Friday 19th February

A stunning drive down from Inverness past the Lochs back to Gloucestershire.

Thursday 18th February

A drive to to Avoch Congregational Church (pronounced "Och!")with Malcolm Muir (chair of Congregational Federation in Scotland) to discuss future ministry there - a warm and welcoming church which is concerned to choose the right style of ministry.

16th Feb (continued)

The Kittybrewster Church meets at the Powis community centre which includes Annie's cafe, dance and football sessions, and so much more.









Charlie, one of the people taking the local training course

15th - 16th February

Meeting, listening and learning about the Aberdeen churches and enjoying warm hospitality.





The "ecumenical" development at Cove and the need for an extension at their children's work.
The ministry at Potterton and Balmedie, Danestone and Woodside, which include so many children's activities.

Sunday Evening

I drove north to Peterhead to bring greetings to the church there and to hear about exciting developments - new members and a Sunday School of twenty-seven, and a thriving cafe lunch club. Here Minister James McMillan enjoys after church fellowship.

Sunday 14th February

I took part in the service in Perth Congregational Church after being welcomed by the Provost of Perth and Kinross Council John Hulbert.








An unexpected reunion with ex-members of Sandford Congregational Church (Devon) now living in Scotland.

Scottish visit Friday 12th February - 19th February

Saturday 13th



A chance to hear how the Scottish area works as I attended their council meeting in Perth. It was interesting to see how they divided into Mission, Ministry, Finance, and children's work groups, and then resumed to report back.







Evening

I enjoyed high tea with office bearers and members from the Perth Congregational Church, and Minister Gordon Campbell.

February 8th

The Dominican Republic (One Respe) team met at the Christian Aid office in London. It was great to meet up (together with Michael Heaney and Sandra Turner) and formulate plans for the forthcoming months to share our message with the Federation.
Please get in touch if you would like us to speak at your church.

February 7th

Visit to Chulmleigh (no photo again) Congregational Church.
A chance to worship in a church which is celebrating its 300th anniversary this year.
The Church meets at 4pm - the Methodists use this building in the morning and often join the Congregational Church in the afternoon. The service is always followed by tea so it was food to share with the Chulmleigh folk.

January 31st

Visit to Narborough Congregational Church (sorry no photo).
An exciting and vibrant church with a dedicated team ministry which is working well.
Great to see a number of children and young families and to hear about new initiates particularly amongst children and in schools.