"'Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus, just to take Him at His word." Indeed, it is sweet to trust in Jesus, for He is the God who keeps His word. The EAGA Gospel Choir made history once again as they witnessed the fulfilment of God's promises to His people.

This was the moment that the choir ministered before His Majesty King Charles III. They ventured to the most northern part of Scotland to minister the Gospel of Christ in the small church of Canisbay. This journey did not happen by chance but was birthed from a visit made in December 2025. The choir entered the doors of the church on Christmas Day and was invited to sing to the congregation. That visit planted a seed, and the minister of the congregation, Reverend Janet Easton-Berry, invited the choir to return to sing at a very special occasion in August 2026. This coincided with His Majesty King Charles III's visit to the nearby Castle of Mey, allowing him to enjoy a sense of normality by worshipping with the local congregation.

The choir arrived in Dunnet and took up residence at the House of the Northern Gate, on the Dunnet Estate near Thurso. The new members, who had not been part of the December visit, were in awe of the beauty of the house and the surrounding landscape. The choir held a late-night rehearsal to ensure their voices were ready for the special service.

The choristers rose early on the morning of Sunday 2 August, preparing themselves for the church service. Everyone looked elegant in their navy-blue dresses and smart suits. They gathered in prayer and sang the African chorus "Masifika" (meaning, "When we arrive in Jesus Christ's home, we will sing to the Lord"), preparing their hearts to minister in harmony.

Arriving well before the service, the choir received a wonderfully warm welcome from members of the congregation and enjoyed fellowshipping with those arriving for worship. After putting on their gowns, they were invited to take their seats in the pews. As the church filled, the congregation waited with anticipation for His Majesty's arrival.

Just before midday, Reverend Janet Easton-Berry entered the church with King Charles III and his entourage. The King took his place among the congregation and joined everyone in worship. Reverend Janet Easton-Berry of the Presbyterian Church declared it a Songs of Praise service, inviting everyone present to worship and praise the Lord throughout the different ministrations.

Following the opening part of the service, the choir was invited to sing their rendition of the "In Christ Alone / 'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus" medley. The sound of the music filled the church, and many in the congregation were visibly moved. There was a deep stirring among those present, with tears shared by some as they listened. His Majesty King Charles III, who was accompanied by Lady Sarah Chatto, appeared greatly uplifted by the choir’s rendition.

The children's choir, comprising pupils from three local schools, sang a beautiful rendition of "If I Were a Butterfly." Their voices filled the church, reminding everyone of the joy of being childlike before God. Many adults happily joined in the singing, giving thanks to God for making each one of us unique.

Rev. Cleopas Takavada, of East Caithness Church of Scotland, together with his family, who originally hail from Zimbabwe, ministered two songs during the service. One was sung in Shona, and another in both Shona and English, leading the congregation in joyful praise. Many joined in by clapping their hands as they worshipped together.

The service also included several thoughtfully chosen Bible readings by different members of the congregation, together with beautiful musical contributions from two fiddlers. One of the readers, a burn survivor originally from South Africa, read the Scriptures with great eloquence.

The choir was invited to minister once more, this time singing "Jesus Is Real!" The song was warmly received, with radiant smiles seen across the faces of many in the congregation.

As the service came to an end, the congregation, led by the choir, sang "O Lord My God (How Great Thou Art)." Together they also sang the National Anthem, "God Save the King."

As the service concluded, His Majesty King Charles III departed from among the congregation. Before leaving the church, however, he turned and gave the choir a gentle wave. A kind gesture that was warmly appreciated by every member. Later, the choir learned that, as the King made his way to his car, he had expressed how much he had enjoyed the choir's singing and how wonderful he thought they were.

Surely, this was an occasion to remember; a wonderful reminder of God's faithfulness and the fulfilment of His promises.

The warmth, love, and hospitality shown by the church family made the day even more memorable.

Read the John O'Groat Journal article:
Church service at Canisbay in presence of the King was so special
https://www.johnogroat-journal.co.uk/news/church-service-at-canisbay-in-presence-of-the-king-was-so-441629/