Notices
True Freedom - Modern Slavery Course - starts on 16 September
The World Council of Churches and the Clewer Initiative have designed a resource to enable churches and individuals to learn more about modern slavery and to begin to take action against it.
The Political and Social Engagement subcommittee of Presbytery's Church Society and International Committee are providing an opportunity to use these materials in a series of online meetings. We very much encourage you to join us and to invite friends from your congregation and other local churches to participate. We will be contacting other denominations but feel that a personal invitation often works best.
We are especially pleased that on one occasion Fiona Kendall, our Presbytery Mission Partner, is joining us from Rome to speak about Mediterranean Hope.
Feel free to download the poster for your churches here(opens in new tab).
The horizontal version for your Sunday intimation loops is here(opens in new tab).
Please advertise this course!
To give us a Scottish perspective we have also arranged an opportunity to hear from Joy Gillespie, the Chief Executive Officer of SOHTIS (Survivors of Human Trafficking in Scotland(opens in new tab)). SOHTIS works to rescue and support victims of human trafficking in Scotland and to bring about systemic change.
Come along to
Fountainhall Church at the Cross in Aberdeen
or JOIN US ONLINE
10.00am to 12 noon SATURDAY 24TH OCTOBER
(Tea and Coffee available from 9.30am)
This is an important opportunity to hear directly from SOHTIS. Please invite anyone who you think might be interested.
If you are intending to join us in Aberdeen or need the online link, please email Mary Cranfield at
Christian Aid Update
Harvest of Hope – South Sudan
The climate crisis is making it harder than ever for families to grow food. In countries like South Sudan, flooding and unpredictable seasons are destroying harvests, leaving farming families struggling to feed their children.
But hope is growing.
This Harvest, your church can stand in solidarity with farming communities protecting their land, strengthening their livelihoods and planting seeds of hope for the future. Find out how you can be part of this call to Give, Act, Pray for South Sudan
We also have a Christian Aid Harvest Messy Church resource. Explore how God call us to be stewards to those around us and how harvest is about abundant sharing and giving.
Read more in the August Newsletter(opens in new tab) from Christian Aid.
News from Church of Scotland Learning Platform
Download the newsletter here(opens in new tab).
Invitation to Contribute for History Buffs
The Scottish Local History Forum want contributions about stories relating to Scotland’s churches.
If you have any history buffs in your congregations who would like to share grass roots stories relating to individual churches, their people or the historic events they were involved in are especially interesting, please get them to contact Jan Polley jpolley@blueyonder.co.uk(opens in new tab).
They need to know who would like to contribute and on what in the next few weeks. Final deadline for submissions is in October.
More information can be found here(opens in new tab).
Church of Scotland Learning - Presbytery Connect - 29 September
We're inviting you to join Presbytery Connect, an online gathering for key Presbytery contacts with Church of Scotland Learning.
Register for the Live Event Here: https://church-of-scotland-learning.circle.so/c/events/presbytery-connect-e1e7929c-121a-4073-addd-08a4e2e552f2(opens in new tab)
Presbytery Connect is an opportunity to share what's happening locally, influence how we support Presbyteries, and connect with others facing similar opportunities and challenges.
Specifically, we will be exploring:
- Support & Training: What resources, training and support would make the biggest difference in your context?
- Local Partnership: How can we better champion and strengthen the training already happening in Presbyteries?
- Sharing Ideas: What can we learn from one another and how can we make it easier to share resources and good practice?
The conversation will help shape how the Learning Team supports Presbyteries in the months ahead. Whether you have ideas to contribute or simply want to hear what others are sharing, we'd love you to be part of the conversation.
Presbytery Connect
Tuesday 29th September, 7.30-8.30pm
Online via Church of Scotland Learning
Reserve your place today: https://church-of-scotland-learning.circle.so/c/events/presbytery-connect-e1e7929c-121a-4073-addd-08a4e2e552f2(opens in new tab)
Webinar - Charities SORP 2026: Preparing for Change - 17 September
On Zoom 7.30pm - 8.45pm
The new Charities SORP 2026 introduces significant changes to charity accounting and reporting for organisations preparing accruals accounts. (Please note that these changes do not apply to congregations preparing receipts and payments accounts.)
