The Record - December/January 2024 by Free Church of Scotland

THE

RECORD

MONTHLY MAGAZINE OF THE FREE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 • £2.00

Interim Editor • Sarah Robinson The Editor, Free Church Offices, 15 North Bank Street, The Mound, Edinburgh, EH1 2LS editor@freechurch.org

Mission News • David Meredith Free Church Offices, 15 North Bank Street, Edinburgh, EH1 2LS mission@freechurch.org WfM Editor • Fiona Macaskill 8 Campsie Drive, Glasgow, G61 3HY rfmacaskill@me.com Gaelic Editor • Janet MacPhail 24 North Bragar, Isle of Lewis, HS2 9DA 01851 710354 Seminary News • William Mackenzie Edinburgh Theological Seminary, 15 North Bank Street, Edinburgh EH1 2LS offices@ets.ac.uk Prayer Diary • Sarah Robinson editor@freechurch.org Design & Layout • Fin Macrae @DUFI Art www.dufi-art.com The Record • ISSN 2042-2970 Publisher • The Record is produced by The Free Church of Scotland, Free Church Offices, 15 North Bank Street, The Mound, Edinburgh, EH1 2LS 0131 226 5286 offices@freechurch.org

For Subscriptions • The subscription price for The Record is £33 for 12 editions over two years. Cheques should be made payable to: Free Church of Scotland. Please contact the offices for overseas subscription costs. Details of the church's activities, latest news and people to contact are all available on the church's website: www.freechurch.org

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THE RECORD

DECEMBER /JANUARY

Cover: Campers and Leaders from Kincraig Junior Camp 2023

Advertising • Anyone wishing to advertise in The Record should contact the editor.

CONTENTS

WELCOME TO THE DECEMBER/JANUARY RECORD

elcome to the latest edition of the record.

04 FREE CHURCH NEWS

As we come to the end of 2023 we can look back and know that there is much to be thankful for. But we are very much aware of the world around us. We live in a hurting world, filled with suffering and in need of hope, the hope of Jesus. As you read this edition, be encouraged and prayerful in equal measure. Many momentous occasions including church anniversaries, inductions and retirements are marked in this edition. Each one speaks of how God is at work in congregations around Scotland. There is also a reflective piece about the Healthy Church Gatherings that have been held across the country this year. It also reminds us of the vision for ‘A Healthy Gospel Church for Every Community in Scotland’. Following the latest Free Church of Scotland Day of Prayer, do look out for the prayer points for you to continue to pray for our churches, the denomination, and our wider world. Thoughts of Christmas run throughout the edition, including Catriona Murray’s Post Tenebras Lux column, the poetry page, and a new addition to the magazine, a children’s page. In his latest Mission Matters column, David Meredith reflects on his childhood memories of Christmas within the Free Church. It is an insightful piece that ends with a timely reminder and a call to action: “Our world is broken, there are wars and rumours of wars. Go big and testify to your family and friends that we must follow the one who alone can ‘shine on those living in darkness’ and ‘guide our feet into the path of peace.’” We hope you continue to enjoy reading The Record. If you would like to send in your church news or letters, email editor@freechurch.org •

WORLD NEWS Europe, World, Democratic Congo, Nepal

ISAIAH 9:6

THIS IS MY STORY David J Randall

A HEALTHY GOSPEL CHURCH FOR EVERY COMMUNITY Andrew Giffen

PRAYER DIARY

ETS NEWS

WfM UPDATE Fiona Macaskill

FOOD FOR FELLOWSHIP

PAGES FROM ADAM'S DIARY: ASK AND YOU SHALL RECEIVE

BOOK REVIEWS

MISSION MATTERS David Meredith

POETRY PAGE Charles Wesley/George Whitefield

CHILDREN'S PAGE

LÀMHAN FALAMH Janet MacPhail

40 POST TENEBRAS LUX Catriona Murray

Yours in Christ Sarah Robinson

That in all things he might have the pre-eminence Colossians 1:18 2024

WWW.FREECHURCH.ORG

FREE CHURCH NEWS 2024 MODERATORDESIGNATE ANNOUNCED

he commission of assembly has announced that rev malcolm

(callum) macleod has been nominated to be the moderatordesignate of the general assembly of the free church of scotland

for 2024.

Commenting on his nomination Callum said: “It has been my privilege to serve the Church in various capacities over the years. I feel honoured now to be nominated as Moderator-Designate of the 2024 General Assembly.” Callum was born and brought up in Point on the Island of Lewis. He came to know the Lord in 1979 and professed faith in the congregation of Point in October 1980. He subsequently served as a Deacon and an Elder in the congregation. He worked as an installation engineer with BT from 1974 until 1997. Callum is married to Catherine, and they have two sons. Graeme is married to Mairi, and they have two children, Lucas, and Jessica, and live in Garrabost, Isle of Lewis. Stuart is married to Shona, and they live in inverness. Callum studied in what was then the Free Church College from 1997 to 2000. He was ordained and inducted to the congregation of Shawbost on 27th October 2000 and has served in Shawbost since then. He served as Clerk to the Presbytery of the Western Isles for twelve years. He served the Central Church in the following roles: as a member of the Training of the Ministry Committee (now the Board of Ministry), as a member and Chairman of the Sustentation and Ministry Committee, as a member and Clerk of the Home Missions Board, as a member of the Mission Board, and as a member of the Board of Trustees. He was appointed Assistant Clerk of the General Assembly in May 2015 and then appointed Principal Clerk of the General Assembly in May 2016 and is still serving in that capacity. •

YOUTH CONFERENCE 2024

If you have never been before, we would be delighted to have you join us. This conference has been running for many years and is looked back upon by numerous people as a helpful and significant moment in their life of following Jesus. Further, lots of friendships have originated from and been strengthened by this time together. With this in mind, we are excited for the 2024 conference, and it would be great to have you with us. More details about the weekend, speakers, content etc. can be found on the Youth Conference’s social media pages. Registration ends early March so be sure to secure your spot quickly. • - Free Church Youth Conference Committee

ookings for the free church youth conference

2024 are now open and can be made on the free

church of scotland website. The weekend conference is set to take place from Friday 15th to Sunday 17th of March at the usual Lendrick Muir location. The Youth Conference is an annual weekend away for young Christians between the ages of 18 and 30. The weekend consists of main teaching sessions, various seminars, worship, group activities and free time for rest, reflection, and friendship. Thomas Davis, of Carloway Free Church, will be delivering the main teaching over the weekend, with guest speakers offering the relevant and interesting seminar topics over the weekend.

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DECEMBER /JANUARY

DONATION TO HELP AID IN MOROCCO & LIBYA

free

church

scotland,

through

supplies, leaving many areas without any electrical power or water. Families seeking refuge at shelters have lost everything. People are without the basics such as access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities to prevent the risk of diseases. The Free Church of Scotland is grateful to God for the work of OM who, through local partners, are providing vital nourishing foods and hygiene essentials to those who cannot go back to their homes which are unsafe or destroyed. We thank God also for the aid provided through Christian Aid, who are able to provide food, shelter and warmth to those who are displaced due to the floods. We pray for the long-term restorative work, that home and communities will be rebuilt. The financial support will enable both organisations to provide help and support to those affected. The Mission Board wants to encourage churches in Scotland to continue to pray for these countries in desperate need, and to ask for God’s protection and comfort to be known by believers across the global church. Please pray for those who are affected, whether injured, traumatised or grieving. Please pray that these organisations would be guided continually by the Lord throughout these appeals and their relief efforts. •

its

disaster and relief fund, has sent £3,000 to operation mobilisation

(om) and £2,000 to

christian aid, to support the work being done to alleviate the suffering of those significantly impacted by the earthquake in morocco and the floods in libya.

An earthquake measuring 6.8 struck central Morocco. More than 2,800 people were reportedly killed and over 2,500 have been injured. The epicentre was in a mountainous area, but the shaking was reportedly felt in several provinces and neighbouring countries as well. The aftermath means many people were displaced and homes were lost in the rubble. OM has partners on the ground in areas affected by the earthquake, who have been responding to the great needs. As a church, we bring those affected in Morocco before the Lord in prayer, and we are grateful to those offering aid and support locally. Libya was hit by fatal flooding. More than 11,300 people are known to have died after the catastrophic Mediterranean storm burst two dams and flooded the eastern port city of Derna. Over 10,000 people were missing after torrents of water and debris swept away entire districts and bodies were being recovered from the sea. Storm Daniel has destroyed homes and utility

TAIN & FEARN GOOD NEWS

ain and fearn free church is rejoicing after admitting six new members at its recent communion in tain. The additions

have come shortly after the congregation ordained seven new office-bearers. In addition, this week’s Commission of Assembly agreed to extend the congregation’s permission to have an Assistant Minister for a third three-year term. Rev Andrew MacLeod has been assistant minister there since 2017. The three elders that were recently ordained are Marcus MacIver, Angus Macleod and Fin Macrae. Four deacons have also been appointed. They are Duncan MacDonald, Samuel Robertson, Will Ross and David Skinner. The new members range in age from fifteen to ninety-seven. Rev Alasdair MacAulay said: “It’s been an encouraging few weeks in the congregation. We lost a lot of people after Covid and that has been challenging, so we are delighted to see evidence of the Lord at work among all ages.” The congregation of Tain and Fearn is situated in an area with a population of around 9,500 people. In addition to regular services held in Tain and Hilton, a host of other events take place including weekly prayer meetings, Bible Studies, Lunch Clubs, youth work and outreach into a local housing scheme. It is expected that the plans for a new church building for Tain will go out to tender shortly. •

2024

(L to R) Rev Alasdair MacAulay, Marcus MacIver, Angus Macleod, Samuel Robertson, Duncan Macdonald, Fin Macrae (new office-bearers from Tain end), Rev Andrew Macleod

(L to R) Rev Alasdair MacAulay, Will Ross, David Skinner, (new office-bearers from Fearn end), Rev Andrew Macleod

WWW.FREECHURCH.ORG

CALLANISH FREE CHURCH 50 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

allanish

free

church

recently

recently retired as Assistant Minister in Stornoway, was then doing teacher training in Glasgow but was back and forth as he could and later joined his parents and sister in Callanish when he secured a teaching post in Aird, Point. The Macleods spent fifteen happy years in Callanish until Rev Macleod retired in 1988 and moved to Stornoway. Rev Neil Shaw took up the role of minister at Callanish Free Church in 1988. At the time of his induction, Jayne and Norman were university students in Edinburgh. The congregation bade a sad farewell to Neil and his wife, Dolina, in 1999 when they left to retire to Conon Bridge, where they still reside. The ministers and their families become a big part of the community and it is always a sad parting when they leave. Rev Malcom MacDonald, a native of Shawbost, and his wife Margaret, also from Shawbost, came to Callanish in February 2001 along with their young family, Angus and Ann, leaving their previous charge of Pairc Free Church. There are now few left in the congregation from the 1960s revival, but the bond formed then remained with them through the years, and we believe those who have passed on are now singing the praises of the Lord in Heaven. Others have been added to the membership of the congregation over the years, and the prayer of the congregation is that the Lord would grant another spiritual revival, where many more would be added to the membership to strengthen the Church here on earth, in dark and difficult times in an uncertain world. •

marked

its 50th anniversary with a celebration in

the community hall. Although the actual anniversary was in 2021, the constraints of Covid meant that any celebration to mark the event was postponed until this year. The community was invited to join with the congregation to mark the event, which included a buffet and a celebration cake. Psalm singing and prayers of thanksgiving took place during the celebration. Rev Malcolm Macdonald, minister, gave a brief history of the Callanish congregation, and the two eldest members of the congregation, Mrs Agnes Maclennan and Mrs Chrissie Maciver cut the anniversary cake. The evening was very well attended and joining the congregation were the Rev Kenny I. Macleod (Stornoway) and his sister Mairi Macaulay (Inverness); their father, the late Rev Norman Macleod, was the first minister of the congregation. Rev Kenny I. regaled the gathering with stories of his father’s time in Callanish. Kenny I. and Mairi both came to faith whilst in Callanish and Mairi gave a word of personal testimony. Cards were received and read out from Rev Neil and Dolina Shaw (Rev Shaw being Rev Macleod’s successor in Callanish) and from Rev Roddy and Chrisanne Morrison, who had been members of the congregation latterly for a number of years, until ill health prevented them attending. Elder Malcolm Mackay spoke appreciatively of his experience as a neighbour of the manse and his knowledge of all the resident ministers from the early eighties, during Rev Norman Macleod’s ministry, until the present. Elder Iain Maciver gave a vote of thanks for the evening, which then concluded with a Gaelic and English Psalm singing and prayer. The congregation celebrated its past and its present and looks ahead with hopeful anticipation to times of further blessing. The Free Church Congregation of Callanish was affiliated with Carloway from as far back as 1844. Following a request from the congregation in 1971, the General Assembly of the Free Church of Scotland agreed to the Callanish side of the Carloway Congregation forming a separate congregation. A spiritual revival in the Callanish Congregation in the 1960s, which saw eight couples and a number of other individuals profess faith, gave the Congregation added impetus, strengthening their case to become a separate entity. Elders and Deacons were elected, and a new manse built, ready for the first minister of the new church. Rev Norman Macleod was inducted in 1973. He and his family – his wife Mary and daughter Mairi — settled in the new manse. Their son Kenny I. Macleod, who has

