Sanctuary First

Iona - Inverness in the footsteps of St Columba. Find more episodes on Sanctuary First Carrying 4 large heavy stones & a Bible, a team from new church plant St Columba's, Inverness, rowed, bike-hiked, cycled & walked in the trail of our great Celtic missionary Colmcille. Hear why in this episode of Emerging Emmaus as Neil cycles alongside Rev Scott McRoberts to find out. A Good News story of a young church who've just bought a ‘field of dreams' in which to build a centre for their church & community. Be inspired & encouraged! Find all past episodes of the podcast on the Sanctuary First website, via our App and on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Join us as we discover, faith hope and stories of grief in the Church of Scotland. Come! Emmaus, Emerge from the gloom. Come Holy Spirit Come!

Join us for a Nine part podcast series as we explore in real time the Sanctuary first connect material for the theme ‘Express Yourself'. Never done a connect group or bible study before? Perhaps your interested in starting one but havn't yet, or maybe your looking for more to explore from this weeks theme. Each week Albert and guests will unpack the weeks theme and branch off into a wide ranging conversation on the bible passages. Gameface! — Team Sports. From World Cup Stadiums to local five-aside pitches, sports show us peaks of human striving and endurance. But the greatest moments aren’t just about winning — they are about respect, sacrifice, and teamwork. Individual glory is hollow and team sports remind us that we are intended to find our identity in community, bringing out the best in each other and honouring one another. Scripture Focus: Ephesians 4: 25-32 Core Discussion Question: Paul tells us we are “members of one another.” How does a “team sports” mentality change how we treat people we disagree with or view as opponents in daily life? Why does striving with and against others shape our identity? Book: The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek (Shifting from beating others to building long-term community) Films: Chariots of Fire or The Boys in the Boat (Classic stories of human striving, sacrifice, and honouring a higher purpose)

Restless Sanctuary Ep. 014: Orchard walk! Self-Expression + trees Join James and Albert for a walk in Albert's garden as they talk about self-expression, getting to know one another and God, and how perhaps there's no such thing as a tree! (Also Albert's Panama Hat). As this was recorded on the fly in the garden you will hear some sirens, wind, birdsong and even an ice cream van going past. Listen every fortnight to our new podcast about faith, restlessness and the search for meaning! James Cathcart and Albert Bogle from Sanctuary First share what it's like to be restless Christians, wrestling with the Bible and spirituality as they try and live it out today. Right now our world is very restless — politically, economically, culturally, technologically and environmentally. We are living through an age of disruption and upheaval. Many of us are longing for a sense of sanctuary, for belonging, and direction to help us face new and unprecedented challenges. At the root of Christianity James and Albert uncover a restlessness in God's heart that mirrors our own. A deep longing and restless love that searches out for each one of us. We glimpse God in the faces of one another in need and in God we glimpse our own human yearning for wholeness and love. James and Albert reckon Jesus offers sanctuary and respite for our restless souls, but that it is often a restless sanctuary, a temporary makeshift shelter in a world that we are called in turn to go out and love. The ship in their logo, designed by Jack Steel, is itself a restless sanctuary on the open water — not a shelter from the storm but a shelter through the storm. Join them every fortnight for fascinating discussions about being restless Christians in a restless world! The series is a collaboration between James Cathcart and Albert Bogle and features the track ‘Symphony of Lies' by The Bogle Band. References: James's reference to Stanley Hauerwas and how other people help shape out identity and character comes from his The Peaceable Kingdom, A Primer In Christian Ethics. “We acquire character through the expectation of others. The “otherness” of another's character not only invites me to an always imperfect imitation, but challenges me to recognize the way my vision is restricted by my own self-preoccupation. Thus the kind of community in which we encounter another does not merely make some difference for our capacity for agency, it makes all the difference. From this perspective we are not the creators of our character; rather, our character is a gift from others which we learn to claim as our own by recognizing it as a gift. Our freedom is literally in the hands of others.” For more information into how trees communicate with one another through ‘The Wood Wide Web' check out this BBC Crowd Science video. Find the podcast here on Sanctuary First, in our Sanctuary First App, and on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and most other podcasting platforms!

Join us for an audio visual art installation that will lead you through a ten stage spiritual labyrinth focusing on a theme of waiting. This labyrinth is designed to be used on its own or in partnership with the Journey Of Waiting Labyrinth in person Art Installation. Take time to listen to each stage of the labyrinth for a calming and spiritual journey of prayer and reflection. This Labyrinth invites you to explore what it means to wait upon the Lord in all the encounters we have in life and what this involves. It is an interactive journey with ten stations to consider and will take you around 30 minutes. This Labyrinth was brought to you by Sanctuary First and Sanctus Media, it is read by Lily Cathcart and devised by Maggie Lane. Every journey we make in life begins somewhere. We can make choices about the route we take which might include different stopping off points, but all of it ultimately leads us to our destination. We like to get to where we want to be as quickly as possible. We like immediate results, immediate rewards; this Labyrinth journey however has been designed to encourage you to pause, to slow down and prayerfully reflect on what it means to wait for God as the Psalmist so often did on his journey. Psalm 27:14 ‘Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.” Or waiting for a promise to be realised like the disciples who waited in the upper room at Pentecost because Jesus told them ‘Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised,' the gift of the Holy Spirit. They would need power in a hostile world if they were going to fulfil their God given purpose of being His witnesses throughout the world. So they chose to wait, expectant and trusting, and they received what was promised and immediately went out to share what they had received. Are you ready to make this journey of waiting, receiving and sharing?

Join us for a Nine part podcast series as we explore in real time the Sanctuary first connect material for the theme ‘Express Yourself'. Never done a connect group or bible study before? Perhaps your interested in starting one but havn't yet, or maybe your looking for more to explore from this weeks theme. Each week Albert and guests will unpack the weeks theme and branch off into a wide ranging conversation on the bible passages. “You are what you eat.” We've all heard it, but what are we actually hungering for? In a world full of temporary satisfactions, what is the ultimate pursuit that actually fulfils our souls? We hunger for more than physical sustenance; we hunger for connection and ultimate meaning. Scripture Focus: John 6:25-35 Core Discussion Question: Jesus calls Himself the “Bread of Life.” What are the temporary “foods” (success, approval, material things) we often pursue to define our identity, and how and why do they leave us hungry? Books: Mere Christianity C.S. Lewis and The Prodigal God Timothy Keller Film: Chocolat (Exploring how food, community, and breaking bread together can transform a rigid culture)

Restless Sanctuary Episode 13: ‘Got a light?' How colours help us to think differently about theology What does it mean to let our light shine? What do we do when Jesus surprises us at the bus stop? What is a tetrachromat? How does colour help us think about theology differently? What has the through-line been for our Sanctuary First themes from Advent last year to this summer? Check out our latest episode to find out! Listen every fortnight to our new podcast about faith, restlessness and the search for meaning! James Cathcart and Albert Bogle from Sanctuary First share what it's like to be restless Christians, wrestling with the Bible and spirituality as they try and live it out today. Right now our world is very restless — politically, economically, culturally, technologically and environmentally. We are living through an age of disruption and upheaval. Many of us are longing for a sense of sanctuary, for belonging, and direction to help us face new and unprecedented challenges. At the root of Christianity James and Albert uncover a restlessness in God's heart that mirrors our own. A deep longing and restless love that searches out for each one of us. We glimpse God in the faces of one another in need and in God we glimpse our own human yearning for wholeness and love. James and Albert reckon Jesus offers sanctuary and respite for our restless souls, but that it is often a restless sanctuary, a temporary makeshift shelter in a world that we are called in turn to go out and love. The ship in their logo, designed by Jack Steel, is itself a restless sanctuary on the open water — not a shelter from the storm but a shelter through the storm. Join them every fortnight for fascinating discussions about being restless Christians in a restless world! The series is a collaboration between James Cathcart and Albert Bogle and features the track ‘Symphony of Lies' by The Bogle Band. References: The Bible verses James reads are Matthew 5: 14-16. The song Albert mentions writing with Iain Jamieson is ‘Room at the Table' by The Bogle Band. The hymn Albert refers to is: ‘Loved with everlasting love' (I Am His, and He Is Mine), by Wade Robinson. The BBC article they discuss is: The women with superhuman vision by David Robson on BBC Future. Find the podcast here on Sanctuary First, in our Sanctuary First App, and on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and most other podcasting platforms!

