Looking Ahead with Hope – June 2026

As we begin the month of June, we find ourselves at the halfway point of another year. It is a natural time to reflect on where God has led us and to look ahead with hope and expectation for the months to come.

At Bellshill Central Parish Church, we give thanks for all that has happened during the first part of 2026. We have shared in worship, fellowship, service, learning, outreach, and community events. We have welcomed visitors, celebrated milestones, supported one another through challenges, and sought to be a faithful witness to Christ in Bellshill.

As we look towards the next six months, our prayer is not simply that we will be busy, but that we will be fruitful. We hope to continue growing as a church family, deepening our discipleship, strengthening our connections with the local community, and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with confidence and compassion.

The Bible reminds us:

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

While none of us knows exactly what lies ahead, we can trust the One who does. God’s faithfulness in the past gives us confidence for the future.

The writer of Hebrews encourages us:

“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” (Hebrews 10:23)

Over the coming months we look forward to opportunities for worship, fellowship, mission, and service. We pray that our church building will continue to be a place of welcome, that our congregation will continue to grow in faith, and that we will find new ways to share Christ’s love with our neighbours.

As we journey together, may we be guided by the words of the Apostle Paul:

“And let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9)

Whatever the next six months bring, we move forward trusting in God’s grace, seeking His guidance, and serving in His strength.

A Prayer for the Months Ahead

Loving God,

As we begin this new month and look towards the rest of the year, we thank You for Your faithfulness and care. Thank You for every blessing we have received and for the ways You have guided us as a congregation.

Grant us wisdom for the decisions we make, courage for the opportunities before us, and compassion for all whom we meet. Help us to grow in faith, hope, and love. Strengthen our witness in Bellshill and enable us to serve our community with joy.

Bless our worship, our fellowship, our outreach, and our ministry. Draw new people into our church family and help us to share the good news of Jesus Christ in all that we do.

May we trust You in every season and follow where You lead.

In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.

Congratulations to Rev Jonathan Lyall

The congregation of Bellshill Central Parish Church warmly congratulates Rev Jonathan Lyall on his election as Minister-Elect of Carluke and Law Church, where he will serve alongside Rev Dr Elijah Obinna in a Team Ministry.

While we are delighted for Jonathan as he begins this exciting new chapter in his ministry, we are also conscious that his departure will be a significant loss to our own congregation.

Over recent months, Jonathan has served Bellshill Central faithfully as our Locum Minister, providing wise leadership, encouragement and support during an important period in the life of our church. He has led worship with warmth and enthusiasm, shared in pastoral care among our congregation, and offered guidance and reassurance as we have sought to discern God’s direction for the future.

We are particularly grateful for Jonathan’s work in chairing our Mission Action Plan Working Party. Through his leadership, experience and thoughtful facilitation, he has helped us reflect on our strengths, identify opportunities for growth, and develop a vision for the future mission and ministry of Bellshill Central. His contribution has been invaluable in helping us move forward with confidence.

Jonathan has also been a supportive colleague to office-bearers, volunteers and congregation members alike, always willing to listen, encourage and challenge us to deepen our faith and witness within our community.

As Jonathan prepares to take up his new ministry in Carluke and Law, we assure him of our prayers and best wishes. We pray that he will know God’s blessing, guidance and strength as he begins this new role, and that he, Rev Dr Elijah Obinna and the congregation of Carluke and Law Church will enjoy a fruitful and rewarding ministry together.

Thank you, Jonathan, for all you have done for Bellshill Central Parish Church. We give thanks to God for your ministry among us and wish you every blessing for the future.

“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you.” — Numbers 6:24-25

Funeral service for Mr Jim Mathew

Jim suddenly passed away on 16th April, and we extend our sympathy to Mary and the family at this time.

For those wishing to pay their respects, Jim’s funeral service will take place on Monday, 11th May, here at Bellshill Central Parish Church at 12noon, followed by a committal at 1.30pm in Cambusnethan Cemetery.

A retiring offering in Jim’s name will be taken for Headway (the brain injury association) at the end of the Church service.  http://www.headway.org.uk 

They warmly invite you to join them at  Wishaw Masonic Lodge,  147 Stewarton St, Wishaw ML2 8AG,  following the service of committal.


We at Bellshill Central would like to pass on our condolences to the whole family at this sad time.

Jim was a long-standing member of Bellshill Central Parish Church. He was a faithful Elder and dad to our organist and Choirmaster, Alan.

May he rest in peace and rise in Glory.