3 Jul 2025, 15:48Pr Wil MasihCrathie, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, United Kingdom
Highland Churches Experience Worship at Crathie Kirk and Balmoral
On June 14, members and friends of the Inverness and Elgin Churches embarked on a meaningful spiritual journey blending historic worship at Crathie Kirk with reflective fellowship in Balmoral Gardens, affirming renewal through faith, heritage, nature, and community.
In a moving blend of history, worship, and nature, members and friends of the Inverness and Elgin Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Churches undertook a very special and memorable spiritual journey led by Pr Wil Masih. They gathered at the historic Crathie Kirk* for Sabbath worship before exploring the verdant grounds of the Balmoral Gardens. It was a day of reverence, reflection, and renewal, uniting faith with heritage and community.
A Sanctuary of Legacy and Praise
Placed beside the River Dee in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Crathie Kirk’s local church minister welcomed the Inverness and Elgin congregations to worship at the church with its timeless stone walls and deep spiritual resonance. The church, famed for its royal ties dating back to Queen Victoria, provided a striking backdrop for the Sabbath service. The sanctuary, steeped in royal tradition and the prayers of generations, became a sacred space for the local Adventists to lift their voices in praise.
The worship, rich in hymns and Scripture, was underscored by a profound sense of connection with God and with the larger Christian story stretching across time. As hymns echoed through the hallowed interior, many reflected on the Kirk’s storied past and the enduring nature of faith. “Worshipping here reminds us that we’re part of a much larger narrative,” said Pr Wil Masih who had organised this Sabbath pilgrimage for the local churches. “God’s story includes us, right here, right now.” In his sermon, Pr Wil Masih recounted the experience of David as he began his journey of restoration after God promised that He would restore to David everything that he had lost at Ziklag. This was a poignant reminder to the congregation of how God can restore things we have lost in our lives and points to the ultimate restoration of the earth as it was at creation.
Fellowship in Creation’s Cathedral
After the service, the group travelled to nearby Balmoral Castle’s gardens, where the day’s spiritual experience deepened through immersion in God’s creation. Walking through Balmoral’s expansive woodlands and manicured gardens, both adults and children took in the gentle sunlight, fresh Highland air, and the rhythmic rustling of leaves—a living testimony to the Sabbath and the Creator’s majesty.
This afternoon nature walk served as both a physical and spiritual refreshment. Children chased butterflies and new friendships were formed as conversation unfolded. Psalm 19:1 came to life: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands.” For many, the environment prompted quiet contemplation and a sense of divine presence beyond church walls.
Faith, Fellowship, and Purpose
More than just an outing, the visit symbolised the Inverness and Elgin Churches' mission to grow in faith and mingle with people from all walks of life. It was a break from routine that invited fresh spiritual perspective and deepened interpersonal connections. Laughter, shared meals, and mutual encouragement enriched the day, reinforcing the church’s core values of hope, community, and resilience.
As the sun dipped behind the hills, the group gathered for a simple meal and closing prayers, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to worship in such a meaningful setting. The echoes of song in Crathie Kirk and laughter in Balmoral’s woods lingered in their hearts, tangible reminders of God’s presence wherever His people gather.
A Journey to Remember
For the Inverness and Elgin SDA Churches, June 14 was more than a date on the calendar, it was a historical and meaningful journey. From the reverence of royal pews to the tranquillity of forest paths, the day affirmed a timeless truth: when believers gather in worship and wonder, they find renewal, in history, nature, each other, and above all, in God. Discussions are ongoing between Pr Wil Masih and the minister of Crathie Kirk to organise a future Sabbath worship service and gospel concert at the church.
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*Crathie Kirk’s significance extends beyond architecture. Since Queen Victoria began worshipping there in 1848, every reigning monarch has followed her lead. She even laid the foundation stone of the present church in 1893 and contributed stained glass windows.This tradition of royal worship continued, with Queen Elizabeth II attending services during her Balmoral stays and even holding private family services there during times of mourning. The royal transept remains reserved for the monarchy, and numerous gifts from the royal family have graced the Kirk through the decades.This royal association infuses Crathie Kirk with a unique spiritual gravitas, making it not just a historic parish church, but a living symbol of faith shared across social and generational lines.On June 14, members and friends of the Inverness and Elgin Churches embarked on a meaningful spiritual journey blending historic worship at Crathie Kirk with reflective fellowship in Balmoral Gardens, affirming renewal through faith, heritage, nature, and community.
