New church building has opened its doors

New Motherwell South minister the Rev Alan Gibson (centre) is flanked by (l-r) the Rev Arthur Barrie, the Rev Gordon McCracken, the Rev Derek Gunn and the Rev John Stevenson as he was inducted into the charge at the opening of the new church santuary.

The service was conducted by the Hamilton Presbytery moderator the Rev Derek Gunn, assisted by presbytery clerk the Rev Dr Gordon McCracken.

The Rev Gunn said: “We are proud of the congregation here at Motherwell South for their dogged determination to bring their vision to fruition.

“They have been dedicated in their search for funding and in managing phase one of the project to culminate in the buildings we see here.”

The ceremony also witnessed new Motherwell South minister the Rev Alan Gibson from Lanark being inducted into the charge.

The induction took place in the presence of the recently returned baptismal font from the historic St Patrick’s Church of Dalzell, which dates from the 12th century and took pride of place next to the new chancel.

The Rev Gibson is delighted to be taking up the post at the brand-new church complex in Gavin Street, which has been a product of two years of dedication and hard work by the congregation.

He said: “The construction of the new facility reflects the remarkable dedication of the congregation throughout their journey to build something that is at the heart of the community.”

The opening ceremony was completed with a social evening to welcome the new minister.

It is hoped the new buildings will not only be a place of worship, but will become a central hub for the whole community.

The project team and congregation of Motherwell South extends its thanks to the General Trustees of the Church of Scotland, Hamilton Presbytery and the external funders.