Being Before Doing Find more episodes on Sanctuary First In this episode of Emerging Emmaus, Neil and Lynsey are joined by James Falconer, an ordained elder with nearly 45 years of service in the Church of Scotland and a passion for helping people rediscover the heart of following Jesus. Serving at Falkirk Upper Braes Parish Church, James shares honestly about the challenges of “doing church” without really resting & living in Christ, and reflects on his own journey of surrender, discipleship, leadership, and finding renewed peace and purpose in Jesus. Together, the conversation explores what it means to genuinely follow Christ, how discipleship transforms people over time, and why the ministry of all believers matters so deeply for the church today. This episode offers encouragement, wisdom, and hope for anyone longing for a deeper and more life-giving walk with God. Be encouraged & inspired! Find all past episodes of the podcast on the Sanctuary First website, via our App and on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Join us as we discover, faith hope and stories of grief in the Church of Scotland. Come! Emmaus, Emerge from the gloom. Come Holy Spirit Come!

Restless Sanctuary Episode 12: Getting salty? This week James and Albert talk about Jesus's invitation to be the salt of the earth! What does salt do? And what are we doing? How much salt is too much salt? What does Jesus's analogy teach us? They discuss chemistry, inequality, getting ‘salty', balance, compassion and a dehydrated society. Listen every fortnight to our new podcast about faith, restlessness and the search for meaning! James Cathcart and Albert Bogle from Sanctuary First share what it's like to be restless Christians, wrestling with the Bible and spirituality as they try and live it out today. Right now our world is very restless — politically, economically, culturally, technologically and environmentally. We are living through an age of disruption and upheaval. Many of us are longing for a sense of sanctuary, for belonging, and direction to help us face new and unprecedented challenges. At the root of Christianity James and Albert uncover a restlessness in God's heart that mirrors our own. A deep longing and restless love that searches out for each one of us. We glimpse God in the faces of one another in need and in God we glimpse our own human yearning for wholeness and love. James and Albert reckon Jesus offers sanctuary and respite for our restless souls, but that it is often a restless sanctuary, a temporary makeshift shelter in a world that we are called in turn to go out and love. The ship in their logo, designed by Jack Steel, is itself a restless sanctuary on the open water — not a shelter from the storm but a shelter through the storm. Join them every fortnight for fascinating discussions about being restless Christians in a restless world! The series is a collaboration between James Cathcart and Albert Bogle and features the track ‘Symphony of Lies' by The Bogle Band. References: The book James refers to in this episode is Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat by Samin Nosrat. The song lyrics Albert quotes are from ‘Isn't it Pity?' by George Harrison. Find the podcast here on Sanctuary First, in our Sanctuary First App, and on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and most other podcasting platforms!

Restless Sanctuary Episode 11: What are you waiting for? Come on, what are you waiting for!? This week James flies solo in a short episode asking: ‘What are you waiting for?' Because there's two types of waiting: the type that's out of our hands and the type that is very much IN our hands. James reflects on two things humans are really good at, a parrot print dress, and why we're not always the best judge of our own happiness… Listen every fortnight to our new podcast about faith, restlessness and the search for meaning! James Cathcart and Albert Bogle from Sanctuary First share what it's like to be restless Christians, wrestling with the Bible and spirituality as they try and live it out today. Right now our world is very restless — politically, economically, culturally, technologically and environmentally. We are living through an age of disruption and upheaval. Many of us are longing for a sense of sanctuary, for belonging, and direction to help us face new and unprecedented challenges. At the root of Christianity James and Albert uncover a restlessness in God's heart that mirrors our own. A deep longing and restless love that searches out for each one of us. We glimpse God in the faces of one another in need and in God we glimpse our own human yearning for wholeness and love. James and Albert reckon Jesus offers sanctuary and respite for our restless souls, but that it is often a restless sanctuary, a temporary makeshift shelter in a world that we are called in turn to go out and love. The ship in their logo, designed by Jack Steel, is itself a restless sanctuary on the open water — not a shelter from the storm but a shelter through the storm. Join them every fortnight for fascinating discussions about being restless Christians in a restless world! The series is a collaboration between James Cathcart and Albert Bogle and features the track ‘Symphony of Lies' by The Bogle Band. References: The study James refers to throughout this episode is Decisions and Revisions: The Affective Forecasting of Changeable Outcomes Daniel T. Gilbert Harvard University & Jane E. J. Ebert Massachusetts Institute of Technology it can be read here. Find out more about Daniel T. Gilbert here. Find the podcast here on Sanctuary First, in our Sanctuary First App, and on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and most other podcasting platforms!

This week we are looking at the Leap, thinking on how Sometimes coming face to face with the cross leads to people leaping into life following Jesus. It's the start of an adventure that physically moves people, motivating them to catch up with where Jesus is working in the world. Join us for a four part podcast series as we explore in real time the Sanctuary first connect material for the theme ‘After The Cross'. Never done a connect group or bible study before? Perhaps your interested in starting one but havn't yet, or maybe your looking for more to explore from this weeks theme. Each week we will run through the weeks readings and questions as we explore together what happens ‘After The Cross'. Explore this months Connect Material to follow along: After The Cross Add your questions and thoughts from this weeks readings down below and we will read them out next week!

This week we are looking at the kneel, thinking on how humility and obedience play a part in our lives. Join us for a four part podcast series as we explore in real time the Sanctuary first connect material for the theme ‘After The Cross'. Never done a connect group or bible study before? Perhaps your interested in starting one but havn't yet, or maybe your looking for more to explore from this weeks theme. Each week we will run through the weeks readings and questions as we explore together what happens ‘After The Cross'. Explore this months Connect Material to follow along: After The Cross Add your questions and thoughts from this weeks readings down below and we will read them out next week!

