Welcome to our Church

Sunday Service 11.30am

DIARY / ROTA

Sunday Service :Every Sunday 11.30am - Taken By Rev. Robert Malloch

The Minister is available by phone :01738 583727 or by email : rojama@live.com

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December at Methven Church 3rd 11:30am Sunday Worship 10th 11:30am Sunday Worship 17th 11:30am Congregation led Nativity worship of reading and carols 24th 11:30am Sunday Worship 11:15pm Watchnight carols at Almondbank Church 25th 10:30am Christmas day celebration for all ages at Almondbank Chuch 31st 11:30am Sunday Worship

Worship

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Services June 2023 - June 2024 11.30am

Communion Services 11.30am in April 2023 and 11.30am in October 2023

The church has an Induction Loop system for those who are hard of hearing . A ramp is available on request to door duty people

A relaxed friendly, Bible based worship and praise time at which all ages all are welcome whether regularly or occasionally or as visitors to the area. Afterwards all welcome at tea / coffee fellowship time in the hall.

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Methven Through the Ages

An Introduction

Village, Parish and People, Notables, Roads and Churches Castles

Through the Ages

Neolithic 1433 - 1690 1693 - 1840 1843 - 1950 1951 - Present

Futher Information, illustrations and maps appear in:

"The Parish Church" by the Rev. R. Fowler "Methven Castle" by the Very Rev. P. M. Smythe "Historic Walk" with maps

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Diary and Duty Rotas

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Month Date Event

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DATE PERSON 1 PERSON 2 PERSON 3

DOOR DUTY

LECTORS

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MINISTRY OF FLOWERS

March April May June

CHURCH AND HALL CLEANING ROTAS

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CHURCH

Hymn Requests If you would like to hear a favourite hymn on a Sunday please give Robert, the Minister, a note of: 1 the number of the hymn (or opening line) 2 your name. Please give at least a week’s notice. The minister will incorporate requests when appropriate for the service theme

24th May JOINT SERVICE IN ALMONDBANK with Soup Lunch after Service

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Finance Committee update. We are nearing the end of the financial year and the Finance Committee felt that this year an update would be appropriate. Until exact figures can be calculated the extent of this year’s financial position will be unknown. It is however possible to gauge how things will be. The ability of the church to meet the accounts due as they have been presented is purely down to the tremendous commitment that a large number of our members have given to continuing their givings even though services have sadly been postponed meantime. Our situation would have been dire had this not happened. Our appeal to everyone is where possible and manageable please continue with these invaluable donations. This must only be done however while circumstances will allow. If on the other hand there is anything we (the church family) can do for you or someone close to you please contact someone within this church family. As a relatively accurate generalisation the finances are in reasonable condition and probably not much worse that if it had been a normal year. This is due entirely to you all and the Finance Committee would like to express their utmost thanks for all your efforts. For anyone unsure of where to send any donations, here is a reminder. Direct Transfer or Standing Order to :- Bank of Scotland, King Edward Street, Perth. – Sort Code 80-91-28 Methven & Logiealamond Church - Account No., 00535728 OR Deliver cash or cheque to David Keay (Treasurer) 42a Main Street, Methven. Perth. PH1 3PU OR Telephone David Keay on 01738 840853; Mobile - 07708724989 and I will arrange collection. My sincere thanks. David

Contact Information

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The MinisterMinister: Rev Robert Malloch Tel: 01738 583 727 Email:

Session Clerk: Russell Mann Email : sessionclerk@methvenchurch.org

Location of Methven Church (PH1 3PF) Show in Google Maps From Crieff: Turn left on the A85 at The Bell Tree Inn and the Church will be directly in front. From Perth: Turn Right on the A85 at The Bell Tree Inn just after the Convenience Store on the right. Church will be directly in front. Parking: On street parking by the Church Hall or on Lynedoch Road is available The Parish Manse is Located in Pitcairngreen Find the Manse on Google Maps From Almondbank follow the Bridgeton Road to Pitcairngreen and Go round the green to the left. Veer left passing the road to Moneydie on the right. The Manse is approx 20metres on the right. Tel No 01738 583217

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Youth space - Almondbank church will be open for pupils from P7 – S6, Monday to Friday July 8 – 12, and August 5 – 9, 1:30 – 4:00pm, , last entry 3:30pm. Meet and chat with your friends, and also available will be Table- tennis, Pool, Air hockey, Table football, X- box, Board games – free,

The Link

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The Link is the Methven Church Newsletter It is published quarterly in March, June, September and December Articles for the Link should be submitter to the Session Clerk until an Editor is appointed Tel: 01738 840273

