Author: Nikki

Youth Update from Andy

Ten Years
There are so few Youth Workers in my privileged position.
I have an inspirational and understanding boss, a caring and supportive church family, abundant opportunities to share God’s love with lost teens and children, and a deep call in my heart to do that here in South Edinburgh. I count all these as a great blessing. Thank you for loving me so deeply and for welcoming my growing family to your hearts. We are delighted by your affection.

Transformers
Weekly Friday afternoon Transformers clubs continue in Burdiehouse, run by a team of volunteers led by John and Morag Ross, who share the Gospel with the local Primary School children. The Gracemount Primary School club, led by myself with help from KLM and Kirk members, has increased to fortnightly afternoon events, with more than 20 attending.
Through all the fun, games, crafts, DVDs and Dice of Danger, our prayer is still that we see children ‘transformed by the love and power of Jesus’.
Keep praying for God’s growing work.

Delta
Delta is also growing just now. Summer saw an influx of new teens through the work of Stage’n’slam and Summer Buzz (you will have seen some new faces on Sunday mornings – have you had the chance to get to know any new names yet?) These boys and girls are now enthusiastically bringing their friends along to join the fun and find out more about the Gospel’s power for them.
New members comment on how loving and non-judgemental the group is. They positively want to be a part of this new life. Please pray for over 50 to attend, for leaders to meet needs, and about how you can love and support these new and vulnerable family members.

Families
Parents met in October to discuss Liberton Kirk’s ministry to our families.
We want to support all our families effectively and to support our families as they bring their friends to church for the first time. Can I leave you with some information and some thoughts?

  1. Summer Buzz will be from August 6-13 next year (last week of the holidays)
  2. Please keep inviting new children who came to Summer Buzz back to Sunday Buzz each month
  3. Please look out for families you know at Christingle and invite them to Messy Church or Sunday Buzz in the New Year
  4. Why not relax with a coffee at Libby’s as you wait for your child to finish their Uniform Group? Share 10 minutes there with a close friend who doesn’t yet know Christ

Thank you, and God bless you all.

Andy

Passion for a change

I remember commenting on language a few years back, and how, depending on the culture of the day, certain words fall into disuse while others come into fashion. In politics or in business, for example, it is not acceptable to be ‘aggressive’ or ‘defensive’, but it’s OK to be‘robust’. Similarly, ‘zeal’ and ‘fanaticism’ in everyday life are frowned upon, but ‘passion’ is seen as worthy. If you ever find yourself getting worked up about something, your best defence is to say “I’m not getting carried away, I’m just being passionate.”

Like many of the words we use today, passion has its origins in the Christian faith. According to the Oxford on-line dictionary, ‘passion’means ‘an intense desire or enthusiasm for something’. If you dig deeper, however, you discover that its roots are the Latin word ‘passio’meaning ’to suffer’. To feel passionate is to care about something so much that it hurts, and to be willing to suffer to put it right. Jesus’ suffering is known as his ‘passion’. He cared about us so much that he was willing to die for us.

What are the things you feel passionate about? What are the things you long to see changed? This is the theme of the annual conference organised by churches in South East Edinburgh. The Guest speaker is May Nicholson – a remarkable lady. May’s book, ‘Miracles from Mayhem’*, tells the story of how God rescued her from a life of poverty and alcoholism, and set her on the path to freedom and wholeness. It also tells of how God has used her to make a difference in the lives of many others, (including our own Cammy Mackenzie).

May’s story is not only gripping, it is a story of hope in a dark world. Having suffered with the people of Ferguslie Park, Paisley, she has gone on to suffer with people on the streets of Dundee, and is currently suffering with the people of inner city Glasgow. But in all three situations God has used her to bring about change.

For the last few years the speakers at our annual conferences have been known for their knowledge and insight. This year’s speaker is known for her passion. I challenge you to come and hear May tell her story at the Faith Mission Auditorium this November**, and be challenged and inspired to do something about the things you feel passionate about. May’s example has demonstrated that, with God’s help, it is possible.

Much love

John

*Miracles from Myahem, Christian Focus Publications, 2004

** Passion for a change – a day with May Nicholson