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A message from our Interim Moderator Rev Dr Anne Logan:
This Sunday will see the start of Prisoner’s Week. This year, the theme is ‘Hear my Voice’ and we are invited ‘to listen to those affected by or working in the Justice system. That’s not just those in prison, but also their families; the people who are victims of crime; lawyers and judges; chaplains (like Rev Dr Sheena Orr, recently Interim Moderator at Balerno); the prison staff and social justice organisations, and individuals who help give voice to the unheard.’
At the end of September there were 8,274 people in prison in Scotland. At 147 people per 100,000 thousand in the population, we have one of the highest prison populations in Europe. Of those in prison on remand, 50% of men will be found ‘not guilty’ and 70% of the women on remand will be found not guilty! Around 25,000 children have a parent in prison. An astonishing 33% of Scottish men have a criminal conviction record.
The Chaplains, who are amongst the chief organisers of Prisoners Week, offer us this prayer
Lord, you offer freedom to all people.
We pray for those who are held in prison.
Break the bonds of fear and isolation that exist.
Support with your love:
prisoners, their families and friends, prison staff,
chaplains and all who care.
Heal those who have been wounded by the activities of others,
especially the victims of crime.
Help us to forgive one another.
To act justly.
To love mercy.
And walk humbly together with Christ.
In His strength and in His Spirit.
Now and every day
Amen.
If you want to know more about Prisoners Week, you will find further information and stories from prisoners and their families at https://www.prisonersweek.org.uk/home
Blessings! Anne
Worship This Sunday
Sunday 17th November - led by Rev Susan Galloway.
Intimations
Advent Study - Joint Currie and Balerno. Sunday Evenings in December. 1st, 8th, 15th, and 22nd. 7pm in Gibson Craig Hall We are using the book 'Walking Backwards to Christmas' which will be available to buy. To book a place and for more details contact: bpc-admin@balernochurch.org.uk
Walking Group - Church Walk will be on Sunday 17th November after Church. We will park on Dreghorn Loan and walk through the woods heading to Swanston Golf Club for coffee and hopefully scones. Then return for cars. The walk is roughly an hour to hour and a half. Ruth will kindly lead. We will need couple of cars please.
Any further questions either phone
Ruth Gibson 0131 449 2929 or myself.
Any news walkers would be most welcome.
Kind regards
Moira McDonald 07853228751
Guild – 19th November 2pm. Tiphereth talk by Sandy Walton.
The Guild are collecting Advent Calendars to donate to Holy Trinity Foodbank. If you wish to donate, please bring calendars to church or leave in the church office. The last day for collection is Sunday 24th November Many thanks in advance.
Louise Lamont
Fresh Start - 2024 Cookers for Christmas Appeal.
Sadly, not everyone enjoys a Merry Christmas. For those with little or no money, replacing or purchasing a cooker or other essential white goods, can be an unaffordable luxury. Money raised from this appeal, will help those in need. Thank you to all of you who already donate, (we no longer required household soft furnishings and equipment) and thank you, also to those who support the work of Fresh Start by giving financial donations.
You do make a difference to people's lives.
Christine Wilson
Choir Practice – Begins Sunday 24th November.
Kirk News – Articles to be in by Friday 22nd November.
Christmas Fayre – Please hand in all your donations!
If you want any information or need to speak to someone, please call the Kirk office (451 5141) or contact one of the Session Clerks - Louise Lamont (07910 594188) or Isobel Webber (07702784186)
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