You may download the current issue of the link here

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Our churches are at the heart of the Parishes both physically and spiritually. We are seeking a minister to lead and nurture the congregations and help us develop our outreach within the Communities

Almondbank Tibbermore linked with Methven & Logiealmond Church of Scotland

Location The four parishes are situated in the heart of the highly sought after County of Perthshire. The City of Perth, being fifteen minutes from the Manse, has a Theatre, Concert Hall, two Retail Parks and a good variety of speciality shops. There is a good selection of Hotels and Restaurants. The City and surrounding area has excellent sporting facilities for all ages. Introduction St Serf’s Church in Almondbank was built in 1905 for a united free congregation. Then in 1929 the reunion between established and free churches brought St Serf’s into the Church of Scotland where it was given full parish status after World War II. In 1977 St Serf’s Parish Church was united with Tibbermore Parish Church to become Almondbank Tibbermore Parish Church. The origins of the present church in Methven go back to the Collegiate Church founded in 1433. The Church was modernised in the late 18th century and consecrated in 1783. In 1826 the Lynedoch Aisle was added along with the steeple (built by public subscription) Methven united with Logiealmond Parish Church in 1995 to become Methven and Logiealmond Parish Church. In 2007 the two congregations at Almondbank Tibbermore and Methven Logiealmond were formally linked. Additional history can be found on the two Churches’ websites. Governance Almondbank Tibbermore Church is administered in accordance with the terms of the Deed of Constitution with members of the Kirk Session and Congregational Board as the charity trustees. There are currently 16 elders and 13 board members. Since 2008 Methven and Logiealmond has been governed by a unitary constitution with a business committee. There are four specialised committees consisting of Worship, Fabric and Finance, Caring for Others and Communication. Both sessions are forward thinking and open to new ideas. Elders assist with pastoral duties, visiting communicants in allocated districts.

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Our Worship Both churches use CH4 and the Good News Bible. Volunteers take the readings and in addition, many members are willing to share their talents by participating in a variety of ways in worship. An Elders led service is held annually in both churches. Regular prayer meetings are held after the services fortnightly. Weekly attendance averages 50 in Almondbank and 35 in Methven with the numbers increasing for Communion. Services are alternated annually in June at 10.00am and 11.30am, but both churches have chosen different times for special occasions in the Christian calendar. Joint services take place on the last Sunday of the month during the Summer, alternating monthly. Both churches have an induction loop and microphone system. Almondbank Tibbermore Church has an LCD projector system which provides the opportunity for more visual input to services and also to have the hymns projected onto the screen. Sunday School life in both parishes is blessed with enthusiastic staff and parental support, but has sadly declined over the last 9 years and there is an opportunity for the correct minister to reverse this trend and to re-introduce informal family services to both congregations. Methven and Logiealmond Parish Church has an active Sunday School. The age group is 3 – 12. In recent years the number of children attending fluctuates between 7 – 15. It has been run for a number of years by two enthusiastic leaders who are committed to teaching the children the Gospel with the encouragement and support of the Minister and the Congregation. Crafts, skits and singing take up most of the lesson. The Sunday School is present in the Church for the first two hymns, prayer, reading and the children’s address / all age talk from the Minister. An important part of the children’s learning is to occasionally participate in the Church service, individually or as a group, taking a reading, performing a skit or singing. The past five years have seen the Sunday school children perform the most fantastic singing based nativities with as little as 8 children.

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Church and Community Outreach Almondbank Tibbermore The replacement of the pews in the church with removable chairs several years ago enables the building to be utilised for various events organised not only by the congregation, but also the wider community. The Ladies Group [a member group of the Church of Scotland Guild] attracts 25 members meeting on the first Thursday evening from October to May. Their programme follows national guidelines and appeals to the range of ages which attend. Their annual summer trip is open to others in the wider community. There is a Craft Group which meets on a Monday afternoon and the Wee Blether meets on a Thursday morning. Social events include theatre trips and a Christmas meal all of which are attended by members from Methven Logiealmond and the wider community. Annually, both a Summer Fete and Christmas Fayre are held which are well supported by the local community and boost Church funds. A soup lunch is organised yearly in support of Christian Aid and held in Almondbank Tibbermore, assisted by members from Methven Logiealmond. Occasional Flower Festivals, concerts, ceilidhs and harvest suppers are held and are well attended by local residents and the wider community. Other fundraising events are held both for Church funds and other charitable organisations. Rainbows and Brownies use the Church facilities for their weekly meetings. Thinking Day and dedication service are held annually. A Parish Magazine (The Bridge) is published twice a year and distributed to all church members.