Restless Sanctuary Episode 10: Kneeling and/or leaping? What happens when we kneel before the cross? What happens when we take the leap with Jesus? In this episode James and Albert are joined by long time contributor to Sanctuary First retired minister and incredible writer and thinker Peter Neilson! They continue to reflect on what it means to live ‘After the Cross' as we respond to Jesus' universe-changing act of love. They discuss disillusionment, hope, culture clash, brokenness, wholeness, the intimacy of kneeling, and the power of sitting across from someone at Communion. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Karl Barth, Jürgen Moltmann and John Zizioulas all get namechecks! Listen every fortnight to our new podcast about faith, restlessness and the search for meaning! James Cathcart and Albert Bogle from Sanctuary First share what it's like to be restless Christians, wrestling with the Bible and spirituality as they try and live it out today. Right now our world is very restless — politically, economically, culturally, technologically and environmentally. We are living through an age of disruption and upheaval. Many of us are longing for a sense of sanctuary, for belonging, and direction to help us face new and unprecedented challenges. At the root of Christianity James and Albert uncover a restlessness in God's heart that mirrors our own. A deep longing and restless love that searches out for each one of us. We glimpse God in the faces of one another in need and in God we glimpse our own human yearning for wholeness and love. James and Albert reckon Jesus offers sanctuary and respite for our restless souls, but that it is often a restless sanctuary, a temporary makeshift shelter in a world that we are called in turn to go out and love. The ship in their logo, designed by Jack Steel, is itself a restless sanctuary on the open water — not a shelter from the storm but a shelter through the storm. Join them every fortnight for fascinating discussions about being restless Christians in a restless world! The series is a collaboration between James Cathcart and Albert Bogle and features the track ‘Symphony of Lies' by The Bogle Band. Find the podcast here on Sanctuary First, in our Sanctuary First App, and on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and most other podcasting platforms!

In what ways do we shrug in apathy at faith, the cross and God? Do we shrug at the hurt in the world wondering what can be done to fix such a mess? Join us for a four part podcast series as we explore in real time the Sanctuary first connect material for the theme ‘After The Cross'. Never done a connect group or bible study before? Perhaps your interested in starting one but havn't yet, or maybe your looking for more to explore from this weeks theme. Each week we will run through the weeks readings and questions as we explore together what happens ‘After The Cross'. Explore this months Connect Material to follow along: After The Cross Add your questions and thoughts from this weeks readings down below and we will read them out next week!

Inviting Jesus In Find more episodes on Sanctuary First This week on the Emerging Emmaus Podcast we spoke with Sarah Johnson, Mission Support Manager for the Church of Scotland. Sarah sees her varied life & career to this point has prepared her well for her present role. Here she shares her excitement about what Jesus is up to across Scotland today & her privilege in enthusing, encouraging & enabling congregations & groups to meaningfully engage with their parishes & many people who have still to experience & explore the Good News of Jesus Christ. She has a team of skilled & servant hearted facilitators ready to come along side to help grow vision, plant new ventures & develop mission across our beloved land of Scotland. Be encouraged & inspired! Find all past episodes of the podcast on the Sanctuary First website, via our App and on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Join us as we discover, faith hope and stories of grief in the Church of Scotland. Come! Emmaus, Emerge from the gloom. Come Holy Spirit Come!

​What does it mean to flinch before the Cross? To turn away in shame or frustration? Join us for a four part podcast series as we explore in real time the Sanctuary first connect material for the theme ‘After The Cross'. Never done a connect group or bible study before? Perhaps your interested in starting one but havn't yet, or maybe your looking for more to explore from this weeks theme. Each week we will run through the weeks readings and questions as we explore together what happens ‘After The Cross'. Explore this months Connect Material to follow along: After The Cross Add your questions and thoughts from this weeks readings down below and we will read them out next week!

Restless Sanctuary Episode 9: Flinching and shrugging from the cross? In this episode James and Albert are joined by preacher, piper, poet and publisher Jock Stein to talk about what it means to flinch or shrug from the cross. For many of us our reactions to the cross will be a mix of sorrow, scepticism, awe and hope. Indeed if the cross never makes us flinch — is it the cross we're looking at? Or just an empty symbol? And if we have never shrugged, scratched our heads, and been frustrated by the cross — is it the cross we're looking at or just a logo? How can flinching and shrugging be part of going deeper into what the cross means in our lives? Listen every fortnight to our new podcast about faith, restlessness and the search for meaning! James Cathcart and Albert Bogle from Sanctuary First share what it's like to be restless Christians, wrestling with the Bible and spirituality as they try and live it out today. Right now our world is very restless — politically, economically, culturally, technologically and environmentally. We are living through an age of disruption and upheaval. Many of us are longing for a sense of sanctuary, for belonging, and direction to help us face new and unprecedented challenges. At the root of Christianity James and Albert uncover a restlessness in God's heart that mirrors our own. A deep longing and restless love that searches out for each one of us. We glimpse God in the faces of one another in need and in God we glimpse our own human yearning for wholeness and love. James and Albert reckon Jesus offers sanctuary and respite for our restless souls, but that it is often a restless sanctuary, a temporary makeshift shelter in a world that we are called in turn to go out and love. The ship in their logo, designed by Jack Steel, is itself a restless sanctuary on the open water — not a shelter from the storm but a shelter through the storm. Join them every fortnight for fascinating discussions about being restless Christians in a restless world! The series is a collaboration between James Cathcart and Albert Bogle and features the track ‘Symphony of Lies' by The Bogle Band. References: Jock Stein's book Temple and Tartan: Psalms, Poetry and Scotland from Handsel Press. Find the podcast here on Sanctuary First, in our Sanctuary First App, and on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and most other podcasting platforms!

Episode 1: Bitter “A small palmful of these bitter leaves are picked for Thursday for the meal that will become the last supper they are sought out of this dense overgrown garden while outside even now there are voices clamouring for a saviour, for a rebel, a warlord, an avenging angel…” Listen as James takes us to the brooding atmosphere as Holy Week begins, tensions mount, and bitter herbs are gathered. A series of five audio meditations running daily during Holy Week. Poetry, drama, music, and prayer come together and invite us to rediscover the wonder of Easter through our tastebuds. Each day we focus on one of the five tastes to experience the vividness of these timeless events in a new way. We will see how harshness, deliciousness, acidity, richness and tanginess can draw us further and deeper into this world-changing, universe-changing, week. The series is a collaboration between James Cathcart and Laura Digan and features music from ‘Have You Room For Love?' by The Bogle Band. Listen to Episode 1: Bitter Listen to Episode 2: Sweet Listen to Episode 3: Sour Listen to Episode 4: Umami

Restless Sanctuary Episode 8: Longing for renewal? In this episode James and Albert talk about what it means to long for renewal — for the breath of new life to sweep through old bones! They discuss Ezekiel, Lazarus, restoration, storytelling and jellyfish! Listen every fortnight to our new podcast about faith, restlessness and the search for meaning! James Cathcart and Albert Bogle from Sanctuary First share what it's like to be restless Christians, wrestling with the Bible and spirituality as they try and live it out today. Right now our world is very restless — politically, economically, culturally, technologically and environmentally. We are living through an age of disruption and upheaval. Many of us are longing for a sense of sanctuary, for belonging, and direction to help us face new and unprecedented challenges. At the root of Christianity James and Albert uncover a restlessness in God's heart that mirrors our own. A deep longing and restless love that searches out for each one of us. We glimpse God in the faces of one another in need and in God we glimpse our own human yearning for wholeness and love. James and Albert reckon Jesus offers sanctuary and respite for our restless souls, but that it is often a restless sanctuary, a temporary makeshift shelter in a world that we are called in turn to go out and love. The ship in their logo, designed by Jack Steel, is itself a restless sanctuary on the open water — not a shelter from the storm but a shelter through the storm. Join them every fortnight for fascinating discussions about being restless Christians in a restless world! The series is a collaboration between James Cathcart and Albert Bogle and features the track ‘Symphony of Lies' by The Bogle Band. References: Listen to our episode about following Jesus in a world on fire here. Listen to our episode about what Jesus has to say about burnout here. The quote James refers to about shipbuilding is from Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, the author of The Little Prince “If you want to build a ship,” he counsels, “don't drum up people to collect wood and don't assign them tasks and work, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea.” And was found in James K. A. Smith's book You Are What You Love. Find the podcast here on Sanctuary First, in our Sanctuary First App, and on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and most other podcasting platforms!

