The Church of Scotland, the Kirk, is the direct inheritor of the ancient Scottish church of Ninian, Columba and the Celtic Saints. We are “reformed” in worship and church governance, by which we mean, the Kirk was inspired by the Reformation of the Western church in the 1500’s. We affirm ourselves to be part of God’s catholic, or universal church, but our supreme head is Jesus Christ and the church is governed by a series of Church councils, or courts, the highest of which is the General Assembly.
The General Assembly has sought to subdivide all of Scotland into “parishes”, territorial areas covering every inch of Scotland. There is no part of Scotland which does not have a Kirk congregation and minister offering the services of the church. The Laigh Kirk has responsibility for an area of south/central Paisley.
As a parish church, we are called to serve, not just our members, but all who live and work in our parish. This means that the minister and congregation are there to serve all, so if you have a enquiry about the possibility of getting married or having your baby baptised, it is worth remembering the following.
Baptism
The Sacrament of Baptism takes place usually within the Sunday morning service. It is an integral part of our worship. Baptism is available both to children and adults alike. If you are interest in finding out more about baptism, contact the minister and he will talk you through what is involved.
Marriage
If you are considering getting married, the first contact should be the minister, he will check the availability of the date you require and will help you with the process of arranging your wedding service.
Joining the church
Periodically throughout the year, the Laigh Kirk will hold services to welcome new members into our congregation and into the whole church of Jesus Christ. If this is something you would like more information on, then come along one Sunday and make yourself known. It will be good to meet you.
Funerals
Few people will not come into contact with the church following a bereavement and the parish minister has a duty to provide a funeral service for all who live in his, or her, parish. If you know of someone who is dying and who would like a visit from the minister, please let him know. If you would like to arrange a funeral for a loved one who has passed away, please contact the minister as soon as possible. Funeral Directors will normally know who your parish minister is.
Home Communion
As well as our regular services of Holy Communion in church, there is provision made for those who cannot come to church to receive communion, perhaps due to ill health or increasing infirmity. If you know of anyone who requires such a service, or if you yourself wish to receive home Communion, then please let your elder know when they visit. Or, alternatively contact the minister.
Marriage
Funerals
