A Thank You for Ian Douglas

Today we want to express our heartfelt thanks to Ian Douglas, who has served as our Locum Reader at Bellshill Central Parish Church for over two years. What began as a simple chance meeting at a funeral at Crosshill Church in Motherwell, where Ian had served as Pastoral Assistant — and a kindly offered lift for Alan — has grown into a wonderful relationship that none of us could have predicted.

From that moment, Ian stepped in to help with pulpit supply and pastoral visiting, and very quickly became part of the life, laughter and rhythm of BCPC. His presence has been a gift.
We are grateful for:

• Palm Sunday services filled with meaning and hope, always delivered with Ian’s steady warmth.
• Stories of adventures — trips to the islands, journeys on the Waverley, and all the wee tales that made us smile.
• All‑age addresses that were legendary: toys, sweets, games, props… you name it, Ian produced it.
• Thoughtful, relevant messages that helped us focus on justice, peace, compassion and the everyday call to live out our faith.
• Burns’ lunches that will go down in BCPC history, complete with unforgettable Addresses to the Haggis.
• Friendship, laughter and fun, shared generously and often.
• And of course, the Captain’s hat from June and Stanley, which will forever be part of the story.

Ian, your ministry among us has been marked by kindness, creativity, faithfulness and joy. You have encouraged us, challenged us, and cheered us on. You have become a friend to many, and a blessing to all.

As your time with us comes to a close, we say a huge thank you. For every sermon, every visit, every smile, every story, every Sunday — we are grateful.

We look forward to seeing you when you cover some Sundays for Jonathan in the months that lie ahead.

May God bless you richly in all that lies ahead.
And remember… the door at BCPC is always open.