“Amazin’”: A Mission-Filled Journey Through Scotland’s Timeless Beauty

Gail mckenzie

The Kentucky-Tennessee Conference group, joined by their Irish and Scottish friends, pose in front of Inverness Cathedral in Scotland.

Photo Courtesy of Gail McKenzie

The group learns about Martyrs’ Memorial, a tribute to those who were killed during the Scottish Reformation against the Catholic Church.

Photo courtesy of Gail McKenzie

The Scotland trip featured many highlights, including a group photo with Hamish, a Highland cow.

Photo Courtesy of Gail McKenzie

Twenty-seven members of the Kentucky-Tennessee Conference prayer ministries, accompanied by seven individuals from Northern Ireland, headed on a mission-filled holiday in Scotland on July 16, 2024. The trip showcased Scotland’s blend of ancient history and natural beauty, but the highlight was praying together with their Irish and Scottish friends.

The journey began with a visit to a working sheepdog farm, followed by a traditional Scottish meal and storytelling at Boghorn Farm. Participants also enjoyed making chocolate at a chocolatery, having high tea on a double- decker bus, riding a steam engine train, and taking pictures with Hamish, a highland cow. These activities created cherished memories for all involved.

The group also witnessed breathtaking scenery and iconic landmarks in Inverness, Loch Ness, and Oban. Although they didn’t spot Nessie, also known as the Loch Ness Monster, they enjoyed a visit to the House of Fraser to watch kilt-making demonstrations. Stories of John Knox and other reformers at St. Andrews captivated and humbled the group, highlighting the sacrifices made for the Reformation.

The group also had the opportunity to pray with their guide at Balmoral Castle and worship together at their hotel. The biggest highlight of the trip, however, was joining the Empowered Prayer Conference at Stirling Court Hotel with a group from Scotland and Ireland. The conference ended with a meaningful anointing ceremony.

As Paul expresses in II Corinthians 2:14, God leads those in a triumphal procession in Christ, spreading the fragrance of the knowledge of Jesus. For those who journeyed to Scotland, the experience was more than just a destination; it became a timeless journey that left an unforgettable mark on their hearts. To quote Mary McNally from Ireland, “This has been amazin’!”

Gail McKenzie is the women’s ministries and prayer ministries director for the Kentucky-Tennessee Conference.
Kentucky-Tennessee | December 2024