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Mrs Agnes Maclennan and Mrs Chrissie Maciver with the minister Rev Malcolm Macdonald

DECEMBER /JANUARY

COVENANT CHURCH 10TH ANNIVERSARY

by which the Christian life begins is the same grace by which we continue, and in which we conclude. Following the morning service, everyone was invited to enjoy a barbecue, quiz and prayer. It was a great opportunity to enjoy food together and spend time with one another. Along with various quiz rounds prepared by Rev Douglas Cranston, the ‘10 years of Covenant Church’ round gave an opportunity for memories and laughter. Still, the highlight was surely ‘name that tune’. After all, no celebration is complete without a few bars of the Imperial march played on the Kazoo! Benj spoke at the evening service from Deuteronomy 7 on the theme of Strength for Today and Bright Hope for Tomorrow. He said: “So often our experience is that we are let down by people around us, and that we too fail them in turn. There is a danger, in this as in many things, that our mental model of God is ‘like us, but a bit better’ — so we imagine he too will let us down. But in Deuteronomy 7:9 he is declared to be ‘the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him.’ Given that there have been somewhat under 150 generations since the Exodus, we probably don’t need to worry whether God will continue to be as faithful for the next ten years as he has for the last ten!” He has thanked everyone who has been involved in making the celebration weekend possible. Covenant Church meets at the Morton Hall, Newmilns for weekly Sunday services. Prayer meetings and Connect Groups also take place on alternate weeks. Benj said: “We’d love for you to join us, whether in person or online, whatever your faith or church background.” •

weekend of thanksgiving events have been held at covenant church in newmilns to mark its tenth anniversary.

Friends, family and the wider community were invited to celebrate ten years of God’s faithfulness. A praise night was held as well as two Sunday services and an afternoon of activities for everyone. Rev Benj Wilks, minister of Covenant Church, said: “It’s always good to have reason to celebrate, and it was a real joy to take time to look back on what God has done in the last ten years, as well as to look forward and pray about what lies ahead.” A praise night was held on Friday evening featuring Christian singer/songwriter Ruth Campbell and the Hope Choir, which is made up of ladies from Covenant Church and a number of other churches across Ayrshire. Ruth, who is a member of Covenant Church, sang a number of songs from her recently released album, The Prodigals. Her sound is based on vocals, piano and guitar. (ruthcampbellmusic.com/music) Thanks also go to the choir who performed a number of songs including He Will Hold Me Fast and I Will Wait For You. The various songs chosen for the occasion provided opportunity for a talk on the theme of God’s goodness, and how as Christians we are able to say “God is so good” even in the times of great difficulty described in songs like Ruth’s Be Still and Know That He Is God. Celebrations continued on Sunday. Rev Prof Bob Akroyd, Free Church of Scotland Moderator, spoke at the morning service about Jesus and His Gospel from Luke 5. Having preached at the very first service of Covenant Church in 2013, he remarked that much has changed in these past ten years — in his own life and in the congregation. But one thing, by far the most significant, has not. The Gospel is unchanging. The grace of God

2024

WWW.FREECHURCH.ORG

HADDINGTON 5TH YEAR DOUBLE CELEBRATIONS

ouble

celebrations

are

taking

place

local office bearers to lead the church forward. The Commission received a report from the Mission Board which said, “the work and witness of the congregation of Haddington has developed into being an established part of the community.” Ali said: “We’re grateful that God has been building his church here in Haddington, and we’ve seen him bringing people to trust in Jesus for the first time, or bringing others back to church in surprising ways, as well as building up the faith of his people. But we’re also aware there remains so much more to do, and so many more people in our community as well as further afield who need to hear the good news about Jesus Christ. Becoming a ‘Fully Sanctioned Charge’ helps us as we consider our role in the wider denomination, and how we can play our part in working out the vision of ‘A Healthy Gospel Church for Every Community in Scotland’ here in East Lothian.” Haddington Community Church meets on Sunday mornings at Maitlandfield House Hotel, in Haddington, East Lothian. •

haddington community church marks its fifth birthday – and it’s now moved from being a

church plant to being a fully established congregation within the denomination.

Rev Ali Sewell said: “This is a great opportunity for us to stop and give thanks to God for his faithfulness to us as a church over the past 5 years, and also through the prayer and work which went on before that. In some ways it won’t mean a huge change in the day-to-day life of the church, but it is a positive step forward as we continue to pray for God’s wisdom and guidance as we look to share the gospel with one another and the community around us.” At the Commission of Assembly this week, commissioners received a Petition of the Presbytery of Edinburgh and Perth regarding Haddington Community Church. They granted the church the status of a fully sanctioned charge under the ongoing ministry of Rev Ali Sewell with immediate effect. The congregation will now also be able to appoint its own

BIG FREE RALLY

us to talk a bit about the work SU do, accompanied by a FCYC Camper who helped start an SU group in their school. And the Rev. Andrew ‘Mowgli’ Macleod also shared with us about a mission trip to Moldova he was involved in, the work they were doing and the impact it has had on his life. ‘In amongst this we also had a great laugh doing team challenges judged by our very own Taskmaster. Our young people’s ingenuity and creativity was evident in the tower building and toilet paper challenges, with the ‘longest continual

ver 300 young people and volunteers attended the big free rally 2023!

Mairi Beaton, Camps Co-ordinator, said: ‘Travelling from all corners of Scotland we met at Smithton Church on Saturday 30th September for a day of fun, games and worship. ‘MC Martin & Rev. Calum ‘Honda’ Macmillan were our hosts for the day, keeping us entertained and informed. opened God’s Word to us, giving practical advice on how to keep going in our daily Christian walk. Colin Carmichael, a regional worker for SU Scotland, joined

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DECEMBER /JANUARY

noise’ challenge providing some particularly hilarious moments.’ She added: ‘Thanks to our praise band; however, the loudest noise was the incredible sound of over 300 people praising God in song together. It was so much fun welcoming everyone back to Smithton, catching

2024

up with old friends, and making some new ones at the Big Free Rally 2023. Thank you to everyone that was involved in the running of the day. The biggest thanks, however, goes to you, our wonderful young people, for coming along and making it so much fun! See you again next year!’ •

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CORNERSTONE ORDINATION & INDUCTION

gospel party was held at cornerstone free church, edinburgh to mark the ordination and induction of rev colin ross as assistant minister.

the

congregation

also

took

the

opportunity

commission and pray for jo hulks, their new pastoral worker.

It comes at a time where Cornerstone is looking to church plant in the Gilmerton area of Edinburgh, which will be led by Colin and a group from the church. Friends, family and the congregation met together to feast on burritos, to spend time with one another, and to go through the formal process of Colin’s ordination. Celebrations continued, marking Jo Hulks’ role as pastoral worker at Cornerstone and Israel Guerrero’s recent ordination as church planter for the Spanish-speaking congregation. Rev Neil Macmillan said: “Welcome to the gospel party! We are gospel people at Cornerstone. The gospel is the good news. The good news is that, out of love, God sent his son, Jesus, into this world to rescue us, renew us and restore us to himself so that we could both know him and worship him. We are all about the gospel. But this is a gospel party. We are party people because we have more to celebrate than anyone else in this world because out of love God sent his son to rescue, renew and restore us.” Rev Derek Lamont, of St Columba’s Free Church, spoke about the meeting, saying: “It’s a real celebration of what God has done and what, I believe, God is still to do. I believe that not only for Cornerstone, the plant in Gilmerton or Leith or anywhere else but there is a rustling in the leaves, and I believe that God is working in this beautiful city of ours to bring people to Jesus Christ in all kinds of fun things and all kinds of traditions. We are very grateful for that.” During the evening, Donna Macleod gave a reading from Numbers 13, about a group of Israelites exploring Canaan – many saw the giants in the land, but Caleb saw the grapes. Derek said: “What do you see in your Christian journey? Do you see grapes, or do you see giants? Our vision and perspective make a great deal of difference.” He said Caleb remembered who his God was. He remembered all these things that God promised. “The greatest giants of all – sin and death – have been defeated by the risen saviour Jesus Christ, in whom we put our trust. It’s great and significant and important that God gets all the glory,” he added. Following the formal process of Colin’s ordination and induction, the congregation welcomed Jo as pastoral worker.

Cornerstone Free Church, Edinburgh

THE RECORD

Neil said to Jo “We see in you a heartfelt devotion to Jesus and a deep and genuine love for people with a God-given desire to come alongside people to help and serve. It’s been a joy and pleasure to see you grow into this work over the past few years through your studies, your training as a biblical counsellor, through the work you’ve done amongst us, and we see that God has equipped you for the work you are now doing.” Maretta Campbell then prayed for Jo in her new role. •

Jo Hulks, pastoral worker at Cornerstone

Rev Israel Guerrero

Rev Colin Ross and Rev Derek Lamont

DECEMBER /JANUARY

CROW ROAD FREE CHURCH CREATED

With the approval at the Commission of Assembly for the merger of Partick Free Church and Glasgow City Free Church, the life of a united congregation with a new name has begun. Crow Road Free Church will soon be using its new brand — created with the help of the design agency We Are Ocho — to deepen its commitment to mission in the Patrick and Thornwood areas of Glasgow. Although this marks a momentous moment for all members and adherents of the new Church, the brand represents the continuity of the congregations’ desire to serve God in the local area. A few months earlier the Church welcomed four new elders — Gordon Strong, Stephen Strong,

Matthias Van Der Swaagh and Mitchel Hodge — to the leadership. Also welcomed were two new deacons — Vernon Shilliday and Samuel Dow. These were the first new additions to the leadership of the joint congregation and were met with much rejoicing. While there is much change to be thankful to God for within the congregation, there was also thankfulness for faithful service over many years. Rev Dr Colin Dow was presented with gifts — including a cake! — to thank him for his dedicated commitment to leading the congregation for the last 20 years. The congregation is so thankful to God for such a gifted and learned pastor, as well as making sure to demonstrate their thanks to his wife Kathmar for her unfailing love and care for the congregation. Their children — now grown up — Samuel, Aidan, Kathryn and Jonathan joined in the celebrations. While the new united congregation looks forward to new developments under its new

New elders and deacons

Our football team!

he union of glasgow city free

church

and

partick

free church has now been

approved by the commission of assembly and the church’s new name

–

– crow road free church

agreed

scottish

charity

regulator oscr.

Parks & Pastries Group

2024

name and brand, there is a lot that will continue. The monthly Litter Pick has proven to make a real difference to the look of the area around the church building and those volunteering are often approached by the local parish to ask who they are representing, giving a great opportunity to share the news of the Gospel. Similarly, the women’s fellowship continues to meet monthly for Bible study and prayer using the study book, Women of the New Testament by Phyllis J Le Peau. The monthly Parks and Pastries is now a firm favourite, with one of the women’s fellowship hosting the group for coffee and the obligatory pastries each month, after which there’s a walk in a nearby park. Not to be outdone, the younger men are meeting regularly for five-a-side football, sometimes seven-a-side, and often demand of a pitch outstrips supply, such is its popularity. Looking ahead the Church has committed to planting a church in the Bearsden and Milngavie area and planning work has begun. And by the time of publication the second year of the youth focused Holy is His Name will have taken place and we look forward to hearing more about that! •

Rev Colin Dow and wife Kathmar celebrate 20 years in Glasgow

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SOLAS EVENT AT BACK FREE CHURCH

ack

free

church

has

hosted

extended follow up conference for next year! We had an excellent evening with several local congregations represented to listen to Andy. On the night he delivered two presentations to encourage Christian witness and reflect on the importance of evangelism. The first was ‘How to share your faith without being cancelled.’ This talk focused on ways to both initiate a conversation and stay in it, with helpful suggestions on the use of questions when sharing your faith. “The second presentation focused on the ‘Uniqueness of Jesus’ and the heart of the Gospel. Andy brought out the major differences that exist between the world’s major religions that are all too often presented as just ‘being the same.’” Colin said Andy emphasised the reality that Christianity is superficially similar but fundamentally different, a reality that is established through the person and work of Christ. “A really encouraging evening and hopefully the start of regular visits from Solas speakers on the island,” Colin added. •

confident

christianity event with andy bannister, director of solas.