How to lead well without losing yourself Find more episodes on Sanctuary First This week on the Emerging Emmaus Podcast we spoke with leadership coach and speaker Shona Stirling for an honest conversation about leadership, faith, and what it means to live well. Shona works with leaders across business and church contexts who are wrestling with deeper questions about purpose, emotional health, and how to stay rooted in Christ in demanding roles. Together they explore the pressures leaders face, why paying attention to our emotions and inner life matters, and how churches can cultivate discipleship cultures that are life-giving and help people grow in Christ. If you've ever wondered how to lead well without losing yourself—or your faith—this conversation offers thoughtful wisdom and encouragement for the journey. Books mentioned: Emotionally Healthy leadership by Pete Scazzero Emotionally Healthy Spirituality by Peter Scazzero Emotionally Healthy Church by Pete Scazzero Managing Leadership Anxiety: Yours and Theirs. By Steve Cuss Be encouraged & inspired! Find all past episodes of the podcast on the Sanctuary First website, via our App and on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Join us as we discover, faith hope and stories of grief in the Church of Scotland. Come! Emmaus, Emerge from the gloom. Come Holy Spirit Come!

Restless Sanctuary Episode 7: What does Jesus say about burnout? In this episode James and Albert explore Jesus's response to burnout, stress, anxiety and doomscrolling! They talk about rest, mental health, resilience, work/life balance, being overwhelmed by the news cycle, the Samaritan woman at the well, and the living water that changes our life — that tells us we're cherished. Listen every fortnight to our new podcast about faith, restlessness and the search for meaning! James Cathcart and Albert Bogle from Sanctuary First share what it's like to be restless Christians, wrestling with the Bible and spirituality as they try and live it out today. Right now our world is very restless — politically, economically, culturally, technologically and environmentally. We are living through an age of disruption and upheaval. Many of us are longing for a sense of sanctuary, for belonging, and direction to help us face new and unprecedented challenges. At the root of Christianity James and Albert uncover a restlessness in God's heart that mirrors our own. A deep longing and restless love that searches out for each one of us. We glimpse God in the faces of one another in need and in God we glimpse our own human yearning for wholeness and love. James and Albert reckon Jesus offers sanctuary and respite for our restless souls, but that it is often a restless sanctuary, a temporary makeshift shelter in a world that we are called in turn to go out and love. The ship in their logo, designed by Jack Steel, is itself a restless sanctuary on the open water — not a shelter from the storm but a shelter through the storm. Join them every fortnight for fascinating discussions about being restless Christians in a restless world! The series is a collaboration between James Cathcart and Albert Bogle and features the track ‘Symphony of Lies' by The Bogle Band. References: The NHS Better Health, Every Mind Matters article about Work-related stress. The Barbara Brown Taylor article Identity confirmation: John 4:5-42 in the Christian Century. Find the podcast here on Sanctuary First, in our Sanctuary First App, and on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and most other podcasting platforms!

Restless Sanctuary Episode 6: Vine Trust Tanzania Bonus Episode This week we have a special bonus episode recorded live in Kilimanjaro, Tanzania where Albert and his friend friend Ken MacKenzie discuss a recent trip with the Vine Trust. As this was a recording of a quick impromptu conversation the sound quality is a little different to normal with more background noise but we really hope you enjoy this conversation about the life-changing work of Vine Trust. Listen to our new podcast about faith, restlessness and the search for meaning! James Cathcart and Albert Bogle from Sanctuary First share what it's like to be restless Christians, wrestling with the Bible and spirituality as they try and live it out today. Right now our world is very restless — politically, economically, culturally, technologically and environmentally. We are living through an age of disruption and upheaval. Many of us are longing for a sense of sanctuary, for belonging, and direction to help us face new and unprecedented challenges. At the root of Christianity James and Albert uncover a restlessness in God's heart that mirrors our own. A deep longing and restless love that searches out for each one of us. We glimpse God in the faces of one another in need and in God we glimpse our own human yearning for wholeness and love. James and Albert reckon Jesus offers sanctuary and respite for our restless souls, but that it is often a restless sanctuary, a temporary makeshift shelter in a world that we are called in turn to go out and love. The ship in their logo, designed by Jack Steel, is itself a restless sanctuary on the open water — not a shelter from the storm but a shelter through the storm. Join them every fortnight for fascinating discussions about being restless Christians in a restless world! The series is a collaboration between James Cathcart and Albert Bogle and features the track ‘Symphony of Lies' by The Bogle Band. Find the podcast here on Sanctuary First, in our Sanctuary First App, and on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and most other podcasting platforms!

Restless Sanctuary Episode 5: How to follow Jesus in a world on fire! Listen to our new podcast about faith, restlessness and the search for meaning! In each episode James Cathcart and Albert Bogle from Sanctuary First share what it's like to be restless Christians, wrestling with the Bible and spirituality as they try and live it out today. This week they ask: How is the world on fire? What do we actually mean when we talk about ‘following Jesus'? And how does following Jesus through the flames change the world? In this episode they discuss our new theme for Lent ‘Come Follow Me.' Right now our world is very restless — politically, economically, culturally, technologically and environmentally. We are living through an age of disruption and upheaval. Many of us are longing for a sense of sanctuary, for belonging, and direction to help us face new and unprecedented challenges. At the root of Christianity James and Albert uncover a restlessness in God's heart that mirrors our own. A deep longing and restless love that searches out for each one of us. We glimpse God in the faces of one another in need and in God we glimpse our own human yearning for wholeness and love. James and Albert reckon Jesus offers sanctuary and respite for our restless souls, but that it is often a restless sanctuary, a temporary makeshift shelter in a world that we are called in turn to go out and love. The ship in their logo, designed by Jack Steel, is itself a restless sanctuary on the open water — not a shelter from the storm but a shelter through the storm. Join them every fortnight for fascinating discussions about being restless Christians in a restless world! The series is a collaboration between James Cathcart and Albert Bogle and features the track ‘Symphony of Lies' by The Bogle Band. The book James mentions are ‘You are what you Love' by James K. A. Smith and ‘Improvisation, The Drama of Christian Ethics' by Samuel Wells. Find the podcast here on Sanctuary First, in our Sanctuary First App, and on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and most other podcasting platforms!

Creating Safe Spaces for Curiosity, Faith & Doubt Find more episodes on Sanctuary First This week on the Emerging Emmaus Podcast we spoke to William Gibson a young Christian Ministry Student, PhD Student in Theology & multi-media mogul. William shares his meandering journey of Faith, views on where The Scottish Church is at and directions She can hopefully take in following Christ to where people are and are at. A Feast of stimulating, challenging & inspiring food for thought & discussion! Be encouraged & inspired! Find all past episodes of the podcast on the Sanctuary First website, via our App and on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Join us as we discover, faith hope and stories of grief in the Church of Scotland. Come! Emmaus, Emerge from the gloom. Come Holy Spirit Come!

Room for All: Stories Round the Table 5, written and illustrated by Lily Cathcart and read aloud by Jack Steel. To read rather than listen to this story you can go to our Sanctuary First blog post. We are delighted to feature: ‘Stories Round the Table; a series of five specially commissioned short stories by Lily Cathcart which explore how subtle moments around shared tables can change our lives forever. Each story will be published in text and audio on the Sanctuary First Blog. Lily will take us to a disheveled car, a crowded kitchen table, a busy train compartment, a bustling cafe, a cosy dining room, and a long conference table as we travel with her through each week of Advent (and even a bonus story for Hogmanay!) Music is ‘Auld Lang Syne' by Bamtone and ‘Chasing the Light' by Northern Heart, both licensed by Sanctus Media from www.Artist.io.

