After a decade based in Shildon serving the communities of South West Durham, Major Linda Watson has been called to undertake a new service in the communities of the West Coast of Scotland. Here she reflects on her time in Shildon and South West Durham:
“I can hardly believe that it is ten years since I arrived at Shildon as a newly appointed Salvation Army Officer.
“The years have been good and fruitful and God has been gracious in a personal way and in the church family.
“I have been blessed in making so many friends from various church congregations and communities, not only in Shildon, but the local areas where I have been involved in working with people.
“Someone asked if I had a highlight regarding my stay but there have been so many, including conducting dedications, weddings and funerals, but most importantly seeing people come to faith and joining our corps family.
“In addition it has been a joy to be involved with the youngsters and their families in this town as they have been involved in our Friday clubs, holiday clubs and community fun days and Sunday School.
“They have brought me challenges and fun and I will miss them – even the cheeky ones!
“There has been the privilege of seeing people growing in their faith and becoming stronger Christians, alongside the challenges of being involved in the community.
“It has been a privilege to be involved in so many activities involving people such as the Foodbank (not a new thing to The Salvation Army) and the Employment Plus and the reminder that William Booth started ‘Job Centres’ long before the government.
“The sad thing being that these agencies are still needed by our local community.
“As I leave for Ayr in Scotland this week, I know the friendships forged over the years will continue and that God will continue to bless the work of The Salvation Army in Shildon and the locality.
“I commend my successors, Major Adrian and Donna Coupe to you and would take this opportunity to thank all those who read these pages for their support and encouragement not only of me through the years but also of the work The Salvation Army does.”
Linda Watson, Major
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
