9 Jan 2026, 15:11Pr Wil Masih; edited by SM CommunicationsStirling, Scotland, United Kingdom
Scotland's Church Leaders and New Members Gather to Explore Discipleship
Exploring discipleship, Scottish Mission church leaders and new members came together to encourage and learn from one another.
On Sunday, 21 December 2025, the Personal Ministries department of the Scottish Mission (SM) hosted a gathering of church leaders and newly baptised members to explore the meaning of discipleship. The event aimed to provide insight, encouragement, and practical guidance for living out Christ’s Great Commission.
The morning session featured presentations by Pastor Wil Masih and Pastor Ratko Risteski. Both speakers addressed key aspects of discipleship, breaking down theological concepts and encouraging attendees to reflect on their personal faith journeys. Presentations were followed by question-and-answer sessions, giving participants the opportunity to engage directly with the topics discussed.
In the afternoon, attendees shared personal testimonies. Church leaders and new members spoke candidly about their experiences of following Jesus, highlighting both challenges and the transformative impact of faith. Participants were also encouraged to discuss their own journeys in small groups, with table spokespersons summarising insights for the wider gathering. This interactive format emphasised communal learning and mutual encouragement.
Among the many inspiring testimonies, several stood out. One church leader described a personal transformation from a challenging past to a life of purpose and service in Christ, illustrating redemption and the transformative power of a disciple's calling. A newly baptised member from Edinburgh recounted how a simple invitation to church initiated a life-changing journey of faith, underscoring the importance of personal evangelism and the ripple effect of genuine friendship. A young member from Inverness shared how his recent baptism had strengthened his commitment to serve actively within the church, inspiring other young attendees and leaders, highlighting the fresh zeal and dedication often found in new believers eager to contribute to God's work.
Learning through both presentations and the authentic sharing of personal experiences fostered a strong sense of connection and understanding, with several attendees describing the stories as "immensely enriching."
The Personal Ministries department confirmed plans to continue hosting similar events in 2026 to encourage church leaders, the newly baptised, and those with a passion for discipleship-making.
The gathering reinforced that discipleship is an ongoing, communal journey. Attendees left with renewed knowledge, shared experiences, and a strengthened commitment to disciple-making across Scotland.
Exploring discipleship, Scottish Mission church leaders and new members came together to encourage and learn from one another.
On Sunday, 21 December 2025, the Personal Ministries department of the Scottish Mission (SM) hosted a gathering of church leaders and newly baptised members to explore the meaning of discipleship. The event aimed to provide insight, encouragement, and practical guidance for living out Christ’s Great Commission.
The morning session featured presentations by Pastor Wil Masih and Pastor Ratko Risteski. Both speakers addressed key aspects of discipleship, breaking down theological concepts and encouraging attendees to reflect on their personal faith journeys. Presentations were followed by question-and-answer sessions, giving participants the opportunity to engage directly with the topics discussed.
In the afternoon, attendees shared personal testimonies. Church leaders and new members spoke candidly about their experiences of following Jesus, highlighting both challenges and the transformative impact of faith. Participants were also encouraged to discuss their own journeys in small groups, with table spokespersons summarising insights for the wider gathering. This interactive format emphasised communal learning and mutual encouragement.
Among the many inspiring testimonies, several stood out. One church leader described a personal transformation from a challenging past to a life of purpose and service in Christ, illustrating redemption and the transformative power of a disciple's calling. A newly baptised member from Edinburgh recounted how a simple invitation to church initiated a life-changing journey of faith, underscoring the importance of personal evangelism and the ripple effect of genuine friendship. A young member from Inverness shared how his recent baptism had strengthened his commitment to serve actively within the church, inspiring other young attendees and leaders, highlighting the fresh zeal and dedication often found in new believers eager to contribute to God's work.
Learning through both presentations and the authentic sharing of personal experiences fostered a strong sense of connection and understanding, with several attendees describing the stories as "immensely enriching."
The Personal Ministries department confirmed plans to continue hosting similar events in 2026 to encourage church leaders, the newly baptised, and those with a passion for discipleship-making.
The gathering reinforced that discipleship is an ongoing, communal journey. Attendees left with renewed knowledge, shared experiences, and a strengthened commitment to disciple-making across Scotland.