While the SORP introduces a number of technical accounting changes, its most significant message is that charities must do more to explain what they do, the difference they make, and how their resources support their mission. The new framework places greater emphasis on impact reporting, governance, sustainability and telling the charity's story through the Trustees' Annual Report.
The Stewardship Team is hosting a webinar to explore what the new requirements mean for Church of Scotland congregations and the steps trustees can take now to prepare. Emma Marshall, Deputy Treasurer, will be guiding us through a presentation and then taking questions.
What you'll learn
- How SORP 2026 affects your congregation and what the implementation timetable looks like.
- What the new reporting framework means in practice for congregations preparing accruals accounts.
- Which accounting changes trustees and treasurers need to be aware of.
- How to demonstrate the impact of your congregation's work more effectively.
- Ways to recognise the contribution of volunteers and other non-financial resources.
- Steps you can take now to make the transition smoother.
We will also explore how stronger reporting can support stewardship, strengthen funding applications and help congregations communicate their mission more effectively.
The session is primarily aimed at treasurers, session clerks and other trustees in congregations where accruals accounts are produced, but is open to anyone else with an interest in the topic.
Please register to attend here: Charity SORP 2026 Webinar Registration - Eventbrite(opens in new tab)
A recording of the webinar will be made available on YouTube shortly after the live event. All registered participants will receive that link and any related handouts.
If you need to get in touch with the stewardship team about this event or for stewardship related support, please email us at stewardship@churchofscotland.org.uk.
For the wider Stewardship and Finance Department, including the congregational finance team, please use the email address sfadmin@churchofscotland.org.uk.
Sharing Jesus - Teen Workshop - 29 August
Hosted by Holy Generation
Sat 29 Aug, 1:30–5pm, Jesus House Aberdeen
✅ Gain real confidence to share your faith
✅ Get answers to the most challenging questions your mates ask about your Christian faith
✅ A hands-on, non-boring afternoon (worship, activities, games!)
Pre-booking essential — here(opens in new tab).
'Speyside Way Plus' - Christian Aid Fundraiser
Anne-Marie Simpson and her grandson Benjamin are doing another challenge to fundraise for Christian Aid.
This time, it's 98 miles of hiking - first along the Speyside Way from Newtonmore to Buckie and then following the Fishwives' Path from Buckie back to their home in Keith.
They're doing the challenge in stages and they walked the first leg last week. You can see a little report from it here:
https://www.justgiving.com/page/anne-marie-simpson-2?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL
If you want to join them, please email AMSimpson@churchofscotland.org.uk
Celebrating Calling 2026 - Paisley, 3 October
You can reserve your place by emailing: ministry@churchofscotland.org.uk
Feel free to download the poster for distribution here.
Withdrawal Act - CofS Summary
You may already be aware that legislation governing certain aspects of Religious and Moral Education and Religious Observance/Time for Reflection were amended in April this year.
The Act is known as the “Children (Withdrawal from Religious Education and Amendment of UNCRC Compatibility Duty) (Scotland) Act” and it received Royal Assent on 2 April 2026.
The changes in direction, and potential further changes, indicated by this Act will be of interest to the Church in general and to those who work in schools in particular.
We trust that the summary of this Act will be helpful to you.
