From Texas to Scotland: A Week of Worship, Welcome, and Wonder

We boarded the plane in Texas, made our way through London, and finally arrived in Dumbarton, Scotland, each of us jet-lagged, joyful, and ready for whatever the Lord had in store. Our StoneWater Church team from Granbury spent a week living, worshiping, and serving at the historic and breathtaking Overtoun House, partnering with the newly planted His Family Church to love on the local community and support their growing ministry.

Overtoun House looks like something out of a fairytale with its towering turrets, sweeping stone staircases, and ivy-covered walls standing proudly against the rolling green hills of Dumbarton. It carries the kind of beauty that stops you in your tracks. The first time we pulled up the long winding drive, it felt like we’d stepped onto the set of a historical drama or into the pages of a storybook.

But as majestic as the architecture was, it wasn’t the structure that stole our hearts…it was the spirit inside. What truly made Overtoun House feel like home wasn’t the grandeur of the building, but the gentle hospitality of its caretakers, the shared meals around long wooden table, the moments of spontaneous worship in its rooms, and the unmistakable presence of the Lord that seemed to fill every hallway. There’s something sacred about a place where people have prayed, wept, laughed, and gathered with open hearts. Overtoun is one of those places. It reminded us that beauty isn’t just found in castles or stonework - it’s found in connection, in community, and in Christ.

Our week was full—rich with ministry, laughter, and connection. We helped support the Sunday worship service at His Family Church, and throughout the week, we hosted a women’s event, held a men’s Bible study, and invited locals to our big Fayre Day celebration, a joyful outdoor event full of food, live music, worship, and heartfelt conversation.

The worship music during Fayre Day was something special. It filled the streets and could be heard all the way down the road as a joyful noise that caught the attention of passersby. We could see people coming out on their balconies to listen, some pausing their day just to take in the sound. It was one of those quiet but powerful reminders that God is always reaching hearts, often through the simplest acts of praise.

We also walked through town to connect with the community and personally invite folks to join us. Those small sidewalk conversations were just as meaningful as the events themselves, reminding us that ministry often begins with just saying hello.

One of the unexpected blessings of the trip was the relationships that formed along the way. Theresa, a member of our team, became something of a big sister to me. We exchanged stories about our families, our pasts, and our walks with the Lord. That connection gave me the courage and support I needed to share my testimony with the team which was something I hadn’t planned to do, but something God clearly had in mind.

My assigned trip buddy, Kyle, was a blast to room with. His humor and laid-back attitude kept the atmosphere light and made the experience all the more memorable. I’m thankful for the way God places people in your path exactly when and where you need them. Hey, buddy buddddddy.

We ate good food (the fish and chips in Oban were unforgettable!), we worshiped with all our hearts, and we left a piece of ourselves in Dumbarton. But more importantly, we brought back stories of how God shows up when His people say yes…not to something grand or glamorous, but to simple obedience.

A Journey Through the Highlands: God's Majesty on Display

Midway through our mission trip, we were blessed with a chance to explore some of the natural and historical beauty of Scotland. We loaded up and drove through the Scottish Highlands, making our way to Glencoe, St Conan’s Kirk, and the coastal town of Oban. These places were soul-stirring reminders of God’s majesty, creativity, and timeless presence.

The Highlands stretched out in every direction like something from a dream with rolling green hills, misty peaks, and sheep dotting the hillsides. We stood in quiet awe, taking in the peacefulness of it all. It felt as if the land itself was worshiping, and we were just stepping into an ancient rhythm of reverence. It was impossible not to feel close to God in that kind of stillness.

Glencoe was especially moving. The dramatic cliffs and valleys hold centuries of history, and the atmosphere carries a quiet strength. Several of us paused there for prayer and reflection, overwhelmed by how big God is and how lovingly He brings us into His vastness.

We had the opportunity to step inside the stunning St Conan’s Kirk, a unique and reverent space that blends architecture with worship in a way that feels both royal and rustic. Inside the Bruce Chapel, we stood before a carved monument containing a fragment of bone from Robert the Bruce, one of Scotland’s most revered kings. It was both humbling and holy to think of how faith, history, and legacy are intertwined in this place.

And then we went to Oban. With its colorful harbor views, sea breeze, and warm hospitality, it was a favorite stop for many of us. The fish and chips we enjoyed there were absolutely out of this world! It was a perfect blend of adventure and rest, and we’re grateful for the memories made in that cheerful coastal town.

Breaking Bread Together

Another part of the trip that made the week so meaningful was the time we spent around the table. We all took turns with cooking and cleaning throughout the week, and those shared meals quickly became one of the sweetest parts of our time together.

One of my absolute favorites was breakfast pancake tacos with apple filling that were warm, delicious, and made with love. Huge thanks to Becky and Anita for that masterpiece! And the fajitas for dinner? By far some of the best I have ever had so shoutout to Austin and Mandy for that flavor-packed deliciousness.

All the meals were really good and plentiful, and somehow even the cleanup was filled with laughter and conversation. It wasn’t just about the food…

It was about serving each other, slowing down, and finding joy in the ordinary moments.

With Grateful Hearts

A deep and heartfelt thank you to our incredible team: Dina, Kristi, Sam, Austin, Mandy, Lacey, Becky H, Becky K, Anita, and Theresa. Your servant hearts, laughter, and faith made this journey unforgettable.

Special thanks to Bob and Melissa Hill, the faithful stewards of Overtoun House and founders of His Family Church. Your vision, leadership, and kindness left a mark on all of us. Thank you for welcoming us so fully into your mission.

To Pablo and Ellie, thank you for your warmth, encouragement, and hospitality that you’ve used to create such a welcoming and Spirit-filled environment.

And of course, a big thank you to John, the sound booth tech, whose quiet faithfulness kept everything running smoothly behind the scenes. We saw you, and we’re grateful.

-Calen, Husband, Father, Child of God