Making Room: Stories Round the Table 4, written and illustrated by Lily Cathcart and read aloud by James Cathcart. To read rather than listen to this story you can go to our Sanctuary First blog post. We are delighted to feature: ‘Stories Round the Table; a series of five specially commissioned short stories by Lily Cathcart which explore how subtle moments around shared tables can change our lives forever. Each story will be published in text and audio on the Sanctuary First Blog. Lily will take us to a disheveled car, a crowded kitchen table, a busy train compartment, a bustling cafe, a cosy dining room, and a long conference table as we travel with her through each week of Advent (and even a bonus story for Hogmanay!) Music is ‘Deck the Halls' by Bamtone and ‘Chasing the Light' by Northern Heart, both licensed by Sanctus Media from www.Artist.io.

Seeing the Wood for the Trees in Mission Find more episodes on Sanctuary First This week on the Emerging Emmaus Podcast we spoke to Peter Wood. Peter can certainly ‘see the wood for the trees' when it comes to mission. From The Congo, to Cambridge to Mission Officer of Lothian & Borders Presbytery, with warmth, passion & insight Pete shares about his role & how they're listening prayerfully & carefully to congregations, parishes & people to find ways to grow can-do cultures of Christ's mission. Short courses for the Church Community Be encouraged & inspired! Find all past episodes of the podcast on the Sanctuary First website, via our App and on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Join us as we discover, faith hope and stories of grief in the Church of Scotland. Come! Emmaus, Emerge from the gloom. Come Holy Spirit Come! #podcast #onlinechurch #sanctuaryfirst #emergingemmauspodcast

Room Enough For Grace: Stories Round the Table 3, written by Lily Cathcart and read by Laura Digan. To read rather than listen to this story you can go to our Sanctuary First blog post. We are delighted to feature: ‘Stories Round the Table; a series of five specially commissioned short stories by Lily Cathcart which explore how subtle moments around shared tables can change our lives forever. Each story will be published in text and audio on the Sanctuary First Blog. Lily will take us to a disheveled car, a crowded kitchen table, a busy train compartment, a bustling cafe, a cosy dining room, and a long conference table as we travel with her through each week of Advent (and even a bonus story for Hogmanay!) Music is ‘Silent Night’ by Jonas Kolberg and ‘Chasing the Light’ by Northern Heart, both licensed by Sanctus Media from www.Artist.io.

Finding Harmony: Stories Round the Table 1, written and read by Lily Cathcart. To read rather than listen to this story you can go to our Sanctuary First blog post. We are delighted to feature: ‘Stories Round the Table; a series of five specially commissioned short stories by Lily Cathcart which explore how subtle moments around shared tables can change our lives forever. Each story will be published in text and audio on the Sanctuary First Blog. Lily will take us to a disheveled car, a crowded kitchen table, a busy train compartment, a bustling cafe, a cosy dining room, and a long conference table as we travel with her through each week of Advent (and even a bonus story for Hogmanay!) The music is ‘Cold’ by Borrtex and ‘Chasing the Light’ by Northern Heart, both licensed by Sanctus Media from www.Artist.io.

Restless Sanctuary Episode 4: So what is Communion? Listen to our new podcast about faith, restlessness and the search for meaning! In each episode James Cathcart and Albert Bogle from Sanctuary First share what it's like to be restless Christians, wrestling with the Bible and spirituality as they try and live it out today. This week they ask: So what is Communion? Why do we do it? And how can it shape how we see the world? On the way they discuss cheering from the terraces, Tunnocks Teacakes, and banana molecules! Right now our world is very restless — politically, economically, culturally, technologically and environmentally. We are living through an age of disruption and upheaval. Many of us are longing for a sense of sanctuary, for belonging, and direction to help us face new and unprecedented challenges. At the root of Christianity James and Albert uncover a restlessness in God's heart that mirrors our own. A deep longing and restless love that searches out for each one of us. We glimpse God in the faces of one another in need and in God we glimpse our own human yearning for wholeness and love. James and Albert reckon Jesus offers sanctuary and respite for our restless souls, but that it is often a restless sanctuary, a temporary makeshift shelter in a world that we are called in turn to go out and love. The ship in their logo, designed by Jack Steel, is itself a restless sanctuary on the open water — not a shelter from the storm but a shelter through the storm. Join them every fortnight for fascinating discussions about being restless Christians in a restless world! The series is a collaboration between James Cathcart and Albert Bogle and features the track ‘Symphony of Lies' by The Bogle Band. In this episode you will also hear a clip of Maggie Lane introducing the Advent Labyrinth and the Bogle Band performing ‘Room at the table.' The book James quotes from is ‘Being Consumed, Economics and Christian Desire' by William T. Cavanaugh. Read Albert writing about online communion and ‘the internet as a parable' on this post from 2020 on our blog. Find the podcast here on Sanctuary First, in our Sanctuary First App, and on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and most other podcasting platforms!

Leaving Room For Hope: Stories Round the Table 1, written and read by Lily Cathcart. We are delighted to feature: ‘Stories Round the Table; a series of five specially commissioned short stories by Lily Cathcart which explore how subtle moments around shared tables can change our lives forever. Each story will be published in text and audio on the Sanctuary First Blog. Lily will take us to a disheveled car, a crowded kitchen table, a busy train compartment, a bustling cafe, a cosy dining room, and a long conference table as we travel with her through each week of Advent (and even a bonus story for Hogmanay!) The music is ‘Chasing the Light' by Northern Heart licensed by Sanctus Media from www.Artist.io

The Shed Project Find more episodes on Sanctuary First This week on the Emerging Emmaus Podcast we spoke to Matthew MacNeil. Matthew describes the dependency upon God which allows Jesus' Spirit to transform. Matthew, Youth & Schools Manager in Stornaway's Shed Project, wants every young person he comes into contact with to know how special they are. Regularly in the secondary school he, and his team, provide space for young people to hang, chat, and find life in its fulness. Serving around Scotland too, Matthew is able to recognise a significant shift in the openness of people to the life-transforming power of Jesus. Be encouraged & inspired! Find all past episodes of the podcast on the Sanctuary First website, via our App and on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Join us as we discover, faith hope and stories of grief in the Church of Scotland. Come! Emmaus, Emerge from the gloom. Come Holy Spirit Come! #podcast #onlinechurch #sanctuaryfirst #emergingemmauspodcast

Restless Sanctuary Episode 3: Are we collecting wood or are we longing for the sea? Listen to our new podcast about faith, restlessness and the search for meaning! In each episode James Cathcart and Albert Bogle from Sanctuary First share what it's like to be restless Christians, wrestling with the Bible and spirituality as they try and live it out today. This week they preview our theme for Advent ‘Room at the Table' discussing the resources we have been working on and the life-changing, world-changing implications of God's invitation to the table. God doesn't ignore our restlessness - God's responds to it and offers us an adventure on the wide open sea. Right now our world is very restless — politically, economically, culturally, technologically and environmentally. We are living through an age of disruption and upheaval. Many of us are longing for a sense of sanctuary, for belonging, and direction to help us face new and unprecedented challenges. At the root of Christianity James and Albert uncover a restlessness in God's heart that mirrors our own. A deep longing and restless love that searches out for each one of us. We glimpse God in the faces of one another in need and in God we glimpse our own human yearning for wholeness and love. James and Albert reckon Jesus offers sanctuary and respite for our restless souls, but that it is often a restless sanctuary, a temporary makeshift shelter in a world that we are called in turn to go out and love. The ship in their logo, designed by Jack Steel, is itself a restless sanctuary on the open water — not a shelter from the storm but a shelter through the storm. Join them every fortnight for fascinating discussions about being restless Christians in a restless world! The series is a collaboration between James Cathcart and Albert Bogle and features the track ‘Symphony of Lies' by The Bogle Band. In this episode you will also hear a clip of Derek Munn talking about Connect Groups, Maggie Lane introducing the Advent Labyrinth and the Bogle Band performing ‘Room at the table.' Find the podcast here on Sanctuary First, in our Sanctuary First App, and on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and most other podcasting platforms!

