We meet for worship on Sunday in Bowden Kirk at 9.30am. Melrose Church at 11.00am. A warm welcome is extended to all. Melrose services are livestreamed, and you can watch on our Facebook page or church website. A podcast based on the service will be posted on Saturday evening. You can listen to it on 01896 80855.
Holidays
The minister will be on holiday from 26 June until 10 July. Worship will be conducted by Rev Sara Embleton. Pastoral cover is being provided by Rev Graeme Glover of Galashiels Parish Church. (01896 209455 / GGlover@churchofscotland.org.uk)
St Cuthbert’s Way / Pilgrimage
For the last few years the minister has represented us on a group now known formally as St Cuthbert’s Way Churches Together. The aim of the group is to enhance the spiritual experience of those walking St Cuthbert’s Way, to make it more than just a long-distance walk. Last year a leaflet for walkers was produced which was well received. It has been re-printed for this year and is available in both churches. Please pass copies on to those you know who are walking even part of the Way. There is also an ever growing website – www.scwchurches.co.uk – featuring information and podcasts. The group has many more ideas for engaging with those who walk…
New clarinet stop in memory of Jim Marshall
The sponsorship of organ pipes in memory of Jim Marshall is now complete. Thank you for all the generous contributions. Work on the organ has started but, apart from a new organ stop, this will be unseen. However, behind the scenes 62 new organ pipes are being installed. John Wilson is going to take a series of photos so we can all see how this is done.
Open Door
Come along to our weekly Open Door every Thursday, 10.00am-12noon, when the hall will be open for tea, coffee, company and chat. If you would like to join the rota of helpers there’s a sign-up sheet in the church kitchen. Thank you!
Eco Congregation
An update on more recycling opportunities. We have been made aware that Superdrug can recycle blister packs. We’ll add a collecting box to our collection in the church.
A new initiative is the reuse of spectacles by sending them out to the Philippines. Rotary Clubs in the Borders are involved and collecting baskets have been placed in Boots Opticians in Channel Street Galashiels and at Bulldog’s Bakes and Reborn Cafe. If you bring them to the Melrose Church Building, they will be uplifted from there too.
Galashiels Foodbank
With the cost-of-living crisis many are seeking help from the local Foodbank. Donations of food can be left at the pickup points in Galashiels at ASDA, M&S, Poundland, and Iceland, as well as Co-op stores in Melrose and Earlston. Money to buy perishable items can be donated at https://www.justgiving.com/galashielsfoodbank Thank you!
Church Choir
Choir practices have stopped for the summer, resuming on Sunday 3 September.
Coffee After Church
Teas and coffees are available after the Melrose service in the Church Hall. All are welcome and if you would like to join the rota of helpers, please send a message to the office.
