News in Brief

Shindig 3

A disappointingly small number of members turned out to enjoy the third Annual Shindig on 17 December 2005.

Following Mike Frew's departure, it was felt that life should continue as normal, and Session had agreed that a congregational party should be held, as in the previous two years. Although there had been plenty of time for folk to be made aware of the Shindig, only about two dozen actually attended. The group who had taken on the responsibility for organising the event were, nevertheless, pleased at the response of those who were there.

There was quality, if not quantity in the participation in games, dancing and carol singing - the latter ably conducted by locum minister Susan Cowall. A demonstration of three Scottish Country dances by Lucia Pessina was enjoyed by all.

Ring that Bell

After many months of silence, St John's bells are being rung again to call the folk of Carluke to worship. A group of young people from LInK were approached to ring the bell and they agreed with enthusiasm.

Vacancy Timeline

16 January 2006 - Kirk Session are informed that St John's is to be allowed to call a new minister "without restriction".

6 February 2006 - Kirk Session meets with Presbytery Advisory Committee.

19 February 2006 - Kirk Session meets to attest the role of those members and adherents eligible to vote for a new minister.

6 March 2006 - Congregational Board meets to complete the Vacancy Schedule

19 March 2006 - Congregational meeting after morning worship to appoint a Nominating Committee, to be responsible for the advertising of the vacancy, consideration of applicants and selecting a single candidate for the approval of the congregation

The work of the Committee is strictly confidential, but the congregation will be kept fully informed through Sunday bulletins, the church website and future editions of St John's News.

Meanwhile, we are all asked to pray for God's guidance of the work of the Committee