Speaker Billy McMurray (Salvation Army)

Rotary club of Stirling Meeting of 9th December 2016.

President Alan Rankin welcomed our only visitor, and speaker, Billy McMurray of the Salvation Army.

Next Friday, 16th December, will be our Christmas lunch and our last meeting before the holiday break. The club will not meet on the 23rd and 30th of December.

Our speaker Billy McMurray and his wife Denise have been in charge of the Stirling citadel of the Salvation Army for 16 years. The main objective remains, to save souls, but always against a background of providing services specific to the needs of the local community. The membership of the Stirling branch has remained stable, and these familiar faces make it easier for them to make contact with those who come to the Drip Rd centre seeking help. Every day they serve 30 to 50 balanced three course meals, which acts as a point of contact with a group of people many of whose lives are essentially unstructured. From this they are able to identify specific needs and are able to offer practical help. Many have alcohol or drug problems and they are able to offer advice or contact with AA. The presence of recovered alcoholics and their personal experience is particularly helpful. In addition, they have become involved with Stirling University in a study of alcohol abuse. Although they no longer have a band or hand out the War Cry, their other traditional activities continue. There is a second-hand clothes shop at Drip Rd and a furniture store at Munroe Rd. and they are always pleased to receive contributions for either. Members were clearly impressed by what Billy McMurray had to say and were pleased that the club has contributed towards their increased activity over the Christmas period.

The vote of thanks was given by Tom Thomson.

Next meeting 6th January, Speaker's host Jane Wilson, Visitor's host Malcolm Cordwell Smith. For further info www.stirling.rotary1010.org

Photograph to follow

Ian Richardson