Old High St. Stephen's, Inverness

WORSHIP THIS WEEK

Sunday 24 November 2019: Prisoners’ Week Sunday

and Gift Day for our Property Funds

10 am Congregational Communion Service at St Stephen’s

(No service at the Old High)

3pm Afternoon Communion at St Stephen’s

NEWS FROM OUR CONGREGATION – contact details from the Church Administrator

MINUTE FOR MISSION Margaret Morrison, Activities Coordinator at Cameron House, will speak about the 150th Anniversary of CrossReach today. Cameron House is a purpose-built residential care home catering for 30 older people with dementia. The home has been built around a small courtyard garden, which provides a safe and relaxing place for residents to circulate. There is also an extensive, enclosed garden with a summerhouse and greenhouse. Cameron House is the Crossreach facility in our parish, and some of our church members are part of the Friends’ Group. More information: Rae Swan and https://www.crossreach.org.uk/our-locations/cameron-house

DING DONG MERRILY OLD HIGH, our family carol service for the Inverness Christmas Lights Switch On, takes place this evening at the Old High Church at 6.30pm. Bring your children and grandchildren to celebrate the true light which comes into the world at Christmas – All Welcome! This is a major community event, which we hope everyone in the congregational will support. Details from Peter.

MINUTE FOR MISSION at Ding Dong Merrily on High. Karen Kelbie, Information and Support Officer with the charity “Children in the Highlands Information Point Plus (CHIP+) will come along to talk about the Charity and there will be an opportunity for us all to donate. CHIP+ is a Highland-wide charity providing information, advice and support to families with children with additional support needs, and the professionals who work with them. Contact Andrew Stevenson.

NEXT SUNDAY: CONGREGATIONAL COMMUNION SERVICE AND GIFT DAY The Kirk Session has decided to hold a Gift Day, so that members and friends of the Congregation can make a contribution directly to our Fabric Fund, which is used to look after our buildings. This will be next Sunday 24 November, a Sunday when we all worship together at our Congregational Communion Service (at St Stephen’s). Will will issue enevlopes next week, and you can bring them along to the service on 24 November, or on further Sundays if you are not there. Please remember to Gift Aid your contribution if you are able to! Many thanks, in advance, for your generosity. Details: Christine MacKenzie, Acting Session Clerk.

‘Sharing Your faith’ We have had a super response to the 4-week initiative. The groups are virtually full up, but if you still want to take part, email or phone our Mission Development Worker, Dot. There is a Sunday evening group in St Stephens’ vestry and a Tuesday afternoon group starting at ‘In This Together’ cafe round from Church Lane turn tight into Church Street both of which have now started. We hope this ‘sharing your faith’ connection will continue into 2020, so there will be another chance to join a group then. More info from Dot Getliffe.

HIGHLAND FOOD BANK have asked that from November to January we donate Cartons of long life fruit juice; Small washing powder/gel; Tins of corned beef/ham; Jam. You will also be happy to know that some of the folk who use St. Stephen’s hall during the week have said that they are happy to bring along small donations on a regular basis, so crates have been supplied for this at the back of the hall. Thank you again for your generosity. Margaret Neville.

FOOD FOR FAMILIES PROJECT – run by Highland Gateway (Highland Homelessness Trust) is once again being operated in 2019. We have been involved in this project from the start and have cooked many meals to help at Christmas. I have volunteered our congregation to make Mince and Tatties which is the true spirit of the project. During the last 8 years of the project over 2,500 meals have been provided to families in need by churches and other organisations and its humbling to know that this is needed in the 21st Century. I need people to cook week commencing 2 December and week commencing 6 January. If you are able to help please let me know, and also advise me of the day/s you can help. It is not onerous – they usually provide enough food to make about 10 or so meals and I can get everything to you and you can either deliver the food to Church Street or they will collect it. It’s always great to do something like this at this busy time before and after Christmas knowing that those in need are being helped in the best possible way. Please let me know what date suits you best by 25 November. Christine MacKenzie, Acting Session Clerk.

Minute for Mission Margaret Morrison from Cameron House will speak about the 150th Anniversary of CrossReach today. Rae Swan.

CRAFT EVENING St Stephen’s Hall 7.30–9pm, Wednesday 20 November. Crafters and non-crafters welcome (you may wish to learn a craft). Friendly atmosphere and refreshments provided Susan MacLeod.

AFTERNOON COMMUNION on Sunday 24 November at 3pm in St Stephen’s Church. A shorter celebration of Communion, particularly for any older or less able folks who may prefer a shorter service at this later time of day. However, any others who are unable to come in the morning are of course warmly invited to join. Tea will be served afterwards by members of the Pastoral Care Team. Transport, particularly for any older or less able folks, is being arranged. Please contact Janet Robertson.

Christmas Fair Saturday 30 November 2019 at St Stephen’s Hall, 10am to 12 noon. Please come along for coffee and a chat. Baking, Christmas crafts, Tombola etc. Tickets £3. Further details from Susan MacLeod. See you there!

OHSS Magazine editor Willie Morrison urgently requires articles and photos for the December issue. Please submit whatever you can, as early as possible. The deadline is Friday 29 November.

