19 Sep 2025, 15:19Pastor Ratko Risteski; Edited by SM CommunicationsPH49 4HX, Ballachulish, Highland, Scotland, United Kingdom
Faith, Fellowship, and Fitness on Buachaille Etive Mòr
The Scottish Mission Health Department organised a hiking event in Glencoe, bringing together church members, friends, and nature enthusiasts for a day of exercise, fellowship, and spiritual reflection.
On Sunday, 14 September, around twenty enthusiastic participants took part in a hike organised by the Scottish Mission Health Department. The chosen destination was the stunning Buachaille Etive Mòr in Glencoe, providing a breathtaking backdrop for both physical activity and spiritual reflection.
"The idea behind this initiative was to remind us that our bodies are the temple of Christ, and caring for them is part of our calling. One way to do this is by staying active, spending time in the fresh air, and enjoying the beauty of God’s creation," explained Pastor Risteski.
Those taking part, primarily from the West of Scotland, included church members, friends, and a few non-Adventists. Despite varying levels of hiking experience, all participants successfully completed the trail together in just under seven hours. With favourable weather, the day was filled with laughter, fellowship, encouragement, and mutual support.
Hiking offers more than physical benefits; it also significantly contributes to mental well-being. Research shows that regular hiking reduces stress, improves mood, supports cardiovascular health, and enhances overall fitness. The combination of exercise, nature, and companionship made this outing a truly uplifting experience.
The Glencoe hike is the first step in a broader vision. The Scottish Mission Health Department plans a series of seven hikes across Scotland, with additional excursions to locations such as Iceland and other parts of Europe. Participants who complete all seven hikes will qualify for a special hiking camp in the Alps in Slovenia next year.
The Glencoe trail has set a positive tone for the journey ahead: walking together, supporting one another, and rejoicing in God’s creation while keeping both body and mind active.
🌿 Top 5 Benefits of Hiking for Body and Mind 🌿
Boosts Heart Health – strengthens the cardiovascular system and lowers blood pressure.
Improves Mental Well-being – reduces stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression.
Builds Strength and Endurance – tones muscles, improves balance, and increases stamina.
Encourages Social Connection – walking together fosters fellowship and support.
Connects with Creation – spending time in nature refreshes the soul and reminds us of God’s handiwork.
Further information on upcoming hikes will be available on our website — stay tuned for updates.
The Scottish Mission Health Department organised a hiking event in Glencoe, bringing together church members, friends, and nature enthusiasts for a day of exercise, fellowship, and spiritual reflection.
On Sunday, 14 September, around twenty enthusiastic participants took part in a hike organised by the Scottish Mission Health Department. The chosen destination was the stunning Buachaille Etive Mòr in Glencoe, providing a breathtaking backdrop for both physical activity and spiritual reflection.
"The idea behind this initiative was to remind us that our bodies are the temple of Christ, and caring for them is part of our calling. One way to do this is by staying active, spending time in the fresh air, and enjoying the beauty of God’s creation," explained Pastor Risteski.
Those taking part, primarily from the West of Scotland, included church members, friends, and a few non-Adventists. Despite varying levels of hiking experience, all participants successfully completed the trail together in just under seven hours. With favourable weather, the day was filled with laughter, fellowship, encouragement, and mutual support.
Hiking offers more than physical benefits; it also significantly contributes to mental well-being. Research shows that regular hiking reduces stress, improves mood, supports cardiovascular health, and enhances overall fitness. The combination of exercise, nature, and companionship made this outing a truly uplifting experience.
The Glencoe hike is the first step in a broader vision. The Scottish Mission Health Department plans a series of seven hikes across Scotland, with additional excursions to locations such as Iceland and other parts of Europe. Participants who complete all seven hikes will qualify for a special hiking camp in the Alps in Slovenia next year.
The Glencoe trail has set a positive tone for the journey ahead: walking together, supporting one another, and rejoicing in God’s creation while keeping both body and mind active.
🌿 Top 5 Benefits of Hiking for Body and Mind 🌿
Boosts Heart Health – strengthens the cardiovascular system and lowers blood pressure.
Improves Mental Well-being – reduces stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression.
Builds Strength and Endurance – tones muscles, improves balance, and increases stamina.
Encourages Social Connection – walking together fosters fellowship and support.
Connects with Creation – spending time in nature refreshes the soul and reminds us of God’s handiwork.
Further information on upcoming hikes will be available on our website — stay tuned for updates.