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Church and Community Outreach Methven Logiealmond Methven Community Outreach in latter years has not been very successful having lost its Women’s Guild. This was due to the lack of members willing to rotate the office bearing roles. There has also been a lack of social events connected to the Church recently. However, with a more open arms attitude to the local community and some encouragement this trend could be reversed. The Friendship Club meets in the Church hall each month from March to December and is well attended by a very appreciative membership. Organised outings are arranged during the summer months. A Summer Holiday Club for children, run by volunteers, is well supported. A Parish Magazine (The Link) is published quarterly and includes all church reports and duty rotas, as well as any relevant local information. Schools There are 4 primary schools covering the area, with senior pupils attending Perth Grammar School. Pitcairn Primary School in Almondbank has a roll of 80. Ruthvenfield Primary School has a roll of 61 pupils. Methven Primary School has a roll of 120. Logiealmond Primary School, with a roll of 12, is situated near to the hamlet of Harrietfield. Ministers have regular weekly input to the 4 primary school assemblies as part of their school curriculum.

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Our Communities and Amenities ALMONDBANK : One of the major employers within Perth and Kinross is Vector Aerospace, situated in Almondbank. A small industrial estate at nearby Lochty houses around 15 units and adjacent to this lies a thriving Honeypot children’s nursery. The historic Huntingtower Castle [National Trust] and Huntingtower Hotel, both lie in the parish of Almondbank Tibbermore and cater for a large number of weddings and tourists. Also nearby is Dobbies Garden Centre and a Travelodge with adjacent Glover Arms restaurant. A considerable portion of the parish is given over to agriculture, however a large housing development and new secondary school are now underway at Bertha Park. 3,000 houses are scheduled to be completed over the next ten years. A further housing development is due to commence on the site of the old Perth Mart adjacent to Dobbies Garden Centre. The cricket/football pitch on the banks of the River Almond has been used regularly by local football teams. However, due to flood prevention works this facility is currently unavailable. The work is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2018 and will include a new sports pavilion. Almondvalley Bowling Club, situated next to the cricket/football pitch, celebrated its centenary in 1987and is still a thriving and well supported club. Their clubhouse is made available for functions from time to time. There is a sub post office and local store located within the village. Pitcairngreen: The Church Manse is located here. There are village greens and a hall, managed by a Village Association, where a variety of local events are held including music festivals and community barbeques. There is also a popular village Inn with a restaurant. West Huntingtower: The Bield Christian Centre is situated at Blackruthven which lies half a mile from the A85. There is a veterinary hospital situated on the approach to West Huntingtower. Tibbermore: This is a linear village. Tibbermore Parish Church was acquired by the Scottish Redundant Churches Trust in 2001 to prevent it from falling into decay. The church was recently used as part of the film set for the television programme Outlander. Gloagburn Farm, within the village, has a thriving farm shop and restaurant.

Parish Profile

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METHVEN: A growing community with new houses being built and plans for more to come. It is surrounded by farm land and has a timber business. There is light industry and an area designated for further industrial use. There is a kitchen and bathroom showroom, three garages and is very well served with facilities on the main street which include a busy Post Office / General Store, Chemist, Coffee Shop and Convenience Store. A restaurant / bar, Fish and Chip Shop, Indian Restaurant along with a part-time Doctor’s Surgery are located within the village. There is a thriving bowling green and a community centre used for badminton, other village activities and meetings. The park is managed by a park committee and has tennis courts, football pitches and a play park area. The annual Methven Gala Day is held there. There are two independent secondary schools in the area – Morrison’s Academy in Crieff and Glenalmond College situated 4 miles north of the village. A children’s nursery is housed within the local authority primary school buildings. Logiealmond: is an upland farming and residential area. Harrietfield: This is a hamlet in the centre of the Logiealmond district where the former Logiealmond Church is situated. Chapelhill: Situated further east, has a village hall providing activities including indoor bowling, dancing and concerts. The local Scottish Women’s Institute also use the hall for their monthly meetings. Chapelhill Inn is close by and is a very popular licensed restaurant

