Newsletter for Sunday 18th October 2026

Friends,

“We are a part of the earth community, human community, school community, classroom community.”
One reflection from the students of Hill House International School* whose artwork is temporarily on display in the London Scottish Regimental Chapel.

Last academic year, pupils undertook artistic endeavours, culminating in several joint projects. The installation currently in the chapel, combines multiple clay sculptures of acorns and tiny human figures. The installation is based on ideas of solidarity and community – or “commu-nutty” as one student suggested. “Never above you, never below you, but always by your side…” another student observation. Everybody’s contributions are included.

Art teacher, Sarah Lawton: “The children adored working with clay – creating tiny objects full of heart. There was a clear sense of care and consideration throughout the making process, influenced by the small scale of the objects and the attention to detail pupils gave to each piece. These tiny objects required intense focus, encouraging children to refine their work, experiment with texture, and explore symmetry, much like the patterns found in nature’s communities.” Sarah comments: “I always know that a child is happy with their work as they ask: “Miss, can I take this one home?””

Thanks to the creativity of Hill House students and staff, we have a chance to enjoy and meditate on these things in our “church home” this weekend. Do take time, before or after service, to view this slice of community-associated life. Then perhaps, follow that up, by attending the Sounds of St Columba’s, Thomas Allery harpsichord recital (Sunday 1.30pm, Upper Hall). Art, music, community, prayer – all wonderful ways to encounter and honour the God we call Creator.

Angus

*This year Hill House International School commemorate seventy five years since their founding. The weekly Wednesday morning assemblies at St Columba’s started in January 1981 – forty-five years and counting.

THIS SUNDAY: Sounds of St Columba’s Recital, 1:30 p.m. Upper Hall.
Join us for a special afternoon of beautiful early music as acclaimed harpsichordist Thomas Allery performs music by Orlando Gibbons at St Columba’s Church. Thomas is an outstanding musician, Director of Music at Temple Church and a highly respected performer and specialist in historical keyboard music. This is a wonderful opportunity to hear a leading exponent of early music in the beautiful surroundings of St Columba’s. Whether you are a classical music enthusiast or simply curious to experience something different, everyone is welcome. (No ticket required. Donations towards the Recital programme are welcomed.)

October-November Church Magazine
With thanks to the Editor, Susan Pym and her contributors, the excellent October/November issue of the church magazine is available via the bookstall, £1.50. (Note the beautiful front cover photo from the Isle of Harris) Pick up a copy for yourself and consider one for a friend or neighbour. Help spread the
St Columba’s story.

UPCOMING: Macmillan Coffee Morning –
Sunday 25th October
Following morning service, a chance to support this most worthwhile charity. Cake/baking donations very welcome. Come along for a slice of cake, cup of tea and some good company.

UPCOMING: Sunday 15th November, 1.30pm
Final concert of the Sounds of St Columba’s 2026 recitals: “Ein deutsches Requiem”
Choir of St Columba’s, piano duet and soloists Sophie Bevan (soprano) and Jerome Knox (baritone)
This magnificent concert is the culmination of ten years of high-quality Sunday afternoon recitals provided free, due to the generosity of visiting musicians. The ambition of the Brahms Requiem requires a significant cost to perform, so donations are greatly appreciated. Assistance offsetting this recital’s costs might be viewed as a thank you for all that has been enjoyed over the preceding years. It is also a wonderful opportunity to invite friends to visit and enjoy St Columba’s.

Christian Aid Annual Lecture 2026 at St. Martin-in-the-Field Church, Trafalgar Square, London, WC2N 4JJ on Monday 2 November, 7pm to 8.30pm.
The lecture will be delivered by Thant Myint-U, an internationally respected historian, author and former United Nations official. “Thant will tell the global story in a different way: examining how the United has been pushed to the margins and how the world risks sleepwalking into militarisation and deeper dysfunction.” If you would like to attend it is essential to register beforehand for a FREE ticket.
Christian Aid Annual Lecture 2026 – Register for a FREE Ticket

London St Andrew’s Book Festival,
presented by Scots in London
16th-22nd November. https://www.standrewsbookfestival.org/
The festival returns for its third year with a week of books, stories and conversation across London. This year venturing into courtrooms and newsrooms, exploring Scotland’s history, art and language, hearing tales of extraordinary adventures and getting stuck into some crime.

Among the writers and speakers joining us are Val McDermid, Jackie Kay, Carol Kirkwood, Professor Sue Black, Bill Paterson, Robert Peston, Jenni Fagan, Gavin Esler and the Maclean Brothers, alongside many more voices from Scotland and beyond. There are some intriguing conversations in store too. Professor Sue Black will sit down with Val McDermid, while Jackie Kay, Len Pennie and Hannah Lavery come together for a Poetry Showcase. The Debuts Showcase also returns, giving the stage to emerging writers and offering audiences the chance to discover someone completely new. Tickets for the 2026 the London St Andrew’s Book Festival are now on sale. https://www.ticketsource.com/standrewsbookfestival

As with the Sounds of St Columba’s Recitals, the Book Festival offers congregational members a great opportunity to invite friends or neighbours to come and enjoy our beautiful building and some of the life that goes on here.

Sunday 22nd November at 1:30 p.m.
London St Andrew’s Book Festival
A Journey into Scotland’s wild landscapes, faith and the power of storytelling. Join acclaimed Scottish poet, novelist and broadcaster Kenneth Steven at the St Andrew’s Book Festival London for a special event exploring Atoms of Delight, his moving reflection on pilgrimage, nature and Celtic spirituality. Kenneth’s writing has taken him from the ancient island of Iona to the remote beauty of the Highlands. His acclaimed BBC Radio 4 documentary A Requiem for St Kilda won a Sony Gold Award, while his books span poetry, novels, nature writing and children’s literature. In conversation with the Rev. Angus MacLeod, Kenneth will explore how Scotland’s landscapes, stories and spiritual traditions have shaped his life and work. This is an invitation to slow down, rediscover the wonder of the natural world and find beauty in the places and moments we might otherwise overlook.