When we entered our first lockdown period in March of last year, none of us expected the virus to remain as virulent or as deadly as it continues to be in the early weeks of 2021. There are, however, good reasons to be optimistic that the roll out of the vaccination will lead to a significant reduction of the spread of the virus, a decrease in the grim mortality rate and an easing of the restrictions we have all been under for so long.

While the restrictions are unwelcome for all of us, we still have many reasons for thankfulness. The Gospel continues to be preached and many outreach initiatives are able to continue thanks to the generosity of those who regularly contribute to the funds of the church. Our own congregation was able to remit to the central funds of the church the same amount in 2020 as it did in 2019 and our most sincere thanks is due to everyone who contributed either by freewill offering envelopes, Standing Order, BACS transfer or by cheque.

The overall position with the Free Church centrally suggests that its income for 2020 will only be around 5% less than it was in 2019, which is a remarkable achievement in the current circumstances.

Return of 2021 Freewill Offering envelopes: At the most recent meeting of the Deacons’ Court it was agreed that until such time as normal services of worship can resume, a monthly opportunity will be given to return Freewill Offerings envelopes.

1. The arrangements for doing so will be same as on previous occasions and will be as follows:
2. On Thursday 28th January and Saturday 30th January the church hall on Kenneth Street will be open between 2.00 and 4.00pm to receive freewill offering envelopes.
3. If you wish to take advantage of this opportunity you should come along during these times or arrange for a family member or a friend to deliver the envelopes on your behalf.
4. You can also contact your district elder or deacon and arrange a time for one of them to collect the envelopes from your home.
5. On arrival at the hall, a one way system will be in place and you will enter by the main door and leave using the exit door at the far end of the hall.
6. Wearing of face coverings is mandatory and should be worn while you are inside the hall.
7. Office bearers will be on hand to guide you towards the area for depositing the envelopes.
8. Hand sanitisers will be available for use at both doors and it’s important that you maintain the recommended 2 metre social distancing on your arrival and while you are inside the hall.

Special Collection for Bethesda:

In normal circumstances a special collection would be taken at the end of January each year for Bethesda. Due to the current restrictions the Special Collection for this year will be taken on the days referred to above, Thursday 28th January and Saturday 30th January between 2.00 and 4.00pm.

Contributions can also be made by forwarding a cheque in an envelope clearly marked ‘Bethesda’ and made payable to ‘Stornoway Free Church’ to Murdo Macphail (Treasurer), 12a Jamieson Drive, Stornoway, HS1 2LF.

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Posted in Notices; Posted 3 years ago by Mairianne Campbell