Old High Church Opening The Old High Church Opening Programme for 2019 finished on 31 October. A total of 6,611 visitors were welcomed into the church this year, a real achievement as there were fewer opening sessions because of other events. Sincere thanks to the enthusiastic Team of Volunteers who gave up their time to meet the visitors, and to the people who prayed for the Church Opening. Thank you also to the hidden Volunteers who copied, folded and stapled the information leaflets. Sheila MacLeod.

GIVING TREE will be in the East Corridor at the Old High Church from Sunday 1 December 2019. We will be providing gifts for homeless people in Inverness and it has been suggested that any of the following items would be appreciated: gloves, hats, scarves, underwear or toiletries. A little extra such as a Mars bar or some sweets would be a nice surprise. Gateway have advised that at present there are ladies and gentlemen who are homeless. Additional gifts would be appreciated for unexpected situations. Gifts labels will be available on the tree and indicate whether the gift is for a male or a female. Please take a label and attach it to your wrapped parcel. Wrapped gifts should be returned by Sunday 15 December. For further information please contact Sheila MacLeod or Liz McKimmie. (Information about the St Stephen’s giving tree coming shortly!).

ADVENT MEAL Come along on Sunday 8 December at 6.30pm, at the Old High Hall. It is hoped to share a simple meal together, incorporating a short act of worship, as part of our celebration of Advent this year. Please consider joining in with this time of fellowship – more details next Sunday. Andrew Stevenson.

OLD HIGH CHURCH REDEVELOPMENT AND CONSERVATION PROJECT We hope to have an exhibition on this ready for display at the Old High in the next week or two – watch this space!

REQUEST FOR NEW HYMNS The Worship and Education Action Team would like to extend and widen the range of hymns used in Old High/St Stephen’s in order to renew and refresh our worship. These could be from CH4 or other sources, and should also include hymns/songs that children nowadays can respond to (though it’s not just children’s hymns we are seeking!. The group invites the congregation to participate, and would be most grateful for all your ideas and suggestions. Send them to Janet Robertson. Many thanks!

CHURCH LIBRARIES We have collections of books at both the Old High Church and at St Stephen’s which are no longer in currents use, as far as we know. However, we think that some of the older books may be valuable, and we are considering selling them. However, it may be that you are interested in religious books and would like to have some. Please contact Pat MacLeod, our Church Administrator, if you would like to have a look.

SUNDAY BULLETIN Please send items for this sheet to our Church Administrator Mrs Pat Macleod (079 342 85924) invernesschurch<at>gmail.com. Deadline Wednesday at 12 noon. Please keep items as brief as possible, and include contact details and/or e-mail.

OTHER NEWS

Inverness Methodist Church LUNCH on Saturday 23 November 2019 from 12 noon to 2pm. Soup and Pudding, tea/coffee and biscuits and Craft Stall. Adults £5;  Children £3. In aid of Boys Brigade. Rosa McDermid.

CAROLS AT THE CROWN on Wednesday 4 December at 7.30pm in the Sanctuary of the Crown Church. The Inverness Singers, conductor Lila Senior, and accompanist Ian Livingstone present Songs of Christmas Old & New. Admission by Programme, priced £10 (children/students £5) available from Ken and Margaret Young in the Old High choir, or at the door on the night. Sales table at the interval. A donation from the proceeds will be made to Carr Gomm. Parking in the Crown School playground. Contact Margaret Young.

IN THE MARGINS OF THE BIBLE Do you feel excluded or marginalized by the Bible or the Church? An exhibition of LGBT art originally hosted by the Glasgow Gallery of Modern Art in 2009 looked at just this. Metropolitan Community Church are bringing part of the exhibition to Inverness as part of a new workshop. This will take place on 29th November at 7.00pm at the Old High Hall on Academy Street. All welcome. Event link: https://www.facebook.com/events/696620370828701/, or contact David Harrison.

