OUR Guild is, we think, quite traditional. However, we have a core of 28 members, both men and women, who are so supportive of our fortnightly meetings, along with a leadership team that is incredibly hard working and we all work so well together ie: secretary, treasurer, social convener, stall conveners etc. Our minister gives us his unfailing support and when invited to special occasions, makes a point of being present.
Change has come from the Guild National Executive eg the delegate system has been dropped and men have been admitted to membership. We are less formal than before, but always bear in mind the aim of the Guild. Worship is at the centre of our meetings, be it at the beginning, middle or end. We have used Robert Stephen’s book By the Shores O’Galilee to great effect. We are so fortunate to have a pianist to lead the singing. In our prayers we pray for one of the Boards and Committees of our Church at each meeting. The magazines of WM and CrossReach are helpful, also the WM weekly newsletter where we read about events such as the National Evangelical Synod of Syria and Lebanon ordaining two women ‘to serve the Word and Sacraments’. We have also contributed to the Guild new book of prayers which is about to be published. Members also take part in the World Day of Prayer service.
Fellowship is interesting. Other members of our church now come along to some of the meetings and sometimes, someone will bring a friend. We always invite our congregation to the Soup and Sweet lunch. The proceeds of this go to the projects we support. The smell of soup wafting into the church during the service is very inviting! People give very generously. In addition, there is the Burns Supper, a Christmas lunch and a Summer Supper.