New Shotts Boys' Brigade company host first annual display
A new Boys Brigade Company has been established in Shotts and the members of 3rd Shotts took part in their first annual display and presentation of awards.
Rev Phil Geary, Captain, welcomed the company members and parents to the EU Congregational Hall including guest of honour Mrs Gillian Agnew from 1st Shotts Girls Brigade, and MP Kenneth Stevenson.
Rev Phil said: 'It's seeming a little surreal that two years ago, the idea if a BB hadn't even been dreamt up, yet here we are at the end of the first year.
'The boys have worked hard in everything we have thrown at them, not least this display which has meant al of the boys are stepping out of their comfort zone in one way, shape or form, so please encourage them along the way.'
Rev Phil also thanked his officers Andy Allan, Sean Chalmers, Naomi Geary, Yvette Geary, Martin Phillips, Edith Ross, and Jim Williams, with Helpers Morag Forsyth and Janice Whitefield, for all their efforts for the company and their work with the young people,
He also expressed thanks to David Sneddon who was part of team who trained the officers of the new BB Company which adopted the 3rd Shotts title, which was formerly used 30 years ago.
Throughout this first year the boys took part in the annual Remembrance Service at the War Memorial and in the church; along with the Sunday School, they were involved in making shoeboxes for boys and girls in parts of the world who wouldn't have ordinarily receive a gift at Christmas.
The boys also enjoyed a number of outings, including a trip to the bowling alley with members of 1st Shotts GB.
A highlight of the year was a trip to Northern Ireland which was a great success.
Regular meetings include scripture lesson, games, crafts and activities, all of which counts towards boys gaining their badges at the end of term.
The boys have learned the discipline of arranging themselves in squads, the importance of teamwork and supporting those who need a little extra help; and being aware of their surroundings and the need to enjoy and respect the world around them.
The evening also included the opening prayer by Martin Phillips, Scripture Readings by Jim Williams and Janie Whitefield, and closing prayer by Edith Ross.
Everyone joined in the final hymn which is associated with Boys Brigade 'Will Your Anchor Hold'.
Rev Phil completed the evening by saying: 'As you will see and hear, we are unashamedly a Christian organisation and we seek to present the Gospel to the boys each week and also to instil in them good Christian morals that will no doubt be of help as they grow into young men.'
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