Ceud Mile Failte!

What a wonderful welcome the folk of the area have given Anna and myself. In the short time we have been here people have made us feel at home. We are so grateful.

I have told a number of folk that we do have a special place in our hearts for Achnasheen. It was there we descended from the train as a newly married couple and set off - on the postbus - to our honeymoon in Aultbea.

St. Paul wrote to the early church that they had to ‘practise hospitality’ (Romans 12.13). Welcoming and caring for visitors is part of a way of life which we can easily lose in the modern rush.

Of course, in the ‘Year of Homecoming’ we have been made aware of how vital the hospitality industry is to Scotland and in particular the Highlands. Our economy depends on visitors. On visitor off a cruise ship can spend hundreds. One fisherman can spend even more if he decides to get new tackle or his waders spring a leak.

There is also a ‘divine economy’. But it is about giving more than receiving.

The folk of Achnasheen and Garve I have discovered give a great deal - to help others and to support their communities. And they certainly know how to give a welcome!

Rev. Fraser Stewart
01997 423296