My church

Helen Stuart describes the 21st century journey of Killermont Parish Church in Bearsden.

I HAVE been a member of the congregation of Killermont Parish Church, Bearsden since 2002, joining just after my arrival in the area.

At this time, Killermont was in a period of transition and about to call a new minister, so it was an exciting time for my family and I to become involved in the life of this church. Reflecting on the last 20 years, I believe that it was God’s hand that led me here. Indeed, being part of this committed and forward-thinking community of faith has provided me with opportunities to serve in ways which have been both personally and spiritually fulfilling, allowing me to form a deeper, meaningful relationship with the Lord.

Indeed, church has a central role in my life and blesses me in so many ways. Certainly, through fellowship I am inspired by the faith, commitment and talents within our congregation and I am uplifted and feel close to God during our worship. Also, opportunities to attend a variety of bible study courses have enhanced my knowledge, giving me confidence to articulate my faith. Importantly, church provides me with structure and guidance on how to lead an active Christian life within our community and beyond and knowing the love of God gives me an inner contentment.

I pray that others in our community have the opportunity to encounter such peace.

“ It has been refreshing to witness Killermont’s development over the last 20 years, including the incorporation of technology, new styles of music and songs into worship.

It has been refreshing to witness Killermont’s development over the last 20 years, including the incorporation of technology, new styles of music and songs into worship. In addition, the refurbishment of our buildings and the creation of a welcome area and community café some nine years ago displayed a commitment by the congregation to be a church that is appropriate for 21st century society, a church that is eager to serve and show the love of God to our neighbours. As with other churches, Covid-19 provided an opportunity to review ‘how we do church’ and through exposure to initiatives such as Growing Young we understand that change, albeit difficult and takes time, should not be feared. On the contrary, for our church to thrive and be relevant we have to try new things together, listen, learn from each other by enhancing intergenerational relationships and understand the society in which our young people and families belong.

Consequently, this approach has broadened my own perspective of church and collectively has allowed new ideas to be nurtured and encouraged across all ages. Also, along with our endeavours to be a welcoming church we aspire to be invitational, allowing God to reach others through us. However, despite the current uncertainty that the national Church and its congregations face, I believe that at this time of reconfiguration, God is providing us with an opportunity to advance his Kingdom. Therefore, this is an exciting time to be a follower of Jesus Christ and to be involved in the life of the church. ¤

Helen Stuart is Deputy Session Clerk at Bearsden: Killermont.