From The Editor

MISSION planning is very much on the minds of all congregations within the Church of Scotland at this time.

Each presbytery has to finalise plans by December 31 for the future of mission in each area.

There have already been many headlines (particularly locally) about buildings closures with communities complaining loudly about the potential loss of presence and place.

Our buildings are tied up with memories of the rites of passage of life where family and friends gather to celebrate and mourn, but as we are called to reform and evolve, how important are they – particularly when it comes to future sustainability? The model of one congregation with a building, hall and manse is about to evolve as the Church adapts to the challenges of today (including climate change).

For some congregations and communities buildings are comforting and symbolic. For others the maintenance of buildings becomes an all-consuming draining burden – sometimes necessarily propping up buildings at the expense of engaging in new work and outreach.

There will always be a need for places to gather for worship and prayer, but the big question for the future is where should they be?

Yet if you look at the New Testament, the first followers of Jesus met him where they could – indoors or outdoors. There were no buildings.

Now the climate of the Middle East lends itself to outdoor gatherings, but it does beg the question, is a building an absolute essential for the people of a church?

There will always be a need for places to gather for worship and prayer.

There are undoubtedly some amazingly symbolic buildings – old and new – still at the heart of communities and with the physical tools to grow and reach out to the people of the 21st century.

But there are a proportion which have drained resources – financial and otherwise – and perhaps the time has come to let them go. For being freed of such financial worries can offer a new freedom.

Being without a building does not prevent innovation or growth.

In moving forward, buildings may disappear but perhaps it may be possible for congregations to continue with ecumenical partnerships or leasing space in other buildings at the heart of communities – or participating in digital or online church.

Plans for those buildings which will continue are expected to be drafted by the end of this year. Difficult decisions and days lie ahead. But the biggest resource of the Church is its people – and the fellowship and community created by working together. The words of Matthew 18:20 may offer some insight and encouragement into the way ahead:

‘For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them’ ¤

Lynne McNeil Editor