It’s a family affair at Stonelaw Parish
Stonelaw Parish Church is saying a fond farewell to its church officer - but they are keeping it in the family, as his successor is his wife!
Len Shepherd has been Stonelaw’s church officer since 1996, and has been a familiar face at services, weddings, funerals, and helping with school events.
He retired at the end of August and the congregation marked the event with a thank you lunch.
However, it’s not a goodbye because Len remains a friend and committed member of the congregation - and his successor is his wife Jackie, who is looking forward to taking over the fulltime job!
Minister Rev Dr Alistair May said: “Since 1996, Len Shepherd has been our Church Officer. Over that time, not only have we appreciated his service and hard work; we have also enjoyed his friendship, and willingness to help. He’s so often gone that extra mile for us. He’s used his undoubted practical skills in various parts of the building -even fixing sofas for the handless incumbent of the manse!
“He’s also been particularly generous with his time in quietly supporting and befriending many of our elderly members.
“Len has taken a real pride is his work for us, particularly in ensuring that our sanctuary sparkles for Sundays and at special events. I’ll never forget that when I came to my first weddings at Stonelaw, with little clue as what to do, it was Len who took charge of the rehearsals, expertly guiding bride, groom and minister.
“At the end of August, Len officially retired after 18 years of service. We marked the occasion with a special congregational lunch, and gave Len a retirement gift to which many of you contributed. Although formally retired, Len still remains a loved member of the Stonelaw family – and if you’re not done so already, I know you’ll want to join me in offering him every blessing in retirement.
“We’re delighted to announce that from September we also have a new church officer, as Jackie will be taking up the post on a full-time basis. She’s got a hard act to follow, and we pray God’s blessing on her, Len and Taylor at this time.”
Meanwhile, Stonelaw is hosting some discussions based on the TV series The God Question.
Rev Dr May told the Reformer: “Does God exist? Are the atheists and sceptics right? In an age of science is it madness or common sense to believe in God?
“Stonelaw Church are exploring that questions as they hold discussion groups looking at a programme called ‘the God question’. The God Question is a TV series that investigates whether 21st century science supports the case for a creator or removes it.
“In the programmes, atheists and believers battle for the truth and ultimately the viewer decides. World renowned contributors from both unpack the key issues about cosmos, the natural world and the hidden depths of mind and consciousness. The material doesn’t tell you what to think – it encourages you to think for yourself.”
Each meeting will watch a 20 minute DVD and then have an open discussion over coffee. It will be run in The Meeting Place, on Thursday evenings at 7.30pm, and Tuesday lunchtimes from 12.30-1.30pm, from the beginning of September.
The first Sunday of each month sees Stonelaw hold an alternative evening service. These are designed to be suitable for all, and particularly child-friendly. They start at 6pm, with a guarantee to be finished well before bedtime at 7pm.
The theme this year is movies and they are planning a Lego Service, a Frozen Service, and a Finding Nemo service – with more to follow.