Remembrance Service
St. Mungo's Church were once again privileged to host the Remembrance Service on Sunday 8 November 2009. Led by members of the British Legion, with Army and RAF Cadets, Girl Guides, and VIP's for the Presentation of the Colours. The eulogy was read by parade commander Mr J.MacLean. [more]

Geoff Berry Induction
St. Mungo’s new minister, Geoff Berry was formally inducted as the the resident minister on Thursday 8th October. Some 170 people attended the Ordination service in the church and 150 followed on to the Hall for the welcome and entertainment. [more]

Chrysanthemum Coffee Morning
The Guild held their coffee morning, featuring 27 magnificent Chrysanthemum heads, among other stems and plants for sale. The tables were heaving with home made baking to refresh the weary visitor, along with freshly brewed coffee and tea. The event raised over £300 for Guild funds. A big thank you to all who contributed, and the visitors for making the whole event a success.

Harvest Thanksgiving
The Rev Dr. John Stevenson returned to preach the annual Harvest Thanksgiving Service on Sunday 27th September.  After the service all the produce was taken to the Bethany House in Edinburgh. A presentation was made to John before the service, as a mark of our appreciation of his nearly two years as locum. Many thanks to all who contributed to both the Harvest gifts, and the presentation to John.

Farewell to Dr. John Stevenson
Sunday 30th August 2009 heralded the farewell service from Dr. John Stevenson, our locum minister for coming up 2 years. A presentation was made by the Sunday School and later by the Kirk Session in appreciation for John's guiding hand throughout our vacancy  [more]

Girls Brigade Colours Decommissioned
The colours of the 42nd Edinburgh and Lothians Girl's Brigade Company were decommissioned at the service on Sunday 23rd August. The Rev. Dr. John Stevenson accepted the colours on behalf of the Company from Brigade Captain Elizabeth Purves [more]

New Minister accepted in unanimous vote
The congregation of St. Mungo's had to queue to hear the Rev. Geoff Berry preach as sole nominee for the position of new minister on Sunday 16 August. Following Geoff's excellent service, including a great talk with the children,  the congregation were asked to vote. A unanimous 123 votes were cast in favour. Geoff will now formally be asked to accept the position and an Induction service arranged.

Vandals hit St. Mungo's
Between Tuesday 23rd and Thursday 25th June 2009 vandals got into the Church hall garden and destroyed the wooden gazebo along with the wooden windbreak. They then attempted to set fire to the wood in the decorative lamp standard. [more]

Sponsored Walk
The 2009 sponsored walk on 27 June got off to a good start. St. Mungo's was also holding a Strawberry Tea on the same morning, allowing walkers the opportunity to take refreshments before they set off on the 7.5 mile walk around Pencaitland. Thirteen gathered outside St. Mungo's and headed off to the beautifully well kept village of Pencaitland, where Ian Dickson had put together a route that took us on paths that circled round the village. [more]

Strawberry Tea
Although the turnout for the Strawberry Tea held on Saturday 27 June was disappointing it was a very enjoyable morning for all who did attend. Everyone said they enjoyed the delicious strawberry fare served and the stalls and raffle all did well. A total of £382.80 was raised for Church funds. The social committee wish to thank friends who helped us to organise things on the day and to everyone who came along.

Gift Day
Following another late, but never the less very welcome, receipt for the St. Mungo's Gift Day, the total now stands at £2703. Many thanks to all who contributed to this fund which goes towards the upkeep of St. Mungo's Church.

Love Russia Service
The congregation of St. Mungo's abandoned the Church in favour of the church hall on Sunday 21 June to see and hear the work of the Love Russia charity. The Rev. Dr. John Stevenson led the Sunday service while Alex and Jacqui Cooke, the CEO and International Director, and Deputy Executive Officer respectively, presented the work of Love Russia in place of the usual sermon. Eileen Marchant on piano was joined by Andrew Dunsire on guitar to lead the singing.   [more]

Sunday School Outing
The Sunday School ended the session for their summer holiday with a trip to Almond Valley in Livingston on Saturday 6 June. [more]

New Elders Ordination Service
The Session and Congregation of St. Mungo's welcomed three new Elders, as Lin Kinloch, Elizabeth Anderson, and Helen Sutherland were formally ordained as Elders of St. Mungos, as part of the Communion Service on Sunday 31st May. [more]

