Notices
Funeral Cover Request
Rev Aquila Singh is looking for funeral cover for Tuesday 11th August until Monday 17th. If there is anyone willing to provide cover, please contact Ruth Nisbet at: rmbn@btinternet.com
Flower Festival in St Machar's - 7-9 August
This August the Cathedral’s Eco Group is hosting its Second Flower Festival, showcasing locally grown blooms and foliage that will decorate the stone building and fill it with scent. It has sustainability at its heart.
Tickets are selling fast!
Follow the link to learn more: https://nenipresbytery.org.uk/sustainable-flower-festival/
'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.
Venezuela Earthquake Appeal
Venezuela is still hurting. The pain keeps building, growing even deeper with two powerful earthquakes that have torn through populated areas, leaving widespread damage to homes, buildings, businesses and social services, damage whose full extent is still unknown, but clearly immense.
- Carlos E. Mejia, Head of Impact, Latin America and Caribbean, Christian Aid.
You can still help - https://www.christianaid.org.uk/appeals/emergencies/venezuela-earthquake-appeal
And read more here.
Safeguarding Training
| Trainer(s) | Rev Julia Meason |
| Date & Time | 18.08.2026 7 pm |
| Type of Training | Trustee |
| Venue | Zoom |
| Presbytery Contact | Rev Julia Meason (JMeason@churchofscotland.org.uk) |
| Trainer(s) | Rev Julia Meason |
| Date & Time | 21.08.2026 2 pm |
| Type of Training | Advanced |
| Venue | Zoom |
| Presbytery Contact | Rev Julia Meason (JMeason@churchofscotland.org.uk) |
National Church Awards - Nominations close on 11 August 2026
Congregations are encouraged to enter the National Church Awards to celebrate work that is making a real difference in the communities they serve.
The Kirk is a positive force for good in society and every day of the week members and volunteers have amazing stories to tell.
They are caring for historic buildings, welcoming visitors, supporting local communities, and creating spaces where people can connect, belong and thrive.
None of this happens without dedicated and passionate local people and entering the awards is a brilliant opportunity to recognise their hard work.
Nominations close on 11 August 2026 at midnight, with judging by an independent expert panel taking place in September.
There will be a winner from each UK nation, as well as an overall Church of the Year, with each winner receiving £750 prize money.
Click on the link to register for free.
The winner of the 2025 competition in Scotland was Ness Bank Church of Scotland in Inverness.
The judges praised the church for its “extraordinary” community outreach and the sheer scale of its impact.
Based in the church building, the Inverness Foodstuff project has become a vital centre of care, compassion, and inclusion – tackling food poverty, social isolation, and vulnerability with energy and heart.
Through the input of a small staff team and more than 80 dedicated volunteers, thousands of people are reached every year.
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.
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
Support Refuel!
Amy Bender (ABender@churchofscotland.org.uk) and Fiona Lister (flister@churchofscotland.org.uk) are looking for support with the sessions in the Church of Scotland tent.
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
Resources
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/
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.
Ministry Assistant for the West Mainland
Ministry Assistant for the West Mainland (Charge 1)
Orkney Islands Church of Scotland
Part Time 9 hours 22 minutes per week (0.25FTE)
Salary £7,383 to £8,347 per annum
Ref: M01/25
Could you be part of something different? We have an exciting opportunity for a motivated and enthusiastic individual to use their gifts, skills and experience to make a difference to the lives of the people in our parishes and communities.
We are looking for a Ministry Assistant who will concentrate on the first Mark of Mission to proclaim the Good News of the Kingdom, with the postholder largely focusing on Sunday work.
The successful candidate will have significant recent experience in leading worship and preaching with a good knowledge and understanding of congregational life of the Church of Scotland or be willing to learn. The candidate must be a committed Christian with an active Church connection (Genuine Occupational Requirement in terms of the Equality Act 2010) and have a relevant qualification in theology/pastoral care/counselling or similar, or significant, relevant and recent work experience in the area.
It is essential you have the right to work in the UK before applying to work with us. You will be asked to provide proof of your eligibility to work and remain in the UK if you are invited to attend for an interview.
For a full job description and details on how to apply, please click here.
Closing date: At present there is no closing date set and the post will remain open until further notice.
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
Holiday Club in New Machar - 11-13 August
New Machar Parish Church are running a Holiday Club "On your Marks"
11/12/13 August 2pm-4pm in PathwayCentre!
Do you know any primary aged children who would like to join?
Email: admin-newmacharchurch@btconnect.com
Holiday Club - Kemnay Church Centre, 10-14 August
Attention all neighbouring congregations! Children are invited to an exciting holiday club organised by Bennachie Parish Church and Out of The Box.
Contact Susan Reid for more information and to book a place: susanreid@bennachieparish.church
Family Sessions in St Machar's Cathedral - July and August
Stories and Crafts is 10am-12 on July 15th in the cathedral with the chance to listen in the story corner, create a souvenir on the craft table or dress up in period costumes. There will be refreshments and trails to occupy the whole family.
Build a mini-pipe organ July 16th 2pm A chance for children aged 10 years upwards to build a mini-pipe organ from scratch and then play a tune on it. Book a place to build on Eventbrite.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1991975586602?aff=oddtdtcreator
Fun in the Park 29th July 10am-12 Bring a picnic and play games in Seaton Park. No booking required, meet by the play park.
Floral Magic with jam Jars 7th August 12.30 and 3.00pm Part of St Machar’s Scottish and Sustainable Flower Festival 2026 this event is aimed at families creating special memories together with flowers that can be taken home to enjoy. £10 for a family. Ticketed event on Eventbrite
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/floral-magic-with-jam-jars-family-workshop-tickets-1988416107103
Family Fun Day 15th August 10am-12 Explore the cathedral together: delve into historic objects in the Charter Room, dress up in period costumes, play the Cathedral organ, make a clay shield, go on a trail and make memories in this historic part of Old Aberdeen. Entry by donation. No booking required. Refreshments available.
Dyce - Country Church Roundup Roadshow
Something a little different is coming to Dyce! 
We're delighted to welcome Country Church Scotland to Dyce Parish Church as part of their Country Church Roundup Roadshow.
Saturday 15th August
7:00pm
Dyce Parish Church, 152 Victoria Street, Dyce
Come and enjoy an evening of:
Live Country Gospel music with Trevor James Mair
An inspiring testimony from Ricky Bain
A message of hope centred on Jesus Christ
Tea, coffee and fellowship after the meeting
Whether you're a country music fan, exploring the Christian faith, or simply looking for a welcoming evening out, we'd love to see you.
Admission is free. During the evening there will be an opportunity to give a voluntary donation to support the ministry of Country Church Scotland as they travel on their Roadshow, but there is absolutely no obligation.
Please Like, Share and Invite your family and friends—we'd love to fill the church and give our guests from Country Church Scotland a warm Dyce welcome.
Everyone is welcome!
Live at Five - a series of concerts in Aberlour Parish Church
Meditation Day - 22 August, 10:30-15:30, Inverurie West
Alpha Info and Training Night - 24 August, 19:00, Stonehaven Fetteresso 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
Guild
LiFT Meetings
Newsletter from The Guild
Please follow the link to see the July newsletter from the Church of Scotland Guild.
Don't forget to send your news to doskolkova@churchofscotland.org.uk