ScotThoughts

Matthew Rodger analyses Revenge, looking at Sampson, and the stoning of Steven, and the conversion of St Paul.

Jamila Gavin talks about the Foundling Hospital supported by Handel.   Alan Sorensen tells us to lighten up!   Clare Balding goes for a ramble on Iona.   Mary Haddow tells us about a remarkable Scots woman called Jane Haining.

MUSIC

1.   Cathedral Singers - Christ is the world in which we move.

2.   Sheffield Celebration Choir - Make me a channel of your peace.

3.   Wild Goose Collective - I will sing a song of love.

4.   Graham Kendrick -  For this I have Jesus.

Cherith Nixon explores the attitude of Jesus towards children.   John Timpson describes his experiences with over 90 foster children.   Mary Haddow recommends the process of Giving Forward.   Alan Sorensen explains how we receive guidance.

MUSIC

1.   PRAISE TO THE LORD, THE ALMIGHTY, THE KING OF CREATION .

2.   Brother, let me be your servant.

3.   The Hudson-Taylors - The Lord bless you and keep you.    

Matthew Rodger encourages us in our Faith Journey.

Rev Matthew Rodger discusses the problem - Why does God allow suffering in the world?

1.   Juli Wilson-Black delights in Perthshire's Big Tree Country.

2.   Kenneth Steven extolls Coll and Celtic Christianity.

3.   Mary Haddow examines the problems of the Tower of Pisa.

4.   Malcolm Guite reads his poem about Saint Columba, Colum Cille.

5.   Cherith Nixon celebrates God's creativity.

MUSIC

1.   All Souls Musicians - You shall go out with Joy.

2.   Joanne Hogg - Here is love, vast as the ocean.

3.   Graham Kendrick - The Servant King.

Rabbi Jonathan Romain describes his reasons for supporting Assisted Dying.   Larry Gentis is Moses for the last time.   Malcolm Guite reads his poem about Bliss, based on George Herbert's poem.   Mary Haddow takes the story of Blondin to illustrate the importance of belief and trust in God.

MUSIC

1.   VANGELIS - Chariots of Fire.

2.   Pete Seeger - Turn, turn, turn.

3.   The Choir Boys -  "In Paradisum" from Faure's Requiem.

4.   Salvation Army Choir - Trust in Jesus.

5.   Sheffield Celebration Choir - If we walk with the Lord. 

Karl Weidner explains how God uses his servants, even though they are initially unwilling!

Rachael Wood analyses the story of Philip explaining the Good News to the Ethiopian eunuch.

Ginnie Wilkie reads a sermon by Canadian Mariko Ogasawara about an example of grace in action.

Rabbi Jonathan Romain talks about his work as an Agony Uncle.   Jeremy Irons reads Psalm 92.   Ernie Rea introduces a poem about Belsen.

MUSIC

1.   Cambridge Singers - the Lord bless you and keep you

2.   Maddy Prior - The God of Abraham Praise.

3.   City of Chester Male Voice Choir - Sweet the work my god and King.

4.   Darlene Zschech - My Jesus my Saviour.

Malcolm Guite reads his version of Psalm 23.   Simon Warrack talks about his work as a stonemason, restoring ancient artifacts.   Mary Haddow tells a story about the value of paintings.

Julia Blackburn explains her love of music to Michael Berkeley.   Larry Gentis talks about Moses' wife's bread.   Philip Noble encourages us to be more honest.

Karl Weidner gives a clear explanation of the response we should make to the offer of God's Grace.

Matthew Rodger explores the Sermon on the Mount.

Malcolm Guite reads a meditation based on Psalm 25.   Mary Haddow explains the significance of the gifts brought by the Magi.   Philip Noble encourages us to Be Still.

MUSIC

1.   And can it be - St Michael's singers

2.   As with gladness men of old - Wells Cathedral choir.

Michael Berkeley talks to children's author Francesca Simon.   Matthew Rodger describes the best way of being a witness.   Larry Gentis is Moses in the wilderness.   Philip Noble advises us not to jump to conclusions.