Surrounding agricultural area

Harrietfield and Logiealmond

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Our Resources Almondbank owns a Church, a Church Hall incorporated within the Church and a Manse. Methven has a Church with a separate Church Hall. With funds held in 121 George Street, Edinburgh, there is a feeling in the community that money could be spent on one or the other of the buildings to try to create a more multi-functional building. The Manse, situated in Pitcairngreen, is a bungalow built circa 1980 and consists of a large lounge / dining area, master bedroom with ensuite, 3 further bedrooms, family bathroom, kitchen, utility room and study/office. There is a well-established garden, garage and large parking facilities. Almondbank Tibbermore Church is financially sound and able to fulfil all obligations. In addition, local and national charities are supported throughout the year. Finances in Methven on a day-to-day basis have not added up for two or three years now, but there is a feeling that this can be overcome with some inspiration and effort from all involved. A Ceilidh is currently being organised with all proceeds going towards Church funds. Our Vision and Aims youth work in both villages, liaising with community workers. increase the number of children attending Sunday School. revitalise the church in Methven and Logiealmond while maintaining the impetus in Almondbank Tibbermore. to see a ministry shared both with local talent and outreach to neighbouring parishes. to build a more honest and open relationship with effective communication between the linked churches. to see our Churches becoming a mix of all ages working together and developing spiritually.

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Our Future We are looking for a Minister who: has the ability to lead worship which transforms and uplifts the congregation through words and music. has experience in the workplace outside the church values the countryside community life will take an active interest in church and village activities We feel it is essential that a Minister would: lead worship (utilising a variety of styles) at two services each Sunday be involved in the local community and schools foster the development of the church with children of all ages continue to encourage the prayer life of the congregation provide, along with elders and others the appropriate pastoral support to all in the parish be realistic with goals and ensure good time management We, as partners, will: be supportive of progressive ideas give prayerful as well as practical support travel together to attain our vision thereby growing spiritually

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The following are a few points of interest about nearby Perth City Won City status in 2012 Good transport connections for road, rail and bus Aviva HQ in Scotland Proud winner of Perth in Bloom competitions 4 secondary schools with strong musical and academic traditions Perth College University of Highlands & Islands St Johnstone Football Club Crematorium serving the local area Hospitals and prison A good variety of speciality shops and restaurants and two retail parks An acclaimed Concert Hall and long established repertory theatre which also caters for amateur musical/drama groups along with a very popular Youth Theatre Multi-plex Cinema Sports halls, leisure complexes, (incorporating swimming pools, health suite and gymnasium), and an ice rink which hosts international curling events. The indoor bowls arena within the ice rink also hosts international competitions. Modern multi-media Library with mobile facility to villages Regular Farmer’s Markets are held throughout the year Spectacular attractions at Christmas time Annual Kilt Run and other fundraising runs around the North Inch Nearby Scone Place and Scone Racecourse Perth Festival of the Arts, Perthshire Musical (Competition) Festival and Perth All Scotland Accordion & Fiddle Festival are held annually attracting a wide range of well-known artistes and competitors. Three golf course in the City and several others nearby

Kirk Session

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The church is managed by a group of Trustees called elders and chaired by the minister. They meet regularly with friends who support them from the congregation and the parish. We have divided up the management duties into 5 areas: Caring for Others Fabric and Finance (link toActivities Fabric page; separate link to Activities Finance page Communications The perpetuating challenge nowadays is to keep in touch with our members and the folk we hope will join us to hear the Good News as well as join us for fellowship. The website is a tentative start in a new medium but our church newsletter “The Link” is the other way we try to keep people informed and sometimes even amused or educated. Should you wish to contact us see the contacts page Worship The church is part of the Church of Scotland and is linked to the parish of Almondbank Tibbermore. The Scottish Charities registration number is SC010807

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Fabric & Finance

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FABRIC The Fabric Convenor and his team have had a busy maintenance year with running repairs regularly done. The Vision exercise suggested that the priority is to upgrade the kitchen and provide an office facility. However the Church in the Community group has to finish the feasibility stage of a central facility in the village. FINANCE As we hope for an end to the credit crunch the finances of the church are under constant scrutiny. Appeals have been made for folks to review their givings and we are delighted that some have ensured their offerings come under the Gift Aid scheme. If you would like a leaflet or a chat about what Gift Aid means to the church email the session clerk or speak to our Treasurer. The good news is that any appeal for charities is well supported in our church and village so that we have been able to send donations to the new Palliative Centre at Cornhill House PRI, Christian Aid and Poppy Scotland.

Caring for Others

The principle aims of this group are Pastoral Care, Social Activities, and Fellowship. The committee holds their meetings on Monday evenings in the Church hall every month. They are very proactive and eager to discuss ways to promote our Church in the community, through visits, or cards to the sick and housebound, entertainment and eats by the Social Committee. Fellowship takes place in the Manse, discussing parts of the Bible over a cup of tea with the Minister every second Sunday evening. The committee, are in the process of creating a Welcome Pack, which we hope will be beneficial to all families who have recently settled within our parish. We as a team have collated, as much information as possible, which we hope, will make the transition to a different location easier. The Friendship Club Committee, hope to encourage all to come along to our Open Afternoon on the 31st of March, in the Church hall at 2:00pm to have a blether over a cup of tea, and to let us know what you would like on the last Wednesday of every month, and what we can hope to provide for you. Members of the committee will deliver flyers round the Village in the near future.

