This article by David Kendall (April) explains why the Church of Scotland is in such a sorry state today.

He speaks firstly of reaching a balanced budget by 2027. Rather, firstly he should speak of Jesus and heed his works: “Ask and it shall be given, seek and you shall find, knock and the door will be opened to you.” The money is there (in our pockets).

Shortage of ministers – I remember well Professor Andrew McGowan telling the General Assembly of the number of elders in the church, today some of those elders serve in worship groups many would make good ministers, lay readers etc. Yes, the church has too many buildings, it needs to reform, but to close the only Church of Scotland building in a village or community is not the answer.

Mission is about people. Mission teams should be established to help such churches grow.

Larger presbyteries are not the answer. I say that too as a former presbytery clerk. Ours, here in Fife now has a paid full time clerk and assistant clerk, an administrator and paid full time buildings officer. Yet volunteers have been used as facilitators to help in uniting churches.

It beggars belief at the money that sometimes is then spent on the remaining existing building or buildings when a more imaginative and dynamic approach to mission could have been taken.

If the buildings are not fit for purpose, build instead ones that are or worship elsewhere.

What is more needed is a real vision, a recognition that mission is more about people, giving to united churches better ministry support and making better trained disciples.

Reginald Campbell (Rev) , locum minister, Cowdenbeath: Trinity, Fife