Next Services
Sunday 1st November:
Morning Worship in St Ninian’s Church at 11:30 am.
Sunday 8th November:
Morning Worship and Act of Remembrance in St Ninian’s Church at 11:30 am.
Sunday 15th November:
Family Worship in St Ninian’s Church at 11:30 am.
Sunday 22nd November:
Morning Worship in St Ninian’s Church at 11:30 am.
Sunday 29th November:
Advent Communion Church in Dunscore Church at 10:30 am.
See the Diary page for detail information on future services and events.
Welcome
St Ninian’s Church
Glencairn & Moniaive Parish Church is a linked charge with Dunscore Parish Church and is within the Presbytery of The South West.
The parish of Glencairn & Moniaive is located at the northern end of the scenic Cairn Valley in mid-Nithsdale, which is part of the Dumfries & Galloway region of South West Scotland.
The community is centred around the village of Moniaive.
We aim to play an active part in the community we serve, reaching out with the love and joy of Jesus Christ.
Our vision is ‘To convince all people of God’s love for them’.
News from the Kirk’s Website
Read about the latest News and Events. Click here.
Message from our Minister
1st November 2026
As we prepare to say farewell to one of the saints (Malcolm McCall) we give thanks for the saints who have gone before us and celebrate the saints of today.
In the midst of Guising, Halloween, Day of the Dead, and the many other variants across the globe we are today reminded of the real reason to celebrate. Not Ghosties. Not Ghoulies. Not Zombies.
Just real people who follow Jesus.
Most saints are not recognised by holding the title of Saint Someone-or-other, but by their faith in Christ and their service of God and humankind. Most saints simply get on with whatever role God has given them in whatever situation they find themselves, not seeking publicity or fame, but content in knowing that they serve the Lord. Most saints do not live dramatic lives of note to historians, yet make a real difference to those around them.
You’ve probably met some. You may well be one!
To be a saint is simple – a life dedicated to following Jesus’ example of self-sacrficing service of others, guided by the Holy Spirit, and empowered by faith in the Eternal, Infinite, Loving God.
Oh! That’s you!!
Join us to give thanks for the saints who have helped us and re-commit to being saints where we are.
God Bless,
Mark
PRAYER for this week:
Eternal, Infinite, Loving God,
it is You who blesses us, gathers us, and guides us.
It is You who seeks us out, calls us, and challenges us.
It is You who loves us beyond measure.
It is You who gives us hope and promise.
We join with prophets, priests and kings,
we join with the known and the unknown,
we join with all of humanity who have, and do,
and will proclaim Your Name by lives of service and self-sacrifice.
PRAYER THEME:
Thank God for the saints who have helped you on your own journey of faith.
From the Manse –
Remember to not forget …
November is a time for remembering …
… those we love but see no longer – ALL SAINTS’ DAY (1st) & ALL SOULS’ DAY (2nd).
… the privilege of living in a ‘free’ parliamentary democracy – BONFIRE NIGHT (5th).
… those who have lost their lives through war – REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY (8th) & ARMISTICE DAY (11th)
… to get ready for Christmas! – ADVENT SUNDAY (29th)
… our Patron Saint – ST ANDREW’S DAY (30th)
A busy time, but an important time. A time to reflect but also a time to act!
Each of the rememberings above carries a challenge for us today. The challenge of being thankful for precious memories. The challenge of pursuing peace in a world full of turmoil and strife. The challenge of standing up for what is right. The challenge of pointing others to the best Way, to Jesus.
As you recall the memories of family and friends no longer here on earth, be thankful for them and what you shared together and look to live life to its fullest.
As you watch the fireworks and flames, think of so many around this world who suffer through despotic regimes and greedy dictators, who are persecuted because of their religion, or lifestyle.
As you stand in silence, commit yourself to seeking peace, peace for all people.
As you see the Advent wreath lit, step aside from the busy madness of commercial Christmas and seek the inner truth of the real Christmas – God with us.
As you celebrate being Scottish, resolve to be more like Andrew, who helped others toward a better way of life, life in all its fullness through Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace.
As I said … a busy time, but an important time!
A time which can open us up to new ways of living, thinking and being. A time to be inspired by those who have gone before us. A time to get ready for … we don’t know what!
December is a time of preparation … requests, lists, planning, wrapping, posting … ready to celebrate the turn of the year.
Did you ever wonder why Christmas Day is 25th December? It’s simply the day after Mid-winter’s day (24th), the day that the daylight begins to push back the darkness. The early Christians knew the significance of that in relation to the arrival of the Christ-child, the Light of the World. That’s why so much of our celebration is about Light.
I hope you enjoy the many events and activities which will take place this December. Enjoy the surprises of Living Advent, the skills at the Craft Fairs, the joy of the singing together, the glow of the Christingles. I hope you remember the spiritual dimensions of what we are celebrating, without which we will simply carry on as normal once January arrives.
So we come full circle …
… let’s remember not to forget!
God Bless,
Mark RS Smith