THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND General Assembly 2026

ASSEMBLY PAPER

FRIDAY 15 MAY – MONDAY 18 MAY

WORSHIP AND ORDER OF BUSINESS

COMMISSION

SUPPLEMENTARY JOINT REPORT OF THE ASSEMBLY TRUSTEES AND THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND TRUST ON THE SCOTS HOTEL, TIBERIAS

SUPPLEMENTARY REPORT OF THE LEGAL QUESTIONS COMMITTEE

amendments after election of commissioners, delegates, visitors, youth representatives, probationers and admissions candidates on familiarisation

other corrections

report on the printing of acts and regulations

intimations

Scottish Charity Number: SC011353

WORSHIP AND ORDER OF BUSINESS

Day 1 - FRIday 15 May 2026 – Opening CEREMONY

Session 1: 10.00 am

1.      Constitution of Assembly

Call to Worship

Prayer

Hymn CH 200:      Christ is made the sure foundation (Westminster Abbey)

1. Christ is made the sure foundation,

Christ the head and corner-stone,

chosen of the Lord and precious,

binding all the Church in one,

holy Zion's help forever,

and her confidence alone.

2. To this temple, where we call you,

come, O Lord of Hosts, today:

with your constant loving-kindness,

hear your servants as they pray,

and your fullest benediction

shed within its walls alway.

3. Here bestow on all your servants

what they ask of you to gain,

what they gain from you for ever

with the blessèd to retain,

and hereafter in your glory

evermore with you to reign.

4. Praise and honour to the Father,

praise and honour to the Son,

praise and honour to the Spirit,

ever Three and ever One,

One in might and One in glory,

while unending ages run.

7th or 8th century translated John Mason Neale (1818-1866) (alt.)

Music: Henry Purcell (1659-1695) arranged Ernest Hawkins (1802-1868)

The Psalmist, 1842

Reading:      Mark 2: 1-12

      Rev Dr John L McPake, Acting Principal Clerk

Reflection

Prayer

2.      Submission of the Standing Orders, the Roll of Commissioners and the Report of the Standing Committee on Commissions.

3.      Election of Moderator.

4.      Homologation of appointment of Acting Principal Clerk.

5.      His Majesty’s Commission to the Lord High Commissioner.

6.      His Majesty’s Most Gracious Letter to be read and order given for recording it.

7.      Address by the Lord High Commissioner and reply by the Moderator.

8.      Appointment of Committees: (1) to Prepare Answer to His Majesty’s Most Gracious Letter, (2) to Prepare a Minute on Deceased Ministers, Missionaries and Deacons and (3) of the Procedure Committee.

9.      Intimation of arrangements for a celebration of Holy Communion on Monday 18 May, at 9.15am in the Assembly Hall and online.

Circulation Break

Session 2: 11.30 AM

Speeches from Delegates and Visitors.

Section 2 of the Report of the Legal Questions Committee regarding proposed changes to Standing Orders.

Report of the Assembly Business Committee (Reports 1/1).

Presentation of Bible to Moderator by the Scottish Bible Society (Reports 1/4).

Minutes of Appeal Hearings (Reports 2/1 & 3/1).

Report and Supplementary Report of the Legal Questions Committee (Reports 4/1 and Assembly Paper page 34).

Lunch

Session 3: 2.00 pm

Report of the Procedure Committee – to include Consent Agenda (see page 27 below).

Report of the Assembly Trustees (Reports 5/1), including the Overture from the Presbytery of Perth as to vacancy allowance (Order of Proceedings, page 29).

Joint Report and Supplementary Joint Report of the Assembly Trustees and the Church of Scotland Trust on the Scots Hotel, Tiberias (Reports 6/1 and Assembly Paper page 30).

Report of the Church of Scotland Trust (Reports 7/1).

Dinner

Session 4: 7.00 PM

1.      Report of the Theological Forum and the Faith Action Programme Leadership Team on the Causes of Decline of the Church (Reports 8/1).

2.      Report of the Presbytery Review Committee (Reports 9/1).

3.      Report of the Safeguarding Committee (Reports 10/1).

Day 2 - SATURday 16 May 2026

SESSION 5: 9.15 am

1.      Constitution of Assembly

Call to Worship

Hymn CH 34:      O send thy light forth and thy truth, Psalm 43; (Kilmarnock)

1. O send thy light forth and thy truth;

let them be guides to me,

and bring me to thine holy hill,

even where thy dwellings be.

2. Then will I to God’s altar go,

to God my chiefest joy:

yea, God, my God, thy name to praise

my harp I will employ.

3. Why art thou then cast down, my soul?

what should discourage thee?

Any why with vexing thoughts art thou

disquieted in me?

4. Still trust in God; for him to praise

good cause I yet shall have:

he of my countenance is the health,

my God that doth me save.

Psalm 43, verses 3-5

The Scottish Psalter, 1929

Music: Neill Dougall (1776 -1862)

Prayer and Lord’s Prayer

Lord’s Prayer:

Our Father in heaven,

hallowed be your name,

your kingdom come,

your will be done,

on earth as in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

Forgive us our debts

as we forgive our debtors.

Do not lead us into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours forever.

AMEN.

Readings:      John 19: 16b—30

Reader: Rev Fiona Kennedy OLM, Edinburgh and West Lothian Presbytery

Colossians 2: 8-15 (to be read in Gaelic)

Reader: Rev Donald Michael MacInnes, Glasgow: Gairbraid

This is God’s word for us.

8 See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ. 9 For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, 10 and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority. 11 In him also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, 12 having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead. 13 And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, 14 by cancelling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. 15 He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.

Amen.