The perpetuating challenge nowadays is to keep in touch with our members and the folk we hope will join us to hear the Good News as well as join us for fellowship. The website is a tentative start in a new medium but our church newsletter “The Link” is the other way we try to keep people informed and sometimes even amused or educated. Should you wish to contact us see the contacts page.

Communication

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LENT WEEK Two John 19 Pilate had a notice prepared and fastened to the cross. It read: JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS. 20 Many of the Jews read this sign, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and the sign was written in Aramaic, Latin and Greek. Even though it probably means changing the law, the UK government is seeking to drastically cut foreign aid support. Also because of Covid, many charities expect a severe drop in donations. During Lent, rather than suggesting giving up chocolate or wine or anything else, I offer the idea of giving up a few minutes of your week to be reminded and encouraged that good work in Christ’s name is still being done. Through Lent we are focussing on the needs of different peoples. Each Wednesday a different charity will be highlighted. Of course any would be pleased to receive a donation to their work or your prayers or both. This week the work of Wycliffe Bible Translators We are a member of the Wycliffe Global Alliance, and partner with organisations worldwide in working towards universal access to the Bible. The full Bible is now available in close to 700 languages, and the New Testament in over 1,500 languages. But with 1.5 billion people still without access to the full Bible in the language that speaks to them best, our vision of universal access is far from a reality, and the need for translation remains as great as ever. Selections and stories are available in a further 1,160 other languages, spoken by 458 million people. How many languages still need translation? There are currently 3,945 languages with no Scripture. 167 million people, speaking 2,014 languages, still need translation work to begin. 1 in 5 people, speaking 6,656 languages, do not have a full Bible in their first language. Wycliffe Bible Translators was founded in 1953. Currently we have over 360 people from the UK and Ireland serving over 470 million people speaking over 350 languages in over 70 countries. The very first Wycliffe members from the UK worked with people groups in South America, following the lead of Wycliffe US members. It wasn’t long, however, before UK members started to concentrate more of their efforts on Africa and unreached people groups there. Now, while UK members still maintain a strong focus on Africa, our member base is increasingly spread across more of the world. Over the years, methods have shifted from British members going and translating the Bible for language communities, to our members coming alongside language communities and working in partnership with local colleagues, assisting mother-tongue speakers to translate the Bible themselves. Our tools and methods have also changed over the years – while paper and pencil are still useful in very early stages for making notes on the sounds that make up a language, laptops, specialist translation software and high-speed internet that allows for real-time communication over long distances can make all the difference in today’s Bible translation projects. You can copy and paste the link into your browser for short videos https://youtu.be/3L7k9JH_imo https://youtu.be/6N_S6IpCcbo More encouraging stories at https://www.wycliffe.org.uk

LENT WEEK ONE Psalm 82 How long will you defend the unjust, and show partiality to the wicked? Defend the weak and the fatherless, uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; Even though it probably means changing the law, the UK government is seeking to drastically cut foreign aid support. Also because of Covid, many charities expect a severe drop in donations. During Lent, rather than suggesting giving up chocolate or wine or anything else, I offer the idea of giving up a few minutes of your week to be reminded and encouraged that good work in Christ’s name is still being done. Through Lent focussing on the needs of different peoples. Each Wednesday a different charity will be highlighted. Of course any would be pleased to receive a donation to their work or your prayers or both. This week the work of Tearfund Tearfund is a Christian charity which partners with churches in more than 50 of the world’s poorest countries. We tackle poverty and injustice through sustainable development, by responding to disasters and challenging injustice. We believe an end to extreme poverty is possible. Thousands of people needlessly suffer and die every day because of poverty. But that’s not God’s plan for the world. And God is calling you – all of us – to reach out to people in greatest need. We partner with local churches and organisations who have a crucial role to play in the places worst affected by poverty. Our mission is to follow Jesus where the need is greatest. We want to see a world restored to how God intended by releasing people trapped in poverty, through the actions of Christians and churches. So that they can fulfil their God-given potential and live life to the full.. In more than 50 years, we’ve helped vast numbers of communities to be transformed. Between 2006 and 2016, we calculated that Tearfund reached 32 million people through our community development projects, and 13 million people benefitted from our disaster response work We’ve supported people on the brink of disaster to become resilient to shocks, self-sufficient and empowered, boldly speaking up for their rights. We know our approach works. We want to take it to the next level and we invite you to join us. Last year... +1m people reached through our response to disasters 2.4m people reached through community development work +15,000 churches mobilised If you copy and paste into your browser you will find two very short videos of their work. https://vimeo.com/508883266/2bd0ba7717 https://vimeo.com/505742473/e0f0eb6106 Many encouraging stories found at Tearfund.org.

