A well-known Paisley church figure has been honoured at University of the West of Scotland’s winter graduations.
Reverend James Gibson, Interim Moderator and Minister for Paisley Abbey, was recognised during a ceremony held in the Abbey on Thursday 20th November for his service to the community and his work to secure a sustainable future for one of Scotland’s most historic churches.
Jim spent 30 years as Minister of Bothwell Parish Church and retired from parish ministry in 2019 after more than four decades serving the Church of Scotland. He later returned to Paisley Abbey, where he first worked as a probation assistant in 1977.
Under his guidance, the Abbey has rebuilt after the disruption of the Covid-19 pandemic and is now actively pursuing UNESCO World Heritage status. Jim also played a major part in the development of the King’s Apartment, a historic part of the Abbey buildings where King James VI stayed during a visit to Scotland. The space is being transformed into luxury town centre accommodation, designed to generate long-term income for the Abbey.
Jim continues to support a wide range of community groups, leads ecumenical work, and helps local students as Paisley Abbey plays host to UWS graduation ceremonies.
He has been recognised in the Scottish Parliament for his service as a minister, Queen’s Chaplain and now Chaplain in Ordinary to the King in Scotland, as well as his long service with the Territorial Army, including deployments in Bosnia and elsewhere.
His work to protect and promote Scotland’s historic churches, and particularly Paisley Abbey, has earned praise for raising awareness of their cultural importance at home and abroad. Dr Ian Birch, Principal of the Scottish Baptist College at UWS’s Paisley campus, delivered the laureation.
Jim said: “It’s an honour to receive this award from UWS, and as always, what better place to celebrate the success of UWS students than here in the magnificent surroundings of Paisley Abbey.
“Having been involved with UWS and supporting graduations over the years, it was wonderful to hear firsthand the success stories of the students as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.”
Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS, said: “As part of the ceremony, we were delighted to present Jim with this Honorary Doctorate. A friend of UWS, Jim’s determination and vision for Paisley, its heritage and its people, is exceptional.
“His drive and commitment in giving back to the community demonstrate important values which I’m sure will be an inspiration to our students as they go off into the wider world and embark on their next chapter.”
Photo Credit: UWS