Restless Sanctuary Episode 2: Scallywags and Sharks? Listen to our new podcast about faith, restlessness and the search for meaning! In each episode James Cathcart and Albert Bogle from Sanctuary First share what it's like to be restless Christians, wrestling with the Bible and spirituality as they try and live it out today. This week they explore the call to adventure, the pressure we put on ourselves, the restlessness of God, Rembrandt, scallywags, sharks, and even a sheep called Alan! Right now our world is very restless — politically, economically, culturally, technologically and environmentally. We are living through an age of disruption and upheaval. Many of us are longing for a sense of sanctuary, for belonging, and direction to help us face new and unprecedented challenges. At the root of Christianity James and Albert uncover a restlessness in God's heart that mirrors our own. A deep longing and restless love that searches out for each one of us. We glimpse God in the faces of one another in need and in God we glimpse our own human yearning for wholeness and love. James and Albert reckon Jesus offers sanctuary and respite for our restless souls, but that it is often a restless sanctuary, a temporary makeshift shelter in a world that we are called in turn to go out and love. The ship in their logo, designed by Jack Steel, is itself a restless sanctuary on the open water — not a shelter from the storm but a shelter through the storm. Join them every fortnight for fascinating discussions about being restless Christians in a restless world! The series is a collaboration between James Cathcart and Albert Bogle and features the track ‘Symphony of Lies' by The Bogle Band. Find the podcast here on Sanctuary First, in our Sanctuary First App, and on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and most other podcasting platforms!

Hearts on Fire Find more episodes on Sanctuary First This week on the Emerging Emmaus Podcast we spoke to Katie Hart about reaching the Next Generation.How do we help young people not just attend church, but love Jesus deeply and live out their faith boldly? In this inspiring conversation, young elder Katie Hart joins Emerging Emmaus to talk about her passion for mission, moments where she's seen God at work, and what it takes to help a generation find authentic faith. From Practising the Way to the Growing Young movement, this episode is full of encouragement, honesty, and hope for any Church that's learning to walk the road together. Be encouraged & inspired! Find all past episodes of the podcast on the Sanctuary First website, via our App and on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Join us as we discover, faith hope and stories of grief in the Church of Scotland. Come! Emmaus, Emerge from the gloom. Come Holy Spirit Come! #podcast #onlinechurch #sanctuaryfirst #emergingemmauspodcast

Restless Sanctuary Episode 1: What happens when we start with belonging? Listen to our new podcast about faith, restlessness and the search for meaning! In each episode James Cathcart and Albert Bogle from Sanctuary First share what it's like to be restless Christians, wrestling with the Bible and spirituality as they try and live it out today. Right now our world is very restless — politically, economically, culturally, technologically and environmentally. We are living through an age of disruption and upheaval. Many of us are longing for a sense of sanctuary, for belonging, and direction to help us face new and unprecedented challenges. At the root of Christianity James and Albert uncover a restlessness in God's heart that mirrors our own. A deep longing and restless love that searches out for each one of us. We glimpse God in the faces of one another in need and in God we glimpse our own human yearning for wholeness and love. James and Albert reckon Jesus offers sanctuary and respite for our restless souls, but that it is often a restless sanctuary, a temporary makeshift shelter in a world that we are called in turn to go out and love. The ship in their logo, designed by Jack Steel, is itself a restless sanctuary on the open water — not a shelter from the storm but a shelter through the storm. Join them every fortnight for fascinating discussions about being restless Christians in a restless world! This week we explore what it means to start with belonging, and look at a story Jesus told about a man with two sons… The series is a collaboration between James Cathcart and Albert Bogle and features the track ‘Symphony of Lies' by The Bogle Band. Find the podcast here on Sanctuary First, in our Sanctuary First App, and on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and most other podcasting platforms!

A Biggar, Brighter Future Find more episodes on Sanctuary First Rev Mike Fucella prays for a Biggar, Brighter Future.Mike returned to South East Asia to find the churches he was involved with mushrooming & growing remarkably. Presently he is helping lead Biggar & nearby congregations into a challenging & positive future. In time, he hopes & aspires to return to a similar situation of Christ's Kingdom multiplying with blessing in Lanarkshire & Scotland. Be encouraged & inspired! Neil Urquhart explores the stories of struggle and perseverance within the church allowing Jesus to renew our vision & vigour for His New Life. Join us as we discover, faith hope and stories of grief in the Church of Scotland. Come! Emmaus, Emerge from the gloom. Come Holy Spirit Come! #emergingemmauspodcast #podcast #church #faith #bible #community

`Iwa Collaborative Find more episodes on Sanctuary First: www.sanctuaryfirst.org.uk/podcast/series/emerging-emmaus ‘Iwa' - Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, It's a super helpful way to re-think & do mission today. The ʻiwa' (ee-vah) bird flies high to search for food and suss its surroundings, eats with other birds, and nests low to the ground. The `Iwa Collaborative' exists to help church leaders & congregations ‘see the wood for the trees' & ground them in ‘down-to-earth' Father, Son & Holy Spirit work. Revs Lynsey Brennan (Baldernock lw Milngavie St Paul's) & Scott Burton (Upper Braes, Falkirk) share how helpful they, & their congregations, have found Iwa in re-missioning. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/leaders-day-in-edinburgh-tickets-1413042140079 https://www.iwacollaborative.com/church-remissioning-collectives https://www.iwacollaborative.com/books - especially Remissioning Church and Centering Discipleship Together, Neil Urquhart and Lynsey Brennan explore the stories of struggle and perseverance within the church allowing Jesus to renew our vision & vigour for His New Life. Join us as we discover, faith hope and stories of grief in the Church of Scotland. Come! Emmaus, Emerge from the gloom. Come Holy Spirit Come! #emergingemmauspodcast #podcast #church #faith #bible #community

‘The Quiet Revival Roars’ It is time to hear loud and clear about some of God's incredible work going on - almost quietly. Almost! Join Ruth and Neil with Elaine Duncan and Adrian Armstrong from the Scottish Bible Society to hear a roar of revival in the UK. It’s a little bit noisy, all over the country, and with all ages. God turning statistics and thinking upside down. God’s Kingdom coming in surprising ways! Hear the roar! Together, Neil Urquhart and Ruth Kennedy explore the stories of struggle and perseverance within the church allowing Jesus to renew our vision & vigour for His New Life. Join us as we discover, faith hope and stories of grief in the Church of Scotland. Come! Emmaus, Emerge from the gloom. Come Holy Spirit Come! Listen to the previous: Episode 28

