Hope 2 Oban Blog

Such Fun! - Aviemore has a Deep Impact on H2O Team

2012-01-22T21:00:00.002Z

Over this past weekend, five intrepid explorers from Oban joined over 300 other youth and children's workers and volunteers at the annual Deep Impact conference in Aviemore.
The group took part in times of worship, scriptural teaching, a plethora of seminars, as well as meeting with friends old and new from all over Scotland.

GFG Party In The New Year!

2012-01-20T09:48:00.005Z

Yep, it's 2012 and GFG started the new year in party mode.
Alongside the 'traditional' dance-offs and party games (Ewen - rubbish dancer!), GFG took time to consider hopes and dreams for 2012 and beyond.
The group also planned ahead for the new term and future exciting events and activities.
As ever, watch this space for ongoing updates!
GFG (Games, Food and God) meets on Tuesday evenings, wee optional Bible study - 6.30 - 7.15, main gathering 7.30 - 9pm.
GFG is for young folk from P7 - S4.
For further details contact Rachel or Ewen on (01631) 564239.

2012 - Roasty, Toasty, Warm and Cozy! An H2O Time of Review, Reflection and Future Directions!

2012-01-20T09:23:00.008Z

Ardeonaig Outdoor Centre, by Loch Tay, continues to provide the perfect setting for Directors, Staff, Volunteers and Friends of Hope 2 Oban to come together annaully to reflect upon and give thanks for the year that has passed and to plan for and pray about the year and times ahead.
Last weekend was no exception. There was a healthy turnout for the occasion.
Friday evening was about coming together, meeting with the Lord, welcoming some new faces, and spending time in reflection of a 7th birthday year which, as ever, was packed with loads of fulfilling, fruitful work within the communities of Oban and the surrounding area.
Our Saturday was grounded in focussed prayer and scriptural teaching, and many thanks go to our visitor Rev. Angus Morrison for his informative, insightful and often entertaining look into both The Great Commandment and The Great Commission.
For the remainder of Saturday we gazed forward to the future of the 'Walled Garden Project' as it is currently known, the ongoing growth and development of Club H2O, and aspects of Inter-agency/ partnership youth work, locally, within the county and nationally.
As ever, we are indebted to many for the organisation and delivery of such an encouraging and successful overnight event, so 'THANK YOU' all. You know who you are!

Jesus at the centre at H2O Christmas Praise

2011-12-20T12:34:00.009Z

How do you tell the Christmas story? As many ways as possible!
At the recent Christmas Praise, through song, the Word, using video ..... through any and every which way. The evening of carols and cake celebrated the fast-approaching birthday of Jesus with folks from Oban and the surrounding area.
A Gospel-based message of hope was shared by Major John Swan of the local Salvation Army chore.
As ever, a big thank you to all who took part, on and off stage, and to the support H2O has locally for this event.
Hope 2 Oban wishes all a peaceful and Christ-filled Christmas and New Year.

Club H2O - A busy term - Update 4 - What advice would you give to a teenager like me?

2011-12-07T15:11:00.005Z

Above are pictures from a recent visit by some of the current Oban High School S3 Modern Studies class, who developed a questionnaire to help them learn more about what growing old in the community really means in practical terms.
It wasn’t all about walking sticks and hearing aids though; the questionnaire also asked “What advice would you give to a teenager like me ? There was lot of lively discussion about that, which everyone enjoyed. On the feedback form for that day one of our members summed up the experience, “Well done OHS, hope we both have benefited from this”.

Club H2O is a Christian initiative which brings together active senior citizens and pupils from Oban High School. We meet at The Well every Thursday from 2 to 3.30pm with a varied programme of speakers and activities throughout the year. Volunteer drivers provide a lift for anyone who doesn’t have access to transport, and our team of willing helpers provide tea and home baking as well as a friendly face and a warm welcome.

Club H2O is always happy to welcome new members.
We are also looking for volunteer helpers and drivers, so that we can expand the Club.
Helpers come from 1.30 – 3.30pm )
Drivers 1.45 – 2pm and 3.30 – 3.45pm ) Every Thursday
Contact Fiona Campbell at The Well on fiona@hope2oban.org.uk or Tel 01631 564239 for further information.

Club H2O - A busy term - Update 3 - St.Andrew's Day Celebrated

2011-12-07T14:59:00.005Z

Any excuse for a party is our motto, so we welcome the talented performers of Oban High School for celebrations like St Andrew’s Day and Burn’s Night.
Preparing and performing these programmes helps the pupils develop new skills, and our Club is a discerning audience who are always ready to give encouragement.

Club H2O is a Christian initiative which brings together active senior citizens and pupils from Oban High School. We meet at The Well every Thursday from 2 to 3.30pm with a varied programme of speakers and activities throughout the year. Volunteer drivers provide a lift for anyone who doesn’t have access to transport, and our team of willing helpers provide tea and home baking as well as a friendly face and a warm welcome.

Club H2O is always happy to welcome new members.
We are also looking for volunteer helpers and drivers, so that we can expand the Club.
Helpers come from 1.30 – 3.30pm )
Drivers 1.45 – 2pm and 3.30 – 3.45pm ) Every Thursday
Contact Fiona Campbell at The Well on fiona@hope2oban.org.uk or Tel 01631 564239 for further information

Club H2O - A busy term - Update 2 - Remembrance

2011-12-07T14:54:00.004Z

Sometimes the mood is a bit more serious at Club H2O, when we meet to share the deeply felt things of life.
Remembrance Day is now an important time for Oban High School pupils to learn as well as for older folk to remember.
This year, pupils brought a moving programme of their research into the origins and purpose of Remembrance, together with their own experiences of a WW1 Battlefields Tour in Belguim and France.
In response ‘an old soldier’ wrote “Very interesting and well presented” while several ladies commented “Good to know they are interested, and the young still remember”.

Club H2O - A busy term - Update 1

2011-12-07T14:46:00.010Z

Pictured above, the group are hanging on every word from Bill Leech of Oban’s War & Peace Museum. Bill is reminding members what a typical war-time ration was.
In response, 100 year-old Annie recalled how awful the powdered egg was !
Speakers are very popular at the Club, and regular visits from local organizations mean our housebound members can keep in touch with what’s happening in the town.

Club H2O is a Christian initiative which brings together active senior citizens and pupils from Oban High School. We meet at The Well every Thursday from 2 to 3.30pm with a varied programme of speakers and activities throughout the year. Volunteer drivers provide a lift for anyone who doesn’t have access to transport, and our team of willing helpers provide tea and home baking as well as a friendly face and a warm welcome.
Club H2O is always happy to welcome new members.
We are also looking for volunteer helpers and drivers, so that we can expand the Club.
Helpers come from 1.30 – 3.30pm )
Drivers 1.45 – 2pm and 3.30 – 3.45pm ) Every Thursday
Contact Fiona Campbell at The Well on fiona@hope2oban.org.uk or Tel 01631 564239 for further information.

First Xplore Xtra! What's that all about?

2011-12-04T13:19:00.006Z

Xplore Xtra?....A place and a space to get together with others who want to discover more about what it means to know Jesus.
Young folk recently gathered from Oban and Luing to spend time together with their youth leaders and our youth worker friends Justin from Kinlochleven and Paul from Dunoon.
The evening included time together being crafty, enjoying pizza, smoothies and cake and each considering where they might be in their relationship with God.
The gathering were also crucially asked what they thought about Xplore Xtra happening again in the future, what that should look like and where it should happen. Folks were not slow to share thier views and our hope is to meet around the county, perhaps 4 times a year, possibly monthly in the future, and to dig deeper into some of the questions and issues raised in our feedback session.
Watch out for Xplore Xtra, version 2.0!

Zoooom! have a magic day at first photo sale

2011-11-30T11:30:00.003Z

Members of Zoooom!, our creative photo space, embarked on their first sale of their work recently.
Items for sale included Photocards, Mounted prints of various sizes and framed images.
The outcome for the day was around £230 profit from sales and a well-attended coffee morning. This will now go towards Zoooom!'s first Summer Exhibition, ARGYLL, (Awesome rural Gateway, Youthful Land of Light)
Watch this space for more details!

GFG go to Narnia - The Lion, The Witch and what a Wardrobe!

2011-11-19T20:10:00.010Z

"It's Narnia" was the cry as GFG members entered the magical world of The Well for Narnia through-the-night! AND entered through the land of Ward-Robe!
Fortified by oodles of Smoothies, Pizza and Hot Chocolate, eleven intrepid travellers enjoyed the Narnia trilogy - 1 - The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, 2- Prince Caspian and 3 - Voyage of the Dawn Treader.
What a night! Lots of fun, and even 'some' sleep (eventually!)
Breakfast was served around 8am - bacon, sausage, eggs, toast and as requested, Tattie Scones
Well done GFG! BIG thank-yous to the super duper team of leaders, (s'pecially for the big final tidy Rachel and Katie) and to the local Narnia Wardrobe Supplies company.

