Wallaces Group
This is the working name of the group working on the future union of the four congregations.
Nothing to do with Scottish history in our area, Wallaces combines the initial letters of all four. It is not new for the churches to talk to each other, and since November 2019 regular meetings have been held of all the six Larbert Church of Scotland congregations, including during lockdown. Since early 2023 the current group has formed a mission plan and thought seriously about how we can go forward together. The Presbytery Mission Plan is for all the churches of the former Falkirk, Hamilton and Lanark Presbyteries and finding agreement has not been easy. However, in our area progress is being made. Wallaces Group meets every month, and the congregations are updated on progress on the Sunday following the meeting. So far, information has been collected on the four manses, and inventories are being completed by all. A timetable is being made of regular activities in each church building. The elders of the four churches were due to meet on May 11th, to discuss bringing together responsibilities and talents. And, over the summer months, look out for joint services where we will worship together. All the congregations can expect interesting days to come.
Names for the New Church
Although the name of the new church can’t be officially decided until the union takes place, Larbert East decided to ask for suggestions from the congregation – and the result so far is an ever-growing list with lots of variety. Elders will have a chance to look at this on May 11th and recommend a short list. It is good to see that many of the suggested names mention unity, friendship and fellowship, aspirational names which hint at being a welcoming fellowship to which people will be attracted. Others indicate the locality – Tryst, Stenhousemuir, Ochilview – or the union of four. If you have contributed to the list, it is much appreciated. Sadly, we are restricted to just one name! Our next job is to work out how we will continue to serve our new, bigger parish. New groups and activities? Suggestions please!