WORSHIP THIS WEEK
Sunday 17 November 2019 : Crossreach Sunday
10 am Morning Worship at St Stephen’s
11.15am Morning Worship at the Old High
6.30pm Ding Dong Merrily Old High
All-age service at the Old High Church for the Inverness Christmas Lights Switch on
NEWS FROM OUR CONGREGATION – contact details from Church Administrator
‘SHARING YOUR FAITH’ We have had a super response to the 4-week initiative. The groups are virtually full up, but if you still want to take part, email or phone our Mission Development Worker, Dot. There is a Sunday evening group in St Stephens’ vestry beginning this Sunday (tonight) 10 November and a Tuesday afternoon group starting Tuesday 12 November at 2pm at ‘In This Together’ cafe round from Church Lane turn tight into Church Street. We hope this ‘sharing your faith’ connection will continue into 2020, so there will be another chance to join a group then. More info from Dot Getliffe.
DING DONG MERRILY OLD HIGH, our family carol service for the Inverness Christmas Lights Switch On, takes place next Sunday, 17 November at the Old High Church at 6.30pm. Bring your children and grandchildren to celebrate the true light which comes into the world at Christmas- All Welcome! This is a major community event, which we hope everyone in the congregational will support. Details from Peter.
OLD HIGH MUSIC 2019 – the final event in the programme is an organ recital on Saturday 16 November at 12 noon. Stephen Doughty, who was until recently Organist at St John’s Church at the West End in Edinburgh, gave us a magnificent performance 2 years ago. He has kindly agreed to return and will play a varied programme including a Bach Prelude and Fugue, a Handel Overture, a Schumann Canon, a Leighton Fantasy and will conclude with one of his own compositions entitled Harvest Tune. This is a recital not to be missed by those who love listening to organ music! Andrew Stevenson.
CONGREGATIONAL COMMUNION SERVICE AND GIFT DAY The Kirk Session has decided to hold a Gift Day, so that members and friends of the Congregation can make a contribution directly to our Fabric Fund, which is used to look after our buildings. This will be on Sunday 24 November, a Sunday when we all worship together at our Congregational Communion Service (at St Stephen’s). Will will issue enevlopes next week, and you can bring them along to the service on 24 November, or on further Sundays if you are not there. Please remember to Gift Aid your contribution if you are able to! Many thanks, in advance, for your generosity. Details: Christine MacKenzie, Acting Session Clerk.
HIGHLAND FOOD BANK I have received a letter of thanks from the Highland Food Bank following the Harvest weekend. Lorna Writes…”We would like to thank the members and friends of Old High St Stephen’s church for responding to our 2019 Harvest Appeal and donating an amazing 547kgs of food, and following the Harvest Fun Day the dnation of £1,100 from both congregations! Your donations will enable us to meet the ongoing need within communities across the Highlands.” I think everyone agrees that the whole event was very successful, both in the food collection throughout the week and for the outreach to the community during the weekend. What great fun was had too. Thank you so much, everyone. Lorna has asked that from November to January we donate Cartons of long life fruit juice; Small washing powder/gel; Tins of corned beef/ham; Jam. You will also be happy to know that some of the folk who use St. Stephen’s hall during the week have said that they are happy to bring along small donations on a regular basis, so crates have been supplied for this at the back of the hall. Thank you again for your generosity. Margaret Neville.
FOOD FOR FAMILIES PROJECT – run by Highland Gateway (Highland Homelessness Trust) is once again being operated in 2019. We have been involved in this project from the start and have cooked many meals to help at Christmas. I have volunteered our congregation to make Mince and Tatties which is the true spirit of the project. During the last 8 years of the project over 2,500 meals have been provided to families in need by churches and other organisations and its humbling to know that this is needed in the 21st Century. I need people to cook week commencing 2 December and week commencing 6 January. If you are able to help please let me know, and also advise me of the day/s you can help. It is not onerous – they usually provide enough food to make about 10 or so meals and I can get everything to you and you can either deliver the food to Church Street or they will collect it. It’s always great to do something like this at this busy time before and after Christmas knowing that those in need are being helped in the best possible way. Please let me know what date suits you best by 25 November. Christine MacKenzie, Acting Session Clerk.
MINUTE FOR MISSION Next Sunday Margaret Morrison from Cameron House will speak about the 150th Anniversary of CrossReach. Rae Swan.
AFTERNOON COMMUNION on Sunday 24 November at 3pm in St Stephen’s Church. A shorter celebration of Communion, particularly for any older or less folks who may prefer a shorter service at this later time of day. However, any others who are unable to come in the morning are of course warmly invited to join. Tea will be served afterwards by members of the Pastoral Care Team. Transport, as required, is being arranged. Please contact Janet Robertson.
CHRISTMAS FAIR Saturday 30 November 2019 at St Stephen’s Hall, 10am to 12 noon. Please come along for coffee and a chat. Baking, Christmas crafts, Tombola etc. Tickets £3. Further details from Susan MacLeod. See you there!
OHSS MAGAZINE EDITOR Willie Morrison urgently requires articles and photos for the December issue. Please submit whatever you can, as early as possible. The deadline is Friday 29th November.
OLD HIGH CHURCH OPENING The Old High Church Opening Programme for 2019 finished on 31 October. A total of 6,611 visitors were welcomed into the church this year, a real achievement as there were fewer opening sessions because of other events. Sincere thanks to the enthusiastic Team of Volunteers who gave up their time to meet the visitors, and to the people who prayed for the Church Opening. Thank you also to the hidden Volunteers who copied, folded and stapled the information leaflets. Sheila MacLeod.
GIVING TREE will be in the East Corridor at the Old High Church from Sunday 1 December 2019. We will be providing gifts for homeless people in Inverness and it has been suggested that any of the following items would be appreciated: gloves, hats, scarves, underwear or toiletries. A little extra such as a Mars bar or some sweets would be a nice surprise. Gateway have advised that at present there are ladies and gentlemen who are homeless. Additional gifts would be appreciated for unexpected situations. Gifts labels will be available on the tree and indicate whether the gift is for a male or a female. Please take a label and attach it to your wrapped parcel. Wrapped gifts should be returned by Sunday 15 December. For further information please contact Sheila MacLeod or Liz McKimmie. (Information about the St Stephen’s giving tree coming shortly!).
OLD HIGH CHURCH REDEVELOPMENT AND CONSERVATION PROJECT We hope to have an exhibition on this ready for display at the Old High in the next week or two- watch this space!
REQUEST FOR NEW HYMNS The Worship and Education Action Team would like to extend and widen the range of hymns used in Old High/St Stephen’s in order to renew and refresh our worship. These could be from CH4 or other sources, and should also include hymns/songs that children nowadays can respond to (though it’s not just children’s hymns we are seeking!. The group invites the congregation to participate, and would be most grateful for all your ideas and suggestions. Send them to Janet Robertson. Many thanks!
CHURCH LIBRARIES We have collections of books at both the Old High Church and at St Stephen’s which are no longer in currents use, as far as we know. However, we think that some of the older books may be valuable, and we are considering selling them. However, it may be that you are interested in religious books and would like to have some. Please contact Pat MacLeod, our Church Administrator, if you would like to have a look.
SUNDAY BULLETIN Please send items for this sheet to our Church Administrator Mrs Pat Macleod (079 342 85924) invernesschurch<at>gmail.com. Deadline Wednesday at 12 noon. Please keep items as brief as possible, and include contact details and/or e-mail.

