Fond farewell to a ‘homely toon’

Six years have passed and I find myself reflecting on the nature of endings, as I say farewell to South and Quarter Parish, leaving behind strong well-established pastoral relationships.

One lasting impression Hamilton leaves me with is, a large town which feels like the biggest village I have ever known.

Families close at hand, with friendships that go back generations, a familiarity lost to other similarly large towns.

I have enjoyed working in such a context.

It will be missed, along with many other positive experiences had during my time here.

Difficult as endings may be, as one thing ends it opens up opportunity for something new.

In this first week of Lent, many of us start to reflect on Easter, a time of year when Christians acknowledge the sacrifice Jesus made by giving himself to the world. From his death came resurrection life, as one life ended a new life began. Last year Hamilton experienced the majesty and mystery of a passion play, the impact of which has been ongoing.

So as I say farewell, please take the opportunity to experience this year’s Passion play, risk exposure to the new life Jesus can give.

I have enjoyed being amongst the folks of Hamilton, both churchgoer and non-churchgoer. It has been a meaningful six year and I do wish God’s blessing on a “homely toon”.

I leave with some sadness, but I know that with every ending there is a new beginning; even the chance of new life with Jesus!

Hamilton – so long farewell and thanks for all the steak pies!

Reverend Donald Lawrie, of South and Quarter Parish Church