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Dear Friends,
As I sit in my study and write this I am only too well aware that I will share fellowship with you within Holytown Parish Church for the last time on Sunday 14 May. I really can't believe that it has been almost two years since your Interim Moderator, The Reverend Colin Sutherland, asked me to lead you in worship!
I wanted to share with you some of my reflections on the time shared with you and as I begin to think back over the weeks and months, the words of a very popular hymn resonate in my mind; perhaps you will recognise the lyrics, "march on, my soul, with strength, from strength to strength march on". I think this is the image that stays in my mind most when I think of you all in Holytown, and I am sure it's what I will remember best.
The congregations' commitment to the life and work of the Church has simply overwhelmed me! I know that things often seem hard, particularly when going through a continued Vacancy, but when I stand up in the Chancel Sunday by Sunday and see you all sitting in the pews, let me tell you now, I am the envy of many a Minister! You have all remained committed to God and committed to His Church in Holytown and for this you have all to be congratulated.
With this in mind I believe that Holytown Parish Church can “march on" and strengthen its identity and mission in the Parish. Your spirit, your time, your interest, your prayers, your enthusiasm, your feelings, your expectations - all of these and more will help shape the exciting things that are to come. Remember too, that our Lord not only goes ahead of us, but He also goes with us and alongside us! Trust in Him, and when life pinches you hard in the months to come, think on that and rest.
I am indebted to Colin for giving me the opportunity and the privilege of sharing worship with you all - it has been a pleasure! I will always have a thought for Holytown and look forward to hearing how things positively progress in the months ahead.
My sincere thanks to you all for the kind words of support and encouragement and I wish you all God's blessing and His strength as you continue His work in Holytown.
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