Not to us, Lord, not to us but to your name be the glory. Psalm 115:1
On Saturday 17th August, Rev Neil Longwe and Rev David Trimble were ordained and inducted to the latest 30 by 30 church plant in Glasgow. Neil and David had just completed their course at ETS in May and graduated from the University of Glasgow in June.
Glasgow and Argyll Presbytery met at Christ Church Glasgow in Anniesland along with family and friends. Rev Ian Watson, Moderator of Presbytery, preached from Acts 11 identifying how Antioch was as a model for church planting today. Rev Jonathan de Groot gave a suitable charge to Neil and David and there were presentations Jillian, Israel and Naomi Longwe and Ashton and Eden Trimble.
Neil said: “It is exciting to be part of a dynamic Christ-centred denomination which has a vision to see ‘a healthy gospel church in every community in Scotland.’ Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland. The city centre has around 28,000 residents. This population will reach 40,000 by 2035. More churches are needed to reach this ever-growing population. It is an immense privilege to be called to the work of church planting. We have good news to share. We pray that Glasgow would once again flourish through the preaching of the gospel.”
David remarked, “Glasgow is a great city with great need. Jesus compared the kingdom of heaven to a merchant in search of fine pearls. When, one day, he found one pearl of great value, the merchant sold everything to get it. Jesus and his salvation are worth more than anything in this world. Our prayer is that people who aren’t currently following Jesus come to know this. As we seek to plant a church in the Merchant City, our hope is that people follow the example of that merchant who gave everything for the one thing that matters. We trust that God will equip us and strengthen us in the work that lies ahead.”
Regarding this church plant, Rev David Meredith, Mission Director, said: “In human terms the Merchant City is highly challenging however faith laughs at the impossible and says, ‘It shall be done.’ Our strategy in Merchant City is that the new church will plant in the east of the city. We have a big vision because we have a big God.”
The Lord has many people in Glasgow. Our desire is to see this number grow – in Merchant City and throughout the City. Thanks to those who have prayed, laboured, and given to make this plant a reality. David and Neil commence this work with the prayers, support, and encouragement of the church. Glasgow’s motto is, “Let Glasgow Flourish.” This is the shortened form of the 1637 inscription on the bell of the Tron Kirk,
Lord let Glasgow flourish through the preaching of thy word and praising thy name.
Our response is, “Amen. So let it Be!” (Scottish Metrical Version, Psalm 72 v. 19)
Bob Akroyd