The earliest known use of the term 'office bearer' is cited as being from the Register of the Privy Council of Scotland in 1593. An 'office bearer' is a person who holds a position of authority and responsibility in a government or other organisation. Within the Church of Scotland, according to the new guidance which accompanies the Church Courts Act (see below), "while there is no precise definition of an Office Bearer, the term refers to those who hold roles in the congregation that have a degree of permanency to them and a significant sphere of spiritual responsibility and service, as opposed to those which are for a short term only or for a particular task."
In my role, I regularly meet with office bearers and I am reflecting on how apt the name is. For these are people who often bear or carry a significant load, particularly when a congregation is in vacancy or going through an adjustment. Whilst the guidance speaks about a degree of permanence with respect to the roles held, I am reminded every year through the presentation of Long Service certificates, that many of the people also have a degree of permanence about them. We recognise and celebrate extraordinary periods of service, appreciating the dedication and commitment shown over decades.
But I am also reflecting on what it means to be in a role that has a significant sphere of spiritual responsibility. In recent times we have spoken much about the responsibilities a charity trustee has. However, first and foremost, we are a church and the spiritual responsibility that we have carries even more weight.
I mentioned a few weeks ago the ordination vows of ministers. The vow which elders are asked to make on ordination is as follows:
"Do you believe the fundamental doctrines of the Christian faith; do you promise to seek the unity and peace of this Church; to uphold its doctrine, worship, government and discipline; and to take your due part in the administration of its affairs?"
This raises the question, what are we doing to equip and support those who make this vow and by virtue of it, bear a significant spiritual responsibility? Or, for those who are elders, how are you nurturing your faith to enable you to fulfil the vow you have taken?
As referred to above, the Principal Clerk's Office has issued guidance on the Church Courts Act and it is particularly relevant to those who belong to a Kirk Session. I encourage you to take time to read both the Church Courts Act 2023 and the GUIDANCE NOTE ON CHURCH COURTS ACT - January 2026. It will help you understand the role of the Kirk Session. And if you are an Office Bearer, it will help you think about what it is you are carrying, as well as what is carried by those around you.
Finally, with all this talk about carrying responsibilities, it is worth remembering what Jesus carries for us and what he has said about burdens:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30
Rev Stella