In a moving blend of history, worship, and nature, members and friends of the Inverness and Elgin Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Churches undertook a very special and memorable spiritual journey led by Pr Wil Masih. They gathered at the historic Crathie Kirk* for Sabbath worship before exploring the verdant grounds of the Balmoral Gardens. It was a day of reverence, reflection, and renewal, uniting faith with heritage and community.
A Sanctuary of Legacy and Praise
Placed beside the River Dee in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Crathie Kirk’s local church minister welcomed the Inverness and Elgin congregations to worship at the church with its timeless stone walls and deep spiritual resonance. The church, famed for its royal ties dating back to Queen Victoria, provided a striking backdrop for the Sabbath service. The sanctuary, steeped in royal tradition and the prayers of generations, became a sacred space for the local Adventists to lift their voices in praise.
The worship, rich in hymns and Scripture, was underscored by a profound sense of connection with God and with the larger Christian story stretching across time. As hymns echoed through the hallowed interior, many reflected on the Kirk’s storied past and the enduring nature of faith. “Worshipping here reminds us that we’re part of a much larger narrative,” said Pr Wil Masih who had organised this Sabbath pilgrimage for the local churches. “God’s story includes us, right here, right now.” In his sermon, Pr Wil Masih recounted the experience of David as he began his journey of restoration after God promised that He would restore to David everything that he had lost at Ziklag. This was a poignant reminder to the congregation of how God can restore things we have lost in our lives and points to the ultimate restoration of the earth as it was at creation.
Fellowship in Creation’s Cathedral
After the service, the group travelled to nearby Balmoral Castle’s gardens, where the day’s spiritual experience deepened through immersion in God’s creation. Walking through Balmoral’s expansive woodlands and manicured gardens, both adults and children took in the gentle sunlight, fresh Highland air, and the rhythmic rustling of leaves—a living testimony to the Sabbath and the Creator’s majesty.
This afternoon nature walk served as both a physical and spiritual refreshment. Children chased butterflies and new friendships were formed as conversation unfolded. Psalm 19:1 came to life: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands.” For many, the environment prompted quiet contemplation and a sense of divine presence beyond church walls.
Faith, Fellowship, and Purpose
More than just an outing, the visit symbolised the Inverness and Elgin Churches' mission to grow in faith and mingle with people from all walks of life. It was a break from routine that invited fresh spiritual perspective and deepened interpersonal connections. Laughter, shared meals, and mutual encouragement enriched the day, reinforcing the church’s core values of hope, community, and resilience.
As the sun dipped behind the hills, the group gathered for a simple meal and closing prayers, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to worship in such a meaningful setting. The echoes of song in Crathie Kirk and laughter in Balmoral’s woods lingered in their hearts, tangible reminders of God’s presence wherever His people gather.
A Journey to Remember
For the Inverness and Elgin SDA Churches, June 14 was more than a date on the calendar, it was a historical and meaningful journey. From the reverence of royal pews to the tranquillity of forest paths, the day affirmed a timeless truth: when believers gather in worship and wonder, they find renewal, in history, nature, each other, and above all, in God. Discussions are ongoing between Pr Wil Masih and the minister of Crathie Kirk to organise a future Sabbath worship service and gospel concert at the church.
--
*Crathie Kirk’s significance extends beyond architecture. Since Queen Victoria began worshipping there in 1848, every reigning monarch has followed her lead. She even laid the foundation stone of the present church in 1893 and contributed stained glass windows.This tradition of royal worship continued, with Queen Elizabeth II attending services during her Balmoral stays and even holding private family services there during times of mourning. The royal transept remains reserved for the monarchy, and numerous gifts from the royal family have graced the Kirk through the decades.This royal association infuses Crathie Kirk with a unique spiritual gravitas, making it not just a historic parish church, but a living symbol of faith shared across social and generational lines.
