A Historic Communion and Fellowship Gathering in Inverness
One faith, one body — Inverness, Elgin, and Strathdon churches share communion and worship together.

7 Mar 2025, 10:20Pr Wilfred MasihInverness, Highland, Scotland, United Kingdom

A Historic Communion and Fellowship Gathering in Inverness

A District United in Worship

This article details a historic gathering of the Inverness, Elgin, and Strathdon churches, uniting in Holy Communion and fellowship. It highlights the powerful message of faith, renewal, and unity, celebrating the deep bonds formed through worship and shared devotion.

In a momentous and spiritually uplifting occasion, the district churches of Inverness, Elgin, and Strathdon came together for the first time in their history to participate in Holy Communion and what turned out to be a beautiful Day of Fellowship. This long-awaited gathering was a powerful demonstration to unity, faith, and the unwavering commitment of the three congregations to stand together as one body in Christ.

For some years, these small but dedicated church groups functioned independently, each striving to grow in faith and numbers. However, since officially forming a district in late 2022 under the assiduous leadership of Pastor Wil Masih, the congregations have grown, not only in size but in spiritual depth and connection. The significance of this event was felt deeply as families, visiting guests, and long-standing members embraced the opportunity to worship side by side, some of them meeting for the very first time ever.

The day’s proceedings were marked by an air of reverence, celebration and beautiful singing. As the congregation partook in Holy Communion, there was a tangible sense of renewal and commitment—an acknowledgment that they were partaking not only in the sacred ceremony but also in a shared spiritual journey.

A Message of Victory and Renewed Hope

Pastor Wil Masih delivered a powerful and soul-stirring sermon titled “Communion is Victory.” Drawing from the profound narrative of Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection, he painted a vivid picture of the despair felt by the women who stood at the foot of the cross, watching their beloved Master suffer a criminal’s death. Their sorrow was immeasurable, their hopes seemingly crushed. And yet, amid their grief, they still prepared spices and perfumes, faithfully tending to their devotion even when all seemed lost.

But then came the glorious revelation—the resurrection! Their darkest moment transformed into the greatest victory of all time. With this powerful analogy, Pastor Masih reminded the congregation that in life, we too face moments when all seems lost, when despair clouds our vision, and when hope appears to slip away. Yet, just as those women were met with the greatest news in history on that Sunday morning, so too can we experience restoration, renewal and reconciliation in our own lives by the intervention of God.

“Sometimes God can bring back what we thought was lost, not just restored, but renewed with a greater purpose,” he proclaimed, his words resonating deeply with those in attendance. The sermon was not just a message but a call to faith, perseverance, and trust in God’s plan, no matter how uncertain the path ahead may seem.

A Feast of Fellowship and Growing Bonds

Following the service, the spirit of unity overflowed into a stunningly prepared fellowship meal, where laughter, heartfelt conversations and new friendships were formed. The warmth of community was evident as individuals from all three congregations mingled, some reminiscing about their faith journeys, while others excitedly planned for future gatherings.

Matthew Powell from Strathdon voiced what many were thinking: “We should have these gatherings more often, and I will definitely come again.” Meanwhile, Pastor Wil Masih, Kotryx Marira from Inverness and Garry Bowie from Elgin were already in discussion, laying the groundwork for the next event. The impact of this gathering stretched even beyond the local congregations, as one dedicated attendee travelled all the way from Fraserburgh to Inverness just to be a part of this historic occasion. His gratitude was heartfelt as he expressed appreciation for such an inspiring and spiritually enriching experience.

A Call to Continue in Unity and Worship

This special Holy Communion service was a resounding declaration that faith is strongest when shared, that fellowship nurtures the soul and that when fellow Christians come together in worship, hearts and minds are transformed.

As this event set a precedent for future gatherings, the call is clear: let this be the beginning of a new chapter of unity, encouragement, and spiritual growth. Let these congregations continue to build on this foundation, ensuring that no one walks alone in their faith journey.

To all who were present and to those who long for deeper fellowship, the invitation stands: Come, worship, and grow together. For in unity, there is strength; in faith, there is hope; and in Christ, there is victory.