From The Editor

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THE month of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland will be almost upon us as this issue reaches our readers.

Reports will be debated and pronouncements made on a wide range of issues.

One thing will be evident: the wind of change will begin to blow over the shape of the Church.

After a series of roadshows over the length and breadth of the land – from London to Lerwick – the feedback on the future of the Church is being carefully analysed and considered.

In February the Chalmers Lectures, delivered by the Rev Dr Doug Gay, Principal of Trinity College in Glasgow, also provided further food for thought as he outlined radical ideas to consider for the future ministry, money and mission of the Church.

The ideas have excited and provoked but have provided further input into the debate looking at the way ahead for our Church.

There are challenges and a strong need for reform has been identified, but the pioneering path presents opportunity in a way perhaps never seen before.

For the people in the pew, this is not a new hurdle to be overcome, but rather a challenge to be embraced for Christian witness. It is an opportunity to reform and rethink the Church of Scotland of the future – not to mourn what has passed or the ‘glory days’ and yearn for what has gone but to consider the place of the Church and its role in 21st century Scotland.

For whilst the forces of secularism seek to erode the presence of the Church – undermining its place within Scottish society, the Church of Scotland’s strength is its territorial ministry and constant presence, not simply appearing in times of need and disappearing when the need diminishes, but constantly and consistently caring for its community, respecting neighbours and offering love, support and practical help to those in need.

“ There are challenges and a strong need for reform has been identified, but the pioneering path presents opportunity in a way perhaps never seen before.

The social capital of the Church also requires to be assessed: if the Church of Scotland disappeared tomorrow, a huge hole would appear in the strata of Scottish life. A financial calculation of this underappreciated and often unspoken service should be a priority.

The Church’s contribution to the Scotland of today is not always appreciated because of natural Presbyterian reticence, but the costs to local and central government of plugging the gap with practical services currently provided by the church, both nationally and within parishes, is astronomical.

It is this desire to serve, support and care in Christ’s name that will provide the template for the church of the future – and assure its place for centuries to come amid the challenges of today.

This article appears in the May 2017 Issue of Life and Work

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