A Taste of Africa welcomed by H2O

2011-11-03T09:00:00.004Z

With several 'Friends' of H2O having been involved in adventures to the African continent over the past year or so, an evening of drawing folks together to share stories was thought to be long overdue. Hence "A Taste of Africa" took place recently at The Well, a place to hear those stories in a friendly 'African' setting with appropriate helpings of delicious African cuisine.
After a fine intro from Roy Clunie, H2O Chair, Catherine Brown shared some of her experiences on 'Mercy Ships', the international Christian relief organisation who provide much-needed medical operations and life-changing assistance to many, mainly on the West Coast of Africa.
Post African main course, John Macdonald gave the gathering an insight to the work of Tear Fund in Soroti, Uganda where support is given in the form of skill-sharing and training, enabling the local community to provide, sustain and grow through their own efforts and development.
Neil Matheson told the tale of a group of Scottish folk, 'Friends of Pebane', who have taken time over the past 6 years or so, to work with this community in Mozambique. Neil shared about the most recent adventures of the sending of a freight container of goods to support the medical and fishing requiremnets of the area.
A very big thank you must go to our guest speakers, our friends Beltus and Fiaz who travelled all the way from Glasgow to serve us African cuisine and to all in those helped with the preparations, serving and the clearing away on the evening.
'When's the next one' was the cry!

Just when Zoooom! thought they were heading home......

2011-10-14T12:36:00.004+01:00

Just when we thought it was time to go home, a Zoooom! opportunity arose to visit Glasgow-based Radio and TV Kilimanjaro. This is an organisation that is committed to empowering, supporting and echoing the voice of the African communities/individuals and businesses/organizations in Scotland. The group met with Messrs Beltus and Guy, who gave us a tour of the premises and shared their vision for the future of RKTV. We also were heard live (albeit briefly) on the radio with DJ, Godfather Marshall Talisman. Lots of fun and an insight to many of the challenges met by some folks within the Scottish community. A big thank you to all who made us so welcome.
Quite an organisation!

Zoooom!-ing to the City

2011-10-14T12:16:00.003+01:00

What a great, busy, fun-packed and worthwhile day members of Zoooom! had during the recent photo trip to Glasgow.
With an early start, the 'big smoke' was reached with enough time to click around Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum AND the new Riverside Transport Museum. Many of the group (including one leader!) had never been to the magnificant building that houses this exclusive collection at Kelvingrove.
On to the Riverside and the excitement and buzz of the newly-housed collection of transport classics from road, rail, air and sea. Housed in the spectacularly unique building on the banks of the River Clyde, once more, Zoooom!-ers had a ball spending time with their pals and with cameras.
Next on the Zoooom! agenda is a sale of super-zoooom! photos at The Well (H2O's base) on Saturday 26th November, to raise funds towards our summertime exhibition, ARGYLL - Awesome, Rural, Gateway, Youthful Land of Light!

Club H2O consider what we have and what we had!

2011-10-07T09:51:00.003+01:00

The older members of our intergenarational initiative, Club H2O, met with Bill Leech of Oban's War and Peace Museum this week. Time together was taken to consider life around 1946 post-war Britain and the little we had then as oppose to all we have now. Rations were on display as part of the chat, with a week's worth including a small pat of butter, small helping of cheese, 2 pints of milk, 3 chops and 2 rashers of bacon per week.
Discussions took place on who might, maybe, just fit the clothes of the day (for ladies 23" waist and 36" hips) with the decision to 'move on' the conversation being wisely taken. A splendid time was had and many thanks go to Bill for coming along and sharing so informatively.
Meantime, Fiona Campbell is having ongoing chats with OHS teachers, developing the future Club H2O programme. Currently in the pipeline..... St. Andrews event, Christmas pensioners treat at OHS, Rogers and Hammerstein performance and highlights from the shows....yes, meets have been with Home Economics and Performing Arts!
Watch this space for regular Intergenerational updates.

Forgiving is Good for Your Health!

2011-10-07T09:14:00.006+01:00

Chaplaincy Assembly Week at Oban High School has been considering the importance of Forgiveness as part of our overall well-being.
The Chaplaincy team asked pupils and staff from Oban High School's 'Clans' to consider aspects of forgiveness from the Bible and also from Desmond Tutu's experiences in pre- and post- apartheid South Africa. Most importantly, how the South African nation responded in the times after Nelson Mandela's release alongside the rapid move to democracy.
In true Tutu style, the assemblies ended with the thought that 'forgiveness is good for your health'
In closing, all gathered were invited to consider personally who they might forgive and who they might say sorry to.

Zoooom! - ing ahead in Photoshop

2011-10-07T09:01:00.004+01:00

It's all very well taking hundreds, nay, thousands of pictures in the times of digital imagery, but it's even better if you can learn how to make your shots closer to 'perfecto' in times of digital imagery. That's exactly what the H2O Zoooom!-ers have been up to the last couple of sessions. Seeking the skills to produce that emotion-wrenching, story-telling picture, the group have been suitably guided around the tools and functions by ace-volunteer, local photographer, Cameron Harris. Bit-by-bit, Zoooom! are becoming gifted image-makers in their different fields of interest, be it close-up macro, action sport and theatre or lively landscapes.
Watch this space for updates as the group prepare for a Glasgow-bound photo adventure over the rapidly-approaching mid-term break.

Decisions, Decisions with SSC Seniors

2011-10-07T08:51:00.002+01:00

Its not so long ago since 'Seniors' of the SSC, S4-S6 pupils, got together in Perthshire, The Stanley Nairne Centre, to consider 'What makes a good SSC Leader?' and to investigate the requirements for a confident and well-presented high school presentation.
Guided by SSC Training Cooordinator Meggan Jamieson, weekend 'campers' were asked to compare 'celebrities' talents as to SSC suitability. Included were Alex Salmond, Kerry Catona, Barack Obama and Cheryl Cole. Interesting chat followed. Interesting and challenging were further conversations around high school presentations as many of the seniors accepted the challenge to deliver this coming season's talks to younger pupils all over Scotland. Much fun and serious chat was had and all are now looking forward to the challenge ahead.

Sad Times - Happy Times at GFG

2011-09-21T08:38:00.004+01:00

It was a wee bit sad at GFG recently as we said 'goodbye' to two of our group who will soon move on to pastures new. Brothers Alasdair and Andrew will be moving away from the West Coast to a new home inland. But, in with the sadness there was a lot of fun and daft dancing as GFG partied for the lads with balloon games, pizza and cake! Love and manly hugs to the guys.....Our thoughts and prayers will be with you at this time of change.

Hostel Pupils make a Point with H2O and Stramash

2011-09-19T15:05:00.003+01:00

Archery and Bushcraft! The final session of 8 outdoor activity sessions took place for S1 pupils from Glencruitten Hostel alongside Rachel and Ewen, H2O youth workers and members of the Stramash activity team. As the evening developed, archery targets became more interesting...... balloons, 'homework', dinosaurs. As darkness fell, bushcraft skills were developed, and marshmallows enjoyed.
Over the past weeks, activities have also included Coasteering, Gorge walking and Canoeing, all made possible through the expert skills of Stramash, local activity providing charity, and through funding for H2O's work in Glencruitten Hostel from 'Children in Need'.

Hope 2 Oban welcomes new Intergenerational Project Manager

2011-09-19T14:47:00.004+01:00

Fiona Campbell has been appointed as the Intergenerational Project Manager for H2O. Fiona's work will revolve around the foundation of Club H2O, the intergenerational aspect of the work of H2O. Over the coming weeks and months, Fiona will continue to develop the Thursday afternoon club with Oban High School pupils meeting some of the elderly of the Oban community. Fiona's brief also includes working with local church congregations to run the recently introduced monthly worship time for the elderly, meeting on the last Wednesday of the month. For further details of this aspect of the work of H2O, please do get in touch with Fiona at The Well on (01631) 564239 or at fiona@hope2oban.org.uk .

All aboard with Xplore

2011-09-09T09:24:00.006+01:00

An action-packed evening has helped to launch the new term with Xplore, our Christian faith exploration group for 15-18s (and beyond!)
A wee sailing jaunt invitation from local supporter Colin was greatfully received by Xplore at the start of a new season. As can be seen from the pics, a fine time was had by all with new sailing skills being developed left, right and centre.
A very big thank you to Colin and David for the opportunity for us land-lubbers to spend time aboard.
As we look forward, Xplore plan to delve into 'More Than Conquerors', a challenging look at Christian Discipleship, between now and Christmas. Also in the H2O pipeline are plans to meet up with similar groups of young folk on an Argyll/ Lochaber basis. Watch this space for ongoing updates.

