[bclink id=”2958″ target=”_blank”] held celebrations of its 123rd anniversary on the weekend of 29 – 30 October 2016. The weekend featured a Saturday musical festival from [bclink id=”952″ target=”_blank”] (Bandmaster Yvonne Ferguson) and Sunday meetings around the themes “Clydebank – Proud Past”, “Army of the Present”, and “Challenge of the Future”.
A good congregation gathered on Saturday evening to hear the visiting band. The brilliant opening Call of the Gospel (Martin Cordner) set the tone for the evening. This was followed by the emotive Everlasting Hope (Paul Sharman), reminding of the faithfulness of God. Other items from the band included Immeasurable, Canadian Folk Song Suite (Morley Calvert), and Alleluia, Amen! (Brian Hogg).
Several soloists were featured in the first half of the concert. Alex Ramsey played the cornet solo Don’t Doubt Him Now. Songster Leader Brian Allen (piano) offered Debussy’s Reverie. Chris Shanks presented the euphonium solo Precious Jesus, a birthday present from his wife, Emma, written especially for him by Andrew Blyth. In addition, Robert Addie gave his testimony. Clydebank Songsters contributed with the song Count Your Blessings. The first half concluded with one of the highlights of the concert, The Day of the Lord (Steven Ponsford).
After a short interval, the second half of the program commenced with Salsalvation before the audience joined in with a congregational song. The concert then moved into a more reflective mood. Clydebank Songsters sang Know My Heart, Lynn Shanks played the flügelhorn solo I Surrender All, and Band Sergeant David Kendall brought a thoughtful reflection from Ephesians. The band brought this part of the program to a close with Procession to Covenant (William Himes). The concert finale saw both the Bellshill and Clydebank flags brought to the front of the hall as the band played Celebration (Leslie Condon).
On Sunday morning, the family service focused on “Clydebank – Proud Past’, remembering with thankfulness those who pioneered the work of the Salvation Army in the area. A video presentation taken from the archives of bandsman Jim Anderson stirred many memories as the corps remembered “the rock from which we are hewn” (Isaiah 51:1). Susanne Dow, Regional Children’s Officer, on a rare visit home, spoke about her new role serving “this present generation” and shared a story with the young people with the creative use of a pumpkin. Both the senior and junior sections contributed to worship.
Following a fellowship lunch, the second meeting of the day was a praise and testimony meeting, celebrating the “Army of the Present’ and the “Challenge of the Future”. Ian French gave his testimony, reminding those present of their heritage and encouraging them to rise to the challenge of sharing the Gospel today.
Sophie Glendinning presented a beautiful vocal solo, The Colors of the Wind and Ryan Currie played his first cornet solo, Lullaby. The Singing Company gave an enthusiastic rendition of Solid Rock and the Young People’s Band played Thank You. The Senior Band was in good form and offered Ransomed of the Lord, Duke Street Variations, and Jubilee. The Songsters contributed Praise His Holy Name. A very good weekend spent in celebration and service.
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