Yesterday over 130 people gathered in Dornoch Cathedral on a beautiful clear evening.  The main focus of this service of Evensong was the licensing of Rev. Simon Scott, who has moved to Sutherland from Halifax to become Head Teacher at Golspie and Rogart Primary Schools.

This was an historic occasion, with the congregations of St Finnbarr’s (Episcopal) and Dornoch Cathedral (Church of Scotland) joining forces in a wonderful show of Christian togetherness.  In his address Bishop Mark emphasised that Simon was not just being licenced as “another Episcopalian priest in the heather” to serve the congregations in East Sutherland and Tain but for the whole community in this area, bringing the message of Christ’s love for all. He said that the service being held in Dornoch Cathedral was particularly relevant, as it emphasised the importance of our churches working together to demonstrate that Christ’s love in all that we do.

Two churches coming together, thereby bringing Christians for churches across Sutherland and Ross-shire but also there were two choirs – one composed of singers gathered together by Jamie Campbell, under whose guidance the liturgy came alive with their singing (which included an arrangement of the Nunc Dimittis composed by Jamie himself). The other choir were the Golspie Choral Society, led by Roddy Maclean (who also played the organ). They sang two pieces – the anthem “You raised me up” by Rolf Løvland and “An Irish Blessing” by Joanna Forbes. Bishop Mark said it was like being surrounded by a heavenly choir!!

After the service we adjourned to Dornoch Social Club, where delicious refreshments were served and we had an opportunity to catch up with old friends as well as meeting new people.