Busy New Term for GFG

2011-09-09T09:09:00.004+01:00

Two weeks in and GFG are well and truly underway.
Having spent time during week one working out what to get up to during the term ahead, GFG, (Games, Food and God) have hit the ground running.
Creativity was in abundance as all worked together on a group picture, followed by some ponderings and natter on the theme of 'Love'. GFG were joined for the evening by C of S Youth Work Adviser, Paul Beautyman from Dunoon. (GFG say you can come and play anytine Paul!)
Due to popular demand, in addition to regular evenings, some of the GFG crew will be discovering a wee bit more about the Bible during sessions prior to the regular gathering time of 7.30 - 9pm. Further to chatting with the group, it was decided that themes for the term's sessions will be 'Love', 'Forgiveness', 'Evil' and 'Faith'. (Not a bad choice by the 11-14 year olds!)

The SSC Season continues with a busy week of activities

2011-07-21T22:20:00.007+01:00

One or two more images from Mixed Camp 1 at Struan

SSC Summer Camps - Seniors build the camp at 'Advanced Guard'

2011-07-21T22:15:00.005+01:00

A wee selection of images from a busy week of camp construction!

Club H2O says goodbye to Jayne Powers

2011-07-01T12:20:00.006+01:00

Hope 2 Oban's Intergenerational Worker, Jayne Powers, has completed her time working with young and not-so-young through Club H2O. To acknowledge Jayne's departure, Chair of H2O, Roy Clunie presented Jayne with gifts and kind words on her significant work over the seven months of her employment. In the short time she has been with H2O, Jayne has coordinated projects with OHS pupils including English, Music, XL Club and Home economics. Her work has also incuded developments with Glencruitten Hostel and Torosay Court. Significantly, in this her last week with H2O, the first of the new monthly 'Spiritual Spaces' for the elderly, moved forward by Jayne, has taken place at Torosay Court. Church congregations will take turns to lead these times of Christian worship for the elderly.
All at Hope 2 Oban say 'Thank you Jayne' for your work and pass on their best wishes for the future as Jayne takes time to be closer to her family.

Hope 2 Oban Award 2011 presented at OHS prizegiving

2011-06-28T21:53:00.007+01:00

This year's H2O Award has been presented to Oban High School S6 pupil Katie Sims.
Throughout the 2010-2011 academic year, Katie has consistantly volunteered her time to assist with the Rock Solid lunchtime club, held weekly at Oban High. Her enthusiasm and energy have brought her the friendship and respect of many of the younger pupils who come along to the club.
As Katie's time at OHS draws to a close, she looks forward to a busy summer with the SSC camping at Struan, followed by studies in Childcare later in the year.
H2O are hoping that Katie will also have some time to volunteer with our ongoing youth work.
Congratulations Katie!

A feast fit for kings and queens for Club H2O!

2011-06-26T21:05:00.002+01:00

S4 pupils recently treated Club H2O members to a fine feast at Oban High School as part of the ongoing intergenerational programme. Pupils planned, prepared and served an exquisite menu which was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone who came along.
Special thanks to all who took part and particularly to the pupils and staff from the Home Economics department.

H2O joins 10th Oban Pals on the WW1 Battlefields

2011-06-26T20:43:00.004+01:00

H2O Youth Worker, Ewen Munro, has recently had the privelege of joining Oban High School pupils and staff, as the 10th Oban Pals Battalion on the school trip to explore the WW1 battlefields in Belgium and France. For three intensive days, the forty pupils and four staff spent time discovering very human, often tragic, stories about soldiers in the Ypres and Somme areas during the first world war.
The visit culminated in attendance at the Menin Gate time of remembrance, where the group also held their own unique time of remembrance. Big thanks go to Lizzie, our tour guide for bringing the whole experience to life and to Andrew, our star driver for the trip.

Glencruitten Hostel welcomes neighbours from near and far!

2011-06-26T20:29:00.004+01:00

Assisted by the H2O youth work team, residents and staff from Glencruitten Hostel, weekday home for OHS pupils from the Islands and outlying rural areas, hosted a splendid BBQ AND Ceilidh evening. Invited guests not only included local folk from Glencruitten, but also a group of pupils and staff from a partner school in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Further to a BBQ feast, all were invited to work off their dinner by dancing the Gay Gordons, Dashing White Sergeant and Strip the Willow. by way of a wee break, an eyes-down bingo session took place followed by ice creams all round.
Special thanks go out to former puipils Murray Willis and Ewan Macdonald for the splendid live Scottish dance music.

The celebrations come to an end - Party Time!!

2011-06-15T22:17:00.003+01:00

Yes, it has been a very busy week, but certainly it has been such fun!
Bikes, boats, cake, songs and chocolate!!!! What more could a birthday celebration need. Well, a final birthday party to end the week back at the glorious Glencruitten House was the answer.
A great big THANK YOU to everyone who has made this a very special 7th birthday for Hope 2 Oban. We continue to pray for the exciting life-changing journey we are on.

GFG go Westward on a Quest in the Firth of Lorn

2011-06-14T16:13:00.005+01:00

High jinks on the high seas were the order of the day with GFG, as they celebrated 7 years of H2O Youth Work with a weekend sail on 'Weaver' the 42 foot yacht from Westward Quest. Ten took part in the adventure which travelled to Crinan, Jura, Scarba, Lunga, The Garvellachs and Mull, passing, Luing, Seil and Easedale on the way. Why are pirates pirates????? (because they arrrrrrrrr!)
PS - who brought the penguin????

Fischy Music come to town to celebrate 7 years of H2O Youth Work

2011-06-14T15:55:00.004+01:00

Sandy, Suzanne and baby Silvie, all part of the Fischy Music Family, had a smashing time with pupils from Rockfield, St.Columba's, Achaleven and Lochnell Primaries, all as part of Hope 2 Oban's 7 year celebration.
Morning workshops at Oban Primary Campus with all-action song and dance routines were followed by an even more exciting afternoon concert at Glencruitten Church Centre, where each of the morning groups performed their own song, again, with actions.

Happy Birthday to Hope 2 Oban and Claire from all at Club H2O

2011-06-09T20:00:00.005+01:00

Ongoing birthday celebrations this week......Club H2O carry on the party mood with their very own Garden Party at splendid Glencruitten House. Birthday Cake, afternoon tea and simple friendly fellowship combined to provide a good time for all, with special 90th birthday wishes from all at the Club to regular attender Claire - Happy Birthday Claire!

H2O Cafe Pops up in week of birthday celebrations

2011-06-07T22:58:00.005+01:00

The birthday celebrations continue as directors, volunteers and youth workers from Hope 2 Oban spent time together with friends at Oban's famous Chocolate Factory. Visitors to the Pop-up Cafe were given a picture opportunity to remind themselves of 7 years of H2O youth work, view a presentation on current youth and intergenerational work and enjoy oodles of luxury hot drinks and cake. Acoustic music was played by the ultra-talented H2O director Angus Smith, and a splendid chilled time was had by all.
The celebrations continue this coming Thursday......

'SPACE', Prayer opportunity for H2O birthday celebration week.

2011-06-06T22:01:00.006+01:00

For the week of H2O's 7th birthday celebrations, The Well, Hope 2 Oban's base at Lochavullin, has been transformed into an opportunity to journey in prayer.
'SPACE' includes areas to pray for the World, The News, against Human Traffiking and an option to say 'sorry'.
'Space' will be open for journeying at lunchtimes all through the week of the celebrations.

Hope 2 Oban celebrate 7 years of Youthwork

2011-06-05T09:53:00.004+01:00

June 1st 2011 marked 7 years of H2O Youthwork in Oban and the surrounding area. To celebrate those seven years, various events and activities will be taking place over the coming week, beginning with a return of the Bonkers Bikers event.
Saturday 4th June, 11 intrepid cyclists set off from the glorious Glencruitten House for the challenge ahead.
The 'Regular' route cyclists travelled the 12 or so mile round trip to and from 'Angus' Graden' in Taynuilt. The 'Jumbo' route cyclists boldly went blodly on the bold adventure via Kilcrennan, far and beyond, cycling some 34 miles back to Glencruitten House.
WELL DONE team and a great big thank you for those who have raised additional funds through sponsorship.
Keep an eye on the blog for updates throughout the week. In the pipeline...... week-long PrayerSpace at The Well....Pop-up Cafe on Tuesday evening, 7-9, at The Chocolate Factory, Esplanade...... Club H2O Garden Party at Glencruitten House on Thursday, 2-4...... Fischy Music with Primary School Pupils on Friday.....GFG sailing with Westward Quest Friday to Sunday....... and finally, Sunday afternoon, Celebrate with music, chat and cake at Glencruitten House.

Musical Extravaganza at Club H2O

2011-06-02T10:41:00.002+01:00

Pupils from the talented Oban High School Music Department thrilled memebers of Club H2O recently with song, guitars, pipes, glocks and drums (not all at the same time!)
A splendid set of performances and a nice cup of tea. Great fun all round and a big thanks to all who took part from the youngest to the oldest.

