- Video: Presbytery of Buchan – some congregational stories:
(Crimond and Lonmay represented by Mr Tim Barker)
Lonmay Newsletter
Welcome to this edition of the Lonmay Newsletter.
Now that Summer is with us, you can tell as the rain is slightly warmer. Now, let us see what has changed at Lonmay Church since the previous edition.
Although the weather is meant to be warmer, please remember to dress appropriately for the conditions. Be prepared to cast a layer when coming into the sanctuary as the heating will be on.
Although the Presbytery Plan had Lonmay Church closing it’s doors by the end of 2024, that hasn’t happened. We plan to stay open for worship as long as we can, God willing. Services and Fellowship continue as normal until further notice. We are currently working towards a single Parish made up of the old parishes of Aberdour, Strichen, Tyrie, New Pitsligo, Crimond and Lonmay.
Please continue to come along to the weekly Sunday Service at 12:00 o’clock and be ready to sing along to the varied selection of hymns. These are either sung along to the wonderful organ accompaniment provided by Alice or by recordings provided by Tim.
Tim also produces the texts and ‘Thought for Sunday’ which is posted weekly below this newsletter. In addition, Tim sends them out to a distribution list every week. If you wish to be included in the distribution, let one of the session know or ask Tim directly.
It has been a difficult period of uncertainty, and your support, prayers and encouragement during this period has been really appreciated. Please continue to pray as we move into the next stage of the Presbytery Plan and ask the Lord to continue to lead and guide decisions which have to be mad
Blessings.
Lonmay Thought for Sunday 16 August 2026
Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows – Luke 12 v 7.
Greetings to the latest edition of Thought for Sunday, which we pray you will find encouraging and helpful.
Our verse comes from Jesus’ teaching about worrying. He was aware that many people suffer from anxiety, worry, concern and fears. The stress can be overwhelming and devastating. For some this can result in taking medication. For others they become inward looking and isolated, fearing about going out, and in extreme situation suicidal thoughts.
There is no doubt that there are many situations that cause worries and concerns, and these must not be minimised nor ignored. But is there a solution to this situation?
Jesus describes how flowers can produce an array of colour and be beautiful, yet for some they grow ‘wild’ and are still good to see. Birds do not have larders/cupboards to store food, and yet they have plenty to eat. Jesus states ‘Do not be afraid – you are worth more than many sparrows.’
In other words, Jesus encourages us to come to Him. If He cares about flowers and birds who are not worth large sums of money, how much more will He care for His children? Having made us in His image; having ‘lost’ us through disobedience; having bought us with His shed blood on Calvary; on seeking His forgiveness and responding to His invitation to become our Saviour and Lord, we are now His for ever. We are safe and secure in the palm of His Hands, and no-one can snatch us out of them.
On many occasions the Bible reminds us that the Lord provides us with refuge, fortress, help and presence in all the circumstances we are facing. It is not surprising that Jesus simply says, ‘Do not be afraid.’ This is not some idol statement, but a full-proof promise from the Lord Himself, and we know that He never breaks His promises.
This week may we be encouraged to look to Jesus to continue to provide, protect and keep us in the middle of all the uncertainties we face daily.