MINISTER’S RETIREMENT GIFT TO CHURCH

Wellpark Mid Kirk, Greenock has received a bespoke insignia to be worn at civic events hosted there. The Rev Alan Sorensen, who retired in June after 22 years, commissioned the solid silver badge of office and presented it to the congregation as a farewell gift at his final Kirkin’ of the Council on Sunday June 19.

Mr Sorensen said: “We have a fairly unique relationship between Wellpark Mid Kirk and Inverclyde Council. The church is across the square from the Council buildings and since 1761 we have been privileged to host many civic events, not just the annual Kirkin’. The minister has traditionally been the chaplain to the Council and he is often asked to represent the church at functions.

“It occurred to me that when the Provost is wearing Inverclyde’s chain of office it would be a nice touch if the church had something similar – so I commissioned the insignia for anyone representing the church at some such event to wear. The Session Clerk was sporting it for the first time on Sunday as she led in the procession of councillors and officials. It’s always good to add a little bit of colour to such occasions.

I believe the annual Kirkin’ used to be a very formal occasion, but now it’s an ecumenical celebration of the life of the whole community in the council area and I think it adds to the sense of occasion.”

The badge of office has been designed by Jen Cunningham, a young jewellery designer and silversmith, who specialises in bespoke landscape and townscape jewellery such as wedding rings. The badge shows a modern representation of the church’s distinctive profile.

Mr Sorensen is pictured with session clerk Grace Kennedy wearing the new badge of office.