A nice cup of tea with GFG - Latin Link Fundraiser

2011-05-30T11:00:00.005+01:00

Great excitement all round as members of GFG baked big buns and wee gingerbread chaps in anticipation of our Saturday morning coffee morning in aid of Latin Link (www.latinlink.org). Joan Beaton, GFG leader extraordinaire, is preparing to head off with Latin Link to Brazil this summer, and the GFG team said 'yes!' when the challenge was laid down to raise funds.
On the day, £159.60 was raised, helping to move Joan towards her target of several thousands of pounds.
A great big THANK YOU from Joan and GFG to all who came along and supported the venture.

No resurrection, no Easter

2011-04-25T22:55:00.006+01:00

'You can't have Easter without the resurrection'. That was the message shared at the recent Oban High School Easter assemblies.
Supported by the school choir and wind band, Ewen Munro took time with each year group to tell the Easter story and to consider the centrality of the crucial Christian belief in the resurrection of Jesus.

SPACE - An opportunity to reflect at Oban HighSchool

2011-04-25T22:37:00.003+01:00

In the lead up to Easter, H2O and the OHS Chaplaincy Team provided 'SPACE', an opportunity to take time out to reflect, to pray.
Areas included 'Pray for the World', 'Pray the News', 'Stop the Traffik', 'Sorry', 'Who do you say God is?', 'Words', and 'Who are you?'
It is hoped to provide 'SPACE' on a regular basis at the high school and that the opportunity will become increasingly popular, providing a reflective place of value and honesty for pupils and staff alike.

Getting into the Easter spirit at Club H2O

2011-04-25T22:28:00.002+01:00

A fine time was had by all as the members of Club H2O celebrated Easter time, including a hotly contested Easter bonnet competition. The Easter story was remembered, Easter songs were sung and appropriate refreshments enjoyed.
Coming soon at Club H2O, a right Royal party!

GFG - Easter time - walkabout time!

2011-04-25T22:21:00.003+01:00

Walk and chat was the name of the game as GFG recently took time out to walk 'the circuit'. Setting off from the waterside and walking around 3 miles over hill and glen back to where we started. The company was good, the moaning 'are we there yet?' was minimal and the excitement, as ever, was tangible.
GFG soon move in to the summer actvity programme of outdoor games, occasional BBQ food and ongoing God chat.

H2O Lock In 2011 - A Cut Above (boom boom!)

2011-04-04T11:31:00.002+01:00

For the 7th consecutive year, Hope 2 Oban, has hosted a ‘Lock-in’ for pupils from Oban High School. These H2O fund-raising events aim to create a fun, safe environment for S1 pupils to have a 10 hour ‘youth club’ experience with their peers, alongside H2O workers and volunteers, Atlantis staff (what a team!), as well as volunteers from partner organisations, Oban Youth Café, Oban High School, the SSC (A Club for the Youth of Scotland) and the Community Police. This year, we also had support from an exceptional group of S6 students who demonstrated everything that is goods about the young folk of this area, as they got alongside S1 - BIG thank you guys!
The Lock In uses almost every corner of Atlantis and includes through-the-night sports, dance and body-pump, gym challenges, craft capers, big-screen cinema, console games of every description, swimming, Giant Jenga and Connect 4.
This year’s event had several ‘firsts’. With the opening of the ‘Lost City of Atlantis’, S1 pupils were challenged to set the first S1 record for the number of ‘circuits’ of the new soft play structure at Atlantis, with the initial target of 500 circuits being smashed for a first-time record of 1540 circuits (one for next year’s S1’s to beat!)
This was also the first (and last!) year that Ewen Munro, H2O Youth Worker, had been challenged to ‘cut off the quiff’ (a regular appearance within Ewen’s 'hairstyle') for charity. Names were drawn out the hat and the quiff, along with all other hairs on his head, duly removed at 3.30 am.
H2O would like to thank all partners in putting together this annual highlight of the S1 calendar, as well the crucial support of local businesses, Jacksons the Butchers, Breckenridge and Bookers. Particular thanks to Michael and John at Café Atlantis for Michael’s event-saving trip and their ongoing valuable support of the Lock In.

Enter the OHS English Department

2011-04-04T11:22:00.004+01:00

The last couple of weeks, leading up to the long-awaited school holiday, has seen S3 pupils from the English department of Oban High School, presenting talks to the members of Club H2O, based on Heroes and favourite hobbies.
Hobbie and heroes have included Guiding for Girls, Japanese Anime, Katy Perry and a very special moment when one pupil presented a talk on the unique relationship between a boy and his grandad.
A big thanks to all who have taken part over the past fortnight, young and not-so-young, for these very special intergenerational times.

Oban's XL group make it a date with Club H2O

2011-03-16T22:23:00.004Z

Club H2O, our intergenerational initiative, recently welcomed 3 members of Oban High School's Prince's Trust 4XL group.
The vistors shared stories about some of their most recent challenges and projects with pictures and music, and finished off their presentation telling the tale of their enterprise project. For this, 4XL produced an Oban High School 2011 calendar, and produced a tidy profit in the process.
A very big thank you to Caitlin, Liam and Sammy for their visit and a special thank you to 4XL for their gifts of calendars to every member of Club H2O.

GFG have a Ski at Kilboweeeeeeee!

2011-03-08T15:25:00.004Z

Amongst the weekly fun that is GFG,(Games, Food and God), the group took time out recently to relax on the slopes of Kilbowie Outdoor Centre. Within the group, all abilities were on show, from the experts who regularly strut their skiing stuff at Nevis and Cairngorm, to the go-faster sledgers. All had a super time, with immense thanks going to Andy T, Cammy (the Eagle) Harris and Super-Joan!!
Watch this space for the ongoing fun and frolics of GFG!

H2O join SSC at Tobermory - we love it!

2011-02-27T20:46:00.005Z

Whether wandering around Calgary Bay in the 'fresh' air, creating crafty masks or playing slightly silly games at the Aros Hall, the annual SSC weekend area camp to Tobermory on the north of Mull, has become something of a must-do trip for many every year. Twenty young folk were accompanied by five leaders for this fun-filled adventure, finishing off with a luxury swim at Craignuire pool on the return trip to the ferry for Oban. Next on the SSC agenda before the SSC summer at Struan will be Fordell Firs Easter camp for young folk from all over Scotland.
For updates on the SSC keep an eye on www.thessc.org

Armchair Aerobics at Club H2O

2011-02-27T20:29:00.004Z

With a fun and varied programme, Club H2O, the intergenerational aspect of H2O, meets every Thursday afternoon at the Well. Recent activities have included Burns Poems day, Valentine's Day crafts and informative chats on Calmac and aspects of Mozambique. Coordinated by Jayne Powers, H2O Intergenerational/Youth worker, plans are afoot for a series of projects involving input from Oban High School pupils over the coming months. Jayne is currently in dialogue with the Art, Home Economics, English and PE Departments, with the Prince's Trust XL group coming along to Club H2O in the next couple of weeks.
If you would like to find out more about the Club, please do contact Jayne at the H2O office on 01631 564239.

GFG - A place for good games, good food and good God-chat!

2011-02-27T20:18:00.003Z

Tuesday evenings at The Well are the place for all of the above. The group of around 15 P7s - S4's have come up with a series of challenging God chats for the coming weeks which include 'Is God Real?', 'Love', 'Peer Pressure' and 'Is there Life after Death?'. To date, lots of energy through the games time and lots of good, real and honest chat. Well done to all who come along!

'Deep Impact' Christian Youth Workers Conference 2011

2011-01-25T08:37:00.008Z

Hot on the heels of the H2O Ardeonaig retreat, four from H2O set off boldly to Deep Impact, the Aviemore-based, annual conference for all involved the many facets of Christian youth work.
Ewen, Jayne, Roy and Joan joined over 320 delegates for the weekend, spending time as a collective in worship and teaching times, delivered by Pete Greig of the 24/7 prayer movement. Workshops and seminar themes incuded options such as Young People and Spirituality, Partnership Working and Best Practices in Christian Youth Work. (to name but a very few from the 20 or so available!)
Opportunities were in abundance to 'network' with others from all around the nation and beyond, sharing stories, sourcing resources and simply having a jolly good time with brothers and sisters in Christ. Here's to the next Deep Impact 2012!(slow down Mr Munro!)

2011 - H2O Time Out at Ardeonaig

2011-01-17T20:14:00.004Z

Directors and volunteers joined the youth work team recently at Ardeonaig for time out to give prayerful thanks, to review 2010 and to look forward to what may be in the H2O pipeline for 2011 and beyond.
Graeme McMeekin, Vice Principal of the International Christian College in Glasgow, joined the gathering to share thoughts on 'Missio Dei', the Mission of God, and told stories of God's Kingdom work going on in youth work around many areas of Scotland.

