🌟 This Sunday at Bellshill Central Church 🌟
Join us for a special Young Church Service followed by a Church BBQ!
🎵 Hymns include:
🍔 Stay after the service for food, fellowship and fun.
⛪ Bellshill Central Church
🕚 Sunday at 11.00am
Everyone is warmly welcome.
On Friday 19th June 2026, Bellshill Central Parish Church will mark a significant milestone in our congregation’s story as we celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Laying of the Foundation Stone of our church building.
When that foundation stone was laid in 1876, those gathered could scarcely have imagined the generations of worshippers who would pass through its doors.
Their vision and faith established a place where God’s people could gather in worship, serve the community, and proclaim the Gospel for generations to come.
Over the course of 150 years, the congregation has been known by several names, reflecting both the changing story of the Church in Scotland and the life of our local community. The building first served as Bellshill Free Church, later becoming Bellshill East United Free Church following the Union of 1900. In time it became known as Macdonald Memorial Church, a name remembered fondly by many within the community. Today, as Bellshill Central Parish Church, we continue that same mission of worship, witness and service, standing on the foundations laid by those who came before us.
While the name above the door has changed through the years, the purpose of the church has remained constant: to gather God’s people, share Christ’s love, and serve the community of Bellshill.
Within these walls, countless baptisms, weddings and funerals have marked the significant moments of life. Generations have found friendship, support, comfort and faith through the ministry of this congregation.
This anniversary provides an opportunity not only to celebrate our history but also to give thanks for the faithfulness of God throughout every chapter of that story. We remember with gratitude the ministers, elders, office-bearers, members and friends whose dedication ensured that the congregation continued to flourish through times of change and challenge.
Our commemorative gathering will include a short service of thanksgiving, reflecting on the remarkable journey from Bellshill Free Church to Bellshill Central Parish Church. Together we will celebrate the people, events and moments that have shaped our congregation over a century and a half.
Following the service, refreshments will be served, providing an opportunity to share memories, renew old friendships and enjoy fellowship together.
As we honour the past, we also look forward with hope. The foundation stone laid in 1876 was an expression of faith in the future. Today, 150 years later, we continue that legacy, trusting that God will guide and sustain His Church for generations yet to come.
150th Anniversary of the Laying of the Foundation Stone
Friday 19th June 2026
12 noon
Bellshill Central Parish Church
346 Main Street, Bellshill
A short service followed by refreshments.
Whether you have been part of the congregation for many years, have connections to Bellshill Free Church, Bellshill East United Free Church, Macdonald Memorial Church, or simply wish to join us for this historic occasion, you will be made most welcome.
“To the glory of God and for the service of His people, from generation to generation.”
We look forward to celebrating this special anniversary together.
Theme: “Look at the Birds of the Air
This summer, we invite everyone to take one photograph inspired by Jesus’ words:
“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.” — Gospel of Matthew 6:26
Your photograph could feature:
The challenge is to capture one image that reminds us of God’s care, provision, and the beauty of creation.
How to Take Part
Why This Theme?
Last year’s “The Trees of the Field” challenge encouraged us to see God’s glory in the trees around us.
This year, we turn our eyes skyward and reflect on Jesus’ invitation to notice the birds and remember God’s loving care for all creation—and for us.
Challenge Question:
Where do you see God’s care reflected in the birds around you?
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.
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.
BELLSHILL: CENTRAL PARISH CHURCH OF SCOTLAND 