The Solas Centre for Public Christianity is a ministry organisation based in Scotland. Its aim is to persuasively communicate the transforming truth of who Jesus is and empower Christians to do the same. Rev Colin Macleod said: “This was Andy’s first trip to the Isle of Lewis, and we are already planning an

Solas "Confident Christianity" at Back Free Church

RETIREMENT FROM GREYFRIARS FREE CHURCH BY KIRSTI PATERSON

hanksgiving celebrations have taken place to mark the retirement of rev dr malcolm maclean, and his wife katie, from greyfriars

free church in inverness.

One hundred and twenty of the Greyfriars congregation met together to give thanks for Rev Malcolm Maclean, after fourteen years of ministry at the church. Deacon Graeme MacDonald welcomed the gathering to remember the work of Malcolm’s ministry — a devoted, faithful and loyal pastor — a recurring theme throughout the evening. There was an opportunity for everyone to meet together to have a meal and to see the cutting of retirement cake. Iain Alasdair Macdonald, an elder, gave thanks for the food. The singing of Psalm 102 preceded Malcolm and Katie cutting the retirement cake which was enjoyed with a cup of tea/coffee. Three speakers — Norrie MacDonald, Rev Calum Iain MacLeod and William MacKenzie — contributed throughout the evening. Norrie MacDonald, Session Clerk, recounted that during Malcolm’s fourteen years of ministry, he displayed humility, thoughtfulness, integrity — a

THE RECORD

Rev Dr Malcolm Maclean and wife Katie

DECEMBER /JANUARY

man of God, devoted to the Scriptures and prayer. His provision of spiritual guidance though good and bad times e.g. Covid restrictions, were appropriate and greatly appreciated by the congregation. His communication of the Gospel has been blessed, not least in the growth of the congregation. Malcolm was also able to use his gifts in the wider denomination. Norrie concluded with reference to Katie’s supportive role as the minister’s wife, thanking both and praying that as they enter a new chapter in their lives, they would know God’s peace and presence. A presentation was made to Malcolm by Norrie and to Katie by Miss Babs Matheson, who recently celebrated her ninetieth birthday. As Malcolm responded to the expressions of kindness shown to Katie and himself, he made reference to Ecclesiastes 3 — ‘a time for every purpose’ — ‘a time to finish’, indicating God’s timing is always wise. He reflected on his privileges as minister in Scalpay and Greyfriars, maintaining a Christian witness and also many changes. He thought of those who would have would have liked to have been at this event but through illness were unable to attend. He thanked the office bearers, members, adherents and children of the congregation, all making their contribution to the life of the congregation and their prayers. He expressed his gratitude to Katie for her wisdom, devotion and Christianly service. His desire would be that God will continue to bless the congregation. Rev Calum Iain MacLeod, minister of Ferintosh and Resolis, spoke of Malcolm’s friendship over 20 years, initially in their Free Church student days and then in ministry. He described such in a lively, humorous but

meaningful way, under three headings — brevity, ability and suitability. He recollected Malcolm’s capability of producing an essay of the correct content and length and meritoriously awarded. ‘Theologically and doctrinally — ‘a one off’. ‘An able practitioner of God’s word, with a passion for the Psalms’. His ministry of wise counsel, excellent preaching and engaging writing; for which is much to give thanks. God also provided a suitable helper for Malcolm — Katie — a perfect team. Callum Ian ended by conveying the Lord’s richest blessing on Malcolm and Katie in the future, echoing ‘Well done, faithful servant’. Mr William MacKenzie, of Christian Focus Publications, made reference to Malcolm’s early childhood, teenage years, and God’s purpose for him – as Managing Editor with Christian Focus Publications in 1989 and later in ministry. William read excerpts from the latest book which Malcolm had edited – From the Marrow Men to the Moderates, written by late Professor Donald MacLeod. Malcolm’s phenomenal ability to walk down a farm track with pen and manuscript was exceptional. William also recalled that Malcolm assisted different personnel with literary needs and had a strong conviction of God’s word. William ended by pointing Malcolm to John 13:1, Katie to Ruth 2:12 and the congregation to words of 1 Corinthians 15:58….. ‘Be steadfast’. In Graeme MacDonald’s closing remarks, he thanked all those who had contributed to making the evening so memorable. Rev Calum Iain MacLeod led the gathering in singing Psalm 133 and Angus MacDonald, Retired Church Home Missions, concluded the evening proceedings with prayer. •

MARSALI CAMPBELL IN BOLIVIA

arsali

campbell,

who

member

smithton free church in inverness, has moved to bolivia to help street-connected

children there through the missionary organisation pioneers international.

She has spoken about her move to Bolivia and adjusting to life there, saying: “It’s wonderful to be able to greet you from Sucre, Bolivia. I have much to give thanks for and much to update you about!” September and October have been busy months for Marsali. A commissioning service was held for Marsali on Sunday 3rd September at Smithton Church. She said: “I was humbled, delighted, and thankful that so many people came, including my family members who travelled and those who came from other churches. It was such a blessing to welcome you into Smithton Church and I believe it was a great witness to the Lord.

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Commissioning service for Marsali at Smithton Free Church

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“Christine Perkins from Pioneers UK and Geoff Hulks representing the Smithton Missions Committee spoke very well. I shared my thanks and some thoughts regarding mission and the time ahead in Bolivia. Alasdair Macleod our Minister and some of the elders made a lovely commissioning prayer and then afterwards we had a barbecue outside. Again, the whole occasion was such a blessing to us as a congregation as well as those visiting. So, thank you for your prayers for that occasion and it all went incredibly well.” Following the service, Marsali made final preparations for her trip. She packed up her belongings and travelled from Inverness to Edinburgh to Frankfurt to Sao Paolo, Brazil. From there she travelled to Santa Cruz and finally onto Sucre, Bolivia. The first couple of weeks have included getting many of the practical aspects of living in Bolivia sorted, including the process for immigration and medical checks as well as acclimatising to the high altitude and warm weather there, which has been a challenge. Marsali has been getting to grips with a new language and culture. She is living with a woman called Lucia for the first month and is taking language lessons by a young man called Yelson. “I am surrounded by Spanish here in Sucre,” said Marsali. “I am completely immersed in the language and it’s all around me in the home, the community, in the markets and in the church I’ve been attending. The language lessons are important as I try and learn Spanish and attempt to understand something of the grammar and the pronunciation.”

Google Translate has been a vital resource for Marsali as she learns the language and builds close connections with those around her. Marsali said: “I have recognised for some time that there are so many new aspects to this season of my life – a new organisation, new continent, new country, new people group, new team, new language, new culture, new ministry. I have a strong sense of thankfulness that I’m actually physically here now in Bolivia and a real sense that this is where I am meant to be. I know and believe that God has led and guided me here. “It has certainly been an intense first couple of weeks that at times has been challenging and exhausting physically and mentally, for body, mind and spirit, and yet I’m very thankful for encouragements and the times that I have had for rest. I thank you so much for your prayers and value your partnership for this new season.” •

Marsali and Lucia at church

Marsali's house in Sucre

A view over the town of Sucre from the end of Marsali's road

Working in Christian outreach centre working with children in prison - born to, or imprisoned with their mothers

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Prayer requests • Giving thanks that my journey to Bolivia went well and all my luggage arrived with me this time. • For smooth completion of all the logistics and requirements for life and ministry in Bolivia. • For learning the language and culture and the immersion experience while staying with Lucia. • For developing relationships with the Pioneers Bolivia Team, Lucia, Yelson and other friends • that I’m meeting. • That I would continue to acclimatise to the higher altitude, heat and life in Sucre. • That I would find a place to call home.

DECEMBER /JANUARY

CLASS OF '83 PERUVIAN VISIT TO SCOTLAND

Among the guests was Rev John MacPherson, who said, “the links between the Free Church of Scotland and Peru go back more than 100 years, through the sending of missionaries to Peru. Everything is now in Peruvian hands — churches and schools. It’s a fraternal relationship.” •

group of former students from the class of

‘83, from colegio san andres, lima, peru visited the free church of scotland offices this week.

Nine classmates joined former staff and friends in Edinburgh to celebrate the 40th anniversary of their graduation and to mark the 40th anniversary of the death of Dr John A MacKay, the founder of Colegio San Andres. One of the former students, Pablo Gutiérrez, spoke about the double anniversary, saying: “It’s a coincidence but it’s also God’s providence.” He added: “It’s a dream come true to be here.” Pablo gave a speech to fellow former students and guests, reciting a phrase by the late Dr John A MacKay, ‘Tomorrow’s way passed through yesterday’. The visit to ETS was co-ordinated by Catriona Macdonald, a former teacher at Colegio San Andres. She said the group of nine were set to go sightseeing and taste Scottish food during their trip to Edinburgh. Catriona Macdonald said: “It’s really great to see some former pupils from Colegio San Andres here in Edinburgh. They are so grateful and appreciative of the educational impact on their lives and the school has a place in their hearts.”

Rev Bob Akroyd with Hector Ponce Cortegana

Photographed are nine former pupils of Colegio San Andres. They graduated from the school 40 years ago in 1983. Pictured also are various staff and teachers of the school who joined the reunion.

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23 YEARS OF PASTORAL MINISTRY ENDS

healthy attendance, comprising young and

Major Iain Alasdair MacDonald, Callum’s brotherin-law, spoke of how the Scriptures remind us that Callum was Christ’s gift to us — given to equip us and build us up — and that he has done! He described Callum as someone who takes the bible seriously and who has never used the pulpit as a platform for expressing his own opinions; it was always, ‘Let’s hear what God has to say’. Rev Calum Murdo Smith (Assistant Minister, Kenneth Street, Stornoway) spoke of the impact of Callum’s ministry upon his own life, not least his conversion near the beginning of Callum’s ministry. This was the commencement of a close bond between them with Callum very much a mentor to Calum Murdo during his own journey to the ministry and all that has followed since. In short, Calum Murdo was thankful for Callum’s ministry, acknowledging his faithfulness to his calling and his prayer is that his ministry would continue to bear fruit. A common theme among all who spoke was Callum’s meticulous nature, his attention to detail and organisational skills — all gifts from God which Callum has applied in roles at congregational level, at Presbytery level, and General Assembly level. Rev Colin Macleod (Back Free Church) spoke affectionally — and with no small amount of humour — about his time with Callum at the then Free Church College. The event was marked by a real sense of fellowship and friendship. The speakers added their own perspective of the ministry that was now coming to an end. Rev Calum Macdonald added his unique blend of humour and storytelling throughout the evening. The evening was brought to a close by singing Psalm 23, led by Ian M. Macleod (Elder, Kenneth Street, Stornoway), a friend of Callum and Catherine for many years. •

old, gathered to mark rev callum macleod’s retirement

from

the

pastoral

ministry

shawbost free church. The venue, The Old School

Centre, was beautifully arranged for the occasion and surpassed only by the food and refreshments prepared by a team of women led by Anna Morrison, (North Shawbost). The evening began with worship, led by Rev Calum Macdonald (Callanish) who chaired the evening’s proceedings. Iain Henry Mackay led the singing of Psalm 122:7-9. This was followed by a Scripture reading from Hebrews 11. Presentations to Callum and his wife Catherine were made by Murdo Macdonald, Elder, and Maletta MacPhail, respectively, presenting gifts and a bouquet of flowers on behalf of the congregation. Murdo Macdonald, Elder, recalled in his speech how Callum’s induction in October 2000 was met with an air of expectancy and a feel-good factor in the congregation in the challenging times faced by the Church. Murdo told of how Callum, assisted and supported by a devoted Catherine, gave himself unreservedly to the duties which devolve on a pastoral minister. Both he and Catherine excelled in hospitality, ensuring the Manse was always open. Murdo spoke in appreciation of Callum’s ministry, and noted among his many qualities his particular aptitude to empathise with the bereaved as many in the community can testify. Maletta recounted, ‘as the Metagama prepared to sail, and heartfelt farewell wishes were expressed, one plea was frequently repeated: “Sgrìobh dhachaigh!” (“Write home”) Maletta exhorted Callum and Catherine to take a regular cuairt back across the Barvas Moor ‘and feel, in some measure, that you are indeed coming back home.’ She quoted the lines of a traditional Irish blessing, expressing warm wishes to Callum and Catherine on the congregation’s behalf. Callum responded with thanks and reflected on the parting of the Minister and the congregation – a relationship spanning 23 years, and how such a parting is both a solemn moment and, in many ways, painful moment. He reflected on different aspects of ministry over the years and spoke of the way which their lives were woven in the community in happy time and in sad times. In a final plea to those in attendance to secure their future by believing in Jesus, he closed with the words of Paul — “Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you” (2 Corinthians 13:11).