Young Folk from Glencruitten Hostel in the Community

2010-12-19T17:01:00.006Z

The young folk of Glencruitten Hostel have had a busy and festive week in and amongst the Community of Oban and locally in the Glencruitten neighbourhood.
On Tuesday, the young folk from the Inner Hebrides who spend weekdays at OHS and live in the Hostel spent time with the pensioner residents at Torosay Court, local sheltered housing. Carols and Christmas songs were sung, instruments were played and the chat as generations came together was friendly and fun. It is hoped that this will be the first of many ongoing links between high school pupils and Torosay Court residents.
Wednesday brought the second opportunity for the young folk of Glencruitten Hostel to invite their weekday neighbours from the Glencruitten area to join them at the Hostel. Further to the first community event last June, neighbours were invited to a Christmas Ceilidh and Craft Sale, with Christmas hospitality simply oozing from the time together. Dancing, musical performances, Christmas games and community bingo all added to a fun time for young folk, parents from the islands and local residents. Watch this space for future events planned for 2011.

The Party season at Club H2O

2010-12-19T16:53:00.002Z

It's not just young folk who party with H2O. Following on from the Oban High School 'Pensioners' Treat', Club H2O, our intergenerational initiative, had their own fun and frolics recently at the Well. The group enjoyed Christmas food, crafts, carols and lots of Christmas cheer gently washed down with delicious mulled wine.
In 2011, Club H2O will be embarking on a series of new and exciting projects with the various subject departments of Oban High School, bringing together young folk and not-so-young folk together under the Club H2O banner.

The Party Season is here!

2010-12-19T16:46:00.002Z

GFG entered the party zone last week with all involved in the seasonal games and grub. Musical chairs, turkey trot and the ever-present build-a-snowman team game(see picture above!) were closely followed by the now-traditional dance and chair games.
Happy Christmas to all from GFG!

Xplore - The not-so-secret Santa session!

2010-12-10T12:32:00.003Z

Secret Santa? Such fun secretly creating a gift for a n other within the group (without them knowing you're doing it of course!)
Gifts were magnificant, ranging from floating pictures, Ginger Bread person, Christmas candle holders to picture memories from the past. The even bigger secret was the surprise baby shower for Rachel as she moves ever closer to the birth of Xplore's newest honorary member 'Smidhinio' or little Smid. Well done and a BIG thank you to all who were there to make this a very special time.

Hope 2 Oban welcomes a new team member

2010-12-01T18:41:00.004Z

H2O is delighted to welcome Jayne Powers to the team. Until recently, Jayne has been working with Joy to the World Ministries in Malawi,very hot!!Jayne is now back in Oban, and with the current temperatures dropping well and truly into the minus scale, VERY cold!!
Jayne's role will include coordinating Club H2O, bringing young folk from Oban High School alongside elderly folk from the Oban area through a series of projects and initiatives with staff and pupils from the high school.
Keep an eye out for blog updates as this intergeneratinal work grows.

Xplore - 'Going Somewhere' with folks from Adrishaig and Dunoon

2010-12-01T18:22:00.011Z

Over the weekend, four of the Xplore group joined folks from Adrishaig and Dunoon, faith-journeying together and doing a wee bit of pondering around the person of Jesus, the meaning of Sundays and considering what the Bible says about Church. In and amongst the getting-to-know each other, teams came together to imitate photocopiers, ironing boards, bungee jumpers and as can be seen from the piccy on the left, bicyle rickshaws!!!
A grand time was had by all and it is hoped that this will be the first of who-knows-how-many such gatherings.
Watch this space for ongoing updates!

Disco Fever @ the GFG Dance-off!

2010-11-17T12:41:00.004Z

Never lacking in energy, the GFG troops nominated their favourite games for the evening recently, culminating in a Girls vs Boys dance-off.
Confidence in the ladies camp soon wained when the totally neutral judges awarded the coveted title of 'Dance-off Champions for the Night' to the boys.
GFG have also been taking time out to watch 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' from the Chronicles of Narnia.

S3 @ OHS - 'Faith Matters' Conference - 'Conflict Resolution'

2010-11-07T18:29:00.002Z

This annual conference, one of a series of three (S1, S3 and S6), is coordinated by the H2O youth work team on behalf of Oban High School. Each of the 240 S3 pupils took part in three out of six workshops around the theme. Workshops included considerations around Bullying, Domestic Abuse, Conflict Resolution through Drama, The Battlefields of WW1 to the present day, Non-violent Direct Action and Conflict in Sport.
Pupils also spent reflective time within a “spiritual space” considering their own attitude to conflict resolution, personal, local and international.
The next of the series of conferences is held in December with S6 students as they explore different perspectives of Faith.

Crafty Xploring with 'Passion'

2010-11-07T17:52:00.003Z

Xplore, the S5/S6 Thursday evening faith exploration group, are a creative lot! Whether with crafts or food, there's always something special going on.
Most recently, mask-making accompanied some good chat around 'what's next?' with a decision to take time to watch the BBC adaptation of The Passion (4 dramatic parts!) and to gather with similar groups of young folk from Cowal and Adrishaig for an overnight time to consider young folk and Christian faith journeys.

The October Holiday - Over so Soon! - 2 -SSC Argyll weekend to Dalguise

2010-11-07T17:39:00.002Z

Mid October the time - Stanley Nairne Centre the place for the most recent SSC Argyll area weekend camp. Over the weekend a group of young folk from Oban, Lochgilphead and Tobermory rambled around The Hermitage at Dunkeld, created crafty puppets and took hide & seek to a new extreme level. A big thanks to all who came along, both campers and officers.
Next on th agenda for SSC and Argyll - Tobermory in February - Brrrrrr!

The October Holiday - Over so Soon! - 1 - Zoooom! to Kerrera

2010-11-07T17:32:00.003Z

Yes, it was a wee while ago, but the holidays are well and truly over! But what a fun time some of the Zoooom! members had on Kerrera for the afternoon. First a very special visit to the Parrot Sanctuary (yes, you heard!) on the island. BIG thanks to Yvonne who took loads of time to show us around and meet all manner of feathered friends.
Next, a trek to Gylen Castle to the south of the island. Again, splendid fun.
Zoooom! are now busy in the studio with still life and photoshop, but keep watching this space......we're planning a trip to Glasgow to capture the Christmas lights!

'Chinwag' youth workers, leaders and volunteers event - the talk of the town!

2010-10-06T10:24:00.011+01:00

Kilbowie Outdoor Centre was the place and 'Chinwag' was the event. Following on from day events in 2006 - 07 and 08, folks from all over Argyll and beyond gathered for the first overnight Chinwag, where youth workers, leaders and volunteers come together for ideas and activities to use with their groups as well as taking part in the crucial act of chinwagging.
Just under 40 folks spent Saturday in workshops on Funding, Rocket Building, Movie-making, Drumming, being Crafty and exploring strategies of challenging behaviour.
The gathering joined together in fun sessions of 'Zumba' and the 'Crystal Maze Challenge'.
Chinwag was also an opportunity for Ally Hunter, Scottish-based Tutor and Development Worker from George Williams College, to introduce the concept of an Argyll training hub to deliver youth work training from 2011.
Hosted by H2O and Oban Youth Cafe, this year's Chinwag was also supported by a grant from Argyll and Bute Council.
Many thanks to the council and to our workshop hosts for a splendidly informative and equipping time. It is hoped to run Chinwag again around the same time in 2011, so watch the H2O Blog for details next year.
STOP PRESS - Chinwag Review to Download at www.hope2oban.org.uk

Studio session a hit with H2O Zoooom!

2010-10-06T09:53:00.006+01:00

H2O-Zoooom!, the weekly camera club at the Well, were treated to a live studio 'shoot' recently as Cameron Harris of Highland Photos worked with a customer on an advertising project soon to be seen on buses around the area.
As the group watched on, Cameron talked through the process and shots taken could be viewed almost instantly on the big screen.
Post-customer shoot, Zoooom! were given the floor and one-by-one invited to arrange their fellow members for group shots using the pro studion set-up.
Big thanks go to Cameron for the opportunity for the group to experience a live shoot.
Watch this space for the results of a school-holiday photoshoot, hopefully to an island setting!

Windswept and interesting through-the-night Nooma event with Xplore!

2010-09-20T22:17:00.008+01:00

Nooma dvd discussion starters around the Christian faith have been ever-popular with the Thursday night group, Xplore. So, when some bright-spark had the great idea of watching all 24 in a row, group members thought 'what a splendid idea'! Well, eight of them did. Each dvd was given a vote on both the Clapometer... ' Polite Clapping', 'Moderate Clapping', 'Enthusiastic Clapping' and 'Ecstatic Clapping'....as well as a ponder on the'Nooma-ometer'....Did the dvd hardly make you think? Did it make you twitch uncomfortably? Did a light go on in your pondering processes? Did it go straight to the heart?
Nooma-watching (around themes such as forgiveness, love, choices, God's plan... and many more) was combined with crafty soap carving, glass and mug-painting as well as copious amounts of pizza and bacon and eggs for breakfast!
Rachel and Ewen would like to give a great big thank you to all who took part, particularly Hannah and Michael from Tobermory as well as through-the-night H2O volunteers Ruth, Roy, Cameron and Andy.

