How it began.
In 2020, in the providence of God, a new friendship began.
I met a man from Scotland whose love for Christ, his homeland, and Reformed and Puritan worship left a deep impression upon me. Yet his story is really part of a far greater one. Scotland—a land that has already given the world so much through faithful preaching, theological depth, and gospel courage—is being used, by God’s grace, to once again bless the nations. Through support arising from Scotland, we were enabled to launch Global Sermons by acquiring the hardware necessary to take sermons preached in one language and have them accurately and securely re-preached into multiple languages.
Through that same instrumentality, Scotland is again giving to the world by helping to globalize the entire sermon library of C. H. Spurgeon, so that the riches of historic preaching may be heard in every tongue. It is a humbling testimony to God’s continuing work through a land He has used mightily before. To God be the glory.
Donald and Christine Macdonald are the proprietors of Ness Side, near Loch Ness.
An idea is born.
Mr. Macdonald is not only a great encouragement to the ongoing work of SermonAudio, but he is also the founder and owner of Macdonald Hotels, the largest private collection of four-star hotels in Scotland and England. And he believes—like we do—that the protection and propagation of the preached Word is the only hope for a hopelessly broken world, including his own country.
Out of gratitude for his friendship, and out of a shared love for Scotland and its spiritual heritage, I began to wonder: What if we could invite others to experience this beloved land—not merely as tourists, but as pilgrims?
And so, through a joint partnership between SermonAudio, Macdonald Hotels, and Scottish Reformation Tours, a new venture is born: The Foundations Tour of Scotland.
Glencoe — one of the most dramatically scenic regions of Scotland.
Scotland, a great debt of gratitude.
Scotland is a land of breathtaking beauty, but it is also a land soaked in history and gospel light, to which the rest of the world owes a great debt. This tour is our attempt to offer what we believe is the ultimate experience of Scotland—rich in spiritual depth, historical clarity, and unhurried reflection—while providing the comfort and hospitality one would rightly hope for, yet at a fraction of the cost of comparable tours. This is because this tour is not designed to generate profit for any of the parties involved. It exists for one reason only: to be a blessing.
We will visit the church and grave of Thomas Boston.
Over nine carefully planned days, we will travel together by coach through Scotland’s cities, countryside, and Highlands, walking where the giants of the faith once walked: from John Knox’s home and St. Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh, to the church and grave of Thomas Boston, to St. Andrews where Patrick Hamilton was martyred, to Dundee where Robert Murray M‘Cheyne ministered, to the castles of Aberdeen where Samuel Rutherford was imprisoned, and onward into the majestic Highlands—enjoying even the private estate of Mr. and Mrs. Macdonald, graciously opened to us.
Ultimate hospitality and tour.
SermonAudio will be your host accompanying the group throughout the journey, but your guide will be Jimmy Fisher, whose deep knowledge of Scotland’s Reformation and Covenanter history, gained through many years of faithful service, has made him one of the most respected Christian heritage guides in the country. His ability to bring history to life—always with a Christ-centered focus—will shape the entire experience.
Each morning, before we set out, we will be greeted by local Scottish ministers who are broadcasters on SermonAudio for a brief time of worship—Scripture, meditation, and Psalm-singing—setting our hearts aright before we set our feet upon the day’s path.
Throughout the tour, guests will stay in 3 distinguished Macdonald Hotels, known for their authentic Scottish character, thoughtful comfort, and gracious hospitality. Each property reflects the uniqueness of its region, yet all share a common standard of care—providing a true home-away-from-home experience as we travel together.
Dining options are renowned for their high-quality using only local beef and salmon.
Born out of friendship.
If you were to visit Scotland only once, and if you have enjoyed the ministry of SermonAudio, I would personally like to invite you to join us on the Foundations Tour of Scotland. Born out of friendship, but with a desire to be a blessing. Experience the rich history of some of God’s choicest saints, while also allowing Macdonald Hotels to do what they do best: extend gracious hospitality.
Reserve your spot on the next tour!
www.foundationstour.com
