to set us free from ourselves and so discover the joy of god which Jesus promises to give to his followers. (G. Hughes)

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Apart from the Church Services each week (Trinity Church at 10.00am and Skene Church at 11.15am) and the regular meetings of Church organisations, the programme for the next few months is: February th Wednesday 6 th Wednesday 6 th Sunday 24 March rd Sunday 3 Wednesday 6 Sunday 10
th th

Afternoon Tea Service Prayer and Pudding Messy Church Sacrament of Holy Communion Afternoon Tea Communion Service Sacrament of Holy Communion Action Group Party Action Group Party Messy Church Girls Brigade Open Night Annual Stated Meeting and Candlelit Service Action Group Daffodil Tea Souper Sunday Afternoon Tea Service Aberdeen Orpheus Choir Guild Fayre Afternoon Tea Service

Trinity Church Trinity Church Trinity Church Trinity Church Trinity Church Skene Church Trinity Church Trinity Church Trinity Church Trinity Church Trinity Church Echt Church Trinity Church Skene Church Trinity Church Trinity Church

2.00pm 7.00pm 4.00pm-6.00pm 10am & 7.00pm 2.00pm 9.30am & 11.15am

Friday 22 rd Saturday 23 th Sunday24 th Monday 25 Wednesday th 27 April th Saturday 20 Sunday 28 May st Wednesday 1 Friday 17th June st Saturday 1 June th Wednesday 5
th

nd

4.00pm-6.00pm 7.00pm 2.00pm 4.00pm 2.00pm 7.30pm 2.00pm-4.00pm 2.00pm

Please check the church website www.skeneparish.com - the church notice boards - or the Sunday Intimations or for any additions or updates to the diary of events.

Andrew Philip Ian Sutherland Serenity Nails Storie, Cruden and Simpson John S Findlater Signal, School of Motoring John Mullen Joinery Cake Creations by Homewood Nicol of Skene Duncan Bathrooms Graham Christie

FM Construction D J Ritchie Plumbing MMC Motor Services Maxs Classic Italian Kinnons Garage Berridale Funeral Home Crescent Cars Westhill Westhill Garage Ltd Westhill Service Station I W & M Masson

This magazine is now hand-delivered to 4,900 households in Westhill & Skene by our dedicated volunteers. If you would like to advertise or know someone who does then please contact Rosanna, 01224 742512, or e-mail:

skeneparish@mail.com

www.skeneparish.com
Skene Parish Church SC009462
This issue is printed by Johnston Reid