MUSIC

1.   Lord for the Years

2.   Great is your faithfulness - Alastair Macdonald

3.   God so loved the world - Coventry Chorale

4.   I don't know about tomorrow - Gaithers Homecoming Friends

The three Vicars celebrate Christmas.   Ian Myerscough enjoys a poem by Christina Rosetti.   Mary Haddow talks about "The Peace Child".  Ian Rose looks into the history of Wenceslas.   Philip Noble takes an illustration from people's pets.

MUSIC

1.   Joy to the World - Cambridge Singers conducted by John Rutter.

2.   For unto us a child is born - Academy of St Martin in the Fields conducted by Neville Marriner.

Matthew Rodger explains how Isaiah reassures the Jewish people that there is still Hope, even when they are in exile.

Three Vicars talk about difficult situations over Christmas.   Ronnie Archer-Morgan explains how he overcame his early problems.   Larry and Judy Gentis show the Innkeeper's accommodation problems.   Ian Rose reminds us of God's Everlasting Arms.   Philip Noble tells us to look for Miracles in unexpected places.

MUSIC

1.   Like a candle flame - St Michael's Singers

2.   While Shepherds Watched - Grosvenor Chapel Choir, Mayfair.

3.   Away in a Manger - St Paul's Cathedral Choir.

4.   Infant Holy - Ikos

Matthew Rodger says that, since we have received the Light at Christmas, it is our duty to spread the Light to others.

Larry Gentis describes the horrible consequences of blasphemy.   Three Vicars examine different ways of enjoying Christmas.   Ian Rose has a tale about a Budgie.   Philip Noble recommends being still in order to find God.

MUSIC

1.   Norwich Cathedral Choir - The First Noel.

2.   Albion Christmas Band - While shepherds watched & Sweet Christmas Bells.

3.   Maddie Prior - Angels from the Realms of Glory.

Three Vicars:  Christmas Part 2.   James Runcie talks to Michael Berkeley.   Ian Rose uses the metaphor of Caterpillars changing into butterflies.   Philip Noble tells us not to be downhearted.

MUSIC

1.   Dunedin Consort - "O thou that tellest good tidings" from Handel's Messiah.

2.   Alexander Armstrong - "In the bleak midwinter".

3.   Maddy Prior and the Carnival Band - "While shepherds watched".

4.   Clifford Hughes - "Child in the manger".

Three vicars, Giles Fraser, Kate Bottley and Richard Coles, discuss Christmas.   Elaine Brown brings Psalm 91 to life.   Matthew Rodger wonders which way to go.   Michael Berkeley interviews Psychotherapist Gwen Adshead.   Ian Rose confesses to feeling worthless.

MUSIC

1.   Dave Clifton and Ikos - O Come, O come Immanuel.

2.   Prom Praise - Safe in the shadow of the Lord.

3.   Robert Coaches - Will you come and follow me?

4.   Joanne Hogg - I wonder as I wander.

5.   Graham Kendrick -  How much do you think you are worth?

(a) Ready for Christmas?   (b) Ready for the Second Coming?

Fraser Penny suggests that we should treat everyone equally.

Larry Gentis on Moses' sister Miriam.   Elaine Brown on Praying.   Matthew Rodger on Helping.   Ian Myerscough on Grace and Truth.   Ian Rose on Acceptance.

MUSIC

1.   Treorchy Male Voice Choir - Guide me O thou Great Jehovah 

2.   Scottish Festival Singers - Courage brother do not stumble.

3.    Brother let me be your servant.

4.   Charlie Lansborough - Some people say.

5.   Sovereign Grace Musicians - Turn your eyes upon Jesus.

6.   Daniel O'Donell - Softly and tenderly, Jesus is calling

Katherine Rundell talks to Michael Berkeley about her book "Rooftoppers". Elaine Brown tells us where to leave our Worries.   Ian Myerscough explains where he he gets his Impressions of Jesus.   Ian Rose advises us to Enjoy the Now.