WORSHIP THIS WEEK
Sunday 10 November 2019: Remembrance Sunday
10 am Morning Worship at St Stephen’s
11.15am Morning Worship at the Old High
NEWS FROM OUR CONGREGATION – contact details from the Church Administrator
MISSION DEVELOPMENT WORKER We are delighted to be welcoming Dot Getliffe today as she starts on this important new role in our congregation. Dot moved to Inverness recently when her husband’s job took them to Inverness. She has long experience with the Church of Scotland as a Deacon and has worked in many areas of Scotland, with each area bringing its own issues. She has wide experience of mission in local communities, working with congregations (most recently at Aberdeen Mannofield) and teaching (she is a former school teacher). The post, which is planned to last two years, is funded by the generous legacy of Nina Wallace. The team who selected her- Colin Craig, Malcom MacRae, Sheila MacLeod, Rev Peter Nimmo and Christine Mackenzie- are confident Dot will bring many gifts to our Congregation. We trust you will support Dot in every way, as she seeks to lead us in new ventures of outreach to the community, and also to develop a fresh mission attitude within the congregation. You will have a chance to meet Dot over coffee after the services at both St Stephen’s and the Old High, so please do stay behind today. If you have any questions, please contact Peter or Christine Mackenzie.
‘SHARING YOUR FAITH’ is an interactive fun Bible Discovery and Discussion Group which Dot will lead for us. Starts week beginning 11 November 1-2 hours at a time(s) that suits you best. Includes a cuppa and only 4-week commitment (so done by Christmas shopping time!?) Sign-up sheet and booklet can be browsed in church Sundays 3rd and 10th November. Contact Dot Getliffe.
SOUTHSIDE NURSING HOME There will be a short service, led by Jim Alexander, at Southside Nursing Home immediately after this morning’s service at St Stephen’s. If you are able to assist with the singing, or chatting to the residents, this would be much appreciated. Please speak to Jim after the service. We still also seek members willing to lead these services on a rota basis; please contact Janet Robertson.
CRAFT EVENING St Stephen’s Hall 7.30–9pm, Wednesday 6 November. Crafters and non-crafters welcome (you may wish to learn a craft). Friendly atmosphere and refreshments provided Susan MacLeod.
OLD HIGH MUSIC 2019 – the final event in the programme is an organ recital on Saturday 16 November at 12 noon. Stephen Doughty, who was until recently Organist at St John’s Church at the West End in Edinburgh, gave us a magnificent performance 2 years ago. He has kindly agreed to return and will play a varied programme including a Bach Prelude and Fugue, a Handel Overture, a Schumann Canon, a Leighton Fantasy and will conclude with one of his own compositions entitled Harvest Tune. This is a recital not to be missed by those who love listening to organ music! Andrew Stevenson.
MINUTE FOR MISSION On Sunday 17 November Margaret Morrison from Cameron House will speak about the 150th Anniversary of CrossReach. Rae Swan.
CHRISTMAS FAIR Saturday 30 November 2019 at St Stephen’s Hall, 10am to 12 noon. Please come along for coffee and a chat. Baking, Christmas crafts, Tombola etc. Tickets £3. Further details from Susan MacLeod. See you there!
OHSS MAGAZINE EDITOR Willie Morrison urgently requires articles and photos for the December issue. Please submit whatever you can, as early as possible. The deadline is Friday 29th November.
OLD HIGH CHURCH REDEVELOPMENT AND CONSERVATION PROJECT We hope to have an exhibition on this ready for display at the Old High in the next week or two- watch this space!
REQUEST FOR NEW HYMNS The Worship and Education Action Team would like to extend and widen the range of hymns used in Old High/St Stephen’s in order to renew and refresh our worship. These could be from CH4 or other sources, and should also include hymns/songs that children nowadays can respond to (though it’s not just children’s hymns we are seeking!. The group invites the congregation to participate, and would be most grateful for all your ideas and suggestions. Send them to Janet Robertson. Many thanks!
CHURCH LIBRARIES We have collections of books at both the Old High Church and at St Stephen’s which are no longer in currents use, as far as we know. However, we think that some of the older books may be valuable, and we are considering selling them. However, it may be that you are interested in religious books and would like to have some. Please contact Pat MacLeod, our Church Administrator, if you would like to have a look.
SUNDAY BULLETIN Please send items for this sheet to our Church Administrator Mrs Pat Macleod (079 342 85924) invernesschurch<at>gmail.com. Deadline Wednesday at 12 noon. Please keep items as brief as possible, and include contact details and/or e-mail.
OTHER NEWS
BLYTHSWOOD CARE SPARKLE & GLITZ FUNDRAISING EVENING 12 November, 6.30 for 7pm at Ness Walk Hotel, Inverness. Come along to the brand new 5-star Ness Walk Hotel for an evening of fizz, fashion and food. See what our charity shops have to offer during our fashion show, find out how to make a wreath, browse the stalls for that unusual Christmas gift, bid on the silent auction, and enjoy a night out with your friends.Tickets £30. All proceeds to Blythswood Care. Contact Elma.

