Golden celebrations for Catholic charity
A Scottish charity which began life in a Rutherglen church is set to mark it’s 50th anniversary with a series of cèilidhs across the country.
The Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund (SCIAF) began its work at St Columbkille’s in 1965.
It has gone on to raise £65million for good causes across the world.
A special celebration mass, led by Bishop of Motherwell Joseph Toal, retired Bishop of Aberdeen Peter Moran and Archbishop of St Andrews and Edinburgh, Leo Cushley was held at St Columbkille’s in February to mark the golden anniversary.
It was attended by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, as well as then Scottish Labour leader Jim Murphy.
Ms Sturgeon said: “From a small classroom in Rutherglen in 1965, it has become a significant force for good in the world, giving practical help like seeds and farm tools so people can grow food and support themselves.”
From humble beginnings and with just £8000, the charity now gives emergency aid and practical long term support to millions of people affected by hunger, poverty, war and disasters.
And they now want people to put their best feet forward in Glasgow at 7pm on Saturday September 19 at St. Peter’s Church Hall, Chancellor Street.
The fun night will bring SCIAF’s Glasgow supporters and staff together for an enjoyable and energetic evening of music, dance, food and drinks.
There will also be a raffle, games and face painting for the kids.
The anniversary events will raise essential funds to allow SCIAF to continue its work in helping people to work their way out of poverty in some of the poorest countries in the world.
Other cèilidhs are being held in Edinburgh and Aberdeen and the charity has produced Cèilidh Packs to help parishes in other areas to run their own.
SCIAF’s Director Alistair Dutton said: “Our anniversary cèilidh is going to be lots of fun for all the family and a great way for us to bring our wonderful supporters in Glasgow together for a night of dancing and entertainment.
“There’ll be some great raffle prizes that people have donated, live music, games for the children and a cheap bar.
“So, get your family and friends together and let’s mark this important anniversary year for SCIAF with a celebration.
“All money raised from the night will go to our life-changing work in some of the poorest countries in the world. If you can’t make the Glasgow cèilidh, why not put one on in your own parish or community?”
You can buy tickets from the SCIAF office by contacting SCIAF on 0141 354 5555 or by emailing events@sciaf. org.uk All welcome.
From a small classroom in Rutherglen, it has become a significant force for good