Safeguarding Training
| Trainer(s) | Anne Shirran |
| Date & Time | 22 September 2026, 7pm-9.30pm |
| Type of Training | Introductory training |
| Venue | New Deer St. Kanes Church Centre, 1 Fordyce Terrace, New Deer, Aberdeenshire Scotland, AB53 6WE |
| Presbytery Contact | anne.shirran@btinternet.com(opens in new tab) |
| Trainer(s) | Anne Shirran |
| Date & Time | 24th October, 10am-12.30pm |
| Type of Training | Introductory training |
| Venue | Ellon Kirk Centre, 4 Station Road, Ellon. AB41 9AE |
| Presbytery Contact | anne.shirran@btinternet.com(opens in new tab) |
| Trainer(s) | Anne Shirran |
| Date & Time | 24th October, 1.30pm-4pm |
| Type of Training | Advanced training course for Safeguarding Coordinators, and Safeguarding Panel members |
| Venue | Ellon Kirk Centre, 4 Station Road, Ellon. AB41 9AE |
| Presbytery Contact | anne.shirran@btinternet.com(opens in new tab) |
| Trainer(s) | Anne Shirran |
| Date & Time | 31st October, 10am-12.30pm |
| Type of Training | Trustee training |
| Venue | Ellon Kirk Centre, 4 Station Road, Ellon. AB41 9AE |
| Presbytery Contact | anne.shirran@btinternet.com(opens in new tab) |
Special Gathering for CofS Ministers - Perth, 23 September
The Evangelical Alliance in Scotland warmly invites ministers serving in the Church of Scotland to a special gathering of encouragement, fellowship and prayer.
This is an opportunity to connect with fellow leaders from across the Church of Scotland, share the joys and challenges of ministry and be refreshed through worship, prayer and teaching. We are delighted that the Moderator of the General Assembly, the Right Reverend Gordon Kennedy, will be joining us and sharing from God’s word during our gathering.
Alongside worship and fellowship, we will also take time to reflect on how the Evangelical Alliance in Scotland can best serve and support ministers within the Church of Scotland in the years ahead. We are passionate about strengthening relationships, encouraging unity and helping to cultivate a confident, Christ-centred witness across Scotland.
Event details
- Wednesday 23 September
- 9.30am – 2pm (lunch included)
- Letham St Mark’s Church, Perth
Arrival and coffee will be from 9:30am, with the programme running from 10am until 2pm, which includes lunch. For catering purposes, please sign in via this link, letting us know of any allergies or dietary requirements before the 18th September.
Lights for the Lectern Needed
Shapinsay, Orkney Islands Church of Scotland, are searching for lights that could possibly be attached to the lectern. If you've got some spare (maybe from a building that's closing?), please get in touch with the minister, Rev Julia Meason, JMeason@churchofscotland.org.uk(opens in new tab).
SOGPs Available
At Royal Cornhill Spiritual Care Department, we have about 20 SOGPs
They are in varied sates: new to well thumbed.
If you would like these please get in touch to arrange pick up:
Pamela Adam, Healthcare Chaplain pam.adam@nhs.scot
Eco-Congregation Scotland's new website
As some people will be looking ahead to September/October, we have been asked to draw Presbytery's attention to Eco-Congregation Scotland's new Season of Creation webpage for 2026:
https://ecocongregationscotland.org/resources/season-of-creation-2026/
Eco-Congregation Scotland's Eco-Chaplain David Coleman (with others) has created a diverse range of materials, with notes/prayers, major video reflections, short versions, and some location video readings, as well as global links and poems etc. The thematic side will continue to grow in the next few weeks.
Here are some aspects that David highlights:
Poetry page (developing):
https://ecocongregationscotland.org/poetry-2026-season/
Video Trailer - mostly for the sermon-slot videos:
https://vimeo.com/1208499367
Chaplaincy ethos:
https://vimeo.com/1209625705
Request for Help – Ukrainian Student Looking for a Sponsor
We have received the following message and attachment from a Ukrainian Student looking to come to Aberdeen:
Dear Sir or Madam,
I hope this message finds you well.
My name is Alina Lytvynenko. I am a Ukrainian student, and I am writing with hope that your organisation may be able to offer advice or help.
I lived in Ukraine until the full-scale war forced me to leave my home. Since then, I have been living in Slovakia under a student residence permit, where I have successfully completed two years of my Bachelor's degree in Applied Biology.
Recently, I received an offer to transfer directly into the third year of the BSc Biological Sciences programme at the University of Aberdeen. This opportunity means a great deal to me. My dream is to complete my education, build a career in biological sciences, and one day contribute through research and education.
Unfortunately, before I can begin my studies in Scotland, I need to find a sponsor through the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme.
I completely understand that becoming a sponsor is a significant commitment, and I am not writing with the expectation that your organisation itself can provide sponsorship. However, I wondered whether you might know someone within your community who would consider sponsoring a Ukrainian student, or whether you could share my request with your members or anyone who may be willing to help.
