30 May 2025, 12:43Pr Ratko Risteski, Edited by SM CommunicationsIrvine, North Ayrshire, Scotland, United Kingdom
Baptism Celebrated in Irvine with Joy and Community
In its second year, the Thursday Project continues to serve as a vital community space for those in search of hope and meaning—its influence recently marked by a moving baptism in Irvine.
On Sabbath, 24th May, the Irvine Seventh-day Adventist Church witnessed a truly joyous and significant moment—the baptism of Margaret Gillan, a woman whose spiritual journey has been marked by deep faith, sincere study, and a growing love for God and His Word.
Margaret’s journey into the Irvine church family began through the weekly outreach initiative known as the Thursday Project. This project, now running for over a year, opens the church doors every Thursday to provide a welcoming and supportive space for individuals struggling with loneliness, hopelessness, mental health challenges, or those simply seeking to explore faith in a safe environment.
She first attended the Thursday Project out of a desire to deepen her understanding of the Bible and to find spiritual community. Week after week, Margaret participated actively in Bible studies and discussions, consistently demonstrating a thoughtful and heartfelt approach to Scripture. According to local pastor Ratko Risteski, her spiritual hunger and commitment were a source of personal encouragement. “Her attitude brings to mind the believers in Acts 17:11,” he shared, “who ‘received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day.’”
After completing a series of Bible studies and showing clear spiritual growth, Margaret was baptised as a member of Irvine Seventh-day Adventist Church. It was a moving celebration of God’s grace and a powerful testimony to the work of the Holy Spirit through simple, faithful ministry.
Margaret was asked to share a few reflections about her journey and her experience with the church:
How do you feel about attending the Thursday Project and Irvine Seventh-day Adventist Church on a regular basis?
“Regular attendance at Bible study with Irvine Seventh-day Adventist Church has given me a deeper understanding of the Bible. It has led to increased spiritual maturity in myself and in my life. Bible study offers support and encouragement through fellowship, prayer and worship, and it has strengthened my relationship and faith in God. I have felt transformed by a deeper understanding of God’s Word through my Bible studies.”
What are your impressions of the Thursday Bible study group?
“The Bible study group gave me a sense of belonging, and I benefited from others’ insights into Christ’s life and journey. Bible study is especially important for mutual connection and support in navigating life’s difficulties and distractions. A natural progression from the love and fellowship I have experienced in church and studies was to be baptised.”
How did you feel on the day of your baptism?
“It was a joyous and beautiful day. God’s love was poured out to me through my brothers and sisters. Pastor Ratko and the church members have been supportive and encouraging throughout. The start of my journey is only the beginning. Praise be to God for leading me to the safe arms of Irvine Seventh-day Adventist Church.”
Pastor Risteski emphasised that the Thursday Project has become a vital tool in the church’s outreach efforts. “It gives us the opportunity to connect with many individuals who are seeking God, but may not know where or how to begin their spiritual journey,” he said. “Many who attend are searching for meaning, for hope, and for a deeper understanding of life—and they are finding it in a Christ-centred, loving community.”
He added that Irvine Church is doing an exceptional job in reaching out to the local community, especially among local Scottish residents, many of whom are now regularly attending both Thursday gatherings and Sabbath services.
Due to the growing number of activities and attendees, the church is now often filled beyond capacity each Sabbath—a sign of God’s blessing, but one that highlights the need for expanded facilities.
The Irvine Church community remains deeply thankful for God’s guidance and for the fulfilment of its mission. The church leadership expressed appreciation to every member who has contributed through dedication, love, and faithfulness.
May the story of Margaret Gillan inspire others to continue praying, working, and trusting that God is still calling people to Himself—and using His church to do it.
In its second year, the Thursday Project continues to serve as a vital community space for those in search of hope and meaning—its influence recently marked by a moving baptism in Irvine.
On Sabbath, 24th May, the Irvine Seventh-day Adventist Church witnessed a truly joyous and significant moment—the baptism of Margaret Gillan, a woman whose spiritual journey has been marked by deep faith, sincere study, and a growing love for God and His Word.
Margaret’s journey into the Irvine church family began through the weekly outreach initiative known as the Thursday Project. This project, now running for over a year, opens the church doors every Thursday to provide a welcoming and supportive space for individuals struggling with loneliness, hopelessness, mental health challenges, or those simply seeking to explore faith in a safe environment.
She first attended the Thursday Project out of a desire to deepen her understanding of the Bible and to find spiritual community. Week after week, Margaret participated actively in Bible studies and discussions, consistently demonstrating a thoughtful and heartfelt approach to Scripture. According to local pastor Ratko Risteski, her spiritual hunger and commitment were a source of personal encouragement. “Her attitude brings to mind the believers in Acts 17:11,” he shared, “who ‘received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day.’”
After completing a series of Bible studies and showing clear spiritual growth, Margaret was baptised as a member of Irvine Seventh-day Adventist Church. It was a moving celebration of God’s grace and a powerful testimony to the work of the Holy Spirit through simple, faithful ministry.
Margaret was asked to share a few reflections about her journey and her experience with the church:
How do you feel about attending the Thursday Project and Irvine Seventh-day Adventist Church on a regular basis?
“Regular attendance at Bible study with Irvine Seventh-day Adventist Church has given me a deeper understanding of the Bible. It has led to increased spiritual maturity in myself and in my life. Bible study offers support and encouragement through fellowship, prayer and worship, and it has strengthened my relationship and faith in God. I have felt transformed by a deeper understanding of God’s Word through my Bible studies.”
What are your impressions of the Thursday Bible study group?
“The Bible study group gave me a sense of belonging, and I benefited from others’ insights into Christ’s life and journey. Bible study is especially important for mutual connection and support in navigating life’s difficulties and distractions. A natural progression from the love and fellowship I have experienced in church and studies was to be baptised.”
How did you feel on the day of your baptism?
“It was a joyous and beautiful day. God’s love was poured out to me through my brothers and sisters. Pastor Ratko and the church members have been supportive and encouraging throughout. The start of my journey is only the beginning. Praise be to God for leading me to the safe arms of Irvine Seventh-day Adventist Church.”
Pastor Risteski emphasised that the Thursday Project has become a vital tool in the church’s outreach efforts. “It gives us the opportunity to connect with many individuals who are seeking God, but may not know where or how to begin their spiritual journey,” he said. “Many who attend are searching for meaning, for hope, and for a deeper understanding of life—and they are finding it in a Christ-centred, loving community.”
He added that Irvine Church is doing an exceptional job in reaching out to the local community, especially among local Scottish residents, many of whom are now regularly attending both Thursday gatherings and Sabbath services.
Due to the growing number of activities and attendees, the church is now often filled beyond capacity each Sabbath—a sign of God’s blessing, but one that highlights the need for expanded facilities.
The Irvine Church community remains deeply thankful for God’s guidance and for the fulfilment of its mission. The church leadership expressed appreciation to every member who has contributed through dedication, love, and faithfulness.
May the story of Margaret Gillan inspire others to continue praying, working, and trusting that God is still calling people to Himself—and using His church to do it.
