Since my last letter we have lost two faithful servants to Haggs Parish Church with the deaths of our organist, Mrs Lesley Meek and our Beadle Mr Tommy Mortimer.  They will be greatly missed but leave us with many memories of their contribution to our worship and the friendship they gave to those around them.

I had the privilege of attending the General Assembly in May when we celebrated the 450th Anniversary of the Reformation at a special service on the Sunday afternoon.

As part of the service someone acted the character of John Knox and read out his account of the trial and martyrdom of George Wishart at St Andrews.  I was reminded of my time at St Andrews University where students avoided the spot where the burning took place.  But more  importantly I was reminded of the fact that people died to bring about the reformation of the Church.

With the Reformation we also saw the translation of the Bible in English and the beginning of our education system as the reformers wanted ordinary people to be able to read the scriptures.

The reformers wanted the gospel to be preached and the sacraments to be dispersed in all parts of Scotland and the parish system remains with us today.

The baton has now been passed to us to continue their mission to spread the gospel of God’s love to our neighbours in our parish and beyond.

I wish you all a pleasant summer.  Why not visit a local congregation when you are on holiday and take greetings from Haggs.