WORSHIP THIS WEEK

Sunday 3 November 2019: Proper 26

10 am Sacrament of Baptism at St Stephen’s

11.15am Morning Worship at the Old High

NEWS FROM OUR CONGREGATION – contact details from the Church Administrator

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION will be celebrated at the Old High Church today. All welcome at the Lord’s Table. Retiring Offering in aid of the Maggie’s Centre, which provides practical, emotional and social support to people living with cancer and their family and friends at Raigmore.

MISSION DEVELOPMENT WORKER We are delighted to say that Dot Getliffe will start with us on 1 November. Dot moved to Inverness recently when her husband’s job took them to Inverness. She has long experience with the Church of Scotland as a Deacon and has worked in many areas of Scotland, with each area bringing its own issues. She has wide experience of Mission, to local communities and working in congregations (most recently at Aberdeen Mannofield) and teaching (she is a former school teacher). The team are confident Dot will bring many gifts to our Congregation. We trust you will support Dot in every way, as she seeks to lead us in new ventures of outreach to the community, and also to develop a fresh mission attitude within the congregation. Dot will be introduced to the congregation next Sunday, 3 November at both places of worship. You will have a chance to meet her over coffee after the services at both St Stephen’s and the Old High, so please do stay behind next week. If you have any questions, please contact Peter or Christine Mackenzie.

OLD HIGH MUSIC 2019 – the final event in the programme is an organ recital on Saturday 16 November at 12 noon. Stephen Doughty, who was until recently Organist at St John’s Church at the West End in Edinburgh, gave us a magnificent performance 2 years ago. He has kindly agreed to return and will play a varied programme including a Bach Prelude and Fugue, a Handel Overture, a Schumann Canon, a Leighton Fantasy and will conclude with one of his own compositions entitled Harvest Tune. This is a recital not to be missed by those who love listening to organ music! Andrew Stevenson.

PRAYERS FOR OUR COUNTRY There is one more opportunity planned for sharing prayers for the healing of the divisions in our country, after the morning service at St Stephen’s today Sunday 27 October. Andrew Stevenson.

OLD HIGH CHURCH REDEVELOPMENT AND CONSERVATION PROJECT We hope to have an exhibition on this ready for display at the Old High in the next week or two- watch this space!

MEET & EAT There will be a lunch in the Craigmonie Hotel at 12.30pm on Thursday 31 October. Please consider joining us- you will be warmly welcomed! Transport available. Further information: Val Cantlay.

BLYTHSWOOD BOXES This is the 26th year of the Blythswood Shoe Box Appeal. Why not bring some happiness to someone in need this Christmas? Fill a shoe box with simple gifts and it will bring untold joy to someone who never gets a present. Leaflets are available, with all the necessary instructions at the Church door. Bring your box back to Church or deliver it to Blythswood Care. Further information from Jaye Rankine.

REQUEST FOR NEW HYMNS The Worship and Education Action Team would like to extend and widen the range of hymns used in Old High/St Stephen’s in order to renew and refresh our worship. These could be from CH4 or other sources, and should also include hymns/songs that children nowadays can respond to (though it’s not just children’s hymns we are seeking!. The group invites the congregation to participate, and would be most grateful for all your ideas and suggestions. Send them to Janet Robertson.  Many thanks!

Friends of the Old High Church Annual General Meeting, Tuesday 29 October at 2pm in the Old High Church Hall. Christina Cameron.

OLD HIGH CHURCH OPENING The Summer Opening programme ended on 30 September. Sincere thanks to everyone who participated in the rota and those who prayed for our visitors and volunteers. We have had visitors from around the world and have a flourishing prayer tree. Feedback from our guests has been very positive and many share stories about their home church. During the month of October the church will be open 10am-12pm on Thursdays and 10am-12pm and 2-4pm on Fridays. It is not too late to become a Volunteer. For more information please contact Sheila MacLeod.