SSC strikes again!

2010-09-15T09:15:00.011+01:00

The summer may be almost over, but the fun and frolics of the SSC continue throughout the year!
The SSC 'Seniors', young folk of S5 and above from all over Scotland gathered at Bonaly Scout Camp in Edinburgh for a weekend of fun and adventure.
From Extreme Cake-baking to Reservoir Rambling, there was something for everyone. Ewen Munro joined 30 'Campers' and 'Officers' from Argyll, Highland, Fife, Glasgow and Edinburgh for this fun-packed if not slightly tiring weekend.
Next on the H2O/ SSC calendar will be the increasingly-popular Argyll area weekends to Perthshire in October and Tobermory in February 2011! Brrrrrrr! Quite a thought!

Smile Please! - New Zoooom H2O Camera Club Focuses on the Future

2010-09-15T08:57:00.004+01:00

Ther first gathering of talented young photographers met recently at The Well as 'Zoooom!', the new H2O Camera Club.
Over the coming weeks and months, the group will embark on adventurous outings locally and further afield as well as dig in to the depths of cameras, composition, lighting and flash, still life and portraits. Zoooom! will also be exploring the world of photo enhancement and adjustment.
All rather exciting!!
Watch this space for updates and some rather stunning photo work.

Xplore.... the journey continues

2010-09-13T20:44:00.004+01:00

Thursdays haven't been the same through the summer period without the weekly H2O gathering with the Xplorers. Restarted in early September, the food, faith and chat space for S5 and S6 students continues to provide a relaxed and informal space to discover more about each others thoughts, beliefs and culinary skills.
Gatherings are fun, creative, honest and often surprising. Nooma dvd's (10-15 minutes presented by Pastor Rob Bell) have proved to be great discussion starters, so much so that plans are afoot to spend a through-the-night session watching all 24 of these ! Well if that doesn't get us all thinking and chatting (and snoozing!), nothing will!

...and the fun for the new term begins at GFG!!

2010-09-13T20:32:00.003+01:00

Games, Food and God, better known as GFG is back on Tuesday evenings at The Well. The new term has kicked off with the usual enthusiasm and excitement (and lashings of Pizza and Pop!)
As well as a plethora of down-right silly games, the group (around 8 - 14 P7's -S3's) were given the opportunity to note down questions they would ask God and questions they would ask about God! Some very interesting thoughts and questions were noted, suggesting that an investigation of the Christian faith might be helpful, hence the group are soon to embark on Youth Alpha, an exploration of the basics Christianity.
Watch this space for GFG updates as the term goes on!

Hope 2 Oban join SSC at Struan for the summer season

2010-07-11T10:52:00.005+01:00

H2O have joined SSC for the summer season of camps at Struan in Perthshire, and the fun has begun with all action at 'Advanced Guard'. S5 and S6 campers have spent the week honing their hands-on skills, erecting tents and marquees, moving pianos, creating doors and cupboards, plumbing and generally having a fun time.
Campers come to Struan from all over Scotland with a sizable chunk from the Oban area. As well as using their skills in digging holes and brandishing power tools, Rachel and Ewen have been providing a nightly chat-space, using Nooma dvd's as a spring-board for splendid natters with groups of young folk around life, faith and the universe.
Camp continues with Mixed 1 - around 100 campers - from 10-16th July and Mixed 2 - around 170 campers - from 17th - 24th July. (all prayers for good weather gratefully received!)

Denise is moving on

2010-07-01T19:29:00.008+01:00

H2O Youth Worker, Denise Glancy, is moving on to a new youth work position based with Craig Lodge Community in Dalmally. For the past two years, as well as her chaplaincy work and coordinating the weekly prayer group at Oban High School, Denise has been the coordinator of Club H2O, the intergenerational aspect of Hope 2 Oban. The work has involved devising projects with the pupils and staff of Oban High School to bring young and not-so-young together . Projects have included collaboration with the History, English, Art, Music and Home Economics Departments as well as impressive work with the S5 and S6 Pathways Programme.
Pictured above is Denise with the Club H2O regulars who joined together with the H2O Directors, volunteers and youth workers to wish Denise best wishes for her future youth work around the region.
Denise will spend some of her time in Oban and plans to continue with many aspects of her OHS chaplaincy work.

And then there was Tralee!!!

2010-07-01T19:11:00.007+01:00

Ok, it wasn't quite as bonny an evening as the GFG Kerrera adventure, but even so, Xplore and friends had a sooper-dooper, wind-swept BBQ and games at Tralee. The menu? Meaty, Veggy, Banana-y and ice-lollies but mainly blooming good company.

Lads - Dune jumping and chat
Lassies - Dune jumping and chat with a bit of a paddle.
The sad news, Kellen and the Careys will be returning to the USA over the summer. We'll miss all you guys!
The good news - yes, Kellen got his very own personalised t-shirt.

GFG group invade Kerrera

2010-07-01T18:55:00.004+01:00

On Tuesday evening, sixteen young folk joined youth workers Rachel and Ewen and H2O volunteer Linda on a mini-adventure to the beautiful island of Kerrera just 10 minutes across the water from Oban.
A mini-yomp up to the war memorial was followed by a grand BBQ and games time with 'tray wars' the ever-present favourite.
Also pictured are Karina, Craig and Alex who are all moving on from GFG this summer. The three musketeers were presented with H2O T-shirts which were duly decorated by all the group members. GFG (Games, Food and God) will now break for the summer holiday and re-commence in August.
Big, big thanks to Neil for transporting us to and from the island......great fun!!!!
PS - Pamela is also moving on but sadly she couldn't join us on Kerrera - T-shirt for Pamela coming soon!

H2O Awards 2010

2010-07-01T18:30:00.006+01:00

Pictured with Ewen Munro (youth worker on left) and Roy Clunie (H2O Chair) are three of the seven recipients of the annual H2O Awards, presented to Oban High School pupils for contributions to their school or neighbourhood communities.
Katie Melville (beside Ewen) has represented her fellow students in pupil councils for the past five years. Katie was also a member of the S5 Pathways team who planned, fund-raised and ran the Christmas Party for the elderly members of Club H2O, the weekly intergenerational project of Hope 2 Oban.
Also pictured are Louise Kynoch and Caroline Smith who, along with Samantha MacIver, Linzi MacVicar and Daena Campbell have been working on arrangements for a new footbal pitch at their home neighbourhood. They have also been helping to coordinate an international youth exchange with Polish young folk and assist with the planning of a forthcoming summer programme.

The very last FRENZY!

2010-06-27T14:28:00.003+01:00

H2O took 50 young people and adults to the very last Frenzy Christian rock festival held at Ingliston on Saturday 12th June.Music by international bands such as Hillsong United and The Band With No Name met the approval of the young ‘uns and deafened the ‘oldies’.
It was a fantastic opportunity to meet up with thousands of teenagers from throughout Scotland to enjoy Christian fellowship, music, fairground rides and chilling out before returning home exhausted in the early hours of Sunday morning.

H2O FUND- RAISING CHALLENGE Inverness to Fort William

2010-06-27T14:25:00.001+01:00

A hardy bunch of H2O supporters rose to the challenge of cycling and canoeing across Scotland – COAST-TO COAST, Inverness to Fort William. Pictured setting off from the harbour at Inverness were Gregor Clunie, Scott Matheson, Graeme Bruce, Dave Bleazard, Roy & Liz Clunie, Richard Hess, Rob Merriam, Neil Matheson, and Andy Trafford. The logistics were supplied by a magnificent support team of Lachie Beaton, Murdoch Gatward, Ewen Munro and DM Matheson.
The team cycled to Fort Augustus via the east side of Loch Ness on day 1 staying at the Stravaigers hostel overnight where a superb meal prepared by master chef DM was eagerly devoured. Day 2 saw a challenging off-road cycle to Gairlochy where the canoes were launched on the River Lochy to take us to our final destination. Joining us on this section were Lachie Beaton and Frances Trafford.
A total of over 100km of cycling and 10km of canoeing were clocked up on what was a superb weekend of fund-raising and fellowship and tender backsides! It is hoped the event will raise £2,500 for H2O. Till the next time . .

It's been a while - but the Blog is back! - WWD 2010

2010-06-27T14:20:00.001+01:00

The Wacky, Wet & Dry outdoor activities event at Kilbowie was organized by H20 on 15 May, with two OHS pupils, Katie Sims and Danielle Thompson, fulfilling the co-ordinators’ roles. Participants enjoyed ski-ing, sailing, orienteering and took part in the crystal maze team challenges over the day - finishing off with a healthy burger and ice cream courtesy of John MacPherson. So, many thanks to John (who also led our skiing sessions), Kilbowie Centre, Andy Trafford, the SSC team of Niall Robertson, Steve Hughes & Euan Graham.

SSC and H2O clowning around on the beach in Mull - IN WINTER!