25 years ago, when Mrs Anthea & Rev Marc Bircham arrived at St. Madoes & Kinfauns Parish, Perthshire they joined a church of 20 faithful, hopeful & Prayerful worshippers. Remarkably today, thousands are connecting with themselves, others, & God through many life-affirming activities at the 8 year old Madoch Centre. Hear their story! Together, Neil Urquhart and Ruth Kennedy explore the stories of struggle and perseverance within the church allowing Jesus to renew our vision & vigour for His New Life. Join us as we discover, faith hope and stories of grief in the Church of Scotland. Come! Emmaus, Emerge from the gloom. Come Holy Spirit Come! Listen to the previous: Episode 27

Come and hear how a beach-mission-goer got hungry for Jesus, followed Him into Church leadership, and is now partnering with Him to capture and bring into being the Vivid Vision of the Church of Scotland. Kay Cathcart is the Head of Ministries and Mission covering all of Faith Action and believes God is raising people to turn the tide and bring a wave of faithful hope to our shores! You'll want to dive right in! Together, Neil Urquhart and Ruth Kennedy explore the stories of struggle and perseverance within the church allowing Jesus to renew our vision & vigour for His New Life. Join us as we discover, faith hope and stories of grief in the Church of Scotland. Come! Emmaus, Emerge from the gloom. Come Holy Spirit Come! Listen to the previous: Episode 26

Serving with love, served with fish eyeballs' Angie Mutch has been utterly committed to serving God and others for decades. Angie has traveled with her volunteering and work to some intriguing, challenging places (with very interesting cuisines!), not looking for public applause, just doing what she knows to do with God. Her perseverance to serve has not gone unnoticed and she was recently honoured as a ‘Woman of the Year 2024' for her volunteering. Angie's jokes, however, haven't yet won any awards! Be encouraged and inspired with her endurance, heart, and faith with a dollop of good humour! Together, Neil Urquhart and Ruth Kennedy explore the stories of struggle and perseverance within the church allowing Jesus to renew our vision & vigour for His New Life. Join us as we discover, faith hope and stories of grief in the Church of Scotland. Come! Emmaus, Emerge from the gloom. Come Holy Spirit Come! Listen to the previous: Episode 25

Beginning to Flourish Pod 1 — What actually happens when we read the Bible? Welcome to the Beginning to Flourish Pod from Sanctuary First! Join James Cathcart and Albert Bogle's free range exploration of life and theology as we're living it today! This pair are buzzing with questions… What is actually happening when we open a Bible? Why, when it comes down to it, are we all actually Nicodemus? Why do we talk about having a ‘faith life' as something different from our everyday life? (Does the phrase ‘faith life' even make sense?) What happens when love is stripped bare on the cross? How can we begin to flourish wherever we've come from and whatever we're heading into? What happens when we lose religion and find faith? Oh, and what's so good about the Good Samaritan anyway? In this six part series, inspired by Sanctuary First's Lent and Easter theme for 2025, Beginning to Flourish, they explore topics such as breath, shelter, thirst, belonging, eternal love and life changing grace. Over the episodes James and Albert shoot from the hip and cover a lot of ground from contemporary cultural trends to ancient biblical history (they even cook up a harebrained harmonica scheme at one point…) passionate to explore what beginning to flourish looks like for those restless and looking in at church, and those restless IN church and looking out. Let's begin to flourish! And don't forget your harmonica. Read our Connect Bible study for Lent 2025 here: https://www.sanctuaryfirst.org.uk/assets/documents/uploads/beginning_to_flourish_connect_booklet_A5_06.02.25.pdf Find out more about our Lent theme here: sanctuaryfirst.org.uk/themes/article_new/beginning-to-flourish-lent-2025 Find the podcast here on Sanctuary First, in our Sanctuary First App, and on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. (Listen to Episode 2: You, me, everybody, we are all Nicodemus!)

Beginning to Flourish Pod 2 — You, me, everybody, we are all Nicodemus! Welcome to the Beginning to Flourish Pod from Sanctuary First! Join James Cathcart and Albert Bogle's free range exploration of life and theology as we're living it today! This pair are buzzing with questions… What is actually happening when we open a Bible? Why, when it comes down to it, are we all actually Nicodemus? Why do we talk about having a ‘faith life' as something different from our everyday life? (Does the phrase ‘faith life' even make sense?) What happens when love is stripped bare on the cross? How can we begin to flourish wherever we've come from and whatever we're heading into? What happens when we lose religion and find faith? Oh, and what's so good about the Good Samaritan anyway? In this six part series, inspired by Sanctuary First's Lent and Easter theme for 2025, Beginning to Flourish, they explore topics such as breath, shelter, thirst, belonging, eternal love and life changing grace. Over the episodes James and Albert shoot from the hip and cover a lot of ground from contemporary cultural trends to ancient biblical history (they even cook up a harebrained harmonica scheme at one point…) passionate to explore what beginning to flourish looks like for those restless and looking in at church, and those restless IN church and looking out. Let's begin to flourish! And don't forget your harmonica. Read our Connect Bible study for Lent 2025 here: https://www.sanctuaryfirst.org.uk/assets/documents/uploads/beginning_to_flourish_connect_booklet_A5_06.02.25.pdf Find out more about our Lent theme here: sanctuaryfirst.org.uk/themes/article_new/beginning-to-flourish-lent-2025 Find the podcast here on Sanctuary First, in our Sanctuary First App, and on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. (Listen to episode 3: Why do we even talk about having a ‘faith life'?)

Beginning to Flourish Pod 3 — Why do we even talk about having a ‘faith life'? Welcome to the Beginning to Flourish Pod from Sanctuary First! Join James Cathcart and Albert Bogle's free range exploration of life and theology as we're living it today! This pair are buzzing with questions… What is actually happening when we open a Bible? Why, when it comes down to it, are we all actually Nicodemus? Why do we talk about having a ‘faith life' as something different from our everyday life? (Does the phrase ‘faith life' even make sense?) What happens when love is stripped bare on the cross? How can we begin to flourish wherever we've come from and whatever we're heading into? What happens when we lose religion and find faith? Oh, and what's so good about the Good Samaritan anyway? In this six part series, inspired by Sanctuary First's Lent and Easter theme for 2025, Beginning to Flourish, they explore topics such as breath, shelter, thirst, belonging, eternal love and life changing grace. Over the episodes James and Albert shoot from the hip and cover a lot of ground from contemporary cultural trends to ancient biblical history (they even cook up a harebrained harmonica scheme at one point…) passionate to explore what beginning to flourish looks like for those restless and looking in at church, and those restless IN church and looking out. Let's begin to flourish! And don't forget your harmonica. Read our Connect Bible study for Lent 2025 here: https://www.sanctuaryfirst.org.uk/assets/documents/uploads/beginning_to_flourish_connect_booklet_A5_06.02.25.pdf Find out more about our Lent theme here: sanctuaryfirst.org.uk/themes/article_new/beginning-to-flourish-lent-2025 Find the podcast here on Sanctuary First, in our Sanctuary First App, and on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. (Listen to episode 4: Feeling restless out of church? Feeling restless IN church?)