CHURCH LIBRARIES We have collections of books at both the Old High Church and at St Stephen’s which are no longer in currents use, as far as we know. However, we think that some of the older books may be valuable, and we are considering selling them. However, it may be that you are interested in religious books and would like to have some. Please contact Pat MacLeod, our Church Administrator, if you would like to have a look.

SUNDAY BULLETIN Please send items for this sheet to our Church Administrator Mrs Pat Macleod (079 342 85924) invernesschurch<at>gmail.com. Deadline Wednesday at 12 noon. Please keep items as brief as possible, and include contact details and/or e-mail.

OTHER NEWS

Blythswood Care Sparkle & Glitz Fundraising Evening 12 November, 6.30 for 7pm at Ness Walk Hotel, Inverness. Come along to the brand new 5-star Ness Walk Hotel for an evening of fizz, fashion and food. See what our charity shops have to offer during our fashion show, find out how to make a wreath, browse the stalls for that unusual Christmas gift, bid on the silent auction, and enjoy a night out with your friends.Tickets £30. All proceeds to Blythswood Care. Contact Elma.

WORSHIP THIS WEEK
Sunday 27 October 2019: Proper 25
10 am Morning Worship at St Stephen’s
Led by Stewart Robertson, Reader
11:15am Sacrament of Communion at the Old High
Led by the Minister
NEWS FROM OUR CONGREGATION – contact details from the Church Administrator
OLD HIGH MUSIC 2019 – the final event in the programme is an organ recital on Saturday 16 November at 12 noon. Stephen Doughty, who was until recently Organist at St John’s Church at the West End in Edinburgh, gave us a magnificent performance 2 years ago. He has kindly agreed to return and will play a varied programme including a Bach Prelude and Fugue, a Handel Overture, a Schumann Canon, a Leighton Fantasy and will conclude with one of his own compositions entitled Harvest Tune. This is a recital not to be missed by those who love listening to organ music! Andrew Stevenson.
PRAYERS FOR OUR COUNTRY There is one more opportunity planned for sharing prayers for the healing of the divisions in our country, after the morning service at St Stephen’s next week, Sunday 27 October. Andrew Stevenson.
OLD HIGH CHURCH REDEVELOPMENT AND CONSERVATION PROJECT We hope to have an exhibition on this ready for display at the Old High in the next week or two- watch this space!
CRAFT EVENING St Stephen’s Hall 7.30–9pm, Wednesday 23 October. Crafters and non-crafters welcome (you may wish to learn a craft). Friendly atmosphere and refreshments provided Susan MacLeod.
BLYTHSWOOD BOXES This is the 26th year of the Blythswood Shoe Box Appeal. Why not bring some happiness to someone in need this Christmas? Fill a shoe box with simple gifts and it will bring untold joy to someone who never gets a present. Leaflets are available, with all the necessary instructions at the Church door. Bring your box back to Church or deliver it to Blythswood Care. Further information from Jaye Rankine.
REQUEST FOR NEW HYMNS The Worship and Education Action Team would like to extend and widen the range of hymns used in Old High/St Stephen’s in order to renew and refresh our worship. These could be from CH4 or other sources, and should also include hymns/songs that children nowadays can respond to (though it’s not just children’s hymns we are seeking!. The group invites the congregation to participate, and would be most grateful for all your ideas and suggestions. Send them to Janet Robertson. Many thanks!
THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION will be celebrated at the Old High Church next Sunday. All welcome at the Lord’s Table. Retiring Offering in aid of the Maggie’s Centre, which provides practical, emotional and social support to people living with cancer and their family and friends at Raigmore.
FRIENDS OF OLD HIGH CHURCH Thanks to everyone who supported the Wine & Cheese evening with the Very Rev. Dr Susan Brown. We raised £300. Christina Cameron, Chair, Friends of Old High.
OLD HIGH CHURCH OPENING The Summer Opening programme ended on 30 September. Sincere thanks to everyone who participated in the rota and those who prayed for our visitors and volunteers. We have had visitors from around the world and have a flourishing prayer tree. Feedback from our guests has been very positive and many share stories about their home church. During the month of October the church will be open 10am-12pm on Thursdays and 10am-12pm and 2-4pm on Fridays. It is not too late to become a Volunteer. For more information please contact Sheila MacLeod.
CHURCH LIBRARIES We have collections of books at both the Old High Church and at St Stephen’s which are no longer in currents use, as far as we know. However, we think that some of the older books may be valuable, and we are considering selling them. However, it may be that you are interested in religious books and would like to have some. Please contact Pat MacLeod, our Church Administrator, if you would like to have a look.
SUNDAY BULLETIN Please send items for this sheet to our Church Administrator Mrs Pat Macleod (079 342 85924) invernesschurch<at>gmail.com. Deadline Wednesday at 12 noon. Please keep items as brief as possible, and include contact details and/or e-mail.
MISSION DEVELOPMENT WORKER As agreed with the Kirk Session, a sub-committee of Colin Craig, Malcom MacRae, Sheila MacLeod, Rev Peter Nimmo and Christine Mackenzie were asked to review the applications, carry out interviews and recommend a candidate for this post, which is planned to last two years, which is funded by the generous legacy of Nina Wallace. We had excellent candidates. The team is recommending to the Session that we appoint Dorothy (Dot) Getliffe. Dot moved to Inverness recently when her husband’s job took them to Inverness. She has long experience with the Church of Scotland as a Deacon and has worked in many areas of Scotland, with each area bringing its own issues. She has wide experience of Mission, to local communities and working in congregations (most recently at Aberdeen Mannofield) and teaching (she is a former school teacher). The team are confident Dot will bring many gifts to our Congregation. She will join us once legal formalities such as safeguarding and contracts are complete. We trust that, if this is appointment is ratified by Session, you will support Dot in every way that we can when she joins us. Her task will be to lead us in new ventures of outreach to the community, and also to develop a fresh mission attitude within the congregation. If you have any questions, please contact Peter or Christine.
OTHER NEWS
BLYTHSWOOD CARE SPARKLE & GLITZ FUNDRAISING EVENING 12 November, 6.30 for 7pm at Ness Walk Hotel, Inverness. Come along to the brand new 5-star Ness Walk Hotel for an evening of fizz, fashion and food. See what our charity shops have to offer during our fashion show, find out how to make a wreath, browse the stalls for that unusual Christmas gift, bid on the silent auction, and enjoy a night out with your friends.Tickets £30. All proceeds to Blythswood Care. Contact Elma.