Over £2740, including a generous donation of £1000 was collected for Christian Aid by the team of helpers from St. Mungo’s during
Christian Aid Week 10 - 16 May. Many thanks to all those who donated, and those who helped deliver and collect the envelopes

Holy Week
Holy week commenced on Palm Sunday  and St. Mungo's played host to the morning family service and again for the evening united churches of Penicuik service. St. Mungo's then held a Good Friday service and hosted the Easter Vigil. Easter Sunday celebrated Christ's resurrection with a sunrise, and a family service [more]

Baptism - Jack Butler
The Easter Sunday service on 12 April also saw the baptism of Jack Butler, son to David and Laura. Daughter Megan was also there, having been baptised in St. Mungo's in January 2005. The Rev. Dr John Stevenson carried out the ceremony, which was attended by family and friends. [more]

Macular Degeneration
St. Mungo's Guild put on an extraordinary presentation on Monday 2nd March, where George Kay, who chairs the Macular Disease Society (MDS) in Edinburgh, described both the impact of the disease which affects 10% of patients 66 to 74 years,  and treatment and visual aids to help sufferers [more]

Art Exhibition
St. Mungo’s members have many talents, and one of Jack Hutcheson’s many talents is an eye for a good picture and the ability to express that in paint. Jack is showing a selection of his works at the Gallery Cafe West Street in Penicuik throughout March. Drop in anytime between 10.00am and 4.00pm [more]

Ian Tait
Following a long fight against cancer, Ian Tait, former Session Clerk for 21 years, passed away on Saturday 24th January. St. Mungo's was filled with Family and friends, many of whom attended with other colleagues from Ian's previous workplace at Mortonhall Crematorium where it was standing room only in the large chapel. [more]

Burns Night
Over 60 people crowded into St. Mungo's Church Hall for the 250th anniversary of Rabbie Burns. In addition to the traditional Burns Supper of haggis neeps and tatties there was entertainment led by MC Sandy Robertson, who also toasted the Lassies. The Rev Dr. John Stevenson recited Immortal Men, and 11 of the congregation presented a rendition of "The Broons"   [more]

Guitar Sunday
The service on Sunday 11th January featured hymns with musical accompaniment by Andrew Dunsire and Niall Cape on guitar, who put an upbeat rhythm into the hymns. The Rev Dr. John Stevenson's theme was "Living with Uncertainty", a very apt sermon for the current times. Look out for more variety in our services as St. Mungo's introduces some of the  "Way Forward" initiatives.

Souper Sunday - 4 January
The Elders of St. Mungo's presented a special service as part of the Midlothian Presbytery initiative to raise £10000 for HIV/Aids mission. Following the service the congregation were invited to join in a "Soup & Bread" lunch and make a donation to the fund, which following the 11 Jan service stands at over £475. [more]

News from 2008

Secret Christmas Card
The secret Christmas Card that was signed by members of the congregation for presentation to the minister, the Rev. Dr. John Stevenson, raised £75 for World Vision. Many thanks to all who contributed.

Nativity Play
This years Nativity on Sunday 21st December played out the journey of the wise men to Bethlehem and the great discovery in the manger. The Sunday School were joined by members of the church for the journey, before Santa arrived with gifts for the players. [more]

Carols for Christmas
Despite atrocious weather on Friday 19th December, Penicuik Town Hall was filled to the brim as over a hundred souls gathered to sing Christmas Carols, old and new. Choirs from all the Penicuik churches led the singing, with Penicuik Silver Band providing the musical accompaniment.

Christmas Coffee Morning
A warm welcome was given to all who visited St. Mungo's Church Hall for coffee, Christmas mince pies and other assorted bites on Saturday 20th December. Stalls with raffles, tombola, and home baking which sold fast as the crowds gathered. [more]

St. Mungo's Guild 80th Year Celebration
The guild celebrated 80 years of continuous presence in Penicuik St. Mungo's on Monday 15th December 2008. The event also doubled as a Christmas party, complete with a Nativity scene with a difference, supper, quiz, and Christmas Carols. [more]

Christmas Gifts for Romania
The good folks and friends of Penicuik St. Mungo's delivered a staggering number of hand knitted jumpers, hats, gloves and blankets for the elderly and children of Romania on Sunday 30 November. The clothes will be shipped to Romanian time for Christmas by the Bethany Trust. Sheila Haig, who organised the "knit in" made a public thank you to the congregation and all those who were involved.