2010-03-10T10:21:00.002Z

Some would say we're mad (and we are!), but 26 young folk and leaders from Oban, Lochgilphead recently joined friends in Tobermory for the SSC area 'camp', based at Tobermory Youth Hostel.

The weekends weather was actually superb, with the exception of Saturday afternoon as the group boldly travelled for the almost traditional visit to Calgary Bay, which was all going well until the snowstorm began and the Bay cleared.

Clowning was also the order of the day for the group who spent time at Mull Theatre learning how to be clowns (yes, it was easier for some more than others!).

Saturday evening was spent at the Aros Hall getting to know even more young folk from 'Tob' hoping some will join the SSC summer extravaganza at Strun in July.

The fun-packed weekend was finished off with a relaxing swim and spa at the luxurious facility at Craignuire, before boarding the 'Isle of Mull' ferry back to Oban.

A big thanks to all for a fun-packed weekend - Coming soon - Easter Camp at Dalguise!!!

It's all a bit of a Drama at H2O's GFG Group

2010-03-10T10:07:00.002Z

GFG (Games, Food and God), the Tuesday night group at H2O, are in the midst of 'checking out' the Christian faith, and some evenings, it's all a bit of a drama!

As can be seen from the skit pictures above, t-towel outfits set the scene as the group acted out the story of Zaccheus, the formerly nasty tax-collector, transfromed by the love and acceptance of Jesus.

The group of P7's - S4's have spent recent weeks following the multi-media 'Check-it-out' course with sessions on Who am I? - Who are they? - What's my choice? - What do I believe? - and Where do I go?

The six-session course concludes with the question What now? after which the group will continue to discover more of what it means to be a Christian and to follow Jesus.

GFG meet at the well on Tuesday evenings from 7.30 - 9pm.

Paint Party at Glencruitten Hostel

2010-02-05T13:57:00.003Z

As part of H2O's ongoing youth work in the Oban area, Rachel and Ewen turn up weekly at Glencruitten Hostel, weekday home to young folk from the islands of Coll, Colonsay, Lismore, the south of Mull and outlying rural areas.
Activities include deep discussions around a cuppa, Ewen being pummelled at Pool, games nights and arts and crafts nights. These times are great opportunities to get to know each other and have a lot of fun.
As you can see from the picture, our most recent time was spent producing fine works of Art, some folks producing many more than others (you know who you are!!)
In the plan for the coming months are the annual visits to some of the island communities which are home to hostel residents. These visits provide the ideal opportunity for the H2O youth workers to get to know some of the young folk who will be part of next year's S1 year group, and hopefully a time to meet some parents and relatives from the islands.

Happy New Year at Ardeonaig with Hope 2 Oban

2010-01-11T14:25:00.002Z

From 8th - 9th January, the annual H2O time away took place at Ardeonaig Outdoor Centre above Loch Tay and amidst much snow and freezing temperatures. This valuable new-year oasis away from the busy-ness of the life of H2O is a time to give thanks, review and reflect upon the year that has been, as well as look forward and dream dreams as to where we may be led in the future. In addition to focus on H2O's work in and amongst the Oban community and the surrounding area, the event was complimented with interesting and challenging sessions on defence of the Christian faith led by David Galloway.
A great big thank you to all who attended and to the super staff at the Abernethy Trust Centre at Ardeonaig.

It's party, party in the run up to Christmas with H2O

2009-12-19T21:21:00.006Z

OHS - S6 Students at The Well for Christmas Lunch - 11th December

The Ultimate Christmas Card at Christmas Praise - 13th December

Christmas Praise Band and Singers - 13th December

GFG - Christmas Party at The Well - 15th December

Glencruitten Hostel - Party time 'create-a-snowmen' competition- 16th December

Club H2O - Christmas Party at the Well - 17th December

Xplore Christmas Party at The Well - 18th December

JiM group welcome Fletcher Matandika of Joy to the World Ministries

2009-12-12T22:36:00.005Z

'JiM', the group recently formed at Oban High School to raise awareness and funds for the work in Malawi of former OHS Librarian Jayne Powers, recently welcomed a special visitor.

Rev. Fletcher Matandika, the founder of Joy to the World Ministries, the charity Jayne works with in Malawi, spent the day at Oban High School.

He gave 'JiM' an update on the work of the charity with a deeper insight into the particular work that Jayne is involved in. He particularly inspired the group with his vision to build a new high school in the Dzuwa area, a region which is steadily building in confidence, identity and pride as a community.

Fletcher also spent time sharing the vision of Joy to the World with the high school Senior Leadership Team, and also took the opportunity to speak with S2 pupils in the RME department on suffering and faith, as well as discussing micro financing and community cohesion with S4 geography pupils.

As Fletcher was hot-footing it straight from Scotland to Malawi, 'JiM' were able to ask him to take some of the many kindly donated soft toys and gifts from OHS pupils and staff to Jayne in Kasungu for distribution to children she knows.

A big thank you goes to Fletcher for helping us with this. We look forward to seeing Fletcher in the future in Oban, or even one day in Malawi!

Special day at Club H2O

2009-12-06T17:09:00.004Z

At the most recent meeting of Club H2O, the inter-generational aspect of Hope 2 Oban, young and not-so-young came together to listen and talk.

As part of the OHS Pathways Programme, S6 Student, Vicky Cunliffe, has been coordinating a project on public speaking with S2 pupils. The project culminated last Thursday with 8 S2 pupils making presentations to the elderly about their heroes. These included Sean Connery, Yoda, Michael Schumacher, Rowan Atkinson, Colin McRae and Wiliam Shakespeare.

It was a doubly-special time as, on the day, a local business presented Hope 2 Oban with a donation of £1000 towards the ongoing Christian witness and work of H2O within the Oban area community. Shown in the photo above are H2O Youth worker, Denise Glancy, alongside pupils from Oban High School, John, from Club H2O and the local donor.

H2O Coordinate Oban High School 'Faith Perspectives' conference for S6 Students

2009-12-06T16:32:00.003Z

Around 60 S6 students from Oban High School took part in last Friday's conference falls under the banner of 'Religious Observance', held for the first time at the Scottish Association of Marine Science, SAMS, at nearby Dunstaffnage.

11 invited guests from all over Scotland provided 7 workshops, giving students the opportunity to meet with folks from a variety of faith pespectives including Baha'i, Muslim, Jewish and Christians from a variety of traditions and backgrounds. We also ran an inter-faith workshop. Our Humanist representative had to call off due to ill health on the day, a we wish Mandy a speedy recovery.

Further to our survey of students way back in June, the outcomes directed that we provide as many faith persectives as we could source and that all attending wanted to experience all workshops. With the help of the S6 planning group, and further to asking the students what questions they would like to ask invited guests, the wide and varying list was whittled down to:-

- Is it important to have a faith/ spirituality perspective? Why?

- How did you find faith/ God/ your spirituality?

- What are your views on other faiths, beliefs?

- How are your lifestyle and faith perspective related?

Students therefore experienced a very full day, which included 7 workshops, a time of reflection and an opportunity to quiz the hosts and to take part in a full-on feedback session.

All-in-all a very busy, challenging and worthwhile day.

A great big thank you to all who took part, particularly workshop hosts and SAMS.

First meeting of JiM @ Oban High School

2009-11-28T13:45:00.007Z

As part of H2O's campaign to raise awareness and much-needed funding for the work, the group known as JiM, short for 'Jayne in Malawi', has been formed to support the work of former OHS Librarian Jayne Powers. Jayne now lives and works in Kasungu, and plans to be part of the catalyst to build a much-needed school nearby in Dzuwa.
Pictured above are some of the members of the JiM group at our recent first meeting, proudly displaying some of the gifts for children and young people in Malawi. These were kindly given by pupils and staff from Oban High School further to assemblies focussing on Jayne's work were presented to all year-groups by Rachel and Ewen.
JiM's first task is to work out how to get these gifts to Jayne in Kasungu.
In the near future, within a fortnight, the group hope to meet with Fletcher Matandika of Joy to the World Ministries, the organisation that Jayne is working for. It is hoped that this opportunity will give the group further insight to Malawi and to just what the real needs are, and how both communities can learn from each other.
Watch this space for updates on JiM

SSC Argyll area weekend to Dalguise, Perthshire

2009-11-18T20:25:00.007Z

Young folk from Oban, Lochgilphead and Tobermory spent an action-packed weekend with the SSC and H2O youth workers Rachel and Ewen.
Slightly silly games, dance competitions, Struan Cinema and the SSC tradition of 'sing-song' were just some of the activities.
A Saturday trip to 'Sensation' science centre in Dundee gave the 'campers' the opportunity to discover more of the science of the senses, with 'Mindball' being the main attraction. Competitors challenged each other to find out whose brain could demonstrate the least activity to win. With Ewen demolishing Rachel's attempts, he is still trying to work out who really won the competition!!(bless).