THE RECORD

DECEMBER /JANUARY

WHAT’S ON IN 2024 A host of events, organised by the Free Church of Scotland, is held each year all around the country. Take a look below for details of some events planned.

MARCH 2024 Free Church Youth Conference: Friday 15th March-Sunday 17th March This is an annual weekend event where young Christians, between the ages of 18 and 30, can gather for worship, food and fellowship. As well as the main talks on the theme Idolatry Today: Keep yourselves from idols, there will be a number of workshops. Booking is set to open in December. See freechurch.org • Enspire event for ministers’ wives: Saturday 23rd March This is an opportunity for ministers’ wives from all over Scotland, and from different denominations, to meet new people and catch up with friends while being encouraged by God’s Word. The event will be held at Smithton Church in Inverness. Enspire is relaxed and informal, with times of worship, discussion, sharing and praying in small groups. Friendships are made and renewed. The event encourages, equips and energises ministers’ wives to serve and fulfil their calling. Booking is set to open soon. • APRIL 2024 In a Big Country Rural Conference: Saturday 20th April This is a great opportunity for congregations to study God’s Word, to hear what he is doing in and around rural Scotland and to encourage each other. The conference is being organised by the Free Church Mission Board. For updates about the event, keep an eye on the Free Church website: freechurch.org • MAY 2024 Women for Mission (WfM) annual meeting: Saturday 18th May “The Big Get Together” (aka the Annual meeting) will be held in a location to be confirmed. Keep an eye on the Women for Mission website and social media for more details. womenformission.org • JUNE 2024 Teens’ Conference: Friday 7th June-Sunday 9th June Anyone S5 or S6 age, as of January 2024, whether already a Christian or just interested to find out more, is very welcome. Our hope is that it will be an opportunity for young people to be discipled in their faith and to build friendships with other believers of a similar age. There will be talks, seminars on relevant topics, great food and lots of opportunities to have fun together. More details coming soon! • JULY/ AUGUST 2024 Free Church Youth Camps Free Church Youth Camps are week-long, fun-packed, Christian residential holidays for young people aged 1018 years. A number of camps are set to be held in the Summer. Registration is set to open this month (December), so do keep an eye on the FCYC website for more details. freechurchyouthcamps.org • SEPTEMBER 2024 Women for Mission (WfM) conference WfM are planning a conference in Inverness at the end of September on the theme of Equipping Women. Watch this space for more information and keep an eye on our webpage and socials. •

2024

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WORLD NEWS

AMERICAS AFRICA EUROPE ASIA AUSTRALASIA ANTI-CHRISTIAN HATE CRIMES MAKE COLLECTIVE RISE IN EUROPE Christian Post Anti-Christian hate crimes in Europe including arson, vandalism, threats, physical assaults, and even murder showed a collective increase in 2022, The Observatory on Intolerance and Discrimination Against Christians in Europe has revealed in a new report. The observatory, which is based in Vienna, Austria, has been tracking hate crimes against Christians in Europe over the last decade. An increasing trend in hate crimes against Christians perpetrated by radicalised members of ideological, political, or religious groups that follow an anti-Christian narrative was also highlighted as Christians faced infringement on their religious freedoms through new laws regulating speech in public. “The right to freedom of speech continues to be a highly debated issue, as new laws are seeking to regulate speech in the public sphere, and some even in the private sphere. New ‘buffer zones’ around abortion clinics are one form of state regulation that has led to the criminalization of Christians for praying silently on the street,” the report said. “The religious freedom of Christians has also been affected through other legal developments, such as vaguely formulated and overreaching laws that would criminalize parents, pastors, and teachers if they express dissenting opinions regarding LGBTIQrelated discussions or discourage their children from undergoing ‘hormone therapies’ because of their religious convictions.”

The agenda against Christians in Europe is also seen in efforts to remove conscience clauses from legislation in the medical space that “put Christians who refuse to participate in controversial practices for reasons or religious conscience in vulnerable positions.” “The war in Ukraine, apart from being a terrible humanitarian crisis, has also affected religious freedom in the region. Many of these incidents are highly political and ethnic-related, but they have led to different forms of discrimination towards Christians,” the report said. “Russian authorities and troops have repeatedly violated the religious freedom of Christians by closing churches and kidnapping or arresting pastors. Orthodox Christians have also faced discrimination in many European countries because of the war.” Similarly, Ukraine has been cracking down on the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and arresting priests because of its historic ties to Russia. In light of the growing number of attacks against Christians in Europe, the observatory urged government officials to improve communication with civil society organisations and religious groups when drafting legislation that could limit freedom of religion for Christians directly or indirectly. It also encouraged, among other things, that governmental human rights institutions better monitor and record instances of intolerance and discrimination against Christians. •

ADF KILLS 26 IN DRC International Christian Concern The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an Islamic extremist group affiliated with the Islamic State, killed 26 people – 12 minors and 14 adults – on the outskirts on Oicha, Beni territory, in the northeastern portion of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) on 23 October. Beni territory’s civil society representative, Darius Syaira, told reporters that tensions have been high in Oicha recently, with demonstrators setting fire to humanitarian vehicles preparing to distribute food. When asked why residents had attacked the trucks, one demonstrator said, "We don’t need humanitarian aid, but we do want security.” With very little security in the region, a decrease in faith in international organisations is on the rise. Many Congolese have voiced their desire for foreign agents of any kind to leave the country, saying the only way for the DRC to regain control of its territory is to do so in its own fashion. The ADF controls much of the northeastern DRC and has conducted several attacks in western Uganda since the 1990s. Originally an independent Islamic extremist group, the ADF officially affiliated itself with the Islamic State in 2019. •

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DECEMBER /JANUARY

CHRISTIANITY ON THE RISE DESPITE PERSECUTION Premier Christian News A new report by International Christian Concern (ICC) has revealed that Christianity is continuing to spread across the globe despite believers facing extreme persecution for their faith. The 2023 “Persecutors of the Year” report details the various groups, organisations and locations posing a significant threat to Christians worldwide. The advocacy group claims some 200-300 million believers currently experience persecution for their faith, including torture, imprisonment and murder. China, Iran and Nigeria are highlighted as key countries where the Church appears to be expanding despite fierce opposition. The ICC argues Nigeria is one of the most dangerous places to be Christian today. Believers are kidnapped, tortured and killed every week by Boko Haram, Fulani militants and other Muslim extremist groups, while churches and Christian institutions are destroyed and burned to the ground. Yet the approximately 100 million Christian population is steadily growing in the region. The report claims that the Islamic Republic of Iran has “one of the fastest-growing churches in the world.” While 99 percent of the population is Muslim and Christians there are harshly penalised for practising their faith, ICC reports show a Christian population that has rapidly grown to around 500,000– 800,000. China reportedly has between 70-100million “underground Christians”. This is despite the communist led country “aggressively suppressing free religious expression” which is seen as a threat to national security, according to the report. House churches face persecution and harassment by the authorities, as they are often unregistered and not sanctioned by the government. In highlighting the extent of suffering Christians encounter across the world, ICC says the “resilience of the body of Christ” is also revealed. •

PASTOR IN NEPAL FEARS CONVICTION SETS OMINOUS PRECEDENT Morning Star News As he awaits prison after a wrongful conviction for proselytising, Pastor Keshab Raj Acharya fears his case will set a precedent for authorities in Nepal to incarcerate other Christians. The 35-year-old pastor said he fears police and judiciary will cite his case as an example to send Christians to prison for either proselytizing or forcible conversion even without evidence. “In case someone wilfully converts to Christ, the police and the court will convict the person through whom this believer has heard the message of Christ and His salvation,” Pastor Acharya told Morning Star News. “Where does the police/judiciary draw the line between ‘forced conversion’ and ‘voluntary conversion’?” “The witnesses said that I did not even ask them to convert, only gave them tracts; they read it and discarded it,” he said. “I have been convicted for something that I have not done. I am being targeted unnecessarily and harassed and put to jail.” His conviction on 30 November 2021 was the country’s first for proselytising under a criminal code that went into effect in Nepal in August 2018. Hanok Tamang, chairman of the National Churches Fellowship of Nepal (NCFN), said hostilities toward Christians have been rising. “Though no pastor, leader or any Christian is in prison right now for proselytising, we cannot predict the same for tomorrow, as we see prevailing anti-Christian sentiments and hostility increase gradually,” Pastor Tamang told Morning Star News. While evangelising has long been illegal in Nepal, advocacy groups have detected increased enforcement and other anti-Christian efforts since 2018 as officials sought to placate Hindus incensed that the new constitution did not re-establish a more prominent place for Hinduism. The Christian community of Nepal has faced several cases demonstrating the ease with which the constitution’s anti-conversion laws can be misused. There also has been a substantial increase in the number of aggressions against religious minorities, especially Christians, beginning in 2018. These have included bombings and arson attacks on churches, physical assaults on Christians, false accusations alleging evangelism and conversions and false propaganda against Christians. •

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©Marius Civiis - shutterstock.com

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.

THE RECORD

DECEMBER /JANUARY

And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

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In the This Is My Story devotional series, REV DAVID J RANDALL imagines what it might be like if we could interview some Bible characters. Hebrews 11:4 says of one character, ‘though he died, he still speaks’; may these ‘interviews’ encourage us today in trusting, loving and serving the Lord Jesus Christ, the Character of the Bible. Record: Martha, the practical one — that’s how people think of you, isn’t it? Martha: I suppose so — presumably because of that time when Jesus visited us in Bethany and I didn’t exactly cover myself with glory by what I said to Jesus. Record: Perhaps not, but you felt you were getting a raw deal, didn’t you? Martha: Yes, I was frustrated. It was time for something to eat, and I got busy in the kitchen. Hospitality is a virtue and it was only right to provide something for Jesus to eat. But while I got on with preparing a meal, my sister Mary just sat there drinking in everything Jesus was saying. Record: What’s wrong with that? Martha: Well, I wanted to hear Jesus too — only, after the meal; I mean, there’s a time and a place for everything. But she just sat there. Record: So what did you think when Jesus said you shouldn’t be fussing about so much?

THE RECORD

Martha: At first I thought it wasn’t fair, and I more or less said so. I asked the Master why it didn’t bother him that I was having to do all the work. Record: How did he react? Martha: He told me to cool down. He said Mary had chosen well. Record: I guess you thought that would mean everybody remaining hungry. Martha: For a little while maybe, but I had to learn that there’s a time to be busy and a time to just take in Jesus’ words. Record: And then there’s the other incident in which you feature — the miraculous raising up of your dead brother. Martha: Yes, Lazarus lived with us, and when he took ill we were beside ourselves with worry. We sent word to Jesus, and waited for him to come. But he didn’t come right away; then Lazarus died and we had to quickly arrange the funeral and lay his body in the tomb. It was four days before Jesus appeared.

DECEMBER /JANUARY

Johannes Vermeer "Christ'in the House of Martha and Mary" (c1655) Scottish national Gallery

THIS IS MY STORY: A WOMAN NAMED MARTHA

Record: And you were the active one again, weren’t you? You left Mary sitting in the house and rushed out to meet Jesus. What did you say? Martha: All I could think of to say was that if he had come sooner he would have been able to heal our brother. He had healed many others from all sorts of diseases and afflictions, and I was sure he could have healed Lazarus. Record: But that wasn’t all you said, was it? Martha: No, it was only as I was speaking — complaining, I suppose — that the thought came to me that even then Jesus could ask anything from his Father and his Father would do it. Record: Did you really think Lazarus could be brought back to life? Martha: I’m not sure what was in my head, but it was to me that he first spoke these wonderful words, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die.’ Then he asked whether I believed it. Record: And did you? Martha: Yes, I did, and I do. We had always recognised Jesus as Somebody very special, but that day it was if my eyes were opened to see him as the Messiah and the Son of God. Record: But your brother was still dead, wasn’t he? Martha: He was, and it was very moving to see Jesus in tears. I know now that he knew what he was going to do, but it was as if he was grieved by the devastation that has come into the world through death, the enemy of man and God. Record: And yet, when Jesus gave the word to roll away the stone from the mouth of the tomb, it was you who warned that there would be an odour. Martha — ever the practical one! Martha: Well, four days is a long time in a hot climate, but Jesus just kept saying that we would see God’s glory. We heard him praying to the Father, and then lifting up his voice with that command, ‘Lazarus, come out.’ Record: What were you thinking? Martha: It seemed surreal. Lazarus was undeniably dead, and yet there was Jesus telling him to come out of the tomb — which is just what happened. We stood there with our mouths open, staring in absolute astonishment at the sight of our brother walking out from the tomb. And then it was Jesus who was the practical one: ‘Unbind him’, he said, ‘and let him go.’ Record: Presumably this would gain Jesus a lot of adulation and worship. Martha: You might think that everybody would rejoice at such a miracle, but there were some who saw Jesus as a threat and a problem. Record: How so? Martha: Some of the religious leaders were worried about the possibility of a popular clamour that would lead to Roman intervention, and we heard later that it was in this connection that the High Priest, no less,

