My First Time at the General Assembly – A Few Reflections
This year I had the chance to attend the Church of Scotland General Assembly in Edinburgh – not as a commissioner or delegate, but as a visitor. It was my first time, and honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But I left feeling incredibly moved, encouraged, and grateful.
I was there as part of the Safeguarding Committee, supporting our Convener and representing the quiet but vital work of safeguarding across our congregations.
There was something deeply humbling about stepping into the Assembly Hall – steeped in history, reverent in purpose, yet alive with the energy of a Church earnestly seeking Christ’s future for us all. It was sobering, encouraging, and at times awe-inspiring.
On Monday morning, I found myself sitting quietly in the balcony, taking everything in. There was a real sense of reverence as worship began – the kind that stills you and lifts you all at once. Sharing in morning worship and Communion with people from across the world was incredibly moving. As we sang “I Come with Joy”, I looked down at the Assembly floor and felt part of something bigger – strangers joined together in Christ, gathered around His table.
The Safeguarding Report had been due on Monday, but with earlier discussions running deep (and rightly so), it was rescheduled for Thursday. I saw that not as a delay, but as a sign that the Assembly was engaging fully and faithfully.
I left on Monday afternoon so I could get home to my family (and back to Presbytery work the next day!) – but something stirred in me, and I found myself heading back down to Edinburgh after work on Wednesday. I felt drawn not just by duty, but by a sense of fellowship – of standing alongside friends and fellow servants of the Church, sharing stories and encouragement in quiet corners of the city before the next day’s work.
On Thursday morning, I had the honour of sitting on the main floor with the Safeguarding team. When the report was finally delivered, it felt like such a significant moment – not just because of the content, but because of the clear respect and care shown by the Assembly. I was especially proud knowing how much work had gone on behind the scenes in preparing for this moment – particularly the Committee’s contributions to the Church’s response to the Makin Report. The work has been thoughtful, careful, and shaped by a desire to learn, respond well, and strengthen safeguarding for the future.
More than anything, I want to express my deep appreciation for the Safeguarding staff – those who serve quietly, without expectation of thanks or acknowledgement, yet who are at the very core of His work. Their dedication, patience, and grace make an immeasurable difference. It is holy work, and it matters more than most will ever know.
It’s hard to describe the feeling in the room – sobering at times, yes, but also full of love, passion, and a real desire to get things right. The whole experience reminded me why this work matters. It’s not about ticking boxes – it’s about creating space for people to belong, safely and fully, in the body of Christ.
I came away from the Assembly changed. Encouraged. Humbled. More committed than ever to the work God has placed before us. And above all, filled with gratitude for being allowed to play a small part in such a big, beautiful thing.
"Let all that you do be done in love." – 1 Corinthians 16:14