A little about me: I am 20 years old, responsible, hardworking and independent. During my studies I have always tried to achieve excellent academic results, and I am deeply passionate about biology. I speak Ukrainian, Slovak and English, and I adapt quickly to new environments. I have lived independently for several years and understand the responsibilities that come with it.
If someone from your community would like to know more about me, I would be very happy to introduce myself, provide documents confirming my university offer and current studies, answer any questions, or arrange a video call.
Even if sponsorship is not possible, I would sincerely appreciate any advice, recommendations, or if you could kindly forward my message to anyone who might be able to help.
Thank you very much for taking the time to read my letter. I truly appreciate your kindness, compassion and any support you may be able to offer.
With gratitude and best wishes,
Alina Lytvynenko
Request for Help – Palestinian Student Looking for Assistance
We have received the following message from a Palestinian Student looking to come to Aberdeen:
My name is Anas Abo Safia, a Palestinian student from Gaza, and I have received an offer to study MSc Information Technology at the University of Aberdeen, beginning in January 2027.
After several extremely difficult years of war, displacement, and disruption to my education in Gaza, I am now trying to secure the financial support necessary to make it possible for me to continue my studies in Aberdeen.
I am reaching out to the Presbytery because of its connection with churches and Christian communities across Aberdeen and the wider North East of Scotland. I would be deeply grateful if you could consider my situation and advise whether there may be any churches, congregations, charitable groups, community members, donors, or other organisations within your network that might be willing to support or guide a student facing exceptional circumstances.
I completely understand that the Presbytery itself may not be able to provide direct financial assistance. Even a referral, introduction, or help in connecting me with a suitable congregation or organisation would mean a great deal to me.
I have also created a fundraising campaign to help support my studies. If you felt it appropriate to share my story and fundraising campaign with churches or members of your wider community, this could make a significant difference to my situation and bring me closer to achieving my dream of continuing my education and building a better future.
If helpful, I would also be happy to provide my WhatsApp number so that we can communicate more easily.
Thank you sincerely for taking the time to consider my situation. Any support, guidance, referral, or help in sharing my story would be deeply appreciated.
Kind regards,
Anas Abo Safia
Kingshill Parish Church
We are currently investigating the possibility of installing a short throw projector into one of our church buildings.
We would be interested to hear from any congregation who have already done so and perhaps, if possible, arrange a visit to see it in action.
If you feel that you can help, please get in touch with our property convener John Ritchie: rjohngr@btinternet.com or telephone 01224 742597
Resources
Autumn Retreats at the Caim - 3 Oct & 6 Oct
As Autumn gathers around us and the earth begins its quiet turning inward, you are invited into a different rhythm and way of being - Retreats at the Caim.
For everyone: https://thecaim.uk/duthchas-autumn-retreat/(opens in new tab)
For those in full-time ministry: https://thecaim.uk/retreats/(opens in new tab)
or email: thecaimfield@gmail.comens in new tab)
(opens in new tab)
https://thecaim.uk/retreats/https://thecaim.uk/retreats/(opens in new tab)
(opens in new tab)
Counselling Education and Training
The Institute of Counselling is a Christian based, independent, educational body committed to promoting counselling and pastoral care. All our courses are modular and available by distance/on-line learning on a part time basis.
The Institute of Counselling has the following mission:
To provide a high level of counselling education and training through tutor-supported online and distance learning in a manner which sustains and develops both practical counselling skills and theoretical knowledge, within a Christian context.
The specific aims of the Institute include:
- provision of high quality training
- development of counselling skills
- production of training material for the caring professions and the voluntary sector
- provision of counselling services for individuals and groups
The Institute is committed to providing counselling and therapy skills training to all who will benefit from the courses. On this basis a non-discriminatory policy applies with regard to students’ background, culture, ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, age or creed.
Please see attached Prospectus for more details.
Institute is offering 20% off the course fees of selected courses, including Course Instalment plans (listed on our website).
