Learn and grow through experiencing life in another culture. Come and grow through interaction within a church that Christ is building into a living, dynamic body
Through the course of my 22 years, I have never really been outside of the country. Initially, I was very hesitant about doing the study abroad program. My specific reason was the program was run under a Reformed Presbyterian denomination. If you knew me during my sophomore year, I hated going to a service that was Reformed. I was and still am affiliated with the P.C.U.S.A church. Even though God had changed my mindset towards the Reformed denomination, I still was unsure that I could deal with an entire semester of Reformed worship. After many months of constant prayer, I decided I was going to be studying in Scotland.
John 15:18 states “If the world hates you, you should realize that it hated me before you.” This Scripture really resonated with me as we visited the sites of the Scottish martyrs. Even though men like John Knox, Andrew Melville, and George Wishart knew death was imminent, they still felt called to proclaim Christ as Lord. Their entire life’s purpose was not their own, but rather of the Kingdom of God.
What most impresses me about the RP church is their purpose for everything that they do. Their purpose is to do everything for God’s glory, since God is head of the church.
One church that has been going against the status quo is Airdrie RP Church in Scotland. During my stay in Scotland, I have seen a difference between the elitist church and the church I attend every Sunday. Every Sunday, Reverend Andrew Quigley preaches his messages in a clear, concise manner that everyone comprehends.
What most impresses me about the RP church is their purpose for everything that they do. Their purpose is to do everything for God’s glory, since God is head of the church.
Overall, my time here has been a time of growth and maturity, both mentally and spiritually. It has been a time of the further development of my character and leadership skills, which God has given me. As I return home, I look back and realize that this was a vital step in life, which caused me to put my faith and dependence on Him through every circumstance. God has caused me to rely on Him when no one was around, and when Satan and His demons tempted me. This time has given me clarity of thought into my calling of what I am going to do. I thank God, the leaders at the Reformed Presbyterian Church, and Geneva College, for the opportunity to attend the SIS program in Scotland.