'Check it Out' with H2O at Oban High School

2009-11-12T23:14:00.006Z

What a week it's been so far, and it's not over yet. On Sunday 8th November H2O were joined by the 'Check It Out' team, part of the Essex-based 'Viz-a-Viz Ministries', for a week-long visit to Oban. So far the team have lead year-group assemblies, jammed with the 'Higher Music' group, performed at lunchtimes and lead interactive RME classes on everything from ponderings on creation to the basis of their Christian faith.

As the week sadly draws to a close, the team have spent this Thursday evening performing to 130-plus pupils at the 2-hour gig, with an invitation to find out more about Jesus, to check Him out.

The week ends with the team leading workshops at the S3 'Faith Matters' conference on Conflict Resolution, where they will host two of the ten conference workshops.

Coordinated by H2O, the team's visit to Oban has been organised in conjunction with Scripture Union Scotland, with prayerful and financial support from Oban churches.

H2O Celtic Praise @ Atlantis Leisure, MOD 2009

2009-10-21T12:45:00.006+01:00

Event photographs courtesy of Cameron Harris at Highland Photography

As has become tradition during the Oban MOD, Hope 2 Oban organised the latest Celtic Praise on 11th October at a transformed Atlantis Leisure.

An array of talent, young and old, gathered alongside over 600 people, to worship God through Gaelic and English psalms, hymns and contemporary Christian praise.

Music came from the talented young folk of 'Dealrach', the angelic harmonies of 'Clann Latharna', the rousing skirl of Oban High School Pipe Band and the feisty 'Atomic Piseag', interspersed worship songs from Mary Catherine MacNeill and the versatile H2O praise band.

Gaelic scripture readings were presented by Brigadier John MacFarlane, Father Donald Mackay and Miss Kiera Smith with Rev Angus Morrison leading the final prayers.

All-in-all, a night to remember for some time to come. What's next? Watch this space!!

H2O launch GFG on Tuesday evenings

2009-09-30T08:37:00.006+01:00

GFG has arrived! ('Games Food and God' for the unititiated)

Tuesday evenings at The Well provide a place and space for P7's to S4's to come together, play together and discover more about Jesus, God and the Bible.

Times together are about fun, food and faith, starting at 7.30 until 9pm.

'Who did what where and when in the Bible?', 'What's it like to be a Christian at school?', 'What is a Christian, what is a Christian not?' and 'What about parents?' are some of the themes we'll be finding out more about over the coming months.

Watch this blog space for updates!

H2O Xplore - The journey has begun

2009-09-26T19:46:00.006+01:00

Xplore is a 16 week journey of exploration for Oban area young folk from S5 and S6.(16-17 yrs)

Core to Xplore is the opportunity to dig into the Christian faith, based on the questions raised by the Xplorers themselves. Alongside the faith aspect, Xplorers will also journey through aspects of identity, community and creativity.

The Xplore season began with an extended 'through-the-night' session at the Well from 10.30pm until 7.30am the next morning. The time began with social chill time, and moved into story-telling, the creative way. Paint, clay, woodwork and IT were used by the Xplorers to create visual representations of their life-stories.

An extended 'Nooma' dvd gave the Xplorers the opportunity to consider belief in God, and to start to dig into the Good News message of Jesus, a message of hope and love.

Post-Nooma, Xplorers took time to describe their story creations with each other and continue the journey into the Christian faith.

Xplore now meets on Thursday evenings at The Well, eating together, and continuing on the journey of self-discovery , Christian faith discovery and finding out more about the Jesus factor in our lives.

H2O joins SSC for the 2009 season of summer camps

2009-07-10T22:43:00.003+01:00

It all kicked off with SSC last weekend at Struan. 'Advanced Guard', the biggest ever, welcomed 40 seniors to a very special field in Perthshire to set up the camp.
2 massive marquees, many troop tents, luscious loos, pit-digging opportunities and massive dish-washing sessions all added to the fun challenges interspersed with Struan Cinema, Sing-song and the first visit to Pitlochry of the season.
H2O Youth Workers Ewen Munro and Rachel Stanfield, added to the programme by hosting 'Chat Space', a daily opportunity to consider some life-issues including identity, love and faith.
Advanced Guard will be closely followed by the mixed camps, 1 and 2, with close to 300 young people from all over Scotland taking part.
For further information on the SSC, a club for the youth of Scotland, check out www.thessc.org

SPACEFISH - The Tralee Adventure

2009-07-02T12:09:00.001+01:00

SPACEFISH, the monthly Christian youth gathering for older teens, would normaly get together for pizza, hot-chocolate and lots of music, video and chat at The Well. Not so for our (yet another!) end-of-term thing.

Tralee Beach by Benderloch, was the scene for BBQ, games, music and water-stuff. With the midge count down and the BBQ's up, fun was had all round.
A certain member of the H2O youth work team, convinced his weight would be an advantage, was noted as coming 2nd in the zip-wire race. (re-match please!)

'Normally', SPACEFISH meets on the last Friday of the month, at The Well, from 7-9pm for food, fellowship and fun, music, video, chat and lashings of hot chocolate!

For further details, please contact ewen@hope2oban.org.uk

Our next get-togethr will be in September '09, possibly sooner. Watch the H2O blog for further updates.

Island Girls vs Callander Girls

2009-07-02T11:53:00.000+01:00

It may not be premier league yet, but it was fun. Hope 2 Oban and Callander Youth Project recently worked together to create the setting for high school girls from the islands of Mull, Lismore, Coll and Iona to play football against the girls' team linked to CYP, from Callander and the surrounding rural areas.

Although the Islands team were first to score, Callander, with a wee bit more match experience, went on to win, the Islands scoring 3 and Callander Girls, a few more.

(according to the post-match report at Glencruitten Hostel, weekday home of the Island Girls, the final score was a respectable 5-3)

Much celebration took place post-match, with all involved receiving medals and Callander Girls lifting the trophy.

A great big thanks to all involved. We can't wait for the re-match, to be held in Oban, hopefully soon!

Club H2O - Ganavan picnic for the elderly

2009-07-02T11:35:00.000+01:00

Club H2O, the intergenerational aspect of Hope 2 Oban, had its own 'end-of-term' time together at Ganavan sands recently. Local senior citizens gathered together for tea and cakes, provided by volunteers and served by Oban High School pupils. A splendid time was had by all.

Club H2O meets on Thursdays during the school term times and is held at the H2O centre, The Well, from 2- 3.30 pm.

If you know of elderly folk who would like to attend, please contact Denise Glancy, H2O Youth Worker, on 01631 564 239, or at denise@hope2oban.org.uk

(Transport can be arranged to get folks to and from the club)

TNT - End of Term Kerrera Adventure

2009-07-02T11:15:00.000+01:00

It was a hot summer evening when four of the TNT group headed off towards Kerrera for a BBQ adventure, only to be distracted by -------!!!!! DOLPHINS!!!!!!
Yes, we 'swam' with dolphins in Oban Bay (sort of!) Such excitement all round.
And so off to Kerrera, just over the water from Oban.
BBQ eaten, some went for a swim, some took photos, some just chilled, but fun was had all round.
That was the final TNT get-together of the term, and we look forward to discovering what's in the pipeline for the group when we the autumn season looms closer.
A big THANK YOU to Mr M for taking us in his rib on the evening.

Hot on the heels of Frenzy - The Highland Festival @ Fort William

2009-06-22T10:46:00.009+01:00

Just a week on from the extravaganza that is Frenzy, more excitement for the TNT group who ventured to Fort William to take part in the Highland Festival Christian youth event.

Music and extreme sports were the order of the day, with 'Superhero' providing their very special brand of live music.

Skaters and Bikers provided entertainment and challenges to all who came along with a spectacular daring bike jump over, was it 15?, intrepid volunteers.

Testimony and the Gospel message was shared by Andrew Palau

Over 50 from the Oban area go wild at 'Frenzy 09'

2009-06-22T10:04:00.003+01:00

Organised by H2O, an excited group of young and not-so-young folk embarked on the annual minibus pilgrimage from North Argyll to 'Frenzy', the 10-hour Christian music festival, held on 6th June at Ingliston showground on the outskirts of Edinburgh.

All were entranced by the rythm and the beats of the bands including Third Day, David Crowder and The Band With No Name, all bands and artists who build their foundation on the Gospel message of Jesus.

3rd June '09 - S6 Students win this year's H2O Award

2009-06-22T09:44:00.004+01:00

This year's H2O Award has been won jointly by three S6 Students, Lauren Lind, Ruth Carson and Robert Robertson. All three have consistantly served the elderly at weekly gatherings of Club H2O throughout the 2008/2009 academic term. The awarding of the prize was H2O's way of saying a big thank you for the commitment shown by all three.

Pictured above are Lauren and Ruth with the H2O youth workers, Denise, Ewen and Rachel at the Oban High School Senior Prizegiving on Wednesday 3rd June. (unfortunately, Robert was unable to attend)