Riccarton Parish Church
21 OLD STREET KILMARNOCK, KA1 4DX

Home History Minister
Contacts Organisations Buchanan Centre

Dear Friends,

It’s hard to believe that at the end of June I will have been at Riccarton for a year. As a family we have felt very much at home since moving into the Manse. However, it does take a long time to get to really know folk.

When it comes to visiting I have made it a priority to see those with particular concerns and those who are not able to take an active part in the fellowship of the church either because of age or illness. I have managed to get round most of these that I know about, although there are still a few outstanding.

I have also been trying to do some more general visiting. Some folk have been quite surprised at me appearing when they are fit and well and don’t have a specific need for a visit. I have found these visits helpful in getting to know far more about people I see to say “Hello” to on a Sunday, but don’t know a lot more about. I think it is also important in building up my understanding of the congregation, the concerns people have, their expectations and aspirations.

I also have another personal milestone coming up, as at the beginning of July I celebrate my 50th birthday. Laura, Anna, Zoe and I would like to invite members of the congregation to join the celebration with a barbecue at the manse after the service on Sunday 29th June. We’ll have other food available, so please don’t be put off if you don’t like barbecues! As I have everything I need I don’t want any presents, but if you so wish you can make a donation to Dr Graham’s Homes, in Kalimpong, India. (see www.drgrahamshomes.co.uk )

Some of us were at the Church Without Walls National Gathering at the beginning of May. In the opening service Michelle Guinness, who comes from a Jewish background, spoke on Nehemiah 8:10, “Nehemiah said ‘Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is sacred to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.’” She spoke on how the Christian Church has lost something of that sense of celebration and partying that was so central to the life of the people of Israel. We see it in Jesus’ ministry where he enjoyed having a good time with people. Being together and just having fun does build up our sense of belonging together and gives us an opportunity to encourage each other in our faith.

May God bless you all!

Colin A. Strong