Hosting the Bethany night shelter

Our lovely Hall  is used in many different ways, from ceilidhs and  wedding receptions to conferences and theatre space. This February, it became a temporary nightshelter for 5 nights. Here in Edinburgh The Bethany Trust organises safe “bed and breakfast” for 45 – 60 people every night from October to March. They are brilliant. To make it work they need hall space around the city and so many churches help out.

Being so central we are in a prime position to help and we also know as Christians that we are not just giving but receiving. We should expect to see something of the love of God in those to whom we offer hospitality. We enjoyed meeting the men and women who joined us for the night. There was a camaraderie of mutual support amongst the guests and we were touched by the atmosphere of peace which descended by 10.30 as everyone lay down their weary bodies on their beds.

Thank you to the church volunteers who cooked and cleaned, and to Doneil and Samuel for tidying up. Thank you Justin for your administration of the event. Thank you to the Bethany team for your quiet Christian presence and wisdom in this city. Thank you God for caring about each one of us.