MUSIC

1.   Susan Boyle - Make us a channel of your Peace.

2.   Ella Fitzgerald - God will take care of You.

3.   Jen Johnson - Come to Me.

Matthew Rodger asks us to think about our place in the Universe, with a quotation from Alexander Pope.

Rev Matthew Rodger expounds 2 Samuel 23 about King David's dying words.

Robert Nicol's talk "The day thou gavest Lord".   Elaine Brown's Thought "You're Kept" based on Psalm 121.   Ian Myerscough explains "The Word became flesh".   Ian Rose says "Go to God".

MUSIC

1.   Scottish Festival Singers - The day Thou gavest Lord has ended.

2.   Selah - No matter what, He will hold me fast.

3.   Kingsways voices of worship - From Heaven you came.

4.   Isla Grant - He walks with me

Adrian Plass talks about the Father's love.   Anne Glenconner explains to Michael Berkeley how she coped with the difficulties in her life.   Larry Gentis continues his tale of rebellion amongst the people of Israel.

MUSIC

1.   Edinburgh University Singers - Christ Triumphant,  ever raising

2.   Kingsway Voices of Worship - I shall not want

3.   Daniel O'Donnell - Footsteps

Matthew Rodger explains that there is a reason for our sadness.

Robert Nicol based his funeral address for Brian Morrison on the hymn "The day thou gavest Lord has ended".

Adrian Plass talks about a Job for Life.   Kat Arney explains the fascination of Cancer and Genetics.   Larry Gentis , as Moses, faces rebellion from the people of Israel.

MUSIC

1.   Chester Cathedral Choir - As the Deer Pants for the water.

2.   Guy Penrod - What a friend we have in Jesus.

3.   Clifton Cathedral Choir - O God you search me and you know me.

4.   Jim Reeves - the evening prayer.

Adrian Plass imagines Heaven.   Michael Moseley recommends Meditation for the good of our health.   Ian Myerscough explores John's Gospel.

MUSIC

1.   Come people of the Risen King - Stuart Townend

2.   Dear Lord and Father of mankind - City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Chorus

Adrian Plass examines the advantages of Giving.   An Afghan refugee explains how he became a well qualified Doctor.   Ian Myerscough looks at John's Gospel in detail.

MUSIC

1.   St Michael's Singers - Take my life and let it be.

2.   Brother let me be your servant.

Matthew Rodger applauds the faithfulness of Daniel and his friends in Babylon, in spite of all the difficulties they faced.

Adrian Plass advocates Cuddling the Kids.   Osman Yousefsada recommends embracing different versions of Islam.   Matthew Rodger shows how Generosity pays off.   Leolio describes the work of Fear fund.

MUSIC

Coventry Chorale choir - God so Loved the World - from Stainer's "Crucifixion".

Alistair MacDonald - the Selkirk Grace.

Dr Clare Marx appreciates all the people who have been kind to her.   Kenneth Steven explores the island of Staffa and Fingal's Cave.   Iain Ramsden talks about Trusting God.

MUSIC

Choir of St George's Chapel Windsor - All Creatures of our God and King

Matthew Rodger encourages us to focus on the source of true happiness.

Matthew Rodger uses a story from O'Henry to illustrate how vulnerable we all are.

Adrian Plass talks about Decay and Renewal. Ernie Rea examines the plight of the Uyghurs in China.   Kenneth Steven describes the delights of Jura in the Hebrides.

MUSIC

1.   Guide me O Thou Great Jehovah - Treorchy Male Voice Choir.

2.   Christ be our Light - Frank Brownstead Choir.

3.   He will hold me fast - Selah

Stephanie Shirley tells Michael Berkeley about her successful career in business and philanthropy.   Adrian Plass has thoughts about being lifted by Love.   The Holy Island in the Outer Hebrides is described by Kenneth Steven.

Adrian Plass sympathises with the victims of Sarcasm.   Ernie Rea talks to enthusiastic Young members of different faiths.   Kenneth Steven explores the island of Barra in the Outer Hebrides.