You can enrol for these courses through the webpage on our website https://www.instituteofcounselling.org.uk/
or over the telephone on 0141 204 2230
or send us an email to admin@instituteofcounselling.ac.uk
See the Institute's prospectus(opens in new tab) for more information.
Invitation to use the Retreat Association Icon
During the month of October, King’s College Chapel will be hosting the Retreat Association Icon. This icon depicts the story of Jesus meeting the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:1–42).
You can find more information, along with some helpful resources for reflection and worship, here: Retreat Association Icon | The Retreat Association.
While the icon is with us, we would be delighted to welcome local congregations and communities who might like to hold a service or event in the Chapel using the icon. There would be no charge for use of the space.
If this is something you or your community might be interested in, contact:
Rev Marylee Anderson, Chaplain, University of Aberdeen Multi-faith Chaplaincy
m.anderson@abdn.ac.uk
IWA Collaborative Remissioning Collective - starting this September
Iwa are inviting Church of Scotland leaders to be part of this upcoming Remissioning Collective. Ascend are also keen to draw lessons from this partnership in order to share learning with the wider church. For the Collective to go ahead, we need a minimum of 10 leaders to sign up.
Iwa have been working closely with Ascend to be recognised as a training pathway, and the Scotland-based Collective will run from September 2026 to April 2027. Because of this recognition, participants can use their Study Leave Allowance and may also apply to Seeds for Growth Level 1 Grant funding to offset the course fees (even if you’ve had a Level 1 grant before, or even currently!).
More information can be found here.
Also, feel free to download the full information pack.
Registration is available via this Google Form:
2026 Registration - Google Forms
You do not need to have gathered or paid the full amount before starting. A deposit of around £500–£1,000, depending on circumstances, is workable, and you can simply have a conversation with Ben at Iwa to explore what is possible. He is very friendly and helpful: ben@iwacollaborative.com
Please feel free to contact Rev Scott Burton (scott.burton@churchofscotland.org.uk) if you would like help thinking through the funding, registration, or whether the Collective might be a good fit for you.
Disability Awareness Sunday Pack
The theme this year is 'One body, many parts', based on 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, showing that we are all part of the body of Christ, the Church.
We have two short videos available for churches featuring Triona Brading, a young autistic Christian, giving a greater understanding of autism and neurodiversity and how we all have an essential part to play in the body of Christ.
A free pack is available including the videos, Bible reading, prayers, activity ideas, suggested hymns and songs, and notes for speakers.
The date for Disability Awareness Sunday is 27th September, but churches can use this material on any Sunday at all. The important thing is to spread the message of welcome and inclusion for disabled people in our churches.
Follow the link to request the free pack: https://throughtheroof.org/forchurches/disability-awareness-sunday/(opens in new tab)
Vacancies
Board of Directors - Jerusalem
Become a member of the Board of Directors, and bring your time and talents to support the Church of Scotland in the Holy Land.
As a member of the Board of Directors of St Andrew’s Scottish Centre Ltd, you will play a crucial role in overseeing the strategic direction and mission fulfilment of the Scots House Hotel (hereafter ‘Hotel’).
Your responsibilities will include ensuring the Hotel operates on a stable and profitable financial basis and contributes positively to local communities and tourism while reflecting Christian values. The role of the Board is clearly defined in the Church of Scotland’s Israel Palestine Committee Scheme of Delegation, which can be made available on request.
We are looking for people with relevant skills who feel called to become involved.
Please see the full recruitment pack here.
Children and Youth Outreach Worker - Aberdeen Hillside
Title of Post: Children and Youth Outreach Worker
Purpose of Post: To develop and lead children’s and youth ministry within Aberdeen Hillside Parish Church actively supporting efforts in internal and external church communications.
Main Duties
• As a member of the Ministry Team and working in co-operation with the minister and team colleagues:
• Children’s and Youth Ministry
• Develop and lead engaging programmes for children and young people, including Sunday activities,midweek gatherings, and seasonal events.
• Build relationships with families and young people, encouraging participation and spiritual growth.
• Support and train volunteers involved in children’s and youth ministry.
• Collaborate with local schools and chaplaincy teams to extend outreach.
