Linklines 05.06.09

Silent auction

A silent auction held recently to help St Magnus Church restore its near-crumbling exterior raised over £3,000.

Crowds of people supported last month’s event, which saw bids flood in for over 50 goods and services, raising much-needed funds in the process.

Major repairs for the church exterior are estimated to cost over £500,000.

Church leaders fear without urgent repairs the building, which has formed part of the Lerwick landscape for almost 150 years, could be put beyond use.

Before the auction £90,000 had been raised for the cause, however the £3,018.61 made on the day – with more money still coming in – will add yet more to the coffers.

Popular among the lots was a class for making Shetland bannocks and a car valeting service.

One of the more interesting items, which perhaps raised a few eyebrows on the day, were a selection of saucy calendars from former garage Ganson Brothers, which boasted images of young female models.

Organiser Pam Smith said the calendars had done “very well”, although she would not be drawn on exactly how much they had made.

She said she was delighted with the money raised, however efforts are underway to secure more vital funds to help secure the church building, with raffle tickets now being sold in Boots and the Co-op.

Youth worker

A youth worker for Scripture Union has told of his experiences of Shetland during recent visits to the isles.

Andrew Thompson, a regional worker for the North East and Shetland, said he had enjoyed the “privilege” of meeting youngsters here during his twice yearly visits.

Most recently he attended the isles from 11th to 15th May, when he spent a great deal of time helping youngsters explore the relevance of Christianity to their lives.

“I was glad to have had a week of activity that will, I trust, lead to many more opportunities to strengthen Christian based work with children and young people,” he said.

“I am always on the look out for schools that are open to SU’s input and for Christians who, with support, are willing to lead lunchtime or after-school groups. I have found the schools and the Christian community in Shetland to be very welcoming and supportive of SU’s work and I look forward to future visits.”

Further details can be found on the SU website www.suscotland.org.uk.

Clothing bank salvation

Shetland Salvation Army needs your help so they can continue to serve others in the community.

After many months of planning and preparations, clothing recycling banks are going to be placed around the island to help raise money to fund the valuable work of Shetland Salvation Army.

The organisation’s service to the community through food parcels, schools ministry, advocacy, emergency crisis support, computer recycling and town pastors all needs to be funded. Donating your old clothing, including hats, belts and shoes, will help.

The clothing banks will be available at the following locations from Wednesday: Co-op; Tesco; Frank Williamsons; Mossbank Shop; Brae Co-op; Walls Shop; and Mainlands Shop, Dunrossness.

Shetland Salvation Army would like to thank all the above businesses for their valued support and Streamline for logistical support.

Faith Mission

A series of Faith Mission meetings will be held in Shetland this weekend.

The mission’s Noel McClintock will visit the isles for a series of spring meetings in churches across the isles.

Taking centre stage will be the Cunningsburgh Convention Week-end, which will see Mr McClintock speak alongside John and Liz Mac-donald in the Church of Scotland.

The convention weekend will take place from today, continuing tomorrow and on Sunday.