We need to be the change we want to see

This month the Faith Action Programme highlights the importance of inspirational leadership and working together.

WE, as a church recognise we are in a crisis. To see the challenging situations around us transformed, we need to be the change we want to see. God wants that for us.

How do we fulfil our mission in contemporary Scotland? The Faith Action Programme Leadership Team is part of the national Church’s response to that question.

Our work is focused around three priorities from the General Assembly and the Assembly Trustees:

(i) growth and development of the Church through new Presbyteries working closely with local congregations

(ii) work on local need with emphasis on recruiting and equipping future leaders in ministries of the Church and

(iii) modernisation and simplification of governance structures

To fulfil this vision we need inspirational leaders, grounded in practical theology, and guided by the Holy Spirit. For the avoidance of doubt, if you’re reading this, you are part of that inspirational leadership! We want to bring that alive for you.

Why we do what we do

We want to engage meaningfully and listen to people locally to help shape the centre and future direction of the church. Individually we do not have the answers, but by us all worshipping, working and serving together, we can see our nation impacted by the Good News.

How we do what we do

We are aware of the mammoth task ahead, but we’re part of an amazing church with amazing people. You can be part of the answer to your own prayers.

Linking and learning from the local

In 2024 we hope to engage in Presbytery-wide conversations, in partnership with Seeds for Growth - gatherings to engage locally to listen, share, dream, plan and envision.

Finally, some words from Faith Action Convener, the Rev Tommy MacNeil.

“I describe myself as a gospel optimist. The basis for my optimism can be found in a quote from Karl Barth: ‘Take your bible in one hand and a newspaper in the other and read both. But always interpret your newspaper from what the Bible says’. We are a people of The Book and I don’t think it’s possible to read it and not be a prisoner of hope. What is happening in our world, nation and church today is no surprise to our Eternal God. This is a time for us to look to Christ who is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and whose promise to build His church still stands.” ¤