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The Revival of Christianity in Scotland

What will it take to see a revival of Christianity in Scotland today? History often shows that remarkable movements emerge from small, unexpected places. Jesus Himself launched the Christian movement from the humble town of Nazareth, and throughout the history of Christianity, some of the most remote locations have made a profound impact.

One such place is Portmahomack, a small village on the Tarbat Peninsula in northeastern Scotland, which played a key role in the spread of Christianity during the 500s to 700s. As Scotland transitioned from Paganism to Christianity, Portmahomack became a strategic center for this transformation. Archaeological excavations have revealed valuable evidence of this early Christianization, illustrating how the village once served as a hub for religious and cultural change. Today, Portmahomack stands as a testament to Scotland’s Christian heritage, offering a glimpse into its significant past. Though the village has quieted over the centuries, its legacy continues to inspire those who seek to understand its pivotal role in spreading the faith.

Despite Christianity thriving in Scotland for centuries, recent times have seen churches turning into relics, while a wave of post-modern belief has swept the nation. Yet, in Portmahomack, two women—Hazel and Lorna—are faithfully praying for a revival, hoping to restore vibrant Christianity to the land once again. Their prayers symbolize a deep desire to see Scotland rekindle the spiritual fire that once made it a beacon of faith.

The Revival Of Christianity in Scotland Begins with Prayer

The revival of Christianity in Scotland begins with prayer. Throughout history, true spiritual revival has always been birthed through fervent, heartfelt prayer, and Scotland is no exception. In the small village of Portmahomack, Hazel and Lorna have taken up the mantle of intercession, praying diligently for their community and nation to return to vibrant faith. They believe that the power of prayer can transform hearts, awaken souls, and bring healing to the land. As the Bible says in 2 Chronicles 7:14 (WEB), “if my people, who are called by my name, humble themselves, pray, seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” This promise gives hope to their mission, as they seek God’s intervention to breathe new life into the spiritual landscape of Scotland. Their prayers are not only for a return to faith but for healing—healing of communities, relationships, and the nation’s spiritual foundations. With unwavering faith, they trust that God will bring about a revival as He has done in generations past.

Meet Hazel Gil

Hazel, a student at Christian Leaders Institute, is retired, but her energy and love are undeniable. She has been married to John for over 50 years, and they live in the beautiful Highlands of Scotland, where they own and run their family farm. They live about two miles from a small seaside village where they are deeply involved in the life of the church and community. Hazel serves as a church elder and is also a member of the Healing Ministry based in the Highlands.

She partners with Lorna on the healing team, and together, these dedicated women pray over their village and the wider region. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they organized prayer efforts by sectioning off local parishes to cover the area in prayer.

Meet Lorna Gordon

Lorna, also a student at Christian Leaders Institute, is a wife and mother of two. Originally from England, she moved to the Highlands of Scotland over a decade ago, where her husband’s family owns a farm, which they now call home. Lorna runs a beauty business and fitness classes and serves at the local YMCA, leading a ‘Girls Group’ for 11 to 17-year-olds.

At the heart of her calling is her partnership with Hazel in the prayer ministry, providing Christian support to people across their region.

“I love seeing the power of God work His miracles for physical, emotional, or spiritual healing. These, I believe, are for building up and equipping the body of Christ,” Lorna shares.

Revival of Christianity in Scotland – The Calling to Plant a Church

While continuing to participate in the Church of Scotland, where Hazel has served faithfully as an elder, Lorna felt a distinct calling to plant a new church. Her vision is clear: to multiply Christian leaders and spread the message of Christ, beginning from her small village and expanding outward to reach the world.

Portmahomack Church Plant

With this in mind, Lorna began promoting the first meeting of the new church, which was held on September 8th. She extended a special invitation to families, particularly those who were not currently connected to any worshipping community, with a specific focus on young families. In her village, the majority of young families are not actively attending church or Christian gatherings, and Lorna sees this as a key opportunity for outreach.

