A LONG established Gourock church is celebrating its 128th anniversary by welcoming a new minister.

Reverend José Leonardo Sitongua Laussu is all set to start leading worship at Gourock Baptist Church. 

José, who takes over from the interim minister Rev Stuart Wadsworth, says he's thrilled to be joining the church at a 'very exciting' time in its history.

He has pledged to bring a wealth of experience and 'fresh perspective' to the role. 

He said: "This is the time for us to reflect on the progress made in the church over more than a century, and to look forward to a promising future. 

"I hope to bring innovative ideas and strategies to strengthen the church's position in the community.

"I am deeply encouraged by the warm welcome I have received."

José grew up in a Christian family and attended evangelical churches before he developed what he calls a 'personal relationship' with Jesus at the age of 14.

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He attended pre-baptismal classes and as a teenager and enjoyed reading and interpreting the Bible. 

José went on to work in the oil industry but just two years after he started that career, he 'sensed God's calling for the ministry'. 

He studied theology and divinity at the Evangelical University, and global diplomacy at the University of London. 

Reverend José is also a graduate of the school of education and humanities at the University of Gloucestershire. 

José has travelled to underprivileged nations all over the world to carry out missionary work. 

He most recently visited Guinea where he had to learn some French to help him coach people in football and life skills. 

Greenock Telegraph:

José even set up a football team called Blessed Children FC when he was out there. 

His wife Lynne, who teaches English at Notre Dame High School, has spent a lot of time overseas, training teachers and teaching English as a second language. 

When José returned from Guinea in 2019, he became pastor at Glenburn Baptist Church. 

The reverend says exploring the historical faith of the baptists will be central in his role. 

He added: "I am passionate about helping people discover and nurture their own relationship with Jesus. 

"We need to examine what we believe and why we believe."

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In his role in Gourock, José says he can't wait to meet families from all over Inverclyde. 

He added: "I'm looking forward to getting to know families across all different cultures. 

"We will help families from overseas who are seeking refuge in Inverclyde access local services. 

"I want to maintain the bond of unity we have within the church and see people united.

"I'm looking forward to meeting old and new friends in Gourock."

*Gourock Baptist Church is holding a weekend of celebrations to mark its anniversary and welcome Reverend Jose. 
On October 21 from 2.30pm, people will get the chance to meet the new minister, and on October 22 from 11am, there will be a formal induction service for Reverend José.