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actually said that they would rather see Jesus dead than the nation destroyed. It was only afterwards that we all realised the deeper meaning in his words. Record: What do you mean? Martha: It was going to be Jesus’ death that would save many from death, death that is the consequence of sin. That’s what he said: ‘Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live.’ Lazarus had to die again, but Jesus died once, never to die again, and he rose from the dead, bringing life and immortality to his people. Record: And what about Lazarus? How did he fare after all this? Martha: He was the focus of a lot of attention. But the thing that troubled some people was that it was because of what happened to Lazarus that many others were realising that Jesus was the longpromised Messiah and Saviour. And that hatred grew stronger when they saw Jesus entering Jerusalem on a donkey, and people hailing him as the King of Israel. Record: That was only days before his execution on the cross. Martha: Yes, that was the Sunday, and all manner of things happened during the next few days before they got him killed. Record: And who were the ‘they’? Martha: It was a combination of forces. Judas played his part by helping the Jewish authorities to arrest Jesus. Caiaphas and his henchmen engineered it. Pilate couldn’t stand up to them. And it all ended with Jesus nailed to the cross — just as he had prophesied. Record: You said ‘ended’ but it wasn’t ended, was it? Martha: Not at all. That Friday was a terrible day, and we were all devastated by what happened. It seemed as if everything was coming to a miserable and tragic end. Record: But …! Martha: Yes, the greatest thing was to come. On the Sunday, we started hearing stories about the tomb being empty and Jesus appearing to some of the brothers and sisters. Record: He was ‘the resurrection and the life.’ Martha: Yes, and it’s still true: everyone who believes in him will not perish but have everlasting life. Record: So, Martha, you don’t appear on many pages of the gospels, but you certainly have a story to tell. Martha: I love to tell the story. The Saviour died and rose again, and all who put their trust in him will one day meet me and Mary and Lazarus, but better than that — will see Jesus himself and be with him for ever. • David J Randall retired from pastoral ministry in 2010 and is a member of the Free Church congregation in Broughty Ferry. He has served in a number of locumships, still preaches regularly, and has written several books.

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A Healthy Gospel Church for Every Community in Scotland BY ANDREW GIFFEN

ur vision as a denomination is of “ a healthy gospel

church

for

every

community

One of the memories that will stick with me is the joyful unaccompanied singing of Psalm 67 at the end of our gatherings. “God be merciful and bless us; shine upon us with your face, that the earth may know your actions and all lands your saving grace.” That is what we long and pray for as we pursue the vison for Healthy Gospel Churches. There were two main sessions in our Presbytery gatherings. In the first session we explored what it means to be a healthy church. We have found that people in the Free Church are positive and enthusiastic about the vision, but they are sometimes unclear about what a healthy church looks like, and what part they can play in growing spiritual health. There are of course many different models or lists of characteristics that could be used, but in our discussion on what makes healthy Christians and healthy churches we looked at seven areas: healthy preaching, healthy worship, healthy prayer, healthy mission, healthy discipleship, healthy relationships, and healthy leadership. Churches with Jesus Christ and the Gospel at the very centre will want to be growing in health in all these areas. We talked about how we can prepare our hearts to listen and what makes good faithful preaching that helps us to understand what a passage says and how it applies to us today. We talked about corporate worship on a Sunday but also worship as the whole of our lives. We discussed the importance and place of prayer. We shared with one another ideas for mission and outreach through our congregations, and also how we can become more intentional in our own evangelism. We thought about discipleship when there is less biblical literacy, and a Christian worldview and theological understanding cannot be assumed. We recognised the importance and challenges of maintaining healthy relationships in the church so that we might indeed be known for our love for one another. And we talked together about what healthy servant leadership looks like and the benefit

scotland ”.

Throughout this past year, David Meredith, Neil MacMillan, Sarah Robinson and I have been attending Healthy Church Gatherings hosted by each of our Presbyteries. We have been talking about the vision and the ways that the central denomination seeks to support the health of local congregations. We started in Blackwood & Kirkmuirhill in March 2023 with the Glasgow & Argyll Presbytery gathering. Then it was North Uist, North Harris and Stornoway for gatherings in April, followed by the Inverness Lochaber & Ross Presbytery gathering in Smithton in May. There was a break for the summer, but September was busy with a gathering in Edinburgh on the 2nd, and then Portree on 26th, Kyle on 27th, Aultbea on 28th, and then the Northern Presbytery gathering in Dornoch on 30th September. What a privilege it has been to meet all the different people we have met and the congregations we have visited. At each of the gatherings nearly every congregation in the Presbytery had at least one representative present. People often spoke in the feedback of enjoying the chance to gather with others from their region. Thank you to those who hosted us in their homes and buildings. I hope our visits have been as much of a blessing to the people we have met as they have been to us. As we travelled around, it was good to hear of all the ministry and mission taking place, but it was also important to hear the challenges and struggles of congregations that have seen numbers decline following COVID or have been vacant for a long period. We have been in many lovely buildings but have also been in buildings that people are finding it hard to heat or maintain. It was good to be real with one another in our group conversations and sharing of ideas. It was good as well to be reminded that God is powerfully at work despite our weakness and that we have the treasure of the Gospel in what sometimes feels like jars of clay.

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DECEMBER /JANUARY

of good leadership and clear communication in congregations and the denomination so that God’s people are released for service in the church and in the world. The first session had two excellent video clips. The first by Calum Iain Macleod told the story of how the Healthy Church Vision has begun to impact the Ferintosh Congregation. The second by James Ross, the minister of Buccleuch, talked about how they have benefited as a congregation from the Healthy Church vision. Much of the material and discussion guides from the first session will be made available on our website in the coming months. The gatherings were a first step in what we hope will be continued conversations and discussions within local congregations and leadership teams. Even just asking “Which is the weakest of the seven areas in my life or the life of our congregation?” can be a good first step in growing health, particularly when combined with prayer asking for God’s help in that area. The second session focused on the health of our denomination and what the Presbyteries and Boards and central staff team are trying to do to support health in our congregations. David Meredith spoke about the normal lifecycle of church health and of the help that can be given with development. He also outlined the four-year Minister-in-Training model and mentioned some of the congregations throughout Scotland that new ministers have moved to, recognising that the provision of ministers is one of our biggest needs as a denomination. Neil MacMillan shared progress on the 30x30 church planting goals, naming over 14 new congregations and reminding us why church planting is healthy and needed. He spoke, though, of the importance of partnering with others

outside the denomination if we are to turn the tide on church closures in Scotland. He also talked passionately about mobilising every member of the Free Church for mission and healthy spiritual growth. Sarah Robinson then shared some of the ways the communications team have been telling the stories of what God is doing among us, and pointed people to the website, social media accounts, The Record and the Healthy Gospel Church podcast. She also encouraged people to sign up for the weekly prayer points if they haven’t already. The second session finished with a video by Thomas Davis, minister of the Carloway congregation, talking about the people and financial resources that are needed for the Healthy Gospel Church vision, and encouraging us all to pray and play our part. If you missed the chance to attend a gathering, do seek out others who were there and find out what happened. More discussion resources will be made available in the year ahead but do please start, or continue, a conversation about healthy Christians, healthy congregations, and a healthy denomination. Choose again to be intentional about spiritual health in 2024, that together we might see “A Healthy Gospel Church for Every Community in Scotland”. •

Healthy Church Gathering at Kyle Free Church

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DEC-JAN 2024 PRAYER DIARY What a privilege we have in prayer! We can approach the throne of grace with utmost confidence that we are coming before a God who knows us perfectly and loves us endlessly. A Free Church of Scotland day of Prayer has been held recently. The prayer points still stand as we come to the end of 2023 and into 2024. Do continue to pray. TRAINING • Give thanks for all the current ministry candidates, and for their families. Pray that God would be shaping them as Godly leaders and teachers during their studies. Pray for the congregations where our candidates are serving as Ministers in Training. Pray for local supervisors, Kirk Sessions, and other local leaders as they seek to train, equip, and encourage our candidates. • Pray for Edinburgh Theological Seminary (ETS) and the Board of Ministry as they partner together in the provision of training. Please pray for all the teaching and administrative staff who provide essential work for the training of ministers. Give thanks for external partners, such as the Bonar Trust, who have given a huge support to our training. • Pray for continued support and funding for the programme. Pray that God would provide more candidates to fill various vacancies across the denomination.

PRAYER • Pray for God’s help to be a church that calls upon God, to make us a people who are faithful, consistent, and persistent in prayer. • Pray for unity among our denomination, that we would be united in the gospel and united in prayer. Pray that God would give us hearts for prayer, that we would be faithful in our prayers for those who do not yet know Jesus as their Lord and Saviour, and pray that God would bring many to saving faith in him, for his kingdom and his glory. CHURCH DEVELOPMENT • Please pray for many rural churches where there is a significant population and opportunities for redevelopment. Pray for believers in these areas, that they would be granted wisdom and opportunity to share the gospel in their community. • Pray for work that is beginning in ‘brown field sites’ where a previous church has closed, and a new ministry is beginning. Give thanks to God for these opportunities and pray that he would richly bless the work. • Pray for wisdom to know where there is revitalisation potential and pray God would provide the resources both physically and spiritually for this to happen.

EVANGELISM AND DISCIPLESHIP • We pray for boldness, and opportunities to share the good news with our loved ones, colleagues, neighbours and in our communities. Pray that God would give us individually, a heart for the gospel and seeing lives transformed by the good news. • We pray that we will be purposeful about discipleship to help develop a healthy church. Pray for mentorship relationships between younger and older Christians, partnering in life together. • Give thanks for God’s blessing and provision for the camps that took place over the summer, the Big Free Rally in October and all the young folks that attended. Pray that many would come to saving faith in Jesus and pray that those who are continue to grow in their love for Jesus, and walk with him daily. Pray that God would continue to work in the hearts and lives of the youth in our churches and those who attended camps; that home congregations would nurture them and help them to grow in their faith; and pray especially for the young folks that weren’t connected to a church.

PLANTING NEW CHURCHES • Give thanks to the Lord for the church plants that are taking place in communities across Scotland. Pray for the vision for 30 new churches by 2030 and the vision for “A Healthy Gospel Church for Every Community in Scotland” in that God will make the paths straight and preparations will run smoothly. • Pray that God would continue raising up gifted leaders to plant new churches right across the nation. • Pray for our church planters, that they would be kept fresh and renewed by God’s grace. Pray for steadiness as they walk through the highs and lows of ministry. Pray for their families to know God’s peace and faith through practical uncertainties they may face. Pray that our existing church plants would grow, that we would see growth through coming to saving faith in Jesus.

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PARTNERING WITH OTHERS • Give thanks to God that we are partnering with other organisations and churches that share the commitment of proclaiming the true Christian message, for the advancement of God’s work. • Pray for our gospel workers across the denomination who are making Jesus known in their communities. Pray for women serving in bible-based ministry, evangelism, and discipleship across the Free Church. Pray for the wider work of our presbyteries as they support local work. • Pray for partnerships with local churches that share the commitment of proclaiming the true Christian message to work well together, to be a blessing to the communities God has placed them in and to glorify God in all they do.

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COMMUNICATION • Pray that we tell the story of what God is doing among us to encourage one another and to share the hope we have through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. • Pray that the church would engage with current affairs graciously and lovingly. • Pray that God will strengthen communication between churches, presbyteries, boards, committees, and the office team

FINANCE • Pray that we as a denomination raise funds to help bring the vision for the revitalisations of congregations, new outreach initiatives and training for ministers into fruition. Pray that we as a denomination and individuals would be generous with our giving to gospel work. • Give thanks to God for those giving so generously from outwith our denomination. • Pray for the cost of living crisis, for those who are worried and struggling about finance. Pray that necessary means would be provided.

WORLD & MISSION • Pray for peace in Israel and for a great outpouring of God’s grace unto salvation to fall upon all peoples, both Jews and Palestinians, across the entire region. Pray for God’s comfort to be known by those suffering great loss. • Pray for all those damaged in the ongoing war in Ukraine and ask for God’s protection and justice for the vulnerable. Pray for wisdom for leaders, that they will act justly. • Give thanks for the freedom to meet as the church in Scotland free from persecution, pray that this will continue and for our brothers and sisters across the world who meet in secret because of the persecution they face. Pray they will be strengthened in their faith and protected.