The new church, named Glory House, seeks to be a place where faith can flourish and grow, and where people of all ages can connect deeply with God. At the first gathering, 15 adults and 13 children were in attendance—an encouraging start that signaled a deep need for community and spiritual connection.

This initial meeting took place at the village’s local “Carnegie Hall,” a venue within walking distance of the sea, providing a beautiful and serene setting for worship. The proximity to the sea adds a peaceful atmosphere, symbolic of the renewal and growth that Lorna envisions for Glory House as it embarks on its mission to serve the community and beyond.

Revival of Christianity in Scotland – Ordination of Lorna

Recently, the President of Christian Leaders Institute and his wife Pam visited Lorna, who introduced them to her beautiful region and shared how God has been blessing their prayer ministry. During the visit, President Reyenga had the privilege of ordaining Lorna as a minister in the Christian Leaders Alliance, as she continues her studies at Christian Leaders Institute.

Lorna is called to bring revival to Northern Scotland, starting with the church plant in Portmahomack—a place once pivotal in early Christianity, now poised for revitalization and revival.

“My vision is to see transformation in my village, where the people praise the Lord with all their hearts and are baptized in the sea—right on our doorstep. I long for revival to come here and to all the nations.”

Reflection from Henry and Pam Reyenga

Lorna picked us up from the cruise terminal, and right away, we could sense her deep calling and her love for Christ, her family, and her community.

Pam and I had a wonderful day experiencing the Scottish countryside for the first time. The beauty was absolutely breathtaking and untouched. Meeting with Lorna was the highlight of our day. She is truly a woman called by God to spark revival. We were inspired by her partnership with Hazel, and how together, these farmer’s wives are making a profound impact for ministry. Their story is a powerful reminder of how God can use anyone, anywhere, to bring about meaningful change.

Have you ever had Haggis? 

Lorna even prepared a traditional Scottish meal that included haggis. Haggis is a savory dish made from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with onions, oatmeal, suet, and spices, all encased in the sheep’s stomach and then cooked. It’s a classic Scottish delicacy, often served with “neeps” (turnips) and “tatties” (potatoes), and it holds a special place in Scotland’s culinary heritage, especially during celebrations like Burns Night, honoring the poet Robert Burns. Lorna’s inclusion of haggis in the meal not only reflected her cultural roots but also added a unique flavor to their gathering, emphasizing the rich traditions of the Highlands.

Beautiful Day

Pam and I have traveled the world, and one thing we’ve consistently noticed is how on fire for God and ministry our Christian Leaders Institute students are! It’s clear that God is at work around the globe, and we witnessed that again firsthand in the beautiful Highlands of Scotland.

We may never return to this part of the world, but we are deeply moved with gratitude for the ministry of Lorna and Hazel. The revival of Christianity in Scotland is unfolding, and these incredible women are striking the match that is setting Scotland aflame with the love of Jesus Christ. Their passion and dedication are truly igniting a spiritual awakening in their country.

Bring the Revival of Christianity in Scotland and the World through multiplying Christian Leaders

Christian Leaders Institute (CLI) is able to offer free, donation-supported ministry training courses through the generosity of individuals and organizations who believe in the mission of equipping Christian leaders around the world. By relying on these donations, CLI provides access to over 200 high-quality courses that cover a wide range of ministry-related topics. Make a Donation.  These courses are designed to help students grow in their faith, leadership skills, and biblical knowledge without the financial burden often associated with higher education.

In addition to offering free courses, Christian Leaders Institute provides academic credentials for those seeking formal recognition of their studies. Students can earn certificates, diplomas, and even degrees in ministry, which help them to develop a deeper understanding of theology, ministry practices, and leadership.

CLI also partners with the Christian Leaders Alliance to offer minister ordination credentials. These ordination programs are designed to support individuals who feel called to serve as volunteer, part-time, or full-time ministers. Whether you’re looking to officiate weddings, lead a church, or provide pastoral care, the ordination pathways at Christian Leaders Alliance provide the necessary credentials and training to serve effectively in your ministry role.