MUSIC

1.   Cambridge Singers - For the beauty of the earth - John Rutter.

2.   Sarah Lacy - How deep the father's love for us - Stuart Townend.

3.   Daniel O'Donnell - Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling.

Matthew Rodger examines the motivation for leading a satisfying life.

Matthew Rodger stresses the importance of preparing in advance for Holy Communion.

Kenneth Steven describes the features of Mingulay in the Outer Hebrides.   Philip Noble encourages us to see the signs all around us.   Adrian Plass says he has a fear of Landing!   Mary Haddow tells the story of Greyfriars Bobby.

MUSIC

1.   Prom Praise - Safe in the shadow of the Lord. 

2.   Bernadette Farrell - Christ be our Light.

3.   Robert Coaches - Will you come and follow me.

Richard Holloway talks about his family and his faith.   Philip Noble suggests that we should appreciate what is around us a bit more.   Larry Gentis shows how upset Moses was by the disloyalty of his brother and sister.

MUSIC

1.   Cliff Richard - The Faithful One

2.   Chris Bowater - Here I am

3.   All Soils Singers - I'll go in the strength of the Lord

Matthew Rodger encourages us to be ready for the unexpected.

Matthew Rodger talks about Life after Death.

Richard Holloway outlines his reasons for resigning as Bishop of Edinburgh.   Philip Noble recommends practising making Eye Contact.   Ian Myerscough learns lessons from a drug addict.   Matthew Rodger thinks about Captain Cook.

MUSIC

1.   Edinburgh University Singers - Christ Triumphant ever reigning.

2.   Kathryn Scott - I belong.

Richard Holloway explains how he became a minister despite his humble background.   Philip Noble picks out some defining characteristics of Jesus' ministry.   Ian Myerscough describes how he was influenced by his grandparents' faith.   Matthew Rodger emphasises the importance of proclaiming the faith.

Matthew Rodger talks about the temptation to impose Order on God.

Henry Steuart Fothringham describes the painted ceiling in Grandtully Church.      Derek Browning gives the eulogy at Rev Dr Donald McAlister's funeral.   Iain Ramsden speculates on the reply to a letter from Jesus.  Larry Gentis sees the difficulties of the Israelites spying out the Promised Land.

MUSIC

1.   St George's Chapel Windsor Choir - Thy hand O Lord has guided.

2.   City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Chorus - For all the Saints.

3.   Edinburgh Festival Singers - For my sake and the Gospel's go.

4.   Kristyn Getty - Hear the call of the kingdom.

5.   Gaither Vocal Band - Only Jesus.

Teresa Keswick describes her life as a Carmelite Nun.   Malcolm Guite reads his version of Psalm 25.   Alan Sorensen explains why Confessing is good for you.   Mary Haddow illustrates the futility of concentrating on outward show.

Matthew Rodger answers the question "What is the point of Life?"

Matthew Rodger explains the importance of counting our blessings, starting with a story by Winston Churchill.

James Rebanks talks about Farming which is Sympathetic to the Environment.   Malcolm Guite reads his version of Psalm 24.   Mary Haddow has a story on Compassion.   Alan Sorensen explains the qualities shown by a Real Man.

Theaster Gates talks about the importance of the church to a black child growing up in Chicago.   Anna Smith explains the difficulties of trying to portray the Resurrection in films.   Larry Gentis describes the people of Israel trying to survive on Manna and Quails in the desert.

Matthew Rodger explores the subject of Resurrection.

Matthew Rodger encourages us to witness to Christians who have lapsed during the pandemic.

Desmond Tutu and the Dalai Lama talk about the importance of Prayer.   Francesco da Mosto explains what is being done to preserve Venice.   Larry Gentis describes the effect of Moses' close relationship with God.

MUSIC

1. Margaret Becker - Jesus draw me nearer.

2.  Ella Fitzgerald - Just a closer walk with God.

Kate Bingham talks about her role in setting up the Covid Vaccine Task Force.   Ernie Rea quizzes Grant McCaskill on Autism.   Frederick Wood sings a prayerful Kyrie.

