The Fife Herald has kindly given the Dairsie web site permission to copy the Dairsie News that is printed in the Fife Herald every week.
The annual general meeting of Dairsie Parish Church was held in the church hall on March 25. Twenty-one members present (up on last year). Rev Alex Strickland, chair, constituted the meeting with prayer and an appropriate reading - Romans 12. Ruefully, he reported he must be getting on in years, as he was addressed as Father of the Presbytery at a Presbytery meeting! He and his wife are grateful for the good support given in Dairsie, and his office-bearers of the linkage. With an increase in numbers attending, Dairsie is strongest of the linkage - very good, as not going the wrong way! The Quinquennial Process continues. A meeting with office-bearers of Dairsie Church is to be followed by a joint meeting with office-bearers of the linked churches. The treasurer Mr Innes-Smith thought things looked good, despite a deficit of £1609 for 2002. Open plate givings are up, with Gift Aid, which brings tax relief is down. The session clerk, A. Lorimer reported 144 church members at end of year and 80 supplementary names on roll. A full session of 10. The Sunday School has only six children on its roll - it would be great if more children attended.
The Christmas presentation of music and readings was excellent. Mrs. Paul thanked Mrs. Jones for her help. The Guild has had a busy, interesting year with around 23 at each meeting. There is a link with the primary school, and exchange visits with other Guilds. President Mrs. Ferguson, reminded all that it is no longer a Woman's Guild, so go along, all you men!
The fundraising committee had a busy year, with enjoyable events, and more planned for this year, starting with the Safari Supper. The Christmas gift vouchers for senior citizens, to be spent at the local mini-market were an innovative idea, which was much appreciated. Chair, Mrs. Strickland, looked forward to continuing support. Mrs. Betty Roger was re-elected to the Congregational Board, but a number of vacancies remain.
Any other business - a member raised the question of inadequate spaces in the church car park due to its use by local folk. Do they pay? The chairman replied that it would be appreciated if regular users made a donation to the church.
The chairman concluded the meeting with thanks to the all for their support - the Rev A. Stevenson for the Parish Newsletter; for the lovely flowers in the church, and to Alan Ferguson for all his work behind the scenes; and finally, a grateful thanks for the tea awaiting as the meeting closed!
This is your village park run by the Trust. On Friday April 25 at 7.30 p.m., to meet the yearly bill for insurance for the park, the Trust have arranged a visit by the Fife Strathspey and Reel Society, who promise an enjoyable evening of Scottish dance music and singing. Tea will be provided, and there will be a raffle, for which prizes will be gratefully received by Bill Sinclair, 60 Main Street, or at the shop, where tickets are on sale - £6 for adults, £3 children.
The daffodils are glowing everywhere. The weather has been brilliant. Dairsie has some good peaceful walks - to Clayton where the milk bar is now open to refresh you, or round by Pittormie and Craigfoodie. People are encouraged to be more active, so leave the duties in the garden - straighten your back, and look around with pleasure as you stroll!
Winners of the March draw were - £20 - A Booth, Dairsie; £10 - G. Crowe, Cupar; £5 G. Gourley, Dairsie.
There was no Dairsie News published in the Fife Herald on the 11/04/2003.
The usual second Thursday of the month coffee morning was well supported - not surprising with the guarantee of good company and great home baking, but it is always good to see new faces, so why not come along to the church hall on May 8 at 10.30 am where you can be assured of a warm welcome.
An open evening in Dairsie Church, so all are welcome to hear Balmerino Church Choir at 7.30 pm on Monday. Refreshments with home baking will follow in the hall and admission is free.
Members of Dairsie Church united with Kemback and Strathkiness at Kemback Church for the Good Friday service conducted by the minister, the Rev. A. Strickland. Easter Day was celebrated with great joy at Dairsie Parish Church, when Mr. David Murdoch led the worship. Refreshments and a welcome to visitors to the church followed in the church hall.
Tonight (Friday) at 7.30 p.m., Fife Strathspey and Reel Society perform. Tickets still available at the hall door. Tomorrow (Saturday), 10.30 a.m., there's a coffee morning at Dairsie Memorial Hall, at which the hall committee hope for great support for their dedicated work towards maintaining your hall. There will be the usual stalls, and tea/coffee with scones.