The Way Forward
The follow-up workshop to discuss the Way Forward for St. Mungo's was held once again at the Midlothian Innovation Centre on Sunday 23rd November. Taking the options identified from the workshop on the 16th, where in excess of 40 members attended, with half being non Session or Board members, Eric Marchant guided the audience to identify how the options could be achieved. A full report will be published soon. Meantime Eric and the organising team would like to thank all who attended or contributed to the workshops. Full details from Eric Marchant 673634 

Remembrance Service
St. Mungo's once more played host to the British Legion Service of Remembrance on Sunday 9 November. The Service was led by the Rev Dr. John Stevenson with members of the British Legion, Army Cadets, Air Cadets, Girls Brigade, Red Cross, and members of the Council. Music was provided by Penicuik Silver Band, and the bible lesson was read by Sir Robert Clerk.

Harvest Thanksgiving Service

The Harvest Thanksgiving Service on Sunday 5th October saw a laden table of produce at the front of the Church. Fruit and vegetables, canned foods, sugar, rice, tea and coffee were only some of the gifts the congregation brought as Gods harvest of orchard and field. Rev Dr. John Stevenson's selection of hymns included some with his own words added. John Sprott and Rebecca Robertson from the Sunday School read poems as part of the Service. The gifts were donated to the Bethany Trust for distribution.

Afternoon Tea
Summer weather in Penicuik is always something of a hit or miss, something to do with the Pentland Hills I'm told. Saturday 2nd August was one of those days. Undeterred the ladies put on a summer afternoon tea, with stalls selling goodies and baking. The garden was open so everyone was free to take in the sunshine, on the odd occasion it blessed us with its presence! [more]

Ian Tait Presentation
Ian Tait was presented with a plaque and bible at the Service on Sunday 2 December, after serving as Session Clerk to the St. Mungo's Kirk Session for 21 years. In that time he missed only one meeting. Sandy Robertson will take Ian's place from the beginning of January 2008 [more]

St. Andrews Night
St. Mungo's once again put on a grand supper and entertainment to celebrate St. Andrews night. Comedy, poetry, musical treats, and a sing song made this a night to remember. [more]

Service of Remembrance
The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month fell on a Sunday in 2007, the first time since 2001, signalling the end of hostilities in World War One in 1918. Each year we celebrate those who gave their lives and those disabled by the ravages of WW1, WW2 and in all theatres of war since, including casualties of today's hostilities in foreign lands. [more]

Farewell to Ron
Sunday 30th of September 2007 signalled the Rev. Ron Smiths final service to the congregation of St. Mungo's. The service, which included nine year old Robyn from the Sunday School playing her violin and a presentation from the Sunday School. A surprise meal was also provided in the Church Hall. [more]

Baptism - Ethan Paterson
From Melbourne Australia, Ethan Paterson was baptised in St. Mungo's. Joining parents Campbell and Gaynor, with daughter Abby, were grandparents Jim and Mary Paterson. Family and friends filled the church with the sound of children. [more]

Hunter & Lass

Saturday May 26th was the culmination of a week of festivities in Penicuik as the Hunter and Lass, Paul Vallis and Jan Banks, led the rideout across the Pentlands. Watch the video of the gathering at the town hall, the drink from the Stirrup Cup and Hunter Paul Vallis blowing the horn to signal the start of the rideout to Sir Robert Clerks and then over the Pentlands to House O' Muir.

New Pulpit Fall
St. Mungo's received a new pulpit fall thanks to Church member and artist, Moira Dickson. Inspired by a monastery trip on a Canadian holiday, Moira designed and created the new fall which was dedicated and blessed on Easter Sunday [more]

Amy Ritchie Baptism
A very content but always aware Amy Jenny Caroline Ritchie was baptised on Sunday 14th. Parents Claire and Mark were married by the Rev. Ron Smith when he ministered in Falkirk. A great many relatives and friends made their way from the family home in Airth to be at the baptism. Father Mark was also celebrating his 30th birthday on the 14th, making it a double celebration. [more]

Abbey Marie Baptism
Abbey Marie joined the family of the Church on Sunday 7th August Sister Rebecca was also there with mum Diane and dad George to witness this special occasion. [more]

Double Baptism fills Church with Joy
After a few false starts baby Ruby Bee made it to the christening font, and was joined by young Thomas Ferguson to make this a great day for two families. Ruby's sister Grace and Thomas' brother Jack joined the mums, dads on Sunday 26 June . [more]

