This afternoon at St Columba’s, the outgoing President of East Sutherland Rotary (Linda Graham), in incoming President (Elizabeth Sweetman) and Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant for Sutherland (Monica Main) planted trees for Ukraine, World Peace and Her Majesty’s Jubilee respectively.

Canon James led a short service of Dedication and Blessing, the large congregation sang out, ably competing with the traffic on the A9, passers by stopped to see what was happening and tea and many delicious cakes and biscuits were enjoyed by all.

And Piper April Sutherland demonstrated why she has been accepted to study at the Royal Conservatoire for Scotland after the holidays.

Well done to everyone – a huge thank you to all those who helped the Rotary to raise £5000 to send Shelterboxes to help the refugees from Ukraine.

God of Wonder,
as we gather together to bless the earth
and celebrate the potential of the trees before us,
we pray that they may serve as a living witness
to our commitment to heal our common home
through long-lasting, bold changes.
Grant us the courage to continue to take this stand
for the sake of the goodness of your creation,
and the inspiration and delight it provides us.
Through Christ, your Son, our Lord
Amen: