Who is the Gathering for?

Anyone who would like to come! It is offered as an opportunity for those around Scotland who have Methodist connections to come together for a face-to-face weekend, after a few years on screens! Throughout the weekend we will ask the question, ‘What does it mean to be Methodist in Scotland?’ – there are lots of answers to that!

What will happen?

There will be a varied programme of activities and worship with elements for all ages. A full programme will be published soon. Everyone will be free to dip in and out of the events as best suits them. For Synod members, the Autumn Synod will take place between 11am and 1pm on Saturday - with other activities available for non-Synod members. At times there will be separate activities going on in different places, at other times we will be integrated all together, but in a way which enables everyone to be seen and heard.

Where and when does it all take place?

Main events are in the Salutation Hotel Perth; additional activities take place in Perth Methodist Church. The Gathering will open with a ceilidh at 7pm on Friday and finish after worship around 1pm on Sunday.

Where do I stay?

You are invited to arrange your own accommodation – plenty is available in Perth ranging from campsites to hotels. A list of some possible suggested accommodation is available from Tourist Information in Perth.

What about food and drink?

Please make your own arrangements for meals during the Gathering. The hotel has a dining room and bar. Perth Methodist Church will be open for folk to take their own packed lunches to eat there on Saturday.

What does it cost?

The district is making no charge for the weekend but is investing in this event as a significant part of our life as Methodists in Scotland. There will be opportunities to make a donation if you so wish. Some funding is available to subsidize accommodation costs, particularly for young people. Please email the team as below.

Do I need to book?

YES PLEASE. It will be really helpful to know how many people are coming and who they are! Tickets for the whole weekend will be available by registering with Eventbrite at this link. If you don’t have access to the internet, there will be others in your church or circuit who can enable a booking to be made on your behalf. We plan to have name badges and goodie bags for participants – so do make sure we know you are coming, even if you don’t plan to attend many of the events.

Can I help?

YES PLEASE! We would love to receive offers from volunteers for welcoming, general stewarding, assisting with youth and all-age programmes and serving drinks at Perth Methodist Church (email address below).

How do I find out more?

We will send out bulletins from time to time with more information and updates – these will come via the District Administrator, so do contact her for the latest news. There will be snippets on social media so look out for these too. Alternatively, you are welcome to get in touch with any of us on the planning group if you have questions or suggestions, using the email address: scotmethgathering@gmail.com

Planning group members: Janet Bryer, Helen Jenkins, Alan Busby, Keith Pearce, Jill Baker, Mark Slaney.