MUSIC

1.   Stuart Townend - Vagabonds.

2.   Ray Charles - Everybody's Beautiful.

Matthew Rodger brings out the meaning of the Prodigal Son's story.

Matthew Rodger talks about the generosity of the woman with the jar of perfume.

Larry and Judy Gentis are with Jesus age 12 at the Temple.   Adam Rutherford and Hannah Fry explore the attractions of Astrology.   Helena Attlee describes the uniqueness of a Stradivarius.   Mary Haddow has a story about a blacksmith on his way to Heaven.

MUSIC

1.   Kingsway Voices of Worship - Abba Father, let me be.

2.   Stuart Townend - Good, good Father.

3.   Matt Redman - The Father's Song.

Geologist Sanjeev Gupta enthuses about the wonders of Creation.   Clare Balding enjoys a ramble on Iona.   Malcolm Guite explains his association with Saint Columba.   Mary Haddow describes the difficulty of preaching in your home town.

MUSIC

1.   Holy, Holy, Holy - sung by Sarah Lacy and Eden's Bridge.

2.   The King of Love my Shepherd is - sung to the tune St Columba.

3.   Be thou my vision.

4.   St Paul's Love Song - sung by Alastair MacDonald.

Ernie Rea and friends talk about the Queen as Defender of the Faith.   Alan Sorensen enthuses over the Holy spirit.   Jeremy Irons reads Psalm 55.   Matthew Rodger explains where to find God.

Fraser Penny, Minister of Dunkeld Cathedral, talks about changes which are afoot in the Church of Scotland.

Tim Birkhead describes the wonder of bird song.   Tenebrae perform Parry's "My Soul".   Kenneth Steven introduces Edwin Muir's poem "The Horses".

MUSIC

1.   Chester Cathedral Choir - How great thou art.

2.   Cambridge Singers - For the beauty of the earth.

3.   Commonwealth Song - Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee celebration.

David Nutt describes the difficulty in trying to control the use of drugs.   Tessa Dunlop celebrates the 80th Anniversary of the formation of the women's ATS (Auxiliary Territorial Service).   Kenneth Steven introduces Wallace Steven's poem "Sunday Morning".

MUSIC

1.   Clifton Cathedral Choir - O God you search me and you know me.

2.   Selah - He will hold me fast.

3.   Alastair MacDonald - There is a balm in Gilead

Matthew Rodger challenges us to be ready for Christ's service.

Matthew Rodger has a special message for Christian Aid Week

Meg Rosoff explains how she started writing novels late in her career.   Kenneth Steven introduces Ted Hughes' poem "Daffodils".   Hannah Fry talks to Jim Al Khalili about her love for Mathematics.

MUSIC

1.   Kingsway Voices of Worship - I shall not want.

2.   John Michael Talbot - St Teresa's Prayer.

James MacMillan explores Vaughan Williams' faith and music.   Kenneth Steven introduces Robert Frost's poem "Stopping in the Wood".   Ernie Rea examines  the motives of Patriarch Kirill, head of the Russian Orthodox church, in supporting Putin's war in Ukraine.

Matthew Rodger encourages us to put our hands in the hand of the Man from Galilee.

Matthew Rodger explains how Fear is the scourge of our times.

Ernie Rea talks to Father Jim Martin about St Ignatius.   Kenneth Steven introduces W B Yeats poem "Innisfree".   Stephen Edwards praises his remarkable father George Edwards.   Mary Haddow tells the story of a lawyer still working in his 90s.

Valentina Harris explains the dedication needed to produce a perfect Risotto.   Alan Sorensen quotes from John Wesley's grave stone.   Jeremy Irons reads Psalm 144.   Larry & Judy Gentis empathise with Joseph and Mary as they look for Jesus in the temple.

MUSIC

1.   Maddy Prior -  I know that my redeemer lives.

2.   East Valley Chorale - Glorious Day

Mary Haddow's final sermon as minister of Pitlochry Church of Scotland, based on Acts chapter 5.