WORSHIP THIS WEEK
Sunday 20 October 2019: Proper 24
10 am Sacrament of Baptism at St Stephen’s
11:15am Morning Worship at the Old High
NEWS FROM OUR CONGREGATION – contact details from the Church Administrator
PRAYER FOR OUR COUNTRY There is a further invitation to come together in the choir area for a quiet moment after morning service at St Stephen’s every second week through till the end of October (29 September and 13 and 27 October). Andrew Stevenson.
OLD HIGH CHURCH REDEVELOPMENT AND CONSERVATION PROJECT We hope to have an exhibition on this ready for display at the Old High in the next week or two- watch this space!
HARVEST THANK YOU Thank you to everyone who helped to make our Harvest weekend celebrations such a success. The Saturday Fun afternoon was so well supported by the Hall users, the Community and the congregation that we not only raised over £930, but we also collected an enormous amount of food for the FoodBank during the week: a big thank to all who helped us achieve this grand total. The Sunday Thanksgiving service was a wonderful celebration. Thanks, too, to all members of the congregation, at both St Stephen’s and Old High, who donated to the FoodBank, decorated our church buildings, and helped distribute our harvest gifts to the housebound. A great team effort!
BLYTHSWOOD BOXES This is the 26th year of the Blythswood Shoe Box Appeal. Why not bring some happiness to someone in need this Christmas. Fill a shoe box with simple gifts and it will bring untold joy to someone who never gets a present. Leaflets are available, with all the necessary instructions at the Church door. Bring your box back to Church or deliver it to Blythswood Care. Further information from Jaye Rankine.
REQUEST FOR NEW HYMNS The Worship and Education Action Team would like to extend and widen the range of hymns used in Old High/St Stephen’s in order to renew and refresh our worship. These could be from CH4 or other sources, and should also include hymns/songs that children nowadays can respond to. The group invites the congregation to participate, and would be most grateful for all your ideas and suggestions. Please contact Janet Robertson. Many thanks!
THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION will be celebrated at the Old High Church on Sunday 27 October. All welcome at the Lord’s Table. Retiring Offering in aid of the Maggie’s Centre, which provides practical, emotional and social support to people living with cancer and their family and friends at Raigmore.
OLD HIGH CHURCH OPENING The Summer Opening programme ended on 30 September. Sincere thanks to everyone who participated in the rota and those who prayed for our visitors and volunteers. We have had visitors from around the world and have a flourishing prayer tree. Feedback from our guests has been very positive and many share stories about their home church. During the month of October the church will be open 10am-12pm on Thursdays and 10am-12pm and 2-4pm on Fridays. It is not too late to become a Volunteer. For more information please contact Sheila MacLeod.
CHURCH LIBRARIES We have collections of books at both the Old High Church and at St Stephen’s which are no longer in currents use, as far as we know. However, we think that some of the older books may be valuable, and we are considering selling them. However, it may be that you are interested in religious books and would like to have some. Please contact Pat MacLeod, our Church Administrator, if you would like to have a look.
SUNDAY BULLETIN Please send items for this sheet to our Church Administrator Mrs Pat Macleod (079 342 85924) invernesschurchgmail.com. Deadline Wednesday at 12 noon. Please keep items as brief as possible, and include contact details and/or e-mail.
MISSION DEVELOPMENT WORKER As agreed with the Kirk Session, a sub-committee of Colin Craig, Malcom MacRae, Sheila MacLeod, Rev Peter Nimmo and Christine Mackenzie were asked to review the applications, carry out interviews and recommend a candidate for this post, which is planned to last two years. We had excellent candidates. The team is recommending to the Session that we appoint Dorothy (Dot) Getliffe. Dot moved to Inverness recently when her husband’s job took them to Inverness. She has long experience with the Church of Scotland as a Deacon and has worked in many areas of Scotland, with each area bringing its own issues. She has wide experience of Mission, to local communities and working in congregations (most recently at Aberdeen Mannofield) and teaching (she is a former school teacher). The team are confident Dot will bring many gifts to our Congregation. She will join us once legal formalities such as safeguarding and contracts are complete. We trust that, if this is appointment is ratified by Session, you will support Dot in every way that we can when she joins us. Her task will be to lead us in new ventures of outreach to the community, and also to develop a fresh mission attitude within the congregation. If you have any questions, please contact Peter or Christine.
OTHER NEWS
BLYTHSWOOD CARE SPARKLE & GLITZ FUNDRAISING EVENING 12 November, 6.30 for 7pm at Ness Walk Hotel, Inverness. As the winter months are fast approaching, thoughts will be turning to the festive season. Come along to the brand new 5-star Ness Walk Hotel for an evening of fizz, fashion and food. See what our charity shops have to offer during our fashion show, find out how to make a wreath, browse the stalls for that unusual Christmas gift, bid on the silent auction, and enjoy a night out with your friends. There will be an opportunity to purchase selected items from our charity shops on the evening.Tickets £30 but already selling fast. All proceeds to Blythswood Care. Contact Elma to reserve your tickets.
WEEKEND ACCOMMODATION REQUIRED Accommodation is being sought by somebody who has recently moved to the UK from New Zealand and even more recently moved to Inverness. The individual has got a job and is usually away Monday to Friday but is looking for a good place to board on the weekends. If you feel you can help, please contact the Church Administrator.

