Tribute to Betty McLaren and John Bryson

At the Kirk Session meeting on 11 January 2010, Session Clerk, Glenn Walker paid tribute to Elders Betty McLaren and John Bryson, who recently passed away.

It is of course very sad to lose friends and elders at any time but especially so when they were in the earlier part of their senior years and were playing active roles in the life of our fellowship. Betty McLaren and John Bryson shared many characteristics as people who lived out their faith as faithful servants of the church and committed Christians. Both succeeded in doing that in quiet effective ways, sharing, befriending and serving in many capacities in addition to their duties as district elders.

Betty McLaren was ordained as an elder on 22 April 1990 along with Jean Battison, Ruby Mitchell, Chris Shanks and Norman Gray. Her involvement in church life was wide but was generally perceived as a sterling worker behind the scenes rather than as an upfront person. Betty did however play a prominent part in the Guild and was elected to the position of president on several occasions. Also her contributions to Session discussions were heartfelt, considered and valued. You could be sure that any function requiring teas and baking would involve Betty's input in producing the cakes and making sure everyone was served. She also had an active role in the "Kettle's On" team on Thursday mornings being a cheery, friendly face behind the counter. As an "auntie" for the Young Woman's Group for many years she also ensured that the younger generation were safe and happy while mothers enjoyed a time of relaxation and fellowship. Similarly, with her own family, Betty encouraged the foundation and growth of faith and its practice by her example. The strength of her faith was particularly evident during her illness as she drew upon the knowledge that she was always in God's care.

John Bryson was widely regarded as the exemplar gentleman, courteous, friendly and generous of spirit - all this being underpinned by a strong living faith. John was ordained as an elder on 17 March 1968. This followed his election to the Deacon's Court in March 1964. From that time, John was intimately involved in the oversight of the Freewill Offering Scheme and continued in that role up until the onset of his illness. John served as a valued member of the Finance Committee for many years and it is difficult to imagine him not being part of that aspect of church management. As a committed district elder, John was a firm supporter of district visiting and I am sure he would be eagerly welcomed into many homes. Such was his passion for this aspect of witness that he volunteered to continue visiting after his retirement from Session in October. John's participation in Session meetings would inevitably be perceptive and bring wise counsel on the matter under discussion. His influence on this fellowship will be sorely missed.

To quote from John's resignation letter of October:

The examples set by Betty and John as outstanding servants of St John's provide fitting models and encouragement for our actions in serving God in all we do. We can but trust and pray that we, as elders, will live up to that expectation in honour of our God and Saviour.

Added: 27 Jan 10 (GW)