Christians from across the geographical spread of Hamilton Presbytery assembled earlier this evening in Blantyre Old Parish Church to mark the 500th Anniversary of the commencement of the Reformation with a special service of thanksgiving. The Moderator, Mrs Roberta Hutton, presided. Guest preacher for the occasion was the Rev. Canon Professor Charlotte Methuen of Glasgow University, a renowned Reformation scholar who spoke of the continuing value of Martin’s Luther’s contribution to the shaping of western Christianity, and the growing realisation than in God’s grace we each have something to offer one another for the good of the whole Church.

In that spirit, members of the Presbytery were joined by representatives from several denominations with whom the Church of Scotland enjoys close fellowship, and others tendered their apology but sent good wishes and prayers. There was a brief gathering in the adjacent hall after the service for a time of further fellowship over tea and coffee.

The Moderator, on behalf of the Presbytery, expressed thanks to the Rev. Sarah Ross and the Kirk Session of Blantyre Old, which this year celebrates its own 450th anniversary as a congregation, and for hosting the occasion and providing hospitality.

Moderator Roberta Hutton delivered the Homily at the ecumenical service for all people affected by cancer. Held at Our Lady of Good Aid Cathedral, Motherwell on Thursday 12th October.

A Pause for Hope was initiated to bring together, in prayer, those affected by all forms of cancer; their loved ones and their carers.

The Presbytery of Hamilton, with the main focus of its meeting on the work of the Guild, gathered on 3 October 2017 at Dalziel St Andrew’s Parish Church, Motherwell for its regular meeting. As well as receiving reports from the North and South Presbyterial Councils from their respective Conveners, Margaret Muir and Anne McIntyre, the Conveners delivered informative presentations on the six current Guild projects. The Presbytery was also pleased to welcome as its guest speakers for the evening, Iain W Whyte, national General Secretary of the Guild, and Karen Gillon, the Associate Secretary, who spoke to the wider work of the Guild and the important contribution it makes to the wider Church and Scottish society generally. (A copy of their presentation is available elsewhere on the web-site.)