New Directions
In January, I attended the New Directions Forum on behalf of the Presbytery. A summary of the day can be found here:
New Directions Jan 2026 - Briefing Note for Wider Circulation
As you will read, the discussions focused on the question of Presbytery funding.
From the Chief Operating Officer, Rev Norma Smith, "New Directions is feeding into an ongoing discussion of a model that has not been finalised. This is all part of a lengthy process of consultation which in time will draw from a wider cross-section beyond New Directions. Being a Church we consider the theology that underpins this to be as important as the model itself, Presbyteries and Kirk Sessions are encouraged to engage with the theology which is why you will find some discussion questions at the end. We are not looking for feedback on the theology paper, the questions are there to help people engage it."
The theological paper was first presented by Prof Phil Ziegler, from Aberdeen university, and I found it very helpful in helping to shape the discussion about finances. A abbreviated version is offered here, together with questions for Kirk Sessions:
A short Theological note on Church and Ministry in the Church of Scotland today
This is an opportunity to engage with the conversations that are happening across our Church at present with regards to significant issues. Please take time in your Kirk Session to consider the material offered here.
Vacancy Advisory Panel
As you are probably aware, we have a new vacancy act, called the Call, Election and Appointment of Ministers of Word and Sacrament Act. There are a number of changes within it, and I highlighted some of them last year, following the General Assembly.
One change is in respect of how Presbytery supports a congregation which has Permission to Call. Previously a Vacancy Advisory Committee (usually comprising 3 people) would be appointed. The VAC would usually meet with the Kirk Session and the Nominating Committee, to provide advice and ensure that all the necessary steps were being taken to lead to the appointment of a Minister of Word and Sacrament. The names were taken from a pool of people.
With the transition to the new act, on 1st January 2026, the existing Vacancy Advisory Committees have been discharged of their duties. We are thankful to them for the work they have done in helping congregations in vacancy.
Last year a Vacancy Advisory Panel (VAP) for the Presbytery was established. Two members of the VAP have been assigned to each congregation which has Permission to Call. These 'vacancy advisors' are there to support the Kirk Session and the Nominating Committee in their work, and are able to meet with them online.
Please note that the Vacancy Procedure Committee is a different body and has other responsibilities.
If you have Permission to Call and you are not sure who your 'vacancy advisors' are, please contact Rev Bob Fowlie in the first instance (rfowlie@churchofscotland.org.uk).
