Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

Dear Friends, The Manse, September 2024

I’ve written final letters to congregations before. Usually those are the letters Ministers write just before they move to a new charge and just before they expect the removal company to trundle up to the door to pack and move their earthly belongings.

This time around though, this “final” letter brings with it no move and no removal van. But it does bring with it thoughts about our forthcoming union with the Old Parish Church. And it will bring a change of name for our congregation (something I know many feel very sad about). It will bring some changes to office bearers and there will be a new Kirk Session and some challenging decisions to take.

All of this we recognise. However, there are some things that won’t change. The regular preacher won’t change! It will be my privilege to continue as Minister… and I know that you will continue to work tirelessly for your Church. Much of what you will find in the “new Church”, despite talk of change, will still seem familiar. And, of course, the gospel we celebrate and proclaim will still be the same.

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” proclaims Hebrews 13 and verse 8. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” says John 3 and verse 16.

I wish to pay the sincerest tribute possible to the Church Union Steering Group whose candour, faithfulness and faith has guided us to this stage. I wish to thank the Kirk Session for their unwavering support and understanding and to acknowledge that, during my now 6 and a half years as your minister, that I have worked with some of the finest office bearers I have ever worked with. I have shared ministry with people who have prayed and worked, cooked and cleaned, sung and listened to God’s word preached. What an awesome privilege it has been!!!

I also want to thank, without reserve, the congregation and Kirk Session of the Old Parish Church. On October 20th, on the same day as we mark this important junction point, they will be marking their last time worshipping in their building. They will also be taking on a new Minister. I want them to know that they are truly amongst friends who understand.

And so, folks, we move on. It’s been a journey but, as I have said on numerous occasions in recent months, our God has a habit of calling folk into journeys. It seems to be what he does and when he does, he always journeys with us. May it continue to be so.

Your Friend and Minister, Robin Allison (Rev)