On 25th September in St Columba’s Free Church, Edinburgh, Rev. Robin Silson was ordained and set apart as a minister of the Free Church, and inducted as a church planter for Winchburgh Community Church.
Robin has been working in Winchburgh for a year, supporting this small, new church which began with a vision of the elders and members of St Columba’s to reach out with the Gospel into this rapidly growing area. The Mission Board gave the green light for a five-year appointment following the initial one year.
Rev. Derek Lamont, minister of St Columba’s, presided over the service as Moderator of Presbytery (for the evening) and George Coghill clerked, in the absence of Roddy Macleod, the Presbytery Clerk) Robin’s previous minister Rev. Martin Ayers from St Silas Church, Glasgow, preached from Acts 20. He spoke of the ‘perfect pastor’ and encouraged Robin to Teach Truth, Keep Watch and Shed Tears. Achieving these things is only possible because of who we are following, the Lord Jesus.
Following the solemn vows, ministers and elders of the presbytery and beyond laid hands on Robin as they prayed over him, powerfully showing the unity we have as a church family ministering and seeking to glorify God.
Rev. Billy Graham addressed Robin warmly as he spoke of the privilege and challenge of being set aside for the service of Christ, particularly in a church planting context. Sharing a story about a key aspect of Christian ministry, he said “love the people God gives you and you will be a blessing to them…” He also encouraged Robin to grow in the knowledge and grace of Jesus Christ.
There was a presentation from St Columba’s to Robin and his family to mark the occasion showing the church’s love and prayerful support in this formal appointment. Robin thanked everyone for the encouragement and gave the utmost glory to God.
Throughout the service the singing was beautiful, and much warmth was displayed to Robin as he sets out, with his family and the core team, to this new work, to see God glorified and proclaimed in Winchburgh and the surrounding area.
Please pray for Robin and his family as they move forward in this Gospel work.