GLOBAL MISSION • Give thanks for Diaspora ministries carried out by the Free Church and other mission partners. • Give thanks for how God has provided gospel workers globally to us; pray that we would see with more clarity our place in the global church. • Pray for the persecuted Church globally. Pray that we will see breakthrough in these countries. SUPPORTING CHURCH LEADERS • Pray that the courses offered by Edinburgh Theological Seminary (ETS) would be helpful to lay leaders and church members. • Pray for all ministers in the denomination. Pray that as Colossians 2:7 says, their roots are planted deep in Christ; that they grow in him, they get their strength from him, and they let him make them strong in the faith. • Pray that our congregations uphold our ministers and leaders in prayer regularly, praying that God will keep them and guide them.

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT GROUP • Give thanks to the Lord for the work of the Free Church of Scotland’s Public Engagement Group (PEG) as they respond to a host of consultations, seek to engage with politicians and work with other organisations. Pray for wisdom for the group as they look at what consultations to respond to and as they produce responses that are Biblical, informative, and impactful. • Pray for protection and wisdom for members of PEG and the Free Church Communications Group which issues gain publicity and require media interactions. • Pray for other organisations in Scotland with whom PEG regularly works including The Christian Institute, The Evangelical Alliance, Care, and The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Scotland. • Give thanks for the opportunity for the Moderator, Bob Akroyd, to conduct Time for Reflection at

RECRUITING • Pray for God to call more men into pastoral ministry. As far as we are able to judge our expected needs, we will need 70 new ministers to be called by God in the next 10 years. • Pray for the 16 Ministers-In-Training who are studying and involved in serving in churches. Their

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training roles will come to an end between May 2024 and May 2027. Pray that they will grow in faith and seek God for their next steps in their journey to ministry. Pray that local congregations will be eager to nurture, encourage and guide people in their congregations to take steps into the ministry journey. Pray for Kirk Sessions, Presbyteries, and the Board of Ministry as they carry the responsibility of assessing applications with appropriate rigour and care.

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the Scottish Parliament in the New Year. Pray for Bob as he prepares an appropriate message. The Public Engagement Group recently responded to a government consultation on the draft Statutory Guidance on the Delivery of Relationships, Sexual Health and Parenthood (RSHP) Education in Scottish Schools. Pray that the Group’s informed response will be heard and taken on board. Pray that the voices of parents will be taken into account as the Scottish Government looks to make changes to the delivery of RSHP education in schools Pray about the drug pandemic in Scotland, particular the tragic number of drugs overdoses in Scotland. Pray for wisdom and creativity of legislators to find new solutions and proper support. Pray for the providers of Drugs Rehabilitation centres, especially those operating from a Christian perspective, that these would provide hope to the hopeless. Pray for all families and friends affected by drug deaths in Scotland. Pray for women and others caught up in prostitution in Scotland. Pray that proposals to help women escape prostitution would finally be given parliamentary time. Pray for all organisations that seek to help women find a way out.

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Pray for issues around the provision of abortion in Scotland. In particular, the continuing practice of abortion pills being used at home despite risks to women, and safe access zones being established around abortion providers which represent a significant risk to Freedom of Speech. Pray for MSPs to be willing to speak out against abortion, even at significant personal cost. Pray for peace between different religious communities in Scotland, particularly the recent tensions in the wake of the Israel / Gaza conflict. Pray for the upcoming consultations that PEG are set to be draft responses for. As discussions continue nationally about Conversion Practices, pray that when the consultation is opened in Scotland (expected December 2023), that PEG will be able to respond succinctly to the issues addressed, especially looking at the language used and how it will impact parents and the ordinary work of churches seeking to care for those struggling with LGBT issues. •

ETS NEWS

dinburgh theological seminary recently held its annual conference on the theme, the church among the ruins. though only in its second year, the event has become a major highlight in the ets calendar.

Around 200 attendees from across the UK and beyond joined special guests Rev Dr Sinclair Ferguson (Aberdeen) and Dr James Eglinton (University of Edinburgh), ETS Principal Iver Martin, and ETS lecturers Rev Daniel Sladek, Rev Dr Benjamin Castaneda, and Rev Dr Zachary Purvis, and ETS adjunct and nearby minister Rev Dr Cory Brock at St Columba’s Free Church. Speakers explored different aspects of the church, particularly amidst difficult times, through the following talks: • ‘Church as Supplicant’ (based on Psalm 80) • ‘Church Militant, Church Triumphant’ (based on Revelation 11) • ‘Church as Persecuted, Church as Hopeful’ (through a case study of theologian J.H. Bavinck in The Netherlands under Nazi occupation during World War II) • ‘Church as Pilgrims’ (reflecting on the work of the Holy Spirit through the means of grace in the church) • ‘Church as Witness, Church as Neighbour’ (based on Acts 1 and orientated to help the church share the gospel today) • ‘Jesus Christ, the Builder of the Church’ (based on Matthew 16)

Fifty conference attendees received copies of the book Sacred Bond: Covenant Theology Explored by Zachary Keele and Michael Brown, courtesy of Reformed Fellowship, Inc. ETS alumni were invited to a special lunch and given copies of the book What Happens When We Worship by Jonathan Cruse, courtesy of Reformation Heritage Books. It was a wonderful day filled with great discussion, food, and fellowship, and capped with stirring singing of Psalm 72, Psalm 102, and with a tip of the hat to Reformation Day, Martin Luther’s beloved A Mighty Fortress Is Our God. Special thanks go out to student and family volunteers for helping make the day a great success. Stay tuned for the 2024 Annual Conference details! •

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WfM NEWS BY FIONA MACASKILL We had to do all of the above without the kids speaking any English. What we did find, though, is that we find ways to communicate and get by the language barrier and by the end of the week we could understand and converse (almost!) normally. We ended every night by teaching and singing some of the action songs we learned from Sunday School, the favourite being “Our God is a Great Big God”. We would speak and talk on the lyrics and the meaning behind them to the kids and get the kids to understand that there is a God always looking after them. The most encouraging and blessed moment came when after day three, and the kids having no English, all 20 kids were able to sing the whole action song and would sing it without prompt. The kids had planned to surprise us that they had been singing the song in their beds at nighttime, practising the English words with each other to show us the next day. Only after the camp was finished was when we had an opportunity to visit the kids’ homes; this was done in order to avoid any preconceived ideas. The houses were absolutely heartbreaking to see and to see the kids being so proud of them was a hard thing to take in. One girl called Ema shared one bed with four other siblings in a house with only one other room. None of the houses had a toilet or an indoor shower. The point and the aim of the project is to keep these kids in education to try and break the tradition of these families and to open up their horizons and realise there’s more than just the slums they live in. Our aim for our trip was to provide an unforgettable summer holiday and also expose them to the word of God, both of which were achieved with the words of “Our God is a Great Big God” in a Romanian accent ringing in our ears. •

Margaret Smith’s fundraiser on the Black Isle

hristmas is coming, the goose is getting fat... yes, it’s the most wonderful time of the year again. This

is traditionally a time of year when the little craft elves of the Women for Mission are busy preparing their wares for sale at various coffee mornings and events. A special word needs to go to one of the most faithful elves, Margaret Smith, who recently raised an amazing £668 at an event on the Black Isle. It is always great to hear about the creative ways in which people around the country use their gifts to raise funds for our projects. Some of the money raised over the years has gone to our Support a Volunteer fund and Luke Davidson in the Aberdeen congregation benefitted from this earlier on this year. He has written a report for us about what he did in his time in Romania: In June/July, a group of nine from Greyfriars Free Church travelled to Romania to run a summer camp for kids living in extreme poverty. This was through one of the Blythswood Care projects called Talita Kum, to assist these children in their education as well as opening up opportunities to spread the Gospel. We first arrived in Romania a day prior to the camp to prepare for the week ahead and discuss our plans and what to expect. On the camp with us were three Romanian teachers and 20 kids. Only two of the kids had any form of English. The kids are all from a small town called Jimbolia and only travel by horse and cart. The camp, however, is a three-hour drive, which took four hours as we had to make several stops for the kids to be sick! The camp was based up in the Mountains of Retezat with the aim to climb to three of the peaks with the kids across the week. Along with this we filled the week with sports, games, crafts, dancing (and Ceilidh dancing!) and anything else that will entertain a 6-10 year old! The weather we experienced happened to be the worst in many years but was still around 25°. This meant that we could not do all the hikes. So, we only did one peak and added in more crafts and games instead. These included designing hats, T-shirts, tote bags, bracelets, paper airplanes and sock puppets. We also played games like sharks and fishes, and parachute games.

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Luke Davidson’s trip to Romania

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY. “The Big Get Together” (aka the Annual meeting) will be on 18th May 2024 (location to be confirmed). We’re also planning a conference in Inverness at the end of September on the theme of Equipping Women.

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FOOD FOR FELLOWSHIP Tell us about yourself My name is Kathleen MacSween, I live in Edinburgh and I am a member at St Columba’s Free Church. I am a Project Worker for a charity called Sparkle Sisters, Edinburgh, which is based in St C’s. St Columba’s Free church would probably be described as a middle/working class community of people and therefore living lives very differently to that of someone who experiences homelessness. This gap between homelessness in the community surrounding our church is something we wished to bridge, so with this growing desire to bridge the gap, Sparkle Sisters was formed. Sparkle Sisters is a mercy ministry (now with charitable status) that has been born out of St C’s with the purpose of serving those who struggle with homelessness, abuse and human trafficking right on our doorstep, but also serving those in our churches who have also been affected by these issues but perhaps been masked in a different light. What is your favourite recipe and why? One of my favourite recipes is chicken pie, as it is wholesome, filling and a good hearty winter dish. It was my sister that introduced me to this recipe and although it has a number of components to it, it is well worth it when it is done. I have had no complaints about it so far from those who have tasted it! How does food play into fellowship in your church? (Outreach, fellowship, bible studies etc.) By way of outreach, food has always played an integral role in fellowship in the life of our church. Working for Sparkle Sisters, food is sometimes one of the most valuable ways of engaging the women we support. Many are unable to afford food and even lack the motivation to cook proper meals for themselves. So we love to serve them in this way. In fact, hospitality has been a very practical way of engaging with those on our doorstep with whom we would otherwise have been unable to engage. Our other initiative we began last winter “warm spaces” is an extension of the work we do in our attempt to build meaningful relationships, which has been crucial in helping those that come, to build trust with us. Many individuals have cynical and gloomy preconceived ideas as to what “church” is, so serving in this way enables us to hopefully challenge these misconceptions. It is a wonderful opportunity to show them the love of Jesus in a very practical way by showing love, care and genuine interest in their lives — something many of them are not used to. Being a city centre church, we meet as city groups twice a month. We have several groups that meet and alternate between homes on each occasion and the host provides a simple meal for the first hour and the second hour is devoted to bible study and prayer. This is something we all love, as it also gives us time to chat with our church family and friends around food but also share the kind of day we’ve had and life in general. It has such a familial feel to it which is important to every one of us. One of the lovely things we do in our church fellowship is hosting a congregational meal on the fifth Wednesday in a month, whereby we sit, eat and have fellowship with one another followed by partaking in the Lord’s Supper. The meal is a variety of soups and puddings and the turnout has been really encouraging. Meeting in this way enables us to get to know one another in a more personable way, which is important in a city centre church setting. What I enjoy about it is the familial feel it has and it makes everyone feel most welcomed. What kind of things has being in fellowship taught you about the Lord? Being in fellowship, we find solace and comfort in knowing that we are never alone. The Lord’s presence is always with us, guiding us through the ups and downs of life. Fellowship with him and others should be an experience of having a deep sense of love and acceptance and furthermore teaches me that we are in a constant pursuit of deepening our relationship with him. Jesus often speaks in Scripture about banquets, inviting the poor, the crippled, the lame and blind. And in doing so, he reminds us of the blessing it is in serving those who cannot repay you. The way in which he describes eating together is as an intimate act. Jesus was rooted in and lived this tradition and so we desire to do this as a way of forming genuine relationships both within the church and the community we have on our doorstep. •

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Creamy Chicken Pie (SERVES 2)

Ingredients: • 4 white potatoes • 1 large chicken breast • 1 diced carrot • 1 sliced white onion • 1 sliced leek • 2 chopped garlic cloves

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5.5g Dijon mustard 1 chicken stock cube 120g shredded kale 50g/1 soft cheese pot (Philadelphia)

(You will also need butter, flour, milk, pepper and salt)

To Serve • Pre-heat the oven to 220oc/200oc(Fan)/gas 7 • Chop your potatoes (skins on) into large bite-sized pieces, add a pinch of salt and boil over a high heat until cooked, then drain and return to the pot to steam dry. • Whilst the potatoes are boiling, chop your chicken strips into bite-sized pieces and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook on baking tray in oven for 15 mins or until cooked through (no pink meat). Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a clean board and shred it apart using two forks — this technique is known as ‘pulling’. • Fry sliced onion, leek and diced carrot with a pinch of salt in 15g-30g butter over a medium heat until beginning to soften. Then add chopped garlic with 1tbsp flour and cook for 30 secs • Dissolve your stock cube and dijon mustard in 250-400mls boiled water. Add this and soft cheese to your vegetable mix, bring to the boil over a high heat and cook for 3-4 mins or until thickened. • Return the drained potatoes to a low heat with a knob of butter and a small splash of milk. Season with a generous pinch of salt and pepper and mash until smooth • Add the chicken to the sauce with a generous grind of black pepper and give everything a good mix. Transfer the creamy chicken pie filling to an oven-proof dish and top with the mash. Put the dish in the oven for 15-20 mins or until bubbling and golden • Once the pie is almost done, add your kale to a saucepan. Add a couple of tablespoons of water and it will wilt down perfectly. • Once hot, remove pan from the heat, serve the creamy chicken potato-topped pie with your kale to the side. • Enjoy!

