Holyrood recognition for congregation's mission outreach work

An East Renfrewshire church has been recognised in the Scottish Parliament for its mission outreach work.

MSPs thanked Neilston Parish Church for its commitment to facilitate "meaningful social engagement" for local people.

A motion lodged by Scottish Labour's Paul O'Kane, a West of Scotland list member, has been signed by cross-party MSPs who acknowledged the church helps brings the community together.

It stated: "Neilston Parish Church has hosted a Tuesday lunch club over the summer holiday period, which includes activities such as games, soft play, movies and crafts but also provides free lunches and other refreshments."

The congregation describes itself as open and welcoming and "believes in the action of God through communities of faith".

Welcoming the parliamentary recognition, parish minister Rev Matthew Ritchie said: "It is not enough for churches to be in the community, they need to be serving the community.

"One way we do that is by providing free, fun activities and a programme of fellowship.

"Hospitality is at the heart of Christ's work and by providing food, activities and a place to meet others, we can provide that hospitality to our community in His name.

"The work that one of our members, Natasha Ritchie, and her team have been doing has made a real difference to people in the village, tackling loneliness, isolation and poverty.

"We could not be prouder of them and it is great to see them recognised by the Scottish Parliament in this way."

Neilston Parish Church, like many congregations, works tirelessly to assist disadvantaged people affected by the cost of living crisis.

Its Saturday lunch club will resume on 7 September and provides a safe place for people to enjoy a free lunch and join in with activities, crafts, and games.

Volunteers signpost people to organisations that can help with practical and financial advice.

The motion also acknowledged that the community in Neilston has also benefitted from social activities hosted by St Thomas' Roman Catholic Church.

The congregation lays on a drop-in café every Thursday, facilitated by the St Vincent de Paul Society, where local people are encouraged to attend, meet friends and talk over tea and home baking.

The motion "thanks everyone at St Thomas' RC Church and Neilston Parish Church for helping the local people of the village of Neilston to stay connected to their own community".