WORSHIP THIS WEEK
Sunday 13 October 2019: Proper 23
10 am Morning Worship at St Stephen’s
11:15am Morning Worship at the Old High
NEWS FROM OUR CONGREGATION – contact details from the Church Administrator
HARVEST WEEKEND A special welcome to all who join us after our Harvest Fun Day yesterday. Thanks, too, to all who helped during our Harvest week, including the Fun Day yesterday, to those who helped decorate our churches for our services today, and to all who have brought harvest gifts. The Fun Day raised money for the Highland Food Bank: thank you to all who contributed.
HELP WANTED TODAY! We have harvest gifts for housebound and elderly in our congregation. We need helpers to distribute these gifts so we ask people to stay behind after the service to help us with this distribution.
PRAYER FOR OUR COUNTRY there is a further invitation to come together in the choir area for a quiet moment after morning service at St Stephen’s every second week through till the end of October (29 September and 13 and 27 October) Andrew Stevenson.
SOUTHSIDE NURSING HOME There will be a short service, led by Malcolm Macrae, at Southside Nursing Home immediately after this morning’s service at St Stephen’s. If you are able to assist with the singing, or chatting to the residents, this would be much appreciated. Please speak to Malcolm after the service. We still seek members willing to lead these services on a rota basis. Contact Janet Robertson.
OLD HIGH CHURCH REDEVELOPMENT AND CONSERVATION PROJECT We hope to have an exhibition on this ready for display at the Old High in the next week or two- watch this space!
OLD HIGH CHURCH OPENING The Summer Opening programme ended on 30 September. Sincere thanks to everyone who participated in the rota and those who prayed for our visitors and volunteers. We have had visitors from around the world and have a flourishing prayer tree. Feedback from our guests has been very positive and many share stories about their home church. During the month of October the church will be open 10am-12pm on Thursdays and 10am-12pm and 2-4pm on Fridays. It is not too late to become a Volunteer. For more information please contact Sheila MacLeod.
CRAFT EVENING St Stephen’s Hall 7.30–9pm, Wednesday 9 October. Crafters and non-crafters welcome (you may wish to learn a craft). Friendly atmosphere and refreshments provided Susan MacLeod.
FRIENDS OF THE OLD HIGH CHURCH join us on 11 October at 7.30pm in the Old High Church Hall for an evening with the Very Rev Doctor Susan Brown – my year as Moderator of the Church of Scotland in word, picture and slides. Tickets £10 (includes cheese & wine) from Christina Cameron.
OLD HIGH MUSIC Saturday 12 October at 12 noon. A piano recital by Tonya Clement playing Beethoven, Rachmaninov and Prokofiev, after which she will accompany Liz McLardy (soprano) in songs by Schumann, Bernstein and Barber. Full programme details available by contacting ohssmusicgmail.com and at at www.oldhighststephens.com/category/music/
CHURCH LIBRARIES We have collections of books at both the Old High Church and at St Stephen’s which are no longer in currents use, as far as we know. However, we think that some of the older books may be valuable, and we are considering selling them. However, it may be that you are interested in religious books and would like to have some. Please contact Pat MacLeod, our Church Administrator, if you would like to have a look.
SUNDAY BULLETIN Please send items for this sheet to our Church Administrator Mrs Pat Macleod (079 342 85924) invernesschurch<at)gmail.com. Deadline Wednesday at 12 noon. Please keep items as brief as possible, and include contact details and/or e-mail.