LENT WEEK Three Psalm 36 How priceless is your unfailing love. Both high and low find refuge in the shadow of your wings. Even though it probably means changing the law, the UK government is seeking to drastically cut foreign aid support. Also because of Covid, many charities expect a severe drop in donations. During Lent, rather than suggesting giving up chocolate or wine or anything else, I offer the idea of giving up a few minutes of your week to be reminded and encouraged that good work in Christ’s name is still being done. Through Lent we are focussing on the needs of different peoples. Each Wednesday a different charity will be highlighted. Of course any would be pleased to receive a donation to their work or your prayers or both. This week the work of Mission Aviation Fellowship At MAF, we believe nothing should stop people from receiving the love of God and the essentials of life – no matter how remote they are. Our vision is to see 'isolated people physically and spiritually transformed in Christ's name.' We use aviation and technology, because in many places those are the only ways to reach isolated people in need. For 75 years, MAF has been flying light aircraft over jungles, mountains, swamps and deserts. We enable more than 2,000 aid, development and mission organisations to bring medical care, emergency relief, long-term development and Christian hope to thousands of communities. Every four minutes an MAF plane is taking off or landing somewhere in the world to help eliminate the barriers to physical and spiritual transformation. Enabling partners is at the core of what we do and you can help make it possible. In today's 'connected world', the irony is that never have so many people been so isolated. Many remote communities have never heard the Gospel and are living in spiritual darkness. If a person has a medical emergency and the nearest hospital is a few days walk or an uncomfortable drive on rough roads, their prognosis is poor. When natural disasters, conflict or famine strike hard-to-reach places, an aircraft may be the only safe way to reach the people on the ground You can copy and paste the link into your browser for a short video https://youtu.be/0y2S4sX73Ug Many encouraging stories found at https://www.maf-uk.org

LENT WEEK four Psalm 95 Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. 2 Let us come before him with thanksgiving, and extol him with music and song. Even though it probably means changing the law, the UK government is seeking to drastically cut foreign aid support. Also because of Covid, many charities expect a severe drop in donations. During Lent, rather than suggesting giving up chocolate or wine or anything else, I offer the idea of giving up a few minutes of your week to be reminded and encouraged that good work in Christ’s name is still being done. Through Lent we are focussing on the needs of different peoples. Each Wednesday a different charity will be highlighted. Of course any would be pleased to receive a donation to their work or your prayers or both. This week the work of Prospects across Scotland Our aims are: To raise awareness among Christians in Scotland about the needs of people with learning disabilities. To equip churches to be more effective in how they welcome people with learning disabilities and share the good news about Jesus in a way they can understand. To provide opportunities for people with learning disabilities to take part in church and develop a relationship with Jesus. To highlight the gifts of people with learning disabilities and how they can build up the church. Where do we work? Prospects works with churches all over Scotland. Some churches try to make changes to their regular services to make them more accessible to people with learning disabilities. Other churches run a group aimed at bringing a Bible message to people with learning disabilities in an understandable way. Groups are of all shapes and sizes meeting local need. Using strong welcome, crafts, suitable space, puzzles, drama, music and singing, drinks and cake time. Copy and paste the link into your browser for a short video https://youtu.be/o8VLIg0LePE Many encouraging stories found at https://www.prospectsacrossscotland.org.uk/