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PAGES FROM ADAM’S DIARY Ask and You Shall Receive Exceedingly Abundantly Above What You Asked

A brother, known to some of us as Dr Adam, has served the Lord among his suffering church for many years. Dr Adam has also ministered in various parts of the world among refugees. We have asked his permission to print some of the stories of his life and service for the encouragement of readers of The Record. For well understood reasons, the names of people and places have usually been changed or omitted.

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I told him that God had already answered the prayer. I offered to take him to the city and buy him a bicycle. Like a little boy being given his first bicycle, he was ecstatic.

ast year, i was visiting a refugee camp in the netherlands. Usually when I go to

such camps, we gather in someone’s room where I teach the word of God and answer their questions. I also serve them pastorally. For example, I listen to their many problems and try to comfort and encourage them. It is not unusual to be asked to be the mediator in marital or interpersonal conflicts. I normally take food with me and try to make the occasion an enjoyable and memorable time for them. Such gatherings often are a mixture of believers and unbelievers who have been invited to come by their friends and hear the Gospel. On that day and in that camp, after spending the morning teaching and answering questions of those who had come, in the early afternoon, it was time for me to leave because I had to take the bus to the train station and then journey another couple of hours on the train to reach my next destination. Therefore, I asked them before leaving if I could pray and commit them to the Lord. One of the people in our gathering, a man in his late sixties, raised his hand and said he had a prayer request. He asked if everyone could pray that God would provide him with a bicycle. He explained that he did not have enough money to buy a bicycle and he could not afford the cost of the public transportation to go to the nearby city to buy his needed supplies. His only option was to walk the several kilometres to reach the city near the camp to go to the store to buy food and what he needed. He noted, however, that his knees and his feet were in much pain after each trip. I told him that God had already answered the prayer. I offered to take him to the city and buy him a bicycle. Like a little boy being given his first bicycle, he was ecstatic. After our time of prayer, I said goodbye to everyone and took this man to go to the city centre. The plan was that I would buy the bicycle and, from there, I would take the train to my destination. He would then ride his new means of transportation back to the camp. He said he knew of a bicycle shop near the city centre which sold refurbished bicycles as well. He said, ‘What I am asking for does not have to be a brand-new bicycle, only something I can ride between the refugee camp and the city centre.’ As we walked out of the camp towards the bus stop to go to the city, a couple of hundred metres away, I saw a man on a bicycle; and from the distance, it appeared he was towing a second bicycle next to him. As he reached us, he stopped and asked if we knew where the refugee camp was. I pointed out to him the gates behind the treeline. He then said, ‘My son gave me this bicycle last Christmas. It has been sitting in my garage for months because I already have a bicycle which I like and it has many memories for me. This morning my wife and I were talking about our son’s gift and she said to me, “Why don’t you take the bicycle our son gave you for Christmas to the refugee camp and maybe the camp authorities can give it to one of the refugees in need of a bicycle? This will make God happy”.’ He said, ‘It is new. Never used before.’ And indeed, it was a beautiful and sturdy bicycle – much newer than the bicycle the elderly man was riding himself. I explained to him that, in fact, we were on our way to buy a bicycle for my friend and I explained the reason. He asked, ‘Are you Muslims?’ I answered, ‘No and yes. We are Muslim converts to the Christian faith. We are now followers of the Lord Jesus Christ.’ His eyes filled with tears, he countered, ‘I am too. I am too!’ He handed the bicycle to the man, said goodbye, turned around and left. My refugee friend was quite taken aback by this coincidence. However, I knew very well in my heart that this was no coincidence. The fingerprints of the Lord were all over it. He is an expert in ‘making coincidences’. He had orchestrated this meeting for our pleasure and his own, too! Every one of us, particularly those who are redeemed of our Lord, if we look carefully, will also see the footprints of the Saviour in all the alleyways of our lives! •

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BOOK REVIEWS It’s not too late – give a book this Christmas! BOOK OF THE MONTH THE GRAND TOUR ASIALINK (2022) I came to this book with no personal experience of Asia, and an embarrassing lack of knowledge. How much I was missing out on! The Grand Tour describes itself as a ‘90-day prayer journey across the continent of Asia’, and it didn’t disappoint. Written in the second person, this book is written as if you, the reader, are on a 90-day physical journey around many of the countries in Asia, so is immensely evocative of the landscape, culture and peoples you would encounter. This serves to draw the reader in and help them to really get a sense of the challenging environments that Christians in Asia often face, and the deep need they have for prayer and God’s intervention. Over and over again, I was struck by the stark hostility to the gospel that is a daily reality for faithful believers across Asia, and the fundamental lack of interest in Christianity. We in Scotland often talk about the opposition to Jesus we face here, and whilst this is true, the situation in many countries in Asia is much, much worse. Here, people living quiet Christian lives face daily peril for their beliefs, and the results can be harsh, swift and unforgiving. This kind of witness takes real courage and commitment, and is deeply reliant on prayer to make it possible. Challenging, inspirational and informative – this book has it all. Whether you are a novice to all things Asian (like me), or an experienced traveller, I would highly recommend starting 2024 with this prayer journey. • This book is available from 10ofthose.com Miriam Montgomery, Free Church Books

THE PERSON OF CHRIST ANDREW BONAR (REPUBLISHED) The author, Andrew Bonar (1810-1892) should need little introduction. He was a Free Church minister in Glasgow, younger brother of hymn writer Horatius Bonar and friend and biographer of Robert Murray M’Cheyne. In a nutshell, this book is largely about the person of Jesus Christ. It contains six chapters — first, the person of Jesus Christ himself. This is followed by an account of the Gospel from the Fall to the day of the apostles. Next the help that Jesus Christ brings to a seeker after salvation. Chapters 4 and 5 are about how looking to Jesus Christ brings about lasting peace and holiness in the soul, respectively. Finally, how looking to Jesus brings comfort for the believer at death and hope for the second coming of Christ. This book will benefit both the seasoned believer as well as the young Christian seeking assurance and the third chapter will help “enquirers” find the Saviour. For example, “The hospital, with its ample accommodation, and its stores of medicine and nourishment, and its supply of all that the sick, however many, can require, with access free to all, at every hour night or day, this is one thing — but how much better, when besides, we have

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the presence of the founder and Physician Himself, passing through every room — bending over every sick-bed — uttering words and beaming forth looks of sympathy. Would you commend the place, and forget the physician? And will the Holy Ghost commend the Saviour’s benefits, if thereby you are to be led to overlook Him?” (p. 29) There is something useful for those preparing sermons or talks and for those providing spiritual counsel for individuals. The book was written during the Victorian era so one has to navigate one's way through the slightly awkward sentence construction and maybe some big words. Also, the book was written in an era when society was largely biblically literate, so it presupposes a certain level of biblical knowledge. However, that should not deter us from reading this book but, quite the contrary, it should challenge us to read and plumb its spiritual depths. The reader will find this book very profitable. • This book is available from www.christianfocus.com Jenson Lim, Dunblane Free Church

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STORIES THAT SERVE ED MOLL (2022) Short, practical and engagingly written, Ed Moll's Stories That Serve is essential reading for preachers and speakers of God's word, but also holds value for anyone who hopes to be strengthened in their personal application of Scripture to life. Stories and analogies are key to how we grapple with ideas, so it's important to get them right. Moll quickly gets to the heart of what makes an effective sermon illustration. If you have heard enough bible talks, or perhaps even if you have delivered your fair share, you will be familiar with the effect of a weak story rolled out at the wrong moment. They can be distracting, lacking resonance with listeners and muddying the point. Moll, having tumbled into these pitfalls often himself, offers a structured approach for using illustrations which serve their purpose. Moll explains the different types of stories and helps us understand how they fit into the structure of a talk. He concisely addresses a comprehensive list of factors including humour and visual aids in teaching, the right balance of details in a story, making relevant Scriptural cross-references which faithfully elucidate the meaning, and pointers on how to find stories if you feel like you have none. The book has a helpful basis in Scripture, appealing to stories with a dramatic effect, such as Nathan's confrontation of David. Through well-chosen positive and negative examples, the book involves the reader with practical exercises which will get one thinking. Moll’s highly structured approach to biblical exposition may not resonate with all readers, yet his general principles will speak to any style. Ed Moll is considerate in his manner. He acknowledges the difficulty of communicating effectively in this medium, yet encourages the speaker to work hard at it because the potential effect will be worth it, serving the sermon rather than swallowing it. His clear desire is to see stories used in a way which will serve the audience as they come to God's word, giving understanding, transforming thinking, and prompting action. • This book is available from langhamliterature.org Stephen Horrocks-Birss, St Andrews Free Church

THE CHILD’S STORY BIBLE CATHERINE VOS (REPUBLISHED) I never usually write more than one review per issue of The Record, but I just had to share this book with you — give it for Christmas, and you’ll be giving a lasting gem. Not long after we became parents, my husband mentioned to me that he would love to get hold of Catherine Vos’ ‘children’s bible’ for our little one, as he had heard many good things about its biblical faithfulness, and its popularity when it was first published. Fast forward a few years, and we were delighted to see this new edition published by the Banner of Truth, and have been using it for the last few months. Our young one (now mid-primary age) has taken to it with relish, although he has been distinctly unimpressed by the repeated unfaithfulness of Israel’s kings! This Story Bible is detailed and extremely wellwritten. I must confess that my household is fussy about children’s bibles – either they only feature the same few stories, leaving gaping holes in children’s bible knowledge, or they make every single story too simply and directly about Jesus, thus missing the chance to help children understand the breadth, depth and length of God’s faithfulness to his chosen people in the Old Testament, and the nuance of how this was wonderfully fulfilled and completed in the New. Please don’t misunderstand me — the story of the Old Testament is the story of Jesus. But I believe it is

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important for children to understand the stories of the prophets, judges and the exile in the context they were written in and for too. Catherine Vos’ Story Bible clears these hurdles with grace. The text is full of nuance and doesn’t shy away from the ugly truths. But it is also deft in helping the reader to understand how the Old Testament arc points forward to our Saviour, without taking away from the direct context of these narratives. My one note of caution with this Bible is that I don’t agree with the advertised age recommendations (“suitable to be read to children aged 3+, and read by children aged 7+ by themselves”). If you want the child to be mature enough to understand the stories, I would say they should be at least 5, and even then parental guidance is vital. As I said, this Bible presents the unvarnished truth, including heathen child sacrifice. However gently these are presented, they could be traumatising for children who are too young to understand the complex context. And yet, this Bible is undoubtedly aimed at those with a young/ simple faith, and many older children or adults could benefit from its use. At the right age, and in the right context, however, I wholeheartedly recommend this Story Bible. It is moving, faithful and a real encouragement. • This book is available to purchase from banneroftruth. org/uk/store/ Miriam Montgomery, Free Church Books

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MISSION MATTERS A monthly take on some of the mission work the Free Church is involved in by our Mission Director, DAVID MEREDITH

ave you seen the tesco christmas advert? In

and the shepherds were by their first meetings with the God-child Jesus. My point: let us avoid the vacuous Christmas of the liberal with their demythologised Christ who is incapable of performing miracles and whose only challenge is the alleviation of poverty and the demonising of the internal combustion engine. I’m not suggesting that poverty or the environment is inconsequential but it is not the primary reason for the season. His name was to be Jesus ‘because he will save his people from their sins.’ Our song and primary message is:

a word, it’s about the transformative power of the season. Dad takes a sample cake from his local Tesco and immediately embraces the whole experience to the point that he morphs into a Christmas tree. The son, whist initially embarrassed, is drawn into the whole experience to the point that he too begins growing branches. Christmas can transform! Talk show host Larry King says his fantasy interview would be with Jesus Christ. “I would ask him if he believed that he was born of virgin birth, because whatever the answer is changes or reinforces the world,” King said in an interview in People magazine in 1990. The Free Church of my childhood missed huge evangelistic opportunities in its ambivalence towards Christmas. Like 99% of my co-religionists I tucked into turkey and the trimmings and welcomed my new bright orange Chopper, my dream present. However, the official line was that it was a Romanist construction to be ignored at worst and to be boycotted at best. Even when the day landed on a Sunday it was not unusual to get a sermon which steered well away from the incarnation or any hint thereof. Yes, the Free Kirk was like Narnia where it was winter but never Christmas. What a wonderful difference these days when many of our churches hold carol services and follow the incarnation theme through the four Sundays of advent. Grasp the power of a sermon which unpacks the implications of God born of a virgin proclaimed by a minister who not only believes in it but lives by it. Consider a church where real angels are not only believed in but welcomed and entertained. Imagine the sense of expectancy of prayer meetings packed with people who believe that the people in their communities can be changed in the same way as the wise men

