My Dear Friends,
This is the last Church Magazine of the year. It has been quite a year for our two congregations: the year in which the linked charge of Inverkip with Skelmorlie and Wemyss Bay came into being. This has not been achieved without a great deal of hard work by many people. I am reminded of two Biblical passages.
One is St. Paul’s letter to the Romans where he talks about individuals with different gifts putting them at the disposal of the Church. Many individuals have worked tirelessly for the wellbeing of this linked charge, and it has been done with good grace and a real sense of working together for the well-being of the Church.
The second Biblical passage is the Parable of the Talents. It finishes with the Lord thanking those who have served Him well. And what is their reward? They are given more to do!
I have a great sense of optimism for the future of our two congregations. Our Linkage is an agreement that the way ahead is for us to share a Minister yet retain the independence of two separate congregations, each seeking to meet the needs of their parish in God’s name. Inevitably that means that a great deal is demanded of the lay office bearers and members of the two congregations. As Locum Minister I have been well placed to see the devotion and commitment that has been shown by the Office Bearers and Members of both congregations. Given what has already been achieved, the same willingness to work hard and imaginatively will stand us in good stead for the future.
Of course, my optimism is founded on much more than the abilities of individual members of our congregations. It is based on the promise that comes into our lives at Christmas. No matter how inadequate our ability to describe it, there is a sense of something wonderful beyond words happening here. The herald angels do indeed bring news of peace on the earth and good will to humankind.
In our worship this Christmas we will try to reflect the real splendour of Christmas. Please make a special effort to be part of that worship, and remember that this is a time when the doors of our Church are open to friend and stranger alike.
Jennifer joins me in wishing everyone who reads this magazine every joy and blessing at Christmas and in the New Year.
May God bless you all,
Ian S. Currie
