This report was made to the Annual General Meeting held at Oban Free Church of Scotland Hall at 7pm on 8th July 2025.
The Committee were saddened to hear of the passing last year of Jim Barr a supporter, friend and regular attendee at our Convention over the years. A note of condolence was sent to a family member.
MEMBERSHIP
The membership of the Organising Committee as July 2025 is as follows:
· Donald MacAskill (Chair)
· Sandra MacColl (Vice Chair)
· Phil Toms ( Secretary)
· Liz Deverill (Treasurer)
· Mal Toms
· Mrs Joan Malloch
The committee were pleased to welcome Mrs Joan Malloch as a new member.
The Committee Membership has reduced during the past few years due to the resignation/retirement of several long serving stalwart members some of whom were local ministers/pastors.
RESIGNATIONS
Resignation was received with regret from: Rev Carol Leech.* Elizabeth Cringles and Rev Archie MacPhail generously continued with helping the committee during our time of transition.
The committee wishes to record its thanks and gratitude for all the gracious and diligent guidance and wisdom received from Carol and her contribution to the success of the Convention. We are thankful that Carol will continue to support the Convention in the future.
2024 CONVENTION
The 2024 Convention with the theme ‘Belonging’. was held at the main auditorium at the Corran Halls in Oban from 6th to 8th August. The main Speakers were Glynn Harrison and Gordon Thomson. The morning and evening talks were very much appreciated by all who attended. We had various Christian organizations stalls and informative talks from SASRA (The Soldiers & Aviator’ Scripture Readers Association), Barnabas Aid, and Slavic Gospel Association. There was a bookstall provided throughout the Convention by the Faith Mission. Our talented Praise Band participated well. Attendances remain good and in line with the previous year. Workshops were held for the first time at lunchtimes and were well attended. The proposed Kidzone did not take place. Fellowship was enjoyed over teas and coffee. We thank the Corran Halls again for all their help and support which is much appreciated. We give thanks to God for guiding us as a committee and for His wonderful provision.
2025
The 2025 Convention with the theme “ Your truth, My truth versus THE TRUTH” is due to be held at the main auditorium of the Corran Halls from 5th to 7th August with morning and evening gatherings. Optional Café/ Studio lunchtime Sessions will be held each day. The main speakers are Andy Robertson and Joe Barnard. There will be Christian Organisations taking part including talks from Open Doors, Scottish Bible Society, and Samaritan’s Purse. We will have a Christian Books Update from the Good Book Company. Our Praise Band have been practicing for the event.
2026
Plans for the 2026 Convention are already in hand. Speakers are currently being arranged. Paul Mallard, retired pastor from 40 years ministry and now working for the Fellowship of Independent Churches in the West Midlands, has confirmed that he will speak at the event.
Donald MacAskill
8th July 2025