Tributes paid to Hugglescote Minister 

Tributes have been paid to a much-loved Baptist Minister who died recently aged just 59

Revd Peter Lanigan was minister at Hugglescote Baptist Church in Leicestershire for three years (2011-2015). Under Peter’s leadership, the church bought a vacant shop in the town centre and turned it into a cafe and community outreach centre, hosting a women’s group, quiz nights and after-school drop-in sessions for young people.

“Peter will be greatly missed by the fellowship at Hugglescote,” said Revd Dianne Tidball, Regional Team Leader for East Midlands Baptist Association. “Peter was a compassionate and gentle character; he was positive and gracious, always seeing the best and being thankful. We are grateful to have had him in the EMBA for three years, we wish it could have been more.”

Peter, who was born in Glasgow in 1955, spent most of his life in Scotland and trained at the Scottish Baptist College between 2008 and 2010. In 2011, he received the call to lead Hugglescote.

Peter’s background was in education. After graduating from Glasgow University in 1976 he trained as a teacher, eventually working as a Project Officer for the Scottish Further Education Unit. He was involved in adult literacy and community education, supporting lecturers and community workers. Peter also made a significant contribution to the Scottish Baptist Lay Preachers’ association over 25 years.

In 2002 Peter and his wife Carol moved from Cumbernauld to Falkirk and became members of Falkirk Baptist church. As well as being a deacon, he led worship, led a homegroup, and was involved in drama and evangelism.

Peter, a father of X, died on 17 April after a short illness.

“I count it a privilege and joy to have known Peter,” said Revd Gordon McIndoe, Minister of Falkirk Baptist church, “He had a great heart and love for God, for God’s people and of course for his wife, children and grandchildren.” 

In May 2014, Peter wrote an article about Oasis, the community outreach centre, for the Baptist Times.