From The Editor

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SEPTEMBER is the traditional start of the new Church year.

But in 2021, much work has already been done to move quickly with plans to create a streamlined Church of Scotland.

The aim is clear: to create a sustainable body fit for the purpose of spreading the Good News across Scotland and beyond in the 21st century.

There will be pain along the way but radical surgery is necessary if the Church is to continue its work in the long-term.

Detractors of the Church will have scoffed at the headlines created by this year’s General Assembly and there will be likely mutterings that it is long overdue and accusations that the Church of Scotland does not deserve its place at the table in terms of influence in Scotland’s society and beyond.

What is forgotten is that the Church – and indeed many sister churches – are among the biggest players when it comes to the social capital of Scotland.

How many churches reach out to the poor and vulnerable in society by supporting sadly necessary foodbanks? How many provide a vital place to meet and point of connection for many groups – including uniformed organisations for the young and lunch clubs and social groups for the old? How many offer the only community space in their area? How many fill the gap with key volunteer led services supporting communities, bridging a vital social care gap (particularly through the services provided by CrossReach)?

How many have supported the vulnerable through the ebb and flow of the Covid-19 pandemic?

But it should not be forgotten that the Church offers a presence and support in times and places where others cannot fulfil that need.

There is no doubt that some churches are in the wrong place and that some buildings are a hindrance to the vital mission work of the Church. Indeed, the Church has held too many buildings since the great Union of 1929.

But it should not be forgotten that the Church offers a presence and support in times and places where others cannot fulfil that need.

The global pandemic has offered an insight into how the Church could look – and shown that its message remains vital and vibrant to many who currently do not cross the physical threshold of a church.

The challenge will be creating a place where all are welcome and united in both belief and purpose, meeting in an area which is in the right place for a community.

Change is difficult and painful (and Life and Work is not immune to this) but by keeping sight of the big picture of a vibrant Church which can fulfil its mission by reaching out and adding value to our communities, the pain of today will reap the rewards of tomorrow. 

Lynne McNeil Editor