• Explore creative initiatives such as mindfulness sessions, sports-based outreach, and international cuisine nights.
Terms and Conditions
• Salary is based on the MDS scale of £30,274 - £34,224 per annum. This is the full-time salary scale and actual salary will be pro rata to 0.5 FTE.
• Normal hours of work will be 18.75 hours per week.
For full job description go here.
Intergenerational Mission Worker - Mannofield Church, Aberdeen
Mannofield Church, Aberdeen is hiring for the position of an Intergenerational Mission Worker (Initial Fixed Term – 2 years).
Are you passionate about community, faith, and helping all ages flourish together?
Mannofield Church, Aberdeen is looking for a creative, relational Intergenerational Mission Worker to help us grow as a vibrant, welcoming, multi generational congregation at the heart of Aberdeen’s West End.
What you’ll do:
• Build connections with families, young people & older adults
• Support worship & faith formation
• Strengthen community engagement
• Help us grow digital ministry
• Be part of a warm, outward looking church family
What we are looking for:
A committed Christian with experience in children/youth/intergenerational ministry, a heart for mission, and the creativity to help us grow.
Hours: 37.5 (or as agreed)
Salary: Competitive (aligned with similar church/community roles)
More details, and details of how to apply can be found here:
Vacancy: Intergenerational Mission Worker – Mannofield Parish Church
Locum for Banchory Ternan East
Banchory Ternan East are looking for a locum for their charge who will assist with worship, pastoral visiting and funerals.
Please email Mike Jamieson (Session Clerk) or Tony Stephen (Interim Moderator) for details.
Congregation Leader for Stockethill Family Church
Stockethill Church of Scotland, Aberdeen, are seeking a Congregation Leader for their emerging Family Church congregation. The successful candidate will do the work of a pastor-teacher, evangelist and leader within the context of a small church plant aimed primarily at young families in a diverse neighbourhood. They will have the opportunity to build on successful ministry and to be creative in their approach to discipling adults and children with little or no church back ground whilst forming a church community. As part of the wider Stockethill Church family, they will work with committed volunteers and a supportive church leadership.
This is a three-year full-time post (with the possibility of extending) with a starting salary of £32,251 p/a, funded by the Church of Scotland’s Seeds for Growth Fund and the Presbytery of the North East and Northern Isles.
For more information and an application pack, please contact Rev Ian Aitken at iaitken@churchofscotland.org.uk to whom informal enquiries can also be made.
The application pack is also available to download at www.stockethillchurch.org.uk
Closing date for applications is 7th September 2026
Locum for Mortlach and Rothes
Mortlach Church, Dufftown is praying for a locum beginning September, if possible. Could you be looking for a Sunday home leading worship? Please contact Catherine Morgan (Session Clerk) heilanhame@hotmail.com or Amy Bender (IM) Abender@churchofscotland.org.uk for details or queries.
Parish Assistant/Deacon - Aberdeen Hillside
Aberdeen Hillside Parish Church are looking to hire a Parish Assistant/Deacon to assist the minister in outreach, pastoral care and social work in the busy charge, as they continue to build their community since their union in 2023.
Salary is based on the MDS scale of £30,274-£34,224 per annum.
The advert (with instructions for the application) is available here.
Events
Live at Five - a series of concerts in Aberlour Parish Church
Strawberry Coffee Morning - 29 August, 10 am, Cults
Hymn Sings - August 21, October 2
Mark your calendars! Skene Kirk is playing host to an exciting two-part event celebrating the riches of hymnody ancient and modern. Generously supported by the Church Hymnary Trust, we will begin with a time of praise in the church, followed by more-than-light refreshments in the village hall next door. There are rumours of summer wines and perhaps—perhaps—even a barbecue, though details on the catering front are still being worked out.
The first evening will be an organ-led exploration of neglected classics, along with a selection of some of old-time favourites. The second evening will feature a contemporary praise band to lead us in worship. In addition to praising God, eating good food, and enjoying Christian fellowship, the aim of these two nights is to acquaint ourselves with new hymns to take back to our own congregations—all in keeping with the Church Hymnary Trust’s central mission:
The advancement of the Christian Faith through the promotion and development of hymnody in Scotland…by assisting in the development, promotion, provision and understanding of hymns, psalms and paraphrases suitable for use in public worship.
