Ordination and Induction of Rev George Macdonald
The Sydney church building at Riverstone was well filled for the ordination and induction of Rev George Macdonald, probationer, on March 2. Besides the usual congregation there were visitors from Grafton, Sydney and New Zealand. With a full Presbytery, including the representatives from Singapore and New Zealand, the number of persons present was estimated at about 90. Rev David Campbell from North Tolsta was also a member of the Presbytery.
Mr Calvin MacKenzie was appointed officer of court. He made the usual proclamation, three times calling for objections in terms of the edict.
The Moderator of the Presbytery, Rev E A Rayner, then went to the pulpit and conducted public worship, preaching from Exodus 31:3. The edifying sermon covered three aspects: (1.) The workmen; (2.) They are sovereignly called; (3.) They are suitably equipped;
Following the sermon, the Clerk read a brief narrative of proceedings in connection with call. The Moderator put the usual questions, which were all answered satisfactorily; then he read the Formula, which was signed by the probationer. While Mr Macdonald kneeled, the Moderator offered up the
ordination prayer with the imposition of hands by the ministerial members of the Presbytery, after which the Moderator formally admitted him to the pastoral charge of the Sydney congregation, giving him the right hand of fellowship. In this he was joined by all the other members of the Presbytery, who wished Mr Macdonald well.
Rev D Campbell addressed the newly-ordained minister and brought out three points: the pastor, the presbyter and the preacher, and particularly emphasised the need of preaching Christ and Him crucified.
The Clerk addressed the congregation, who were so signally blessed in receiving a pastor, having prayed for one for a period of 32 years. He reminded them of the words of the call that they had signed and, from the words in Ephesians 4:10-12, particularly referred them to the preciousness of the gift of a pastor and the duty of valuing him highly.
The Clerk also read messages of goodwill to the new minister and the congregation from fellow ministers in Zimbabwe and Scotland.
After the benediction, Mr Macdonald went to the door and was heartily welcomed by the congregation and others to his new sphere of duty in this large city of 4.5 million people. All present at the ordination were invited to supper in the community hall and most took advantage of the liberal provision. The evening closed with prayer and the singing of Psalm 133.
(Rev) Johannes van Dorp Clerk of Presbytery
Meeting of Synod
The Synod of the Free Presbyterian Church of Scotland will meet in St Jude’s Church, Glasgow, on Tuesday, 18 May 2010, at 6.30 pm, DV, when the retiring Moderator, Rev G G Hutton, will conduct public worship.
(Rev) John MacLeod, Clerk of Synod
Sydney Congregation Appeal
The Sydney congregation of the Free Presbyterian Church of Scotland wish to convey their sincere thanks to the many friends who have contributed already to the resettlement cost of the Rev George MacDonald and invite other friends that would like to help the Sydney congregation, to do so through the General Treasurer. This appeal was approved by the Presbytery.
(Rev) Johannes van Dorp Clerk of Presbytery
Staffin Manse
The manse at Staffin needs to be replaced and the congregation is taking steps to build a new one. As the congregation is fairly small and has to raise a sizeable proportion of the total cost, it has been decided to make an appeal to friends in the wider Church to help carry out this project. The Western
Presbytery has approved this appeal. Contributions should be sent to the Congregational Treasurer, Miss Marion Ross, Aghaidh na Greine, Clachan, Staffin, Isle of Skye, IV51 9HY. (Rev) W A Weale
Meetings of Presbytery (DV)
Northern: At Dingwall, on Tuesday, June 15, at 2 pm.
Southern: At Glasgow, on Wednesday, June 23, at 4 pm.
Western: At Lochcarron, on Tuesday, June 22, at 1 pm.
Outer Isles: At Stornoway, on Tuesday, June 15, at 11 am.
Home Mission Fund
By appointment of Synod, this year’s special collection on behalf of the Home Mission Fund, is due to be taken in congregations during May.
W Campbell, General Treasurer