Maryhill churches come together to forge 'a better world'

“We have so much more in common than divides us” – that’s the message from a Church of Scotland Minister in Maryhill, whose congregation is getting behind SCIAF’s ‘Catholic’ WEE BOX fundraiser. 

 Rev Stuart Matthews, the minister of Maryhill Ruchill Parish Church, and Fr Jim Lawlor of the Immaculate Conception RC Church have forged a strong partnership over the last few years, with community at the centre of everything they do. 

 The Maryhill Ruchill parishioners are getting behind SCIAF's WEE BOX Appeal.

Stuart said:

“We haven’t invented ecumenism here, we’re just really enjoying working together. Our church buildings are so close to each other, and we have so much in common. 

 “People love the idea of Catholics and Protestants working together – and in the west of Scotland that’s a really significant thing. Seeing the priest and the minister getting on well together seems really important to people. It’s a symbol of unity and hope!” 

 Fr Jim made the short journey over Maryhill Road to thank the parishioners for their support. 

He said:

“We have so many initiatives to help the vulnerable people in our community and our work is never done. After working so closely together it just seemed that the next logical step was to look at our bigger world, through the lens of SCIAF, the Catholic Church’s official aid agency in Scotland. We wanted to reach out, beyond Maryhill to the whole world, not just our wee world here.  

 “Through the WEE BOX, we’re reaching out together locally but also looking over the wall to others in need. And it’s not just a Sunday thing, it’s an everyday thing, looking at the most vulnerable – especially in the world we’re living in at the moment. 

 “SCIAF helps people on the basis of need, not religion, and reaches out to those of all faiths and none. We need to spread the word – the WEE BOX isn’t just for Catholics!”