August is the month for dusting off the jam pan. So far the apples have started landing regularly on the lawn. Rather than waste these early fruits they have been transformed into ‘Spiced Apple Jelly’ with just a hint of the old favourite – Chilli! Without a greenhouse at the moment the chillies are slow and few, but the next project, since there are apples a plenty on the tree, is an apple press, it seems the best way to construct one is with a bottle jack and some stout timber, both of which are lying around in the shed! Whether cider is attempted or not rather depends on the juice – it might get drunk too quickly!
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Minister as Midwife and Servant

We celebrated with Ruth last night as she was ordained into the Church of Scotland as a ‘Minister of Word and Sacrament’ at Lochmaben. It was her father’s comments to which the title alludes as he preached with reference to Exodus 1:15-21 (Midwife) and Mark 10:35-45 (Servant).

Enabling the congregation to fulfil their potential is a birthing process, a process that requires the skills of a midwife, but one who is also the least of all and servant to the people. A wonderful image of a minister, one who enables the (re)birthing of peoples skills time and talents for God’s kingdom. It was great to be there for Ruth’s ordination, if not a little saddle sore after a 6 hour round trip!!

Tags: church of Scotland, Exodus 1:15-21, Mark 10:35-45, midwife, minister, ordination, servant, word and sacrament

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Bells

Bells, bells, bells, no not the whisky! Can’t help reflecting that the useful college bell that tolls at meals and chapel must be very odd for those around the college. We know when to salivate or kneel, (very pavlovian). But for those living around us the bells ringing out every day four or five times a day must be quite strange. It’s useful for us, but is it really annoying for everyone else?? I may have to ask some of those I know who live on the road beside us what they think. Perhaps it is just another unknown ritual!!

August

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Minister as Midwife and Servant

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