- 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 23 August 2026
These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness – Revelation 3 v 14.
A tremendous welcome to the latest edition for Thought for Sunday.
Our verse today comes from God’s message, through John, to the church in Laodicea. It commences with the words of authority, reminding the church that it is the One True God who is speaking to them. It reminds them that He is the beginning and the end – all life started with His creation and will end when He returns for the second time. He is truth, and everything He says is accurate and we can stand upon these words, not as hearsay but as fact. He is faithful and will not break His word or turn anyone away who comes to Him with a sincere heart and a willing, open mind. Therefore, we should listen to His voice, heed His words, and act upon them, in order to bring honour to His name.
Sadly, for the church in Laodicea, God’s message is forthright and critical. God states that they are neither hot or cold, but luke-warm in their faith and actions. They try to ‘sit on the fence’ and please everyone but frequently fall off on the wrong side!! God wishes that they will return to Him, following Him as He leads, guides and directs. However, He indicates that His criticism and discipline come from a heart of love and care and He only wants the very best for His people.
His final words to them reassures that He will not force His way into their lives or treat them as robots, put patiently knocks at their hearts door and waits for them to respond.
For us today, Jesus will not force His way into any life, but willingly, patiently wait for them to respond to His invitation. No one can force another person to become a Christian, it must be a personal, individual decision.
May we be encouraged to listen to what the Lord is saying to us and be willing to respond to what He asks us to do for Him.