Sponsored Walk 2005
This years sponsored walk around Cademuir Hills on 4th June raised £834 for Church funds. Thank you to all who sponsored the walkers.
A dry start soon deteriorated into a wet lunch and an afternoon with the waterproofs on. But the spirits were always high as the walkers stepped out across the hills. [more]

Baptism with a difference
Choir member and regular worshipper Isabel Donachie was baptised on Sunday 10th April. A member of St. Mungo's since 1976 when she and husband Duncan moved to Penicuik. The Rev. Ron Smith led the baptism, with the Rev. James Ritchie the blessing.   [more]

Farewell to James and Metta
The Rev James and Metta Ritchie said there farewells at St. Mungo's on Sunday 10 April. Members since there move to Penicuik 20 years ago, they move into Edinburgh. The congregation wished them well for the future [more]

April Blessing
Callum Paul Logan received the Blessing of the Church on Sunday 3 April. Coincidentally the Logan family moved into Penicuik the same week that Ron took up the ministry at St. Mungo's, November 2004. The Sunday school promised to look after Callum when he is old enough to join them. [more]

Megan Butler Baptised
Megan Elizabeth Butler was baptised on Sunday 30 January. First child and daughter to Laura and David (in the foreground). The service had Megan fully absorbed in watching her family, and the bigger family of the congregation. A big family and friends turnout for this most important day for Megan. [more]

St. Mungo's Anniversary
This year is the 1392 anniversary of St. Mungo's death, on 13th January 613. St. Mungo was one of the most important characters in the Church in Britain in the 6th and early 7th centuries. He was active in central and southern Scotland, northern England and Wales, founding both Glasgow (where he is patron) and St Asaph's. [more]

News from 2004

Nativity Play
The Church was filled with mums, dads, granny's and granpa's for the Nativity play on Sunday 19th December. The 4th Sunday of Advent and only days to go before the big day, the celebration of the birth of Jesus. [more]

Preaching In
The Revs. Sheila and Graham Blount preached Rev. Ron Smith into his new charge at St. Mungo's on Sunday 28th November. Sheila normally ministers at Cupar in Fife, while Graham preaches at Falkirk. [more]

Induction of Ron Smith
The Rev. Ron Smith was officially inducted into the charge of St. Mungo's on Friday 26th November. The formal service was led by Rev. Alison Mathieson, Moderator of the Presbytery of Lothian. A social evening followed offering refreshment and entertainment to some 100 plus visitors from Falkirk and 150 local congregation and Presbytery members. [more]

Bill takes last Service
The Rev. Bill Brown preached his last service to the St. Mungo's congregation on Sunday 21st November. His children's address looked back at all the lessons learned and a gift was presented to Bill by the Children. Long Service, 30 year, certificates were presented to Elders Ian Dickson and James McMillan, and a special certificate to Church Officer Len Cox [more]

Sponsored Walk 2004
October 9th May have been the opening of the Scottish Parliament, but 20 of our members struck out round the milky law to secure more cash for the Church funds. This year took us from Westloch to Eddleston and back. [more].

Jacob and Esau - a story of jealousy
The children's story on Sunday 3rd October had two of the boys acting out the story of Jacob and Esau. A classic from the book of Genesis this age old story tells how Jacob tricked Esau into selling his rights as the first born son to him, and later deceived their father Isaac into thinking he was Esau and receiving his blessing [more].

Winners Receive Prizes
The Newsletter competition, testing knowledge of the Bible won Sheila Haig and Helen Rankine the top prizes. Both were presented with their prizes at the Sunday 11th July service. [more]

Names on the door
The address to the Sunday School children on 9th of May had the children, and the Rev Bill Brown, walking briskly round the Church. Why? To show the Children all the plaques with the names of people who worshipped in St. Mungo's many years ago. [more]

Triple Baptism
A busy time on Sunday 7 March, as three young members joined the Christian church through baptism. The Rev Bill Brown baptised Gareth Andrew Falconer, sister Kayleigh Janet Falconer and Brian Kenneth James Wilson.
A warm welcome was also extended to the Grandparents, God parents and all the family members. For a full size picture [click here].

Welcome back to the Children
How does a one winged wooly penguin make the Sunday School jump for joy? The morning story to the children, welcoming them back for the new year  will tell you the answer. A story with a message for all of us, not only the children [more]

Sponsored Walk 2003
Ten stalwarts and two dogs gathered outside our church for this years sponsored walk. Starting in Peebles the route took us on the Tweed river walk, by Neidpath to Lynn Station and back, with photos [more]