Church celebrates 115th anniversary
Rutherglen United Reformed Church recently marked their 115th anniversary with a special celebration.
The church hosted two events to mark the occasion, and Rev John Sanderson was delighted at how well both had gone.
He said: “Firstly, on Saturday, May 21, over 90 members and friends joined together around the tables to enjoy a wonderful four course dinner, that was prepared by and served by members of the church fellowship.
“Following the meal entertainment was provided by EROS ( East Renfrewshire Operatic Society) who treated the appreciative audience to a range of songs from the musicals and opera.
“A great evening of food, entertainment and table fellowship was had by all.
“On Sunday morning the congregation gathered around the same tables to give thanks and praise to God.
“The service was led by Rev John Humphreys, Moderator of the URC Synod of Scotland, who encouraged the congregation to look to the future – whether one year, five years or another 115 years from now – confident that God is with them as they continue to serve Christ and continue to witness to God’s loving presence in the world.”
During the service Rev Humphreys presented two members of the congregation with certificates for courses they had recently completed.
Mr John Collings received a Training for Learning and Service Certificate in Gateways into Worship and Mrs Elinor McCulloch received a ‘ Training for Learning and Service’ Certificate in Developing Community Experiences.
The first service of Rutherglen Congregational Church was held in the Harriet Street Hall on May 19, 1901.
In 1903 the church moved to a newly erected building in East Main Street before moving to their current location, which is in Johnstone Drive in 1935.
On April 1, 2000, as a result of a union between the Congregational Union of Scotland and the United Reformed Church the church became known as Rutherglen United Reformed Church.
In 2006 the Church was awarded the status of being a Fair Trade Church and more recently became an ecocongregation.
The church has also affirmed its willingness to be a place where the blessings of civil partnerships can be held in recent years.
John added: “Over the years the structures of the church have changed to adapt to changing situations and circumstances. What has remained constant in that time is the importance of the Church meeting as the place where issues are discussed and decided upon.”
A great evening of food, entertainment and table fellowship was had by all”