Text Box: Donald’s Induction Although not officially agreed by the presbytery, it is likely that the date for the induction of Rev Donald Prentice will be Fri 29th October. Whilst we are all looking forward with keen anticipation to the arrival of our new Minister, it is important that we all continue to support the church in the meantime, regularly attending all services and participating in the other activities. Although we are moving into the holiday season, it is disappointing to see attendance at morning worship dropping. Having got this far, let’s not let things slip now!

St Leonard’s Church of Scotland

Forres, Morayshire
Text Box: Supported Lodgings in Moray The supported Lodgings Project, run by the Moray Council, is currently looking to recruit people who would be interested in offering accommodation within their own homes to young people between the ages of 16 and 19. Those young people who are eligible, will previously have been looked after and accommodated by the Local Authority in either a residential unit or foster placement. If you wish to find out more, there is a flyer and information leaflet on the main noticeboard in the hall. Text Box: Popular Fare The new Lunch Club, which meets in the hall on a Friday at 12 noon is already proving extremely popular with numbers averaging 45 over the first three weeks. Inevitably with any new venture there have been one or two ‘teething problems’ , particularly around storage requirements, but these have hopefully now been ironed out. If you fancy a nice, home-cooked two course lunch for £3.75, why not go along and sample the fare for yourself.

Summer Break

Following last Sunday’s Prizegiving the Sunday School and Bible Class is taking a well-earned break over the summer and will resume at the beginning of September. We are all greatly indebted to the dedication and devotion of Superintendent Margaret Wright, Bible Class Leaders Ben and Rachel Worley, and the small, but loyal, group of teachers, who endeavour to bring our ‘little ones’ up in the Christian faith. Perhaps you would like to join them to ensure the continuation of this vital service?

The After 8s has also finished for the summer, following a most enjoyable Hawaiian barbecue at the monthly Roots gathering at Inshes Church, Inverness. Grateful thanks are due to leaders Ben and Rachel, as well as helpers Mel, Elizabeth and Barbara for their   dedicated support of this invaluable ministry to our young people, both within and beyond the church. Could you help to share the load when the club resumes in  September?

 Finally both Bible Study Groups are taking a ‘breather’ over the summer months and will both resume at the beginning of September. We thank the Lord for the inspirational leadership provided by John Carson and Peter Robertson and for the active participation of many in both groups.
Text Box: Sad Loss The recent death of Eric Smith brought great sadness to the worshipping community of St Leonard’s and many more beyond. It was only early this year that Eric was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease, but his condition deteriorated rapidly, such that it was a true blessing when his passing spared him any further suffering. Eric was appointed as a Elder in St Leonard’s in 1997 and his quiet, unassuming manner endeared him to all his ‘District’ parishioners. Eric also served with great distinction as Treasurer, where his knowledge as a bank manager came in very handy! We remember in our prayers Eric’s wife, Betty, in Meadowlark and his grieving family.