These are two events you won’t want to miss! In fact, the minister of Kingshill Parish Church solemnly promises to doubly refund the price of your ticket if you don’t have a good time. And that’s because these events are FREE, open to all and sundry at no cost.
The Traditional Hymn Sing will be on Friday, 21 August, and Contemporary Worship will be on Friday, 2 October. Doors will be open from 5pm, but singing will commence at 6:00 pm. Following proceedings in the church, we will make our way to the Milne Hall next door for food and fellowship.
All donations on the night will go directly to Skene Kirk utilisation and upkeep. Come out, invite your friends, and enjoy a night (or two) of hymnody!
Kirkton of Skene, Aberdeenshire, AB32 6XE
Aberdeen/Aberdeenshire Rock Choir, 4 September, 7 pm, Bervie Church
ABERDEENSHIRE ROCK CHOIR IN CONCERT!
Join us for a fantastic evening of live music with the Aberdeen/Aberdeenshire Rock Choir at Bervie Church!
Friday 4 September 2026
Doors open at 7.00 pm
Concert begins at 7.30 pm
Bervie Church
Tickets: £10
Tickets are available from Bervie Post Office, Beatties Shop or online through Eventbrite:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/aberdeenaberdeenshire-rock-choir-tickets-1996829491763
Ice cream will also be available!
Proceeds will support the Inverbervie Gala Christmas Lights Appeal and Arbuthnott, Bervie and Kinneff Church.
Please come along, bring your friends and help us spread the word! 
Green Investment Road - Edinburgh - 2 October
Register here: https://www.operationnoah.org/roadshow2026/(opens in new tab)
Light in the Darkness - 31 October
A day of prayer for the Church of Scotland and the communities of Scotland
The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it - John 1:5
We know that darkness is real - in our experience as churches over recent years, and the experience of our communities across Scotland. But we are people who know that light is real too. Found in Jesus. Bigger than darkness. Always overcoming.
The Faith Action Programme Leadership Team is calling for the Church to come together in prayer this Autumn, to pray for more and more of the light of Jesus Christ to break out and transform our churches and our communities. To ask God that we might see Him bring hope in all these places.
On Saturday 31 October, we’re inviting as many people in the Church of Scotland as possible to join in with praying for our Church and praying for our communities. We’d love to see congregations, presbyteries and small groups get together for one hour that day to pray - and for individuals who can’t connect to something in their area to join in with some things we’ll offer nationally online.
It could be a led service of prayer and reflection. It could be a group prayer gathering. It could be a time with interactive prayer stations. In the coming weeks, we’ll be producing resources for churches and presbyteries for all these different ways to pray. We’ll also share details of how people can connect online with a national coming together for prayer for those who want to do that instead or as well. It may be that you don’t need or want any of that, and you’d rather just pray your way as a church. Great! Please though, do join in with praying together on that date.
Look out for more details on the Church of Scotland website, further emails in coming weeks, and on our Church of Scotland social media posts. But in the meantime, please mark Saturday 31 October in your diaries as a time for people in your church and/or presbytery to gather to pray. Perhaps you could begin thinking about how, when and where you might meet that day.
Why put this in the diary along with everything else? Because we believe that the whole Church of Scotland uniting in coming to God expressing hopeful dependence on Him bringing change will be powerful. Because we’re curious to see what the difference could be if we call out to Him together, in all our diversity of worship and theology. Because it’s getting dark that week, and we want to head into the winter filled with hope in Jesus the Light of the world. But maybe most of all, because we see and we love a hurting world that needs the light that Jesus can bring it.
On Saturday 31 October, let’s pray. Let’s pray together. Let’s pray for light in the darkness. For the Church of Scotland and the communities of Scotland, and across the world in the places we worship and serve.
Guild
LiFT Meetings
Newsletter from The Guild
Please follow the link(opens in new tab) to see the August newsletter from the Church of Scotland Guild.
Don't forget to send your news to doskolkova@churchofscotland.org.uk