Beginning to Flourish Pod 4 — Feeling restless out of church? Feeling restless IN church? Welcome to the Beginning to Flourish Pod from Sanctuary First! Join James Cathcart and Albert Bogle's free range exploration of life and theology as we're living it today! This pair are buzzing with questions… What is actually happening when we open a Bible? Why, when it comes down to it, are we all actually Nicodemus? Why do we talk about having a ‘faith life' as something different from our everyday life? (Does the phrase ‘faith life' even make sense?) What happens when love is stripped bare on the cross? How can we begin to flourish wherever we've come from and whatever we're heading into? What happens when we lose religion and find faith? Oh, and what's so good about the Good Samaritan anyway? In this six part series, inspired by Sanctuary First's Lent and Easter theme for 2025, Beginning to Flourish, they explore topics such as breath, shelter, thirst, belonging, eternal love and life changing grace. Over the episodes James and Albert shoot from the hip and cover a lot of ground from contemporary cultural trends to ancient biblical history (they even cook up a harebrained harmonica scheme at one point…) passionate to explore what beginning to flourish looks like for those restless and looking in at church, and those restless IN church and looking out. Let's begin to flourish! And don't forget your harmonica. Read our Connect Bible study for Lent 2025 here: https://www.sanctuaryfirst.org.uk/assets/documents/uploads/beginning_to_flourish_connect_booklet_A5_06.02.25.pdf Find out more about our Lent theme here: sanctuaryfirst.org.uk/themes/article_new/beginning-to-flourish-lent-2025 Find the podcast here on Sanctuary First, in our Sanctuary First App, and on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. (Listen to episode five: Love was stripped bare on the cross)

Beginning to Flourish Pod 5 — Love was stripped bare on the cross. Welcome to the Beginning to Flourish Pod from Sanctuary First! Join James Cathcart and Albert Bogle's free range exploration of life and theology as we're living it today! This pair are buzzing with questions… What is actually happening when we open a Bible? Why, when it comes down to it, are we all actually Nicodemus? Why do we talk about having a ‘faith life' as something different from our everyday life? (Does the phrase ‘faith life' even make sense?) What happens when love is stripped bare on the cross? How can we begin to flourish wherever we've come from and whatever we're heading into? What happens when we lose religion and find faith? Oh, and what's so good about the Good Samaritan anyway? In this six part series, inspired by Sanctuary First's Lent and Easter theme for 2025, Beginning to Flourish, they explore topics such as breath, shelter, thirst, belonging, eternal love and life changing grace. Over the episodes James and Albert shoot from the hip and cover a lot of ground from contemporary cultural trends to ancient biblical history (they even cook up a harebrained harmonica scheme at one point…) passionate to explore what beginning to flourish looks like for those restless and looking in at church, and those restless IN church and looking out. Let's begin to flourish! And don't forget your harmonica. Read our Connect Bible study for Lent 2025 here: https://www.sanctuaryfirst.org.uk/assets/documents/uploads/beginning_to_flourish_connect_booklet_A5_06.02.25.pdf Find out more about our Lent theme here: sanctuaryfirst.org.uk/themes/article_new/beginning-to-flourish-lent-2025 Find the podcast here on Sanctuary First, in our Sanctuary First App, and on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. (Listen to episode six: What's so good about the Good Samaritan anyway?)

Beginning to Flourish Pod 6 — What's so good about the Good Samaritan anyway? Welcome to the Beginning to Flourish Pod from Sanctuary First! Join James Cathcart and Albert Bogle's free range exploration of life and theology as we're living it today! This pair are buzzing with questions… What is actually happening when we open a Bible? Why, when it comes down to it, are we all actually Nicodemus? Why do we talk about having a ‘faith life' as something different from our everyday life? (Does the phrase ‘faith life' even make sense?) What happens when love is stripped bare on the cross? How can we begin to flourish wherever we've come from and whatever we're heading into? What happens when we lose religion and find faith? Oh, and what's so good about the Good Samaritan anyway? In this six part series, inspired by Sanctuary First's Lent and Easter theme for 2025, Beginning to Flourish, they explore topics such as breath, shelter, thirst, belonging, eternal love and life changing grace. Over the episodes James and Albert shoot from the hip and cover a lot of ground from contemporary cultural trends to ancient biblical history (they even cook up a harebrained harmonica scheme at one point…) passionate to explore what beginning to flourish looks like for those restless and looking in at church, and those restless IN church and looking out. Let's begin to flourish! And don't forget your harmonica. Read our Connect Bible study for Lent 2025 here: https://www.sanctuaryfirst.org.uk/assets/documents/uploads/beginning_to_flourish_connect_booklet_A5_06.02.25.pdf Find out more about our Lent theme here: sanctuaryfirst.org.uk/themes/article_new/beginning-to-flourish-lent-2025 Find the podcast here on Sanctuary First, in our Sanctuary First App, and on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. (Listen to episode one - What actually happens when we read the Bible?)

At Aberfeldy, in the very heart & middle of Scotland, Rev Neil Glover shares his own passion & fiery heart for Scotland's Redemption. With 5 Perthshire parishes & serving the national church as convenor of the ambitious 'Seeds for Growth' Fund, Rev Neil Glover has recently released a thoroughly readable & compelling book ‘Finding Your Voice'. Neil tells us his view of where we are at in secular Scotland as we position ourselves to share the wonderful news of Jesus Christ, as more and more people yearn to be re-enchanted with life and living. Revs Neil Urquhart & Neil Glover chat as they tread through the gorgeous gorge, waterfalls & burn of The Birks, once celebrated by Robert Burns in one of his poems. Be encouraged and inspired! We explore the stories of struggle and perseverance within the church allowing Jesus to renew our vision & vigour for His New Life. Join us as we discover, faith hope and stories of grief in the Church of Scotland. Come! Emmaus, Emerge from the gloom. Come Holy Spirit Come! Listen to the previous: Episode 24

This is the Third in our Live recordings of the Songs of Christmas at the Brewery. This Episode we have the whole gang joining us. Andrea and Angus, Jack Shuttleworth, Jim Steel, Graham Silk and Dan Harper shares the Christmas Message. Join us this month at the Brewery as we dive into three evenings of music and the story of Christmas this season. Listen to the recorded podcasts or join us in person ion Bridge of Allan Allanwater Brewhouse. Gather your friends and family for a cosy celebration filled with, Live music, stories of faith & some of the best local beer & cider in Scotland. Join us for three evenings of Live Music & Stories of Faith this Christmas season at the Allanwater Brewhouse in Bridge of Allan. Find out more about the events: Christmas Events - Songs of Christmas at the Brewery

Read this story as a Blog: Working with the Grain Next Episode: The Unexpected Gift 3 of 3 Working with the Grain by Katy Emslie-Smith The Third of our ‘Stories of the Unexpected' is written by Katy Emslie-Smith. In this short story we hear of a carpenter dutifully working in his shop, he is interrupted with urgent and exciting news that makes him question everything ‘Sense of betrayal combated with affection, anger wrestled with love, custom warred with compassion'. To clear his head, he sets about doing what he knows best, and works the grain of the wood in his workshop with his hands… This Month on Sanctuary First we will be releasing a series of short stories ‘Stories of the Unexpected' which will revolve around our December theme ‘The Unexpected Visitor'. Three writers and members of the Sanctuary First community have each contributed a short story that they have written around the months theme, these will be released each Sunday over the next three weeks in podcast and blog form, each story will be followed with its own ‘Writers Room Book Club' on the following Saturday where we will meet to talk about the story, this will all conclude on the fourth week with a final story in the form of a Christmas film! This Podcast was originally published on: December 11, 2021

Luke 2:1–7 2:1 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 And all went to be registered, each to his own town. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. 6 And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. Listen to the full series: St Ninian's Community Church Podcast St Ninians Community church is a friendly, informal church that meets in Stirling, Scotland. We come from many backgrounds, and warmly welcome anyone to come along and join us! Our purpose is to share the good news of Jesus with the people of St Ninians and together become faithful members of God's family.