Lego kits can be incredible fun, with tremendous satisfaction when they are completed. They can also be very challenging. Getting all the right pieces in all the right places can be a nightmare. And if you go wrong, trying to rewind and fix the mistake can cause your heart to sink.
Of course, when we grow up, we replace Lego kits with flatpack furniture! And really the same principles apply.
Every year, the Church of Scotland gathers for its own General Assembly, which is its supreme court. Around 500 ministers, deacons and elders are commissioned to attend. Delegates and visitors are also invited from partner churches around the world. Those attending the Assembly can choose to do so in Edinburgh or online. They gather to hear reports from the Church's various committees and bodies, make laws and set the agenda for the national Church. It provides another opportunity for us to shape the future direction of mission and ministry.
This year's General Assembly will discuss a vast array of topics, including:
- our financial deficit;
- the funding of presbyteries;
- tenure;
- mission planning;
- church planting;
- ministerial education;
- the core competencies of a minister;
- assisted dying;
and much more. To find a summary of this year's reports, check out Life and Work's General Assembly page.
We can't really get away from the fact that there is much that makes for grim reading. ‘With heavy hearts’, the Assembly Trustees introduce a report warning that ‘the Church of Scotland is at a tipping point in terms of its financial viability’ and ‘needs to act now’. Decline in numbers across the Church impacts so much. And it is painful to face up to the need for redundancies - both voluntary and compulsory.
As the psalmist asks, 'Where does our help come from?'. Or our hope?
Three things strike me. Firstly, we don't face these problems alone. We come together (online and in Edinburgh) as a national Church and share in fellowship with one another, learning from each other, challenging each other and loving each other. There is a blessing that comes from dwelling in unity and anyone who has ever been to the General Assembly will know that there are times when it is a real blessing to have participated in it.
Secondly, we don't face these problems alone. We welcome delegates from our brothers and sisters in other denominations across the world. There are often times when encouragement and wisdom comes from outside.
Thirdly, we don't face these problems alone. We meet in the presence of God - beginning each day in worship and reminding ourselves that there is another voice to listen out for. Our situation is difficult, but perhaps we need to be reminded that God is the one who truly does the assembling. He draws us together. He builds us up. He gifts us with his Holy Spirit, to equip us for every good work. He holds us in his hands. Our help comes from him - the maker of heaven and earth.
I encourage you to pray for the General Assembly, as it gathers on Saturday. Pray for all the Conveners and those who will answer questions during the week - lots of work has gone into the reports and there is much to be chewed over. Pray for all the commissioners, that they would listen well and engage fully with the sessions. Pray for our new Moderator, Rev Rosie Frew, as she leads us. Pray for Shaw, as his year comes to an end. Pray for those from NENI Presbytery who will be working hard throughout the week behind the scenes or upfront. Pray for the Holy Spirit to be leading and guiding, as decisions are made. Pray for the extravagant love of God to be evident in all that is said and done.
Rev Stella
