“And Elijah said unto all the people, come near to me (…) And he repaired the altar of the Lord that was broken down.” 1 Kings 18:30 (KJV)
In a world filled with constant noise and busyness, the need to pause, reflect, and reconnect with God is more vital than ever. Recognising this, the Scottish Mission Prayer Ministries Department hosted a Back to the Altar retreat-style training, inspired by the General Conference's Back to the Altar initiative, which aims to inspire transformation and spiritual revival across Seventh-day Adventist churches worldwide.
From November 1–2, prayer leaders from Aberdeen, Dundee, Dunfermline, Edinburgh, Paisley, and Musselburgh gathered at the Dunblane Hydro, united by God’s call to be modern-day Elijahs—ambassadors of revival dedicated to rebuilding broken altars and inspiring a return to true worship.
The retreat began with a Friday evening gathering where participants shared stories, laughter, and the common purpose that brought them together. Following dinner, attendees were unexpectedly provided with a quiet room, which proved ideal for worship. The organisers attributed this unexpected provision to God's providence, noting how even passersby seemed drawn to the sacredness of the gathering and the singing.
Early Saturday morning, the training continued with an unexpected fire alarm, serving as a poignant reminder that sometimes God disrupts our routines to reveal something extraordinary.
Reflecting on Elijah’s mission to call Israel back to God, the group took time to examine their own 'broken altars' through a reflective assessment. The organisers shared, "It was a humbling moment - a moment of truth. Yet, in that vulnerability, we found strength. We are encouraged to come to Jesus as we are, bringing our brokenness to Him, trusting in His ability to restore and renew us." Guided by the Back to the Altar initiative’s 7 Principles, they explored ways to draw their lives and ministries closer to Jesus. Focusing on the first three principles—coming to Jesus as we are, honoring Him as Lord, and seeking Him in Word and prayer—the participants engaged in group discussions, prayers, and moments of quiet reflection.
One session included the “Circle of Blessings” prayer time, where each individual was prayed for by someone else, creating an atmosphere of deep connection and support. With hearts open and minds renewed, the group dedicated themselves afresh to God’s calling, as one participant expressed: “I didn’t know what to expect from today, but in the end, I can say that I have been revived.” Another participant echoed a similar sentiment: “I wasn’t sure if I should attend, but I am glad I did because I was going through a dry season and I feel that this training was designed especially for me.”
The retreat concluded with the presentation of a strategic plan for the upcoming year, which includes the Scottish Mission 10 Days of Prayer in January 2025, enhanced collaboration, the introduction of the Back to the Altar initiative to local churches, additional prayer-focused programmes, further training for prayer leaders, and a prayer retreat. Reflecting on the event, the organisers expressed their gratitude to the GC Prayer Ministries Department and Melody Mason for their support, which has equipped prayer leaders with resources to strengthen their ministry and deepen their connection with Jesus.
As the retreat ended, attendees left with a clear vision—to inspire, to connect, and to go deeper with Jesus, creating spaces of stillness where God can do His mighty work. The call to return Back to the Altar is one we’re all invited to join. Together, in our sacred moments of stillness and prayers, we can allow God’s love to transform us and, through us, the world around us.