10 Oct 2025, 13:26Admire Chisenwa; Edited by Beverley Anderson, SM CommunicationsDunfermline, Fife, Scotland, United Kingdom
Fourth Congregation Joins “Back to the Altar” Initiative
Following its successful rollout in Paisley, Musselburgh, and Inverness, the Back to the Altar initiative was embraced by Hope House in Dunfermline, offering a prayer-focused day to strengthen personal and family worship.
The special event took place on the 13 September, encouraging families, friends, and individuals to strengthen or rekindle their devotional lives through communion with God.
The church space was arranged informally to foster conversation and shared participation, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all ages. This less traditional, more collaborative style of worship encouraged attendees to engage openly throughout the programme.
The event was led by Beverley Anderson, Scottish Mission Prayer Ministries Sponsor, who guided the congregation through worship, reflection, and practical steps to enrich their prayer life.
The programme began at 10 am with lively praise and worship, setting a positive tone for the day ahead. Elder Charles Lethbridge led the opening discussion, using the story of Elijah to invite the congregation into conversation about faith, persistence, and spiritual renewal.
The main message, Back to the Altar, based on 1 Kings 18:30, encouraged attendees to reclaim daily times for communion with God — personally, within their families, and in the wider community. The message emphasised the importance of rebuilding our "altars" where God meets us.
A particularly moving moment came during silent reflection, when many participants reported experiencing peace, calm, and spiritual refreshment. This reflected the first of the seven principles of the Back to the Altar initiative: “Come to Jesus as You Are.”
Following this, participants divided into small groups to explore the seven principles, guided by facilitators. Each group discussed their assigned principle, sharing insights and testimonies while identifying practical ways to enhance personal application and strengthen family worship.
One group examined “Discover Jesus in His Word and Prayer” (John 5:39; Psalm 119:105), reflecting on how consistent Bible reading opens hearts to God’s voice. Another group looked at “Live Your God-Given Mission,” highlighting how purpose flows from a sustained relationship with God.
Afterward, the groups reconvened to share their reflections with the wider congregation, inspiring fresh perspectives and renewed commitment.
The day concluded with members invited forward to receive personal prayer from church elders—a tender and powerful moment where faith, vulnerability, and God’s presence met.
Reflecting on the event, attendees expressed its deep impact. One participant, Admire Chisenwa, shared: “It was a wholesome day, one that reminded us that God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. All we need to do is start a conversation with Him and keep building that relationship.”
More than a one-day gathering, the Back to the Altar initiative aims to serve as a catalyst to renewed prayer habits and closer connection with God.
Following its successful rollout in Paisley, Musselburgh, and Inverness, the Back to the Altar initiative was embraced by Hope House in Dunfermline, offering a prayer-focused day to strengthen personal and family worship.
The special event took place on the 13 September, encouraging families, friends, and individuals to strengthen or rekindle their devotional lives through communion with God.
The church space was arranged informally to foster conversation and shared participation, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all ages. This less traditional, more collaborative style of worship encouraged attendees to engage openly throughout the programme.
The event was led by Beverley Anderson, Scottish Mission Prayer Ministries Sponsor, who guided the congregation through worship, reflection, and practical steps to enrich their prayer life.
The programme began at 10 am with lively praise and worship, setting a positive tone for the day ahead. Elder Charles Lethbridge led the opening discussion, using the story of Elijah to invite the congregation into conversation about faith, persistence, and spiritual renewal.
The main message, Back to the Altar, based on 1 Kings 18:30, encouraged attendees to reclaim daily times for communion with God — personally, within their families, and in the wider community. The message emphasised the importance of rebuilding our "altars" where God meets us.
A particularly moving moment came during silent reflection, when many participants reported experiencing peace, calm, and spiritual refreshment. This reflected the first of the seven principles of the Back to the Altar initiative: “Come to Jesus as You Are.”
Following this, participants divided into small groups to explore the seven principles, guided by facilitators. Each group discussed their assigned principle, sharing insights and testimonies while identifying practical ways to enhance personal application and strengthen family worship.
One group examined “Discover Jesus in His Word and Prayer” (John 5:39; Psalm 119:105), reflecting on how consistent Bible reading opens hearts to God’s voice. Another group looked at “Live Your God-Given Mission,” highlighting how purpose flows from a sustained relationship with God.
Afterward, the groups reconvened to share their reflections with the wider congregation, inspiring fresh perspectives and renewed commitment.
The day concluded with members invited forward to receive personal prayer from church elders—a tender and powerful moment where faith, vulnerability, and God’s presence met.
Reflecting on the event, attendees expressed its deep impact. One participant, Admire Chisenwa, shared: “It was a wholesome day, one that reminded us that God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. All we need to do is start a conversation with Him and keep building that relationship.”
More than a one-day gathering, the Back to the Altar initiative aims to serve as a catalyst to renewed prayer habits and closer connection with God.
