8 October 2017

WELCOME TO AYR: ST. COLUMBA CHURCH: For 115 years this building has stood at the heart of this part of our ancient Royal Burgh. It has witnessed wars, been favoured by a Royal visitor, welcomed holidaymakers, and been served by illustrious ministers, devoted musicians and dedicated members. Throughout these years, in anxious and sad times, in days of celebration and rejoicing, this Church has served the people as a place of sanctity, stability, and continuity. Today, in a society where the things of faith are often neglected, we strive to maintain an inclusive Christian presence, seeking ever to enhance the lives of everyone who comes into contact with us, and to reach out in mercy and compassion to a deeply troubled world. Here we explore and are not afraid to fail; here we are encouraged to ask questions; here we try to be a safe place for all ages. If you are here for the first time today, we pray that you will know something of God’s love in Jesus Christ, and that you will go home feeling inspired, strengthened, challenged and comforted.
AT THE DOORS TO WELCOME YOU TODAY: Team 7: Mr. Terry Swinn, Mr. Hugh Brown, Mr. Keith Fullerton, Mrs. Irene Bartholomew, Mr. Norman Reid, Mrs. Nancy Mortimer, Mrs. Jean Stewart, Mrs. Heather Fullerton, Miss Gillian Howie, Mrs. Christina Kennedy, Mr. Bob Templeton and Mr. Peter G. Macdonald.
MINISTRY OF FLOWERS: The flowers, which adorn the Sanctuary this week, have been given to the Glory of God by Mrs. Janet Wilson and Mr. and Mrs. Alan Hawthorn
SUNDAY 15 October 2017
SERVICES CONDUCTED BY THE REVD. FRASER R. AITKEN
9.30 am Family Worship                     Duty Team: 8                 Sound: Mr Alan Hawthorn
10.00 am St. Columba Kids & Bible Class
11.15 am Morning Worship                                                           Sound: Mr George McMillan

LIFE & WORK: Pre-ordered copies of the October edition are available for uplifting at the main door of the Church. There are extra copies available at both doors priced £2.50.
20’s IN THE PEWS: total collected in September is £131.90. The Kirk Session has decided to donate funds raised this year to support the work of Parkinson’s Scotland.
LIGHT PARTY – Light Party on Halloween is planned for Tuesday 31st October 6-8pm in the church halls, to welcome families from our church and from the community. This is an opportunity to offer an alternative to guising round doors, everyone is invited to a wonderful party, celebrating light in the darkness. BUT WE NEED YOU. We are looking for people with different skills: delivering leaflets, help with craft stations, running games, competitions, serving snacks, decorating the halls, and more. Names to the office if you are able to help either, on the night or preparing or delivering leaflets in advance
THE LADIES FELLOWSHIP is starting back on Monday the 9th October at 7.30. We will be entertained by the Maybole Concert Party and we are look forward to meeting again with friends old and new.
MENS ASSOCIATION: Opening Meeting Monday 9th October at 7.30pm in the Struthers Room, the Speaker is Revd Neil Urquhart subject “Getting into the Community”. Any new members can be assured of a warm welcome.
MIDTON HALL – WEEK BEGINNING MONDAY 16th OCTOBER: All organisations (except the Guild) are asked to note that the Halls will be closed this holiday week to allow the floors to be varnished.
LOCHSIDE EVENING PRAYER GROUP: Would you be interested in joining the Lochside evening prayer group, which meets on the second Thursday in the month from 6.30pm to 7.00pm in our church. If so, please come along on 13 October or contact Fiona Boyd – tel. no. 264851. You would be most welcome.

MEMBERS AND FRIENDS IN HOSPITAL THIS PAST WEEK:
AYR HOSPITAL: Mrs. Irene Skilkey (Stn. 1)
Mr Donald Irving is now resident in Templeton House
Mr. Charlie Symington is now resident in Heathfield Care Home.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
5th NOVEMBER – “A Time to Remember” –at 4p.m. A short act of worship in the Centenary Aisle, to remember loved ones who have passed away.
9th DECEMBER – Seniors’ Afternoon Tea – return Flyers are available at both doors this morning.
10th DECEMBER – Congregational Christmas Lunch – Kylestrome Hotel. The list is open and available in the Carrick Park Vestibule. If you would like to attend, please add your name to the list.

Warmest Congratulations to George and Margaret Hamilton, Carrick Gardens, Ayr who celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary last week, and to Alan and Kathleen Hawthorn, Forest Way, Ayr who celebrate their Golden Wedding this weekend.