The congregation of Duirinish, Isle of Skye, recently welcomed the Rev. Hugh Ferrier and seven members of the High Free Church, Stornoway, for a week of mission work. The week at the end of July resulted from months of prayer and preparation by both the Stornoway team and the local Duirinish congregation.
The week began with a prayer breakfast at Dunvegan Christian Fellowship, where believers from various local fellowships gathered. This time of prayer and fellowship strengthened all involved and set the tone for the upcoming events. Mr Ferrier led the Sunday service, offering the congregation and visiting team a chance to connect through a time of worship.
Various events were held throughout the week and designed to engage the wider community. A Farm Walk at Waternish Farm, followed by refreshments at a local hall, allowed people to enjoy fellowship amidst the island’s beautiful scenery. A Garden Event at “Garradh an Fhasaich” in Glendale, hosted by the Collins family, also brought people together. Donations at this event raised £320 for Blythswood, supporting Christian humanitarian efforts.
The mission’s focus on children was particularly successful. Over three mornings, a holiday club at Waternish Farm attracted 20 children and numerous adults. Along with enjoying the farm, the children heard the message of Jesus, making this a spiritually fruitful time. The congregation deeply thanks Robert and Lucy for hosting this important ministry.
Additional activities included a midweek prayer meeting, home visits, and outreach to Home Farm Care Home. Christian leaflets were distributed throughout the community, including a booklet about Eric Liddell, connecting with the upcoming Olympics and the 100th anniversary of his gold medal at the Paris Olympics. The team also helped with practical tasks, such as setting up a community garden in Waternish and clearing ground around the manse.
A Friday evening barbecue at the manse in Lonmore brought the week to a celebratory close, with a large gathering of children and adults. The outdoor events were blessed with clear weather, a relief in what had otherwise been a wet summer.
The mission concluded with a joint service at Dunvegan Hall on Sunday. Reflecting on the week, the Duirinish congregation expressed gratitude for the unity and fellowship that developed between the local church and the visiting team from Stornoway. The week showcased the strength of shared faith in building solid connections and spreading the teachings of Christ to the broader society.
Robert from the Duirinish congregation noted, “Evangelism is not easy, but we pray that the seeds sown will result in much blessing.” The mission week exemplified how collaboration between congregations can serve as a powerful witness to the Gospel, and the Duirinish congregation remains hopeful for the fruit that will emerge from this ministry.