A MINISTER who preached for 38 years in New Mexico has crossed the Atlantic to answer a call from Peebles Baptist Church.

Reverend Chuck McCullough, formerly of White Rock Baptist Church in Los Alamos, has settled on the south side of the town in Glen Road.

A Peebles Baptist Church spokesperson said: “After a period of careful consideration, the members of Peebles Baptist Church have called an interim pastor.

“Rev McCullough has been a pastor for more than 40 years and served as interim of a number of churches since retirement in 2017.”

Before being called to Los Alamos, Rev McCullough studied in America at the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary from 1977 to 1986.

Rev McCullough said: “During this time of interim ministry, working together with the church family to discover God’s direction and purpose for the congregation, a warm welcome is extended to all those who might be looking for a special group of people with whom to enjoy times of sharing life, exploring the Scripture, and joy-filled worship.”

The Baptist Church spokesperson added: “This is an exciting new stage in the life of a church that has been in Peebles since 1889.

“Through some really good times as well as difficult seasons over the years, a faithful core of church members has steadily met for worship and mutual care and support.

“This group is committed to being an integral part of the Peebles community and is eagerly seeking direction for its continuing life and ministry.

“During the interim service of Rev McCullough, the church will enter a time of exploring its purpose and place, clarifying its connections in the community, and providing opportunities for worship and study of the Bible together.

“The goal of this process is to create a fresh sense of grace and renewal while also initiating a search for a pastor.”

To mark this new beginning the church is holding a reception in the St Joseph’s Neighbourhood Centre in Rosetta Road on Saturday, August 3, at 2.30pm and all members of the community are welcome to attend.

The church meets every Sunday at 11am in Peebles Scout Hall, just off Dean Park.

Rev McCullough can be contacted at 07537 924 861.