June 2026
Iran is never far from our minds. To be more precse, the people in Iran. For some of us, that means close family and friends. With all the tension in the Middle East, and the prospect of worse to come,there's plenty to worry about, but when your family back in Iran are ill and it's impossible to be with them, it is especially hard. We have three reports which show how hard it can be. Many thanks to Haleh, Murry and Naghmeh respectively.
Many people have become unemployed. There is a shortage of medicines, and I have heard from a friend that her mother-in-law cannot have an MRI scan because the necessary medication is not available. Many people who run their own businesses have had to close them because they cannot afford their expenses and have no income.
We believe that if European countries place the IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps) on the list of terrorist organisations, the regime will weaken and collapse sooner. In this way, they can support the people inside the country. If the regime is unable to obtain weapons or military support from these countries, it will be less able to carry out attacks and continue its violence against people.
As for the future, it is very difficult to predict, but we still hope that the regime will be gone soon.
"My father is currently going through some health challenges. We would appreciate your prayers that God will strengthen him, guide those caring for him, and bless him according to His will. Thank you for keeping him in your thoughts and prayers."
“My granny had a good life and lived to the age of 97. She was loved by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. I was very upset that I couldn't see her during these seven years since immigrating, but I am happy to have many good memories of her.”
Click on the image for a short video about Nowruz.
Like many others, we are making a special effort to raise money to mark the 50th anniversary.
- A meal provided for all the ecclesia, with donations in lieu of a Bring and Share meal
- An updated version of the ecclesial cookbook
- Open your garden in return for a contribution to Meal a Day (opposite). Sadly, you’re too late to visit this garden, but over £100 was raised.
- Your ideas! Keep them coming!
As one door closes, another door opens. That was Margaret McGhee's experience. We were all sad when it was announced that Gowanlea, Margaret's home for four years, was to close. Having to move at the grand old age of 96 was not going to be easy. But Margaret was very philosophical about it. All she required was a bed and food. While there are many in the world who would say the same (see above about Meal a Day), more than that was required.
After some research into possibilities, Strachan House in Edinburgh was chosen, on the recommendation of someone who knew people who had relatives there. Nothing will replicate Gowanlea, but Margaret is settling in well, and very happy that if a choice had to be made (as of course it did), she is in the right place. There is a lot going on in the home, and Margaret has taken the opportunity to join in when she wishes. Her knowledge of Scotland at one quiz morning surprised her visitors, who were with her at the time, but who knew less than she did! [Do you know which is the most haunted castle in Scotland?]
As Strachan House is in Edinburgh, she has not been short of visitors, both from the church and her wider acquaintances, and there have been many opportunities to read the Bible with her, and have an animated discussion in which she enthusiastically particpates.
Click on any photo below to start a slideshow in full screen mode.
Christine had been a primary school teacher. The school where she taught closed some time ago, and has been converted into private residences. As you can see, Christine (and Alan, her husband) are still remembered at the school.
