Day 7: Scotland
One week. Countless gifts.
The Lord's Day at Hope Church Leith was absolutely incredible! The church was full, the congregation lifted their voices in worship, and our new friend Ross was baptized, the first baptism since Hope Church Leith began a year ago! To hear Ross's testimony and witness the joy surrounding his baptism was a beautiful reminder of why this church exists and the faithful work the Lord is doing through his people.
Derek preached from Colossians, and following worship, the church family gathered for a wonderful lunch prepared by the ladies of the congregation. Throughout the meal, our team spread out among our Scottish friends, sharing stories about everyday life, family, joys, struggles, and the ways God has been at work. These were conversations filled with laughter, honesty, and genuine connection. Scotland was beautiful, but the people are the heart.
After lunch, the team hiked Arthur's Seat, where breathtaking views stretched across Edinburgh and the surrounding landscape. Looking out over the city, we were reminded of the tremendous spiritual needs throughout Scotland and the faithful men and women who are sharing the hope of Jesus with their neighbors.
We ended the day with Derek and Catriona, reflecting on all the Lord had done throughout the week and discussing how West End might continue encouraging and serving Hope Church Leith from across the ocean.
As our time in Scotland drew to a close, we asked the team to share one moment, observation, or encouragement they would carry home.
HOW WE’VE SEEN GOD AT WORK:
David Ask — Worship & Celebration
"Between leading worship, the baptism, and the debrief at Derek and Catriona's house yesterday, it was an amazing day."
Parker Ask — New Friendships
"I made a great connection with Ross, James, Lorenzo, Brian, and Derek. They have a great community there."
Lauri Mehaffey — The Heart of the Church
"Getting to celebrate Ross's baptism with the congregation was such a gift. I have been so impacted by the general level of vulnerability, openness, and commitment to serve the community at hand that exists in the heart of the people of Hope Church Leith."
Meredith Bussen — Conversations That Connect Us
"I enjoyed lunch with Gareth and Carol—great conversation about burnout, taking care of people, menopause (just with Carol! 🤣), bluegrass music as a bridge between cultures, and what makes you come alive and how to refresh your spirit."
Laura Stacy — Worship & Community
"Sunday in Scotland was a gift of deepened community and worship. Highlights for me included praying with Derek and Catriona, lifting our voices in a cappella praise during worship, and encouraging conversation with Stuart and Jill at Hope Church."
Lisa Ask — A Piece of Our Hearts
"This whole week has been so life-giving. I have been refreshed by my new friends' hospitality, by the voices of the men singing praises behind me, the laughter and heartfelt conversations with the team. But the culmination of the week ended with Ross's baptism and the view from the top of Arthur's Seat. I'm certainly leaving a part of my heart in Scotland."
Brett Taylor — God's Deliverance on Display
"On Sunday we stood and sang Psalm 40 loudly alongside three different men in recovery, all under a year sober and learning how to be 'well.' God's deliverance on full display. Hallelujah!"
“He drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure.” — Psalm 40:2
CATORINA LAMONT - GOD’S MAJESTY
"I'm not sure if you could see the sunrise from your apartment this morning but it was incredible and I thought it was God's stamp of blessing on an amazing week by sending us a wonderful display of vibrant colour to display his god’s majesty and awesomeness."
prayer requests:
Safe travels home - for smooth connections, rest, and safe arrival back in Nashville
Derek, Catriona, and Hope Church Leith - that the Lord would continue strengthening this young congregation and drawing people to himself
Ross - that he would continue growing in his faith, surrounded by a church family that loves and encourages him
The friendships formed this week - that these relationships would continue to grow and bear fruit in the months and years ahead
Wisdom and discernment - as our team reflects on all they've experienced and considers how West End might continue partnering with Hope Church Leith