The Moderator of the General Assembly helped mark the 150th anniversary of a North Lanarkshire church.
Rt Rev Dr Shaw Paterson said it was an honour to take part in the momentous occasion at Condorrat Parish Church yesterday.
He and his wife Christine joined the congregation and invited guests, including members from nearby churches, ecumenical partners and local politicians, for the service.
It was led by locum Gordon McInally, Rev Jan Matheson, Moderator of The Presbytery of Glasgow, conducted the opening prayers and Dr Paterson delivered the sermon.
The Moderator said: “On behalf of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, I would like to extend my warm congratulations to Condorrat Parish Church on reaching this significant anniversary.
“It’s motto is ‘everything is possible for the person who has faith’ and I would like to thank members and all associated with the congregation over the years for sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ in the community they faithfully serve.
“This is a parish with a rich history, the glory of God was celebrated in a schoolroom prior to the church being built in 1875, thanks to money collected by local weavers, quarrymen and miners.
“The manse was built the same year with the church hall following in 1891.
“The needs of our world out there, those needs are all around us and can sometime seem overwhelming.
“You, me, Christians throughout the community and country – we don’t have a year’s salary that we can give.
“But by working together as you have been doing for 150 years, building together, you and we can make a difference.
“May God continue to bless the congregation and all associated with it as you step forward into the future, building together the Church of Jesus Christ in Condorrat and the surrounding area.”
A celebratory meal was held after the service in the church hall and around 150 people attended.
Kenneth Mackenzie, Session Clerk at Condorrat Parish Church, said: “We were presented with a beautiful made to measure alter cloth and monetary gift from the Society of St Vincent de Paul and an Iona Cross and quaich from the congregation at St Helens, presented by Father Paulinus.
“Dr Paterson also presented us with a unique gift, all of which will be treasured.
“Everyone enjoyed themselves and we were blessed with a beautiful day on which to celebrate.”
