Summer 2009 Messenger Supplement Page 2
1994
This was a very busy year with meetings and fundraising for the Dome, far too many to list. St Mark’s took part in the first Aberdeen Doors Open Day. There was the ‘infamous’ Mr and Mrs Quiz, still talked about today, which starred Mr and Mrs Lewis Donaldson and their napkins! St Mark’s sweatshirts and tee-shirts were sold for funds and some are still being worn today.
1995
This was the year OAK (Organisation of Aberdeen Kirks) was born: Crown Terrace Methodist Church, Langstane Kirk, St. Mark's and North Church of St. Andrew. Now only St Mark’s and Crown Terrace Methodist Church are in the organisation. Firstly at Langstane then Alford Place Associated Presbyterian Church and then St Mark’s. All profit is donated to charity. First St Mark’s George Street, Charity Shop. Jimmy Logan performed at St Mark’s.
1996
Jesus Christ Superstar performed in the Church. The second Flower Festival. Work started on the Dome.
1997
The Dome was finally finished the total cost being around £400,000. Many events took place during this year, too many to note, organised by the Projects Committee and other members of the Church. The first Sedar Meal was held for which John was Chef and one of the Presenters, at Crown Terrace Methodist Church and in later years held also at St Mark’s and Queen Street Churches..jpg)
Flower Festival
St Mark's Dome
1998
John led another group from the congregation to Israel and this time had the privilege of Baptising his second granddaughter, Kirsty. A Stewardship Campaign took place. John introduced the 10am summer services. The Hall was decorated and re-wired.
Visit to the Holy Land
A proud Granddad pictured with
Kirsty after her Christening
1999
St Mark’s started once again to raise money to install a lift (£27,000). John compiled a booklet called My Church, Your Church, Our Church to mark his 10th Anniversary as Minister of St Mark’s; Alex McConochie edited and published the book. Stewardship Committee formed. Bill McDonald made a cabinet to hold Boys Brigade Colours which stands in the Sanctuary.
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David and Jennifer at the
Woodcfoft Garden Party
2000
To mark the Millennium Lynn Low made a Banner for the wall in the Church which was an amalgam of designs submitted from across the age range of the congregation. John took members of the congregation to Oberammergau. Another Stewardship Campaign. Removal of pews at front to accommodate wheelchairs.
John speaking to a member
of the Circle of Care at Tea following
Communion Service
Rachael and Kirsty,
John's granddaughters taken
'a few years ago'!
2001
John produced a Prayer Book for St Mark’s which included contributions from other members of the Clergy. Lift installed to comply with Access for Disabled and helped secure St Mark’s future. 3rd Talents Scheme which raised £8,500. A Silent Auction in the Hall. A Photo of Office Bearers. OAK came to St Mark’s and David, John and Jennifer’s son, volunteers at lunch time.
OAK Christmas Lunch 2007
2002
St Mark’s ran an Alpha Course. East and Belmont War Memorial came to St Mark’s. This appears to be a ‘quiet year’ but as always the Summer Coffee Morning, Charity Shop, Garden Party, and socials, etc took place, as they do every year.
2003
Stuart Cunningham, a member of St Mark’s Boys Brigade, achieved the Queens Award which was presented by John. The Hall floor was sanded and restored to its former glory.
Stuart Cunningham
receiving Queen's
Award from John
John 'off duty'
Even Ministers have fun!
2004
The Sanctuary was decorated and on Sunday 19th September a service of dedication was taken by John. St Mark’s was twinned with Mpachika Church. John became Stewardship Convenor. The North East Christian Healing Group was started by John which has grown to such a size that it has now split into two groups, Banchory and Portlethen.