Lent week 5 1John 3 17 If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion—how can God’s love be in that person? 18 Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions. Even though it probably means changing the law, the UK government is seeking to drastically cut foreign aid support. Also because of Covid, many charities expect a severe drop in donations. During Lent, rather than suggesting giving up chocolate or wine or anything else, I offer the idea of giving up a few minutes of your week to be reminded and encouraged that good work in Christ’s name is still being done. Through Lent focussing on the needs of different peoples. Each Wednesday a different charity will be highlighted. Of course any would be pleased to receive a donation to their work or your prayers or both. This week the work of CrossReach - which began 150 years ago, within the Church of Scotland and continues as the Social Care Council of the Church of Scotland, operating as CrossReach. At CrossReach we offer loving care to people of all ages who are in need of a helping hand, supporting them to live life to the full whatever their circumstances. We have been at the forefront of high quality social care for 150 years. During that time we have worked hard to understand the needs of the people who turn to us for help and with them have been at the forefront of pioneering services which have literally changed thousands of lives for the better. Today we are one of the largest care providers in Scotland, with experience across a broad range of services. CrossReach employ more than 1,800 staff and support some of the most vulnerable people in Scotland. The Services include counselling, care for older people, help with alcoholism, drug and mental health problems and assistance for homeless people and those with special learning needs. Residential care includes for elderly, dementia, children, young adults, mental health difficulties, learning disabilities. We are still growing, learning and improving, thanks to the incredible people we have the privilege to support, and all those who support us. We aim to show the practical side of our Christian faith by reflecting Christian love to those we support, through our leadership, management and working relationships. Copy and paste the links to see the very wide nature of provided services, and encouraging stories. https://www.crossreach.org.uk/our-locations https://www.crossreach.org.uk/news

Lent week 6 Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp to guide my feet, and a light for my path. Even though it probably means changing the law, the UK government is seeking to drastically cut foreign aid support. Also because of Covid, many charities expect a severe drop in donations. During Lent, rather than suggesting giving up chocolate or wine or anything else, I offer the idea of giving up a few minutes of your week to be reminded and encouraged that good work in Christ’s name is still being done. Through Lent focussing on the needs of different peoples. Each Wednesday a different charity will be highlighted. Of course any would be pleased to receive a donation to their work or your prayers or both. This week the work of the Scottish Bible Society Since 1809, we have sought, under God, to put the Bible into people’s hands and hearts. We distribute Bibles, New Testaments and other Scripture-based materials, in a range of media, in Scotland and throughout the world. Our Mission is To support Bible work globally through fundraising and partnering in a variety of ways with fellow Bible Societies within the United Bible Societies fellowship. To work with the church in Scotland to improve Biblical knowledge and understanding through meaningful engagement with the Bible and thus contributing to the growth of people’s relationship with God. To make wise use of opportunities to be advocates for the Bible in a variety of contexts within our culture so that those who are influencers recognise the value of the Bible in shaping strong and caring cultures. Copy and paste the link for a short video https://scottishbiblesociety.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Bible-2020-film-v9-FINAL.mp4 Copy and paste the link for encouraging stories https://scottishbiblesociety.org/home-old/

Lent final week Micah 6:8 He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? Many charities have or expect to report a significant downturn in donations over the past year or so. Even though it probably means changing the law the UK government is seeking to drastically cut foreign aid support. During Lent, rather than suggesting giving up chocolate or wine or anything else, I offer the idea of being reminded and encouraged that good work in Christ’s name is still being done. Of course any would be pleased to receive a donation to their work or your prayers or both. This week the work of Christian Aid. Everyone is equal in the sight of God. Yet we live in a world where poverty still persists .Poverty is an outrage against humanity. It robs people of their dignity and lets injustice thrive. But together we have the power to transform lives. For over 70 years, we’ve been standing with the poorest of our neighbours. We work in 37 countries, with people of all faiths and none, to stand up for dignity, equality and justice. Together we can create a world where everyone can live a full life, free from poverty. Our voices and actions are stronger together. And with your help, we can make an even bigger difference. We believe in life before death. We seek to follow the teaching of Jesus Christ, who commanded his followers to love their neighbour and work for a better world. We stand with the most vulnerable and excluded people of the world – both in times of crisis and for the longer term. We give people survival essentials when they are without shelter or refuge, and help them find the strength and resources they need to flourish and protect themselves from shocks and disasters. We support people to stand up for their rights and to build stable, secure lives they can enjoy living. Together with our supporters and partners, we aim: to expose poverty throughout the world, to help in practical ways to end it, to highlight, challenge and change the structures and systems that favour the rich and powerful over the poor and marginalised. Copy and paste the links for two short videos https://youtu.be/GT9JNpi0P44 https://youtu.be/xa4jC5AeAZo See https://www.christianaid.org.uk for more about their work

Groups

HISTORY

WORSHIP

DIARY & DUTY ROTAS

CONTACT

EVENTS

THE LINK

ACTIVITIES

PARISH PROFILE

The Brownies meet on Thursday evenings from 5.45 pm to 7.00 pm

The Guides meet on Tuesday evenings from 6.30 pm to 8.00 pm

The Rainbows meet on Monday evening from 6.15 pm to 7.15 pm

The Choir

Choir practice is held Jointly with Almondbank choir, meeting at Methven Church hall Fridays 7:00pm. New voices welcome - Contact Maggie Malloch for information.

