On the 28th of September, the Strathdon Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church group witnessed a significant occasion as three young people were officially accepted into church membership. The small, close-knit congregation gathered with anticipation and joy in Strathdon, a charming village nestled by the river Don in the Scottish Highlands. This was a milestone for both the new members and the church community, affirming the growth and vitality of the church group in this rural setting.
The Strathdon SDA Church group has been active for a number of years, playing an integral role in the spiritual life of the village. Though small in size, they have had a meaningful impact on the lives of the broader community. Over the years, they have nurtured a sense of family, faith, and purpose, especially as it continues to serve a community tucked away in the scenic but remote landscape of the Highlands.
The atmosphere during the service was one of warmth, excitement, and deep spiritual significance. The church group gathered to witness and support the three young individuals as they made their vows. With heads bowed in reverence, the congregation listened intently as Pastor Wil Masih led the ceremony, offering prayers of dedication and encouragement to the new members. Their public commitment to serving God was met with words of affirmation, applause, and a genuine sense of community.
"Today, we celebrate not only the faith of these three young people but also the faithfulness of God in leading them to this decision," said Pastor Wil Masih. He added, "It is always a great occasion when individuals publicly commit to serving God through their church, and we are honoured to welcome them into our spiritual family here in Strathdon.”
For the three new members, the journey to this moment was a personal and spiritual one. Each of them had been connected to the church in various ways over the years, growing in their faith through church activities, Bible studies, and the encouragement of church leaders. The decision to officially join the church was a reflection of their deep desire to live out their beliefs in a supportive and faith-filled community.
One of the new members shared their feelings after the service: "I’ve always felt a sense of belonging here in Strathdon SDA Church, but today it feels official. Being part of this church means being part of a family that loves and supports each other. I’m excited to grow in my faith and contribute to the church in any way I can."
The joy of the congregation was evident throughout the service and in the moments that followed. Church members embraced the new members, offering congratulations and warm words of welcome. As is tradition in the Strathdon SDA Church, the service concluded with hymns of praise and a communal prayer, thanking God for the growth of their church family and asking for His continued guidance in their spiritual journey.
After the service, the congregation gathered for light refreshments, sharing stories, laughter, and fellowship. The occasion not only celebrated the new members but also strengthened the bonds within the existing church family. "There is always happiness and joy when individuals feel a sense of belonging to a church group,"said Pr Masih. "It’s encouraging to see young adults stepping up and making such a strong commitment to their faith and to our church."
As the Strathdon SDA Church group looks to the future, the acceptance of these three young people into membership stands as a hopeful reminder of the church’s enduring mission. Even in a small village by the river Don, the light of faith shines brightly. The growth in membership signals a new chapter for the church, one filled with promise, energy, and the continued work of sharing God’s love with their community.
For those present, the 28th of September will be remembered as a day of joy and spiritual renewal — a day when three young individuals publicly committed their lives to serving God, and a church family rejoiced in their shared faith.
