Adding our voice to the many expressing thankfulness and fond memories of the late Lord Mackay, Blythswood too gives thanks for his service.

Lord Mackay was a Patron of Blythswood from 2002 until his death, but his association with the organisation spanned six decades. As a friend of the founders, in our early years he was willing to speak on Blythswood’s behalf, giving talks and lectures. During his time as Patron, he offered advice and counsel with the humility and wisdom so many others have noted.

Lord Mackay took his duties seriously, as his long service in the House of Lords and his willingness to represent organisations like ours well into his retirement years demonstrated. He was conscious that his position carried a responsibility to serve God and the people of the United Kingdom.

In December 2024, Lord Mackay spoke on our behalf in a short video message about the birth of Jesus, in which he said: “If we know the Lord Jesus it’s right that we draw near to him and that we manifest his qualities, his wonderful qualities, to those around us. We should do our best to make known to people near us the Lord Jesus and how close he is to helping sinners such as we are.” It is clear to us at Blythswood, as it is to others, that our friend practised what he commended to others.

We are thankful to have had a Patron who served us, our beneficiaries, and his Lord and Master for so long. We remember Lady Mackay and her family in our prayers.