HISTORY

WORSHIP

DIARY & DUTY ROTAS

CONTACT

EVENTS

THE LINK

ACTIVITIES

PARISH PROFILE

Notables, Roads & Churches Notable People. Tales of "famous folk o' Methven", apart from the Smythe & Graham families, would have to include the story of Bessie Bell & Mary Gray. In 1646, to avoid the Plague (which was killing off hundreds of folk in Perth), these two young girls "escaped" to the safety of the countryside. Regrettably for them however, one of their admirers ("a young laddie fae Monidie") Visrted them at their "hideout", with a gift - bought from a peddler from Perth. The gift appears to have been infected, as the two girls fell ill with the Plague - and died. At that time, none of the churches would bury Plague Victims in their churchyards, so a kindly local person buried them privately, on the Lednock (Lynedoch) Estate, at Dronach Haugh, on the Burn Braes (on the north side of the River Almond, to the west of Dalcrue - not 4 miles from Methven) - and erected iron railings around their graves. (The railings & graves are still to be seen today.) Much of the story of the Smythe family appears in this Introduction, under the headings "Churches" and "Castles". Of the Graham family - Thomas Graham (the third son of Thomas Graeme of Balgowan) was born in 1748. He married, in 1766, but, due to his wife's ill health, they removed to Spain, from 1780 to 1785. However, in 1787, they returned to Methven, where he purchased the small estate of Lednock (Lynedoch). Unfortunately, his wife's health deteriorated again, so, in 1790, they returned to Spain - where, in 1792, she died of consumption. Due to the disgraceful treatment by French Customs Officers, who broke open his wife's coffin, Thomas became extremely bitter against anything French - resulting in his joining the British Fleet, when it anchored in Gibraltar, in 1793. On his return to Scotland, he raised the 90th Volunteers and, in 1794, was commissioned as a Lieutenant Colonel. He was promoted to Brigadier General in 1798. By 1809, he was a Major General, and took part in the (1811) Battle of Barrossa, after which he joined the main body of Wellington's army - and took command of Wellington's "left wing" (40,000 troops) at the Battle of Vitoria (1813). He was then posted to the Netherlands, where in 1814, he joined the British Expedition and (after the defeat of Napoleon) returned home to great acclaim. For his services, he was created KB - and became Baron Lynedoch of Balgowan. He was made a full General in 1821 - and took his place in the House of Lords. Upon his death in 1843, his coffin was brought - by steamer - from his London home, to Dundee - and onwards, to rest in his mausoleum (together with both his wife and his mother), in Methven Parish Church. The Road & Rail links. As much of the parish consisted of clay soil, travelling by road in the olden days - especially in the winters of the 1700's - was even worse than it is today. However, by 1793, the new turnpike had been constructed, between Perth & Crieff, and the rather unpopular Statute Law meant that the local "voluntary" labour force no longer objected to giving their assistance in the upkeep of the minor roads & crossings. In the 1850's, the much-awaited railway from Perth was built, calling at Ruthven Road, Almondbank, Tibbermuir and Methven (station). In the 1860's, the railway was extended, from Methven (junction), to Crieff, Comrie, St.Fillans and Lochearnhead. (A branch from Crieff also went to Gleneagles, where it joined the main Perth - Glasgow line.) Sadly, by 1965, the railway had disappeared from Methven & the parish. However, although now without a railway station, the village is well provided for, via the A85 main road and an excellent, daily, Perth to Crieff bus service. The Churches. Several churches were built over the years, with the leading church, originally built as a Collegiate church,in 1433. Methven Parish Church was built in 1783 (over the site of the 1433 church) and had a spire & clock added in 1826. In 1995, part of the parish of Logiealmond was included, hence it is now Methven & Logiealmond Parish Church. Methven - An Introduction The Secession Church, built in 1753 - known as the "Back-by" church - was used as jute mill, then by Balfour's Dairy, and later as a potato store, before it was demolished. (The old building, with the outside staircase - near the Doctors' Surgery - was the "Back-by" School, which still stands.) The Independent Presbyterian Church, built in 1843, as the Mansion Neuk Chapel, became, in 1864, the Mansion Neuk Church of Scotland. Used as the Village Hall, before being "developed" it is presently without its roof. The United Presbyterian Church, built in 1847, was used (by T.Love & Co.) as a furniture store, then, later, used as the Youth Club and eventually became the Village Community Centre. The Free Church, built in 1843 (in Culdeesland) - became a hostel for potato workers and has since been demolished. The Roman Catholic Church, now disused, became an equipment store for the Boy Scouts.

Demominations