Someone recently wished me a “happy birthday” which, in itself, didn’t seem strange, except it happened towards the end of August and my birthday was in July. Was he getting confused or was it a belated greeting? Neither, because very quickly the penny dropped - it wasn’t so much a birthday greeting as an anniversary one. It is seven years since I took up my post as minister at The New Wellwynd. Yes, seven years and it just doesn’t seem like that.

As we have journeyed together we have achieved much together and I would like to emphasise the word “together”. Christian ministry is a partnership of like minded people with wide ranging gifts used for the glory of God and the building up and maintenance of the church. It is heartening to see the breadth of work being carried out with all ages in the congregation, from the children who keep us on our toes on a Sunday to the Seniors who enjoy friendship and fellowship. It is encouraging to see the involvement of so many people, from the willing volunteers who pray on a Sunday to the many who work tirelessly in the background. There are many organisations I could list and individuals I could mention.

All of this rich variety is what makes our church what it is today and it is encouraging to see a number of new friends coming to join us. As we celebrate what we have in the coming year, it is important not to be involved in too much naval gazing because, as we recognise the journey we have shared together so far, it is important to remember all that we have still to achieve, with so many opportunities still to be embraced and goals to be achieved. Much of the work we have developed together has been to do with our congregational life and that will continue in the new session. At the same time, we cannot forget that we are not only a community of believers, but a community of believers who are called to be involved in the community around us. The new house building, for example, gives us an opportunity to meet our neighbours and make them feel at home, not just in our town, but also our church. The many weddings that are conducted give an opportunity for us to relate to young people at an important time in their lives and this is one particular area we will be focusing on in the coming months.

All of us have a part to play in both encouraging others to come along on a Sunday and at other times, as well as making them feel welcome by talking to them and involving them in what is happening. We all have a part to play because we are a church and a family where “all are welcome” and should continue to be whatever the background.

In the coming months let us all look for opportunities to serve both our Lord and each other in love as we learn to live as people of the Spirit whose love, peace, patience and kindness are heard in welcoming words and seen in loving action.

May God continue to bless us and encourage us in his work.

Your friend and minister

Robbie Hamilton