The congregation of Port Glasgow New Parish Church was joined by the Moderator of the General Assembly on Sunday January 19 as it began its 200th anniversary celebrations.

The Rt Rev Dr Iain Greenshields preached at the service and spoke with the church Sunday Club. He also presented long service certificates to five elders who have each served for 30 years or more.

The Moderator gave out crosses that were made for him at a prison he visits regularly, and in return received a card from the Sunday Club and a framed painting of the church painted by the brother of one of the session clerks.

About 180 people attended a celebration buffet, where Dr Greenshields cut the 200th anniversary cake.