John Carrick
John’s ministry journey began when he made a life-transforming decision to leave his job and enroll in the Bible Training Institute in Glasgow. This announcement, along with two other individuals from Brisbane Hall in Largs, made headlines in 1967, indicating their commitment to training for overseas mission work or church service.
After completing his training, John married Margaret Laird, hailing from Northern Ireland, and embarked on a fruitful vocation in ministry. He initially served as the Youth Director at the Maranatha Centre in Motherwell, Scotland. In 1975, he relocated to England, where he ministered to churches in Southampton and Ringwood for an impressive span of twenty-three years.
Throughout his tenure, John demonstrated his passion for global outreach and regularly visited India to deliver sermons and lectures. He also became an esteemed Board member of MECO (Middle East Christian Outreach), assuming the role of Director in due course. His involvement with MECO allowed him and his wife Margaret to travel extensively in the Middle East, fostering connections with influential church leaders and gaining firsthand knowledge of the region's events.
His dedication and expertise in Middle Eastern affairs led to him being invited to speak in Parliament, where he addressed the pressing issues and challenges faced by the church in the region. Even in retirement, he continues to advocate for persecuted Christians worldwide. John has also served as a board member of Railway Mission, taking responsibility for the pastoral care of professional chaplains stationed at major railway stations.
For many years John has been a blessing to the church throughout Ayrshire, where his preaching has touched many lives. Here at the High Kirk we are so grateful to have John returning each summer to conduct a 3-week sermon series.
Please join us on the 2nd, 9th & 16th July at 10.30am here at Stevenston High Kirk for our Morning Service.
Gordon Stevenson
Gordon Stevenson is Organist and Director of Music at Saint Mary’s Roman Catholic Basilica in Phoenix, Arizona, a position he has held since 2006. Holding degrees from Trinity College of Music, London, and the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, he has performed extensively in his native Scotland and elsewhere in the UK and has held organist/director positions here at the High Kirk, Fullarton Church in Irvine, and St Peter In Chains in Ardrossan.
We are delighted that Gordon and his family will be visiting Scotland for a short break during the summer and will make a return home to the High Kirk where Gordon remains a member. Gordon will also be leading the praise along with members of our church praise group on Sunday 9th July at 10.30am for our Morning Service.
