Our Faith

The Church of Scotland seeks to inspire the people of Scotland and beyond with the Good News of Jesus Christ through enthusiastic worshipping, witnessing, nurturing and serving communities.

The Church of Scotland is one of the largest organisations in the country. We have around 300,000 members, with more regularly involved in local congregations and our work. We have around 800 ministers serving in parishes and chaplaincies, supported by both centrally and locally employed staff.

Most of our parishes are in Scotland, but we also have churches in England, Europe and overseas. The Church of Scotland plays a pivotal role in Scottish society and works with communities worldwide.

Inclusivity
Our vision for this world and our society is, ‘That all may have life and have it in fullness’ (John 10:10) – that everyone can feel safe, valued and included in the life of the Church.

As Christians, we believe that all humans were created in God’s image.  This is what gives us dignity. Every single person on this planet mirrors God. To treat every person with respect, fairness and dignity is the appropriate answer to God’s creation of humankind in God’s image.

The Church of Scotland’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Group works to empower people across the church to celebrate the diversity of all God’s people and to strengthen our culture of welcome.

Kirk Sessions
Kirk Sessions oversee the local congregation and its parish, and consist of elders presided over by a minister.