St Columba's Church of Scotland

15/06/2026

Anyone who has spent a summer in Scotland will know that midges are not usually renowned for their kindness.

Which makes church member Molly Arbuthnott's new children's book all the more delightful.

Today sees the publication of Effie the Midge, a charming story about a very different kind of midge – one whose mission is to spread joy, kindness and wonder. Effie finds magic in the ordinary and encourages children to stay true to themselves, see the good in the world and treat others with kindness.

Many in our congregation will know Molly through her creativity, enthusiasm and gift for storytelling. We are delighted to celebrate the publication of her latest book and wish her every success as Effie begins her adventures.

Congratulations, Molly, from all your friends at St Columba's.

Have you met a kinder Scottish midge than Effie?

15/06/2026

15/06/2026

14/06/2026

Could You Sleep Out for One Night to Help Tackle Homelessness?

On 23 November 2026, ScotsCare CEO Shona Fleming, well known to many at St Columba's, will once again lead a team taking part in the CEO Sleepout at Lord's Cricket Ground.

Each year, hundreds of people swap the comfort of their beds for a sleeping bag and a night in the stands at one of Britain's most famous sporting venues. The aim is simple: to raise vital funds and awareness for those experiencing homelessness.

Despite the name, you don't need to be a CEO to take part. You simply need a willingness to support a great cause and a determination to spend one night under the stars in solidarity with those who face homelessness every day.

Those who have taken part describe it as a challenging but hugely rewarding experience, with a real sense of camaraderie and achievement. St Columba's elder Hugh Pym and our minister Angus MacLeod have both completed the Sleepout in previous years.

This year, we're hoping to recruit a team of six or more St Columbans to join the challenge and support our partner organisation, ScotsCare, in its work helping Scots in London facing hardship.

Could you be one of them?

If you'd like to find out more, please contact Angus via the Church Office.

Please like and share this post to help us find our team of sleepers and support ScotsCare's important work tackling homelessness.

13/06/2026

Fresh off the press!

The new June/July edition of the St Columba's Church Magazine is now available from the bookstall for just £1.50.

This latest issue is packed with stories that reflect the richness and variety of life at St Columba's and beyond. Alongside regular favourites such as prayers, a sermon and the preaching diary, you'll find news from across the Church of Scotland, updates from our valued hospitality team, reflections from Australia, personal memories of places of worship that have shaped lives over many years, and even a delicious recipe for Hazel's famous Chicken Pie!

Our thanks go to Editor Susan Pym and all the contributors who have helped create another informative, thoughtful and entertaining edition.

Why not pick up a copy for yourself – and perhaps one for a friend, neighbour or someone who would enjoy learning more about the life of St Columba's?

Every copy helps share the story of our church, our people and our community.

Please like and share this post to help spread the word. The magazine is more than a collection of articles – it's a window into the life, faith, friendship and fellowship that make St Columba's such a special place.

Pick up your copy from the bookstall any day... we are here seven days a week!

13/06/2026

This Sunday at St Columba's we'll be reflecting on one of the Bible's most surprising moments. When Sarah gave birth to Isaac in her old age, she declared:

"God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me." (Genesis 21:6)

Too often religion is portrayed as serious, sombre and joyless. Yet throughout the Bible we encounter a God of delight, hope, surprise and even laughter.

A modern prayer inspired by Sarah's story puts it beautifully:

"I have had enough of sad saints and sour religion.
I have had enough of sin spotting and grace doubting.
I need some laughter, Lord,
the kind you planted in Sarah."

In a world that can often feel anxious, angry and exhausting, perhaps we all need a little more holy laughter.

Join us this Sunday at St Columba's as we explore faith, joy and the God who still surprises us.

All are welcome.