The ordination and induction of Rev Scott Macleod to Park Free Church took place on Tuesday 25th August and was attended by a congregation of approximately 250-300. The service was led by Rev Colin Macleod, of Back Free Church, who preached from Acts 5:20: ‘Go, stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this life.’ He highlighted the courage of the apostles in preaching the gospel despite persecution, presenting them as a noble example for all who preach the Word.Â
Following the sermon, Rev Scott Macleod took the necessary vows and signed the formula, before being ordained to the ministry by the laying on of the hands of the Presbytery. Mr Macleod was then addressed by Rev Andrew Coghill, of Scalpay Free Church, and encouraged to focus on his relationship to his Father, his Family, and his Flock, putting the Lord first always. The congregation of Park were addressed by their former interim-moderator, Rev Paul Murray, of Kinloch Free Church, who encouraged them to value this new gospel ministry from 1 Thessalonians 5:13: ‘esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake.’ The service was particularly memorable for the quality and volume of the Psalm singing.
Following the service, a reception took place in the Cabarfeidh Hotel in Stornoway, where the 180 chairs set out proved insufficient for the crowd that gathered. Grace was said by Rev Murdo Campbell, of Knockbain Free Church, brother-in-law to the newly inducted Mr Macleod, before presentations were made to the newly inducted minister and his family, and to the former interim-moderator and his wife.
Mr Macleod then spoke about his journey into ministry, likening his ministerial mentors to the different types of tradesmen he had encountered while working on building sites. Two of these âtradesmenâ, Rev Calum Murdo Smith, assistant minister at Stornoway Free Church, and Rev David Macleod, of North Harris Free Church, then spoke, skilfully combining humour with a serious appreciation for God’s work in equipping Mr Macleod for the ministry.
The evening concluded appropriately with the singing of Psalm 133 and a prayer by the former minister of Park Free Church, Rev Iain Macritchie (now of Greyfriars Free Church).
By Rev Paul Murray
