If you want to see more of the story, go to Inverurie and Old Rayne 1871.
A continuous revival and work of grace had been going on all through the Garioch district for nearly two years, and in other parts of the country as well.
At Oyne, Old Rayne, Insch, Kennethmont, Braco, and Inverurie there had been many saved. In the Buchan district a good work had been done at New Deer, Gowanwell, and Newburgh; while in the Speyside vicinity times of ingathering had been seen at Rothes, Keith, Boharm, and Aberlour. But these places were far sundered, and believers seldom had the opportunity
of meeting with each other or for having seasons of united prayer and fellowship in the things of God. Conferences - except as they existed at Perth and other places on Presbyterian lines - were unknown. The great gatherings at Huntly in the Castle Park had long gone by, and there was a feeling of general isolation among the children of God. Mr Ross, who was always quick to discern the need, proposed that a "revival meeting" - for so it was announced - should be held at a convenient centre, to which believers, old and young, from all parts, might come by road and rail, to have a day's spiritual intercourse and mutual help in the things of God. The place fixed on was Old Rayne; and the announcement appeared in the "Intelligencer" for July 1871, that a "Fellowship Tea Meeting " would be held at 12.30, and a meeting for Gospel preaching at 2 pm. It went on to say that an extensive revival of God's work had been in progress in the Garioch district, and that "revival believers are anxious to meet, know, and sympathise with one another." The gathering was in the open air, on a green sward near to the joiner's shop where believers gathered. A great many assembled from all parts, and God gave a season of rich blessing. There was no chairman, no fixed speakers, no pre-arrangement. Mr Ross read 1 Corinthians, chapter xiv., and reminded us that "God is here to take charge of the meeting " and He did.
From, "Donald Ross, Pioneer Evangelist," pages 174-5.