By ASR Paul Curd
They say that the years go around more quickly as you get older; I can testify to this for sure. It is true also with how fast the Royal Military Edinburgh Tattoo comes back around. It’s fair to say that it has become not only a prominent feature in my annual calendar, but an integral part of the ministry here in Edinburgh—especially among Pipers and Drummers, the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, key individuals within 51 Brigade and the staff of the Tattoo Company itself.
The Army, Navy & Royal Air Force (RAF) take turns to host the event and this year it’s the RAF’s turn. I am personally astonished that this will be my sixth Tattoo, my fourth as the resident Scripture Reader, and this year I am particularly looking forward to the RAF Colour Squadron with their world class drill-team display.
Each year I get to attend the planning meetings, usually held at the Tattoo Company offices in Edinburgh city. It is a privilege to be at these meetings where I can glean relevant information to ensure that SASRA’s Pop Up Cafe Mission on Redford Barracks a roaring success. Coffee urns are ordered, donations of Scottish sweet treats have been requested, and thousands of disposable cups and wooden stirrers have already been delivered—all awaiting the arrival of the SASRA team—ASR’s, HQ Staff and volunteers—on Saturday 1 August.
As usual, it will be a very busy week:
Or will it? Once the team has departed and the Tattoo proper is underway, Scotland’s three Scripture Readers share the opportunity to build on the relationships and continue the conversations begun in Redford Barracks, as they get amongst the performers backstage, under the stands and up in the Castle itself alongside the military Chaplains—truly a privilege.
Please pray for this significant annual event, that the RAF personnel are impacted by the good news that Christ has come and that the RAF Scripture Readers are especially encouraged in their ongoing ministry at home on their respective Bases.
Pray with us
- Pray for our team who are making their way up to Edinburgh this weekend; for safe travels and good opportunities to share about the work of SASRA with churches and supporters on Saturday and Sunday.
- Pray for the efforts of the team during the week and for Scripture Readers to have good opportunities as they engage with the performers.
