Over the past few months, many individuals have joined the Inverness SDA Church group for worship and fellowship. On Sunday, 25th August, the church members and friends took their discipleship journey to the waters of the legendary Loch Ness with a unique boat ride that blended faith, fellowship, and the stirring history of Urquhart Castle. The scenic voyage offered an opportunity to strengthen community bonds while reflecting on the rich spiritual heritage of the area.
The experience was more than just a leisurely outing; it was part of the church's broader discipleship initiative, which encourages members to grow in their faith by engaging with their local environment, community, and each other. "Discipleship isn't confined to the walls of our church," said Pastor Wil Masih, who is the district minister. "It's about following Jesus in all aspects of life, including in the beauty and history of where we live."
A Journey Through History and Faith
The journey began on a crisp, clear morning with a short walk at the Abriachan Forest and then to the Clansman Hotel, where church members gathered to board the boat for a cruise on Loch Ness, the largest body of freshwater in the British Isles. As the boat moved away from the shore, the passengers were taken aback by breathtaking views of the surrounding Highlands, bathed in the soft, early autumn sunlight.
The highlight of the trip was the stop at Urquhart Castle, an iconic ruin that has stood on the shores of Loch Ness for many centuries. The castle's turbulent history, marked by battles, sieges, and changing hands between the English and Scots, mirrors the trials and tribulations of the early Christian church. Urquhart Castle was a strategic stronghold, its imposing silhouette a reminder of the struggles that shaped the region.
"Urquhart Castle has seen centuries of conflict, but it also stands as a witness to endurance and hope," said Pastor Wil Masih, reminding church members that, "just as this castle has stood firm through the storms of history, so must we stand firm in our faith."
The group was welcomed by local guides, who recounted the castle's storied past, from its beginnings in the 13th century as a royal fortress to its role in the Wars of Scottish Independence. They described how the castle had been destroyed and rebuilt several times, mirroring the ebb and flow of political power in the Highlands. The visitors learned about the lives of those who had lived and died defending Urquhart, drawing parallels to the early disciples of Jesus who spread the Gospel under difficult circumstances.
Reflections on Discipleship
The discipleship project at the Inverness Church has been an ongoing effort to deepen the spiritual lives of its members by incorporating local natural highlights into their faith practices. The boat ride was a key part of this effort, intended to offer church members and friends a new perspective on discipleship by stepping outside the traditional church environment.
Pastor Masih explained, "Too often, we confine our spiritual growth to what happens inside the church building. But Jesus taught his disciples everywhere—on the shores of Galilee, in a boat while crossing a lake, in people's homes, and on the road. We are doing the same here in Inverness, using our beautiful surroundings and rich history to deepen our faith."
As they walked through the ruins, Pastor Masih drew parallels between the castle’s ancient stones and the spiritual “stones” that form the foundation of our faith. “We are like living stones, being built into a spiritual house,” he said, quoting from 1 Peter 2:5. "Our lives, much like this castle, have been shaped by the storms we face. But it is through these challenges that God builds us up to be stronger."
Building Community Through Fellowship
As the group continued their exploration, conversations flowed easily among members, some old friends and others meeting for the first time. The sense of community was unmistakable, with laughter and shared stories filling the air. "It's not just about the destination, but the journey we take together," said one member of the church. "Being on this boat, visiting this historic place, it’s all part of building a stronger church community of disciples as we get to know God through nature and history."
The boat ride back to the Clansman Hotel was indeed filled with heartfelt conversations. There was a shared sense that this experience had deepened the bond among the church members and friends, providing a fresh perspective on their shared mission.
Looking Ahead
As the boat docked and the group disembarked, there was a shared consensus that this journey was just the beginning. The Inverness SDA Church plans to continue these outings, using the natural beauty and historical depth of the Scottish Highlands as a backdrop for spiritual growth and discipleship.
"We live in a place rich with history and natural wonder. By engaging with our surroundings, we not only grow closer to God but also to each other. Our discipleship journey is ongoing, and we are excited for where God will lead us next,” concluded Pastor Masih.
The day was a reminder that discipleship is a journey best undertaken together, in community, learning and growing in the beauty of God’s creation. The boat ride on Loch Ness and the visit to Urquhart Castle were more than just a day out – they were a reaffirmation of a shared commitment to follow Christ, wherever that journey might lead. Inverness Church extends its thanks to Janice Pickering for helping to organise this special day.
