Welcome

“ Whilst the financial realities should not be shirked or ignored, there is the opportunity for change and significant hope.

THIS month is a time of change in both weather and church seasons.

March 1 traditionally heralds the onset of spring in the northern hemisphere and, this year, March is the month of a changing church season (from Epiphany to Lent).

With this in mind, the challenges facing the Church of Scotland also mark a season of change, which could be akin to the change from Epiphany (understanding) to Lent (a season of either deprivation or learning). It would be easy to draw comparisons with times of famine described in the Bible – and the overriding message that times of hardship draw people closer to God before the days of prosperity.

However, there is a deeper challenge amid the season of famine – it is one of learning and preparation for change.

Many have criticised the actions of the Church of Scotland in closing buildings and merging and uniting congregations, but this has been made against a backdrop of harsh financial reality and a long-term historic challenge of too many buildings.

Whilst the financial realities should not be shirked or ignored, there is the opportunity for change and significant hope.

Many local congregations have remained resolute – reconfiguring and reshaping as necessary – even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenge amid fear of change and vocal criticism.

Whilst the difficult decisions may not yet be complete, there are clear shoots of hope.

Every week we find those signs of hope and positivity in our business mailboxes: churches reaching out to their communities in new and imaginative ways (all tailored to local need), young people committing themselves to God and the acknowledgement of faithful service of many who have sought to keep the Church of Scotland ship afloat during one of its most turbulent times.

Change is never easy and whilst it may have been too much to bear for some, many have simply rolled up their sleeves and embraced the challenge.

Congregations often do not feel they have done anything special – from welcoming new communicant members and ordaining elders to working in the community on projects that serve and aid those in need. At Life and Work we are always interested to hear about all aspects of church life. We do not promise to follow up every single thing, but wherever we can, we seek to share those stories of change, hope and opportunity. So often it is these stories which inspire action in others.

As the church season changes, perhaps the Lenten challenge for renewal could include a promise to share your stories more widely with Life and Work at magazine@lifeandwork.org¤

Lynne McNeil Editor