Cornerstone Number 182, October-November 2016 | Page 2

Cornerstone No. 182, page 2

Notes from the Manse
Dear Friends,
Here’s a quick question! What do you think the Scots Kirk is best remembered
for as discovered in a recent Sunday straw poll of visitors? I am sure you’ll not
be surprised to read that number one, top of the list and most positive
experience is the welcome and hospitality received when coming into church for
the first time. This is what motivates people to stay
with us, or gives them a reason for returning time
and again whenever they are back in Lausanne.
Perhaps your story of belonging also relates to the
welcome that was given to you as a newcomer to
Lausanne. Maybe you were thinking to do the
rounds of churches in the town but came to stay
“with us” at the Scots Kirk because you were so
immediately and warmly welcomed by someone’s
greeting, or by being taken to someone’s house for
lunch straight after worship! I know that this
tradition continues. Long may we express our
commitment and determination to build the
fellowship of church by sharing our homes with those whom the world might
regard as strangers but whom we are to call our friends, our brothers and
sisters in Christ.
Over the weekend of 7/9 October we will be hosting the meeting of the
International Presbytery. Those attending, from the various Church of Scotland
charges located across Europe and beyond, will have their overnight
accommodation provided for at a local IBIS hotel in the city. However, we will
be hosting the Presbyters as we seek to meet their need for various meals and
an immeasurable volume of tea or coffee during their discussions and business
over the weekend. The Presbytery meets in public (in the sanctuary) and you
are welcome to attend any of the sessions. The first one starts at 18h00 on
Friday the 7th. Mind though, the only reward you can expect from doing so and
then only if you time it right, will be a nice cup of tea!
Looking beyond the Presbytery visit I want to share with you the continuing
excitement and energy of Crêt Bérard. Do please read the report and enjoy the
photographs in this issue of Cornerstone. I am working with a number of people
to consider the feedback from participants as we look forward to seeing plans
fall into place for the next Scots Kirk Church Weekend Away in 2017.