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Hark! The herald angels sing, Peace on earth, and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled!” What an opportunity for Christians to speak about the events of Bethlehem which are so significant that they mark the beginning of our calendar. We don’t live in a common era but in the year of our Lord. We also point out the sheer ridiculousness of the attempt to reconstruct a Christmas without Christ. We think of the hapless bureaucrat who came up with the phrase ‘winter closure period’, lest people of other faiths are offended. We have many friends of other religious traditions and have never met one yet who is offended by the term. A good discussion starter may be: why is Jesus so offensive? Our world is broken, there are wars and rumours of wars. Go big and testify to your family and friends that we must follow the one who alone can ‘shine on those living in darkness’ and ‘guide our feet into the path of peace.’ Revel in the feast of Christ and may the light of the world dispel the darkness in your life and in our wonderful world. •

DECEMBER /JANUARY

POETRY PAGE HARK! THE HERALD ANGELS SING CHARLES WESLEY/GEORGE WHITEFIELD Hark! The herald-angels sing “Glory to the newborn king; Peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled” Joyful all ye nations rise, join the triumph of the skies With the angelic host proclaim “Christ is born in Bethlehem” Hark! The herald-angels sing “Glory to the new-born king”. Christ, by highest Heav’n adored; Christ the everlasting Lord; Late in time, behold Him come, offspring of a virgin’s womb. Veiled in flesh the Godhead see; hail th’incarnate Deity, Pleased with us in flesh to dwell, Jesus our Emmanuel. Hark! The herald-angels sing “Glory to the new-born king”. Hail the heav’nly Prince of Peace! Hail the Sun of Righteousness! Light and life to all He brings, ris’n with healing in His wings. Mild He lays His glory by, born that man no more may die; Born to raise the sons of earth, born to give them second birth. Hark! The herald-angels sing “Glory to the new-born king”. Come, Desire of nations, come, fix in us Thy humble home;

Rise, the woman’s conqu’ring Seed, bruise in us the serpent’s head. Now display Thy saving pow’r, ruined nature now restore; Now in mystic union join Thine to ours, and ours to Thine. Hark! The herald-angels sing “Glory to the new-born king”.

A brief history of a famous carol In 1739 Charles Wesley wrote a poem titled “Hymn for Christmas-Day” based on the biblical account of the angels announcing the birth of Jesus in Luke 2:14. In 1754, George Whitefield, a friend and colleague of Wesley, made some changes to the words and published them in his Collection of Hymns for Social Worship. In 1782, another version of the lyrics appeared in the Tate and Brady New Version of the Psalms of David. This version repeated the chorus at the end of each verse, as it is commonly sung today. In 1840, Felix Mendelssohn wrote a cantata to celebrate the invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg. The cantata included a tune called “Vaterland, in deinen Gauen”, which was adapted by William H Cummings in 1855 to fit the version of the lyrics that Whitefield had published. This combination of music and lyrics is now sung by people all over the world to celebrate the birth of Christ. •

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Children’s Page. Welcome to our new and some games

ory verse, e a Bible story, mem ud cl in ll e’ w e su l way, to is ch Ea We hope, in this smal . rs be em m r ge un yo to inspire you, our church and your faith. ur yo t ou ab e or m n encourage you to lear READ FURTHER: verses 1-7 of Luke 2 tell more of the circumstances of Jesus’ birth, and chapters 1 and 2 of Matthew tell us about Jesus’ family, and about a visit from important people.

LUKE 2: 8-20

And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.

There are also many verses in the Old Testament that foretell the coming of our Saviour. These include Genesis 3 and 12; Isaiah 7 and 9; and Micah 5.

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Emmanuel Christ Saviour Prince of Peace Good Shepherd

MEMOR Y VERSE For t

o us a c hild is b is given orn, to ; and th us a son e g o v ernmen his shou t shall b lder, an e upon d his na Wonderf m e ul Couns shall be ellor, M c a lled ighty Go Father, d, Everla Prince o sting f Peace . Isaiah 9 :6

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Làmhan falamh (Empty hands) LE JANET NICPHÀIL

hig sinn gu deireadh na bliadhna, mar a tha sinn a'

tighinn aig gach àm den bhliadhna, le làmhan falamh,

agus sinn gan sìneadh suas ri Cruthaidhear, ag aideachadh nach eil nì againne ri thoirt Dha, ach na bheir E Fhèin dhuinn. Nach tuirt an Salmadair seo o chionn fhada? ´Mo làmhan shìn mi Riutsa suas; an geall tha m'anam ort, Amhlaidh mar bhios fearann cruaidh air tiormachadh le tart.' Nuair a thig Esan le làthaireachd agus le bheannachd, bidh uisge beò a'tighinn thugainn. Nì seo ùrachadh do gach Crìosdaidh. Is e seo a'chiad rann de bhàrdachd a chaidh a sgrìobhadh o chionn trì bliadhna deug, an-dèidh Coinneimh Mhìos ann an Siabost, agus b'e an t-Urramach Calum Macleòid a bha na mhinistear againn, a bha a' searmonachadh. Rinn talamh tioram gàirdeachas 's le ball-chrith rinn e ceòl, nuair thàinig uisg' a-nuas o nèamh thug fàs air iomadh pòr. Rinn sluagh bha marbh deagh aoibhneas 's abair gun d'rinn iad ceòl, 's Iehòbhah air am beannachadh a' toirt dhaibh uisge beò.

Nach e seo an t-uisg' air an do bhruidhinn Criosd aig tobar Iàcoib, agus E a' bruidhinn ri bean o Shamaria, agus nach e seo an t-uisg' air am bheil sinn a' cur feum?

Bha oidhche shònraicht' againn ann an Siabost aig deireadh an Dàmhair, 's sinn a' comharrachadh gu robh ar teachdaire a'leigeil dheth uallach coitheanail, an-dèidh fichead bliadhna 's a trì mar mhinistear ann an Siabost. B’e an t-Urramach Calum Dòmhnallach, ministear Chalanais, a bha os cionn chùisean. Bhruidhinn càirdean agus dàimhean, agus bha nithean càilear ullaicht' le buidheann às a' choitheanal. Bha sinn duilich a bhith a' leigeil beannachd leotha nan dithis, an-dèidh an dìlseachd thar nam bliadhnaichean, ach cuideachd, bha sinn taingeil gu robh obair roimhe fhathast, agus e air ainmeachadh mar Mhoderàtor na h-Eaglais' an ath bhliadhna. Dh'iarradh sinn iomadh latha le deagh shlaint' a bhith aca, agus tha sinn cinnteach gum bi toradh air sìol na Rìoghachd a chaidh a chur le dìlseachd. Tha sinn a' guidhe gach beannachd dor leughadairean air fad anns a' bhliadhn' ùr a th'air thoiseach oirnn'. Ged a thigeadh sinn aig bliadhn' ùr eile le làmhan falamh, is e ar guidhe gum bi A bheannachd-san a' lìonadh gach beatha le sàsachadh, agus le toileachas, mar a lorgas sinn ann an Leabhar Rut. •

Dh'iarradh sinn a' bheannachd-sa do gach ministear a th'air an suidheachadh às ùr ann an coitheanalan air tìr mòr. Ged nach aithnich sinn iad, tha sinn a' guidhe gum bi soirbheachadh leotha. Gu dearbh, is e seo ar n-ùrnaigh do gach teachdaire dìleas, g'e b'e càit' a bheil iad air an suidheachadh, anns an rìoghachd-sa no thall thairis. Tha iadsan air an gairm gu bhith a' cur an t-sìl. Bheir seo nar cuimhne gur e obair chruaidh a tha seo. Tha an t-Earrach fuar, agus glè thric tha gach nì nar n-aghaidh, aig an àm-sa den bhliadhna. Mar sin, is e obair shàraicht' a th'aig fear-cur. Feumaidh e cumail air, a dh'aindheoin gach nì a bhiodh na bhacadh dha. Ged a tha seo gu lèir fìor, nuair a thig na chaidh a chur fo bhlàth, 's a bhios toradh ri fhaicinn, abair gu bheil seo a' dèanamh ceum an fhir-chur sunndach. Is e an Cruthaidhear Fhèin a bheir fàs air sìol na Rìoghachd; chan eil seo air fhàgail aig duine. Is e an Spiorad a bheothaicheas, agus is e nì prìseil a th'ann a bhith a' faicinn toradh, ach, eadar gu faic duin' e no nach fhaic, bidh toradh ann, oir,´cha till Fhacal a dh'ionnsaigh a' Chruthaidheir gun tairbhe.' Nach math sin?

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BY CATRIONA MURRAY

POST TENEBRAS LUX

a problem for the gathered church at any time. Most churches are predicated on a desire for people to be together in large numbers, and to have fellowship as frequently as possible. For many introverts, this is a daunting and even overwhelming prospect. Before anyone gets the urge to email me, I should explain something: I know that church isn’t about me, or how I feel. I am not looking for everyone else to change to make me feel comfortable. There’s quite enough of that in modern society already. Nor should I use my introversion as an excuse for not serving Christ. But I would like us, as a church, to consider that introverts are among us. Perhaps they watch online because coming into a big building full of people is scary. It may be that they don’t have a buddy, and are daunted by turning up to things alone in a place filled with friend groups, couples and families. Maybe they ARE serving Christ, but not via any ‘official’ programme of activities. I don’t personally enjoy ladling out soup, or spending my weekend teaching children, but I pray, and I write. These things are not part of congregational activities, but they ARE part of what I think God has given introverted me to do. It’s possible for Christians to be introverted, but to still play a part. Some of them will remain followers from afar, but followers nonetheless. We have to be careful as a church not to crush such people by telling them they MUST attend, they MUST join, they MUST serve in this particular way. God called them — and he will find a way to use them in the service of his kingdom. It had been said by Tim Keller, amongst others, that church is not a showroom for saints, but a hospital for sinners. We are all a work in progress — the confident, sociable Christians are loved; but so too are the quiet, introspective ones. We are, quite literally, a broad church: men, women, children, teenagers, the elderly, couples, single people, widows and widowers, the employed and unemployed, retired people and business owners, the ill and those blessed with good health, the extroverts and the introverts. All God’s creatures have a place in the heavenly choir. •

robably one of the most iconic christmas scenes in literature is charles dickens ’ s evocation

of fezziwig ’ s party for his employees . Or is it the March girls, sallying forth to visit their less fortunate neighbours, bringing their own breakfast as a gift? Maybe it’s neither of those. Instead, it might be from ‘Hercule Poirot’s Christmas’, where the eponymous detective spends yet another holiday in a country mansion, filled to the brim with people he barely knows. In all likelihood, it’ll be a scene involving multitudes and socialising — as though the entire purpose of the season is never to spend a single moment alone, or in silence. That, to introverts like me, is the stuff of nightmares. But we seem to live in a world that is not built with people like us in mind. If introverts are mentioned at all it’s in terms of what is wrong with us, and how we might be ‘cured’ of the malady that ails us. Recently, I saw a meme on social media that said something like, ‘Just for a change, wouldn’t it be nice to read an article about the trouble with extroverts, and how we can get them to be quiet and calm down’. Yes. Yes, it would. Being introverted does not mean that I don’t like people. It simply means that I am drained rather than energised by interacting with others and that, after so much of it, I need to be by myself for a while. Back in the day I’d have been called ‘neònach’ (peculiar). Who knows — perhaps I still am! I love being able to have a real conversation with one or two others; I do not love being in a room filled with extraneous noise. My idea of a good time is certainly not being surrounded by a whole lot of strangers, and I don’t think that is as unusual a position as society likes to suggest. Introverts currently account for anything between twenty-five and forty per cent of the population, yet introversion remains a widely misunderstood personality trait. It tends to be written off as shyness and something that folk have to ‘get over’. The reality is, however, that we simply lean towards a desire for solitude to survive. And that is a problem during such a sociable season of the year. More concerning, it can be

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DECEMBER /JANUARY

The Record - December/January 2024

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