Mary Haddow talks about Doubting Thomas

John Cleese explains why he likes Mascagni's Easter Hymn.   Alan Sorensen says "Of course Jesus laughed".   Jeremy Irons reads Psalm 106.   Mary Breeze describes Easter in Ethiopia.   Judy Gentis portrays Mary of Magdala at the empty tomb.

MUSIC

1.   Coventry Chorale - Thine be the Glory.

2.   Coventry Cathedral chamber choir - This Joyful Easter Tide.

3.   Sheffield Celebration Choir - Christ Arose.

4.   Kirstyn Getty - See what a morning.

5.   Klass - I come to the garden alone.

Jamila Gavin talks about Handel's support for the Foundling Hospital.   Larry Gentis describes Moses chipping away to create the 10 Commandments.   Alan sorensen experiences Vuja De!   Jeremy Irons reads Psalm 115.

MUSIC

1. Kingsway's Voices of Worship - The Servant King (Graham Kendrick)

2.   Helen Shapiro - Ride on to Die

What to sing or say on Palm Sunday

Mary Haddow encourages us to Praise the Lord!

Hayley Mills describes her life as an actor.   Jeremy Irons reads Psalm 107.   Kenneth Steven introduces Wilfrid Owen's poem "Spring Offensive".   

MUSIC

1.   East Valley Chorale - The Power of the Cross

2.   Matt Redmond - Bless the Lord, O my Soul

Nick Lane is a Biochemist who explores the origins of life.   Alan Sorensen explains the secret of Dynamic Christianity.   Jeremy Irons reads Psalm 102.   Larry Gentis shows how Moses learned the value of delegation.

Mary Haddow explores different aspects of Jesus' prayer life.

Janine de Giovanni talks to Andrew Marr about the difficulties of being a Christian in the Middle East.   Alan Sorensen emphasises the importance of making time to play.   Jeremy Irons reads Psalm 101.   The Ukrainian National Academic Choir sings their version of the Lord's Prayer.

Tricia Hillas talks to Andrew Marr about the Church of England.   Alan Sorensen features God and Games.   Jeremy Irons reads Psalm 92.   Larry Gentis focuses on Moses supplying the people of Israel with manna and water in the desert.

MUSIC

1.   "Lord for the Years" - words by Timothy Dudley Smith,  music by Michael Baughen. 

2.   "Sweet is the work my God and King" - City of Chester Male Voice Chior.

3.   "God will take Care of You" - Ella Fitzgerald.

Mary Haddow talks about Resurrection

Elle Hardy talks about her book "Beyond Belief", where she explores the phenomenal growth of the Pentecostal Church.   Alan Sorensen says"Be Yourself".   Jeremy Irons reads Psalm 100 "Make a Joyful Noise".   Larry Gentis is Moses parting the Red Sea.

MUSIC

1.   Kristyn Getty and Fiona de Barra - O shout for joy unto the Lord.

2.   Stuart Townend - Come people of the Risen King.

Larry Gentis tells the story of the final plague, which persuades Pharoah to let the Israelites depart.   Jeremy Irons reads Psalm 82.   Mary Haddow encourages us to be Encouragers!

Mary Haddow confronts the problem of Suffering.

Mary Haddow looks at Joseph's attitude towards his brothers.

Matthew Walker explains how to get a better night's sleep.   Alan Sorensen describes how to speak to God.   Jeremy Irons reads Psalm 74.

MUSIC

1.   Kristeen Getty - Speak Lord ad we come to you.

2.   Guy Penrod - What a friend we have in Jesus.

3.   Johnny Cash - Talk to Jesus every day.

Michael Berkeley talks to novelist Emma Freud.   Jeremy Irons reads Psalm 73.   Mary Haddow has a story to illustrate the truth that the Messiah is in our midst.   Larry Gentis continues to describe the meetings between Moses and Pharoah.

Mary Haddow explains why we should prioritise Prayer