Prayers for others

Hymn GWA 122: Oh to see the dawn of the darkest day

1. Oh, to see the dawn of the darkest day.

Christ on the road to Calvary,

Tried by sinful men, torn and beaten, then

Nailed to a cross of wood.

This, the power of the cross.

Christ became sin for us.

Took the blame, bore the wrath.

We stand forgiven at the cross.

2. Oh, to see the pain written on your face,

Bearing the awesome weight of sin.

Every bitter thought, every evil deed

Crowning your bloodstained brow.

This, the power of the cross.

Christ became sin for us.

Took the blame, bore the wrath.

We stand forgiven at the cross.

3. Now the daylight flees, now the ground beneath

Quakes as its Maker bows his head.

Curtain torn in two, dead are raised to life.

‘Finished!’ the victory cry.

This, the power of the cross.

Christ became sin for us.

Took the blame, bore the wrath.

We stand forgiven at the cross.

4. Oh, to see my name written in the wounds,

For through your suffering I am free.

Death is crushed to death, life is mine to live;

Won through Your selfless love!

This, the power of the cross:

Son of God, slain for us.

What a love! What a cost!

We stand forgiven at the cross.

Words and music: Keith Getty (b.1974, Northern Ireland) and Stuart Townend (b. 1963, Scotland)

Sermon

Hymn GWA 170: Yet not I but through Christ in me

1. What gift of grace is Jesus, my Redeemer.

There is no more for heaven now to give.

He is my joy, my righteousness and freedom,

My steadfast love, my deep and boundless peace.

To this I hold: my hope is only Jesus,

For my life is wholly bound to his.

Oh how strange and divine, I can sing: all is mine!

Yet not I, but through Christ in me.

2. The night is dark, but I am not forsaken,

For by my side, the Saviour, he will stay.

I labour on in weakness and rejoicing,

For in my need, his power is displayed.

To this I hold: my Shepherd will defend me.

Through the deepest valley he will lead.

Oh the night has been won and I shall overcome!

Yet not I, but through Christ in me.

3. No fate I dread, I know I am forgiven,

The future sure, the price it has been paid.

For Jesus bled and suffered for my pardon,

And he was raised to overthrow the grave.

To this I hold: my sin has been defeated.

Jesus now and ever is my plea.

Oh the chains are released, I can sing: I am free!

Yet not I, but through Christ in me.

4. With every breath, I long to follow Jesus,

For he has said that he will bring me home.

And day by day, I know he will renew me

Until I stand with joy before the throne.

To this I hold: my hope is only Jesus.

All the glory evermore to him.

When the race is complete, still my lips shall repeat:

Yet not I, but through Christ in me.

To this I hold: my hope is only Jesus.

All the glory evermore to him.

When the race is complete, still my lips shall repeat:

Yet not I, but through Christ in me.

When the race is complete, still my lips shall repeat:

Yet not I, but through Christ in me.

Yet not I, but through Christ in me.

Yet not I, but through Christ in me.

Words and music: Jonny Robinson, Michael Farren and Rich Thompson arranged by Compilers

2.      Report of the Procedure Committee.

3.       Report of the Faith Action Programme Leadership Team (Reports 11/1).

Circulation Break

Session 6: 11.00 am

Report of the Faith Action Programme Leadership Team (Reports 11/1) contd.

Lunch

Session 7: 2.00 pm

Report of the Procedure Committee –confirmation of Consent Agenda (see page 27 below).

2.      Report of the Faith Action Programme Leadership Team (Reports 11/1) contd.

3.      Joint Report on Legacies of Slavery (Reports 12/1) (Order of the Day 3pm).

4.      Report of the Church of Scotland Guild (Reports 13/1).

Day 3 - SUNday 17 May 2026

Session 8: 3.00 pm

1.      Constitution of Assembly

Call to Worship

Hymn GWA 127: Holy Spirit Living Breath of God

1. Holy Spirit, living Breath of God,

Breathe new life into my willing soul.

Let the presence of the risen Lord,

Come renew my heart and make me whole.

Cause your word to come alive in me;

Give me faith for what I cannot see,

Give me passion for your purity.

Holy Spirit breathe new life in me.

2. Holy Spirit, come abide within,

May your joy be seen in all I do.

Love enough to cover every sin,

In each thought and deed and attitude.

Kindness to the greatest and the least,

Gentleness that sows the path of peace.

Turn my strivings into works of grace;

Breath of God show Christ in all I do.

3. Holy Spirit, from creation's birth,

Giving life to all that God has made,

Show your power once again on earth,

Cause your church to hunger for your ways.

Let the fragrance of our prayers arise;

Lead us on the road of sacrifice,

That in unity the face of Christ

May be clear for all the world to see.

Words and music: Keith Getty (b. 1974, Northern Ireland) and Stuart Townend (b. 1963, Scotland)

Prayer and Lord’s Prayer:

Lord’s Prayer:

Our Father in heaven,

hallowed be your name,

your kingdom come,

your will be done,

on earth as in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

Forgive us our debts

as we forgive our debtors.

Do not lead us into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours forever.

AMEN.

Reading:      Deuteronomy 10: 12—22

Reader: Mr Robbie Morrison, Church and Supporter Engagement Team Leader, Tearfund Scotland

Presentation: Tearfund Scotland

Prayers for others

Hymn CH4 259: Beauty for brokenness (God of the Poor)

1. Beauty for brokenness,

Hope for despair,

Lord, in Your suffering world

This is our prayer.

Bread for the children.

Justice, joy, peace,

Sunrise to sunset

Your kingdom increase.

2. Shelter for fragile lives,

Cures for their ills,

Work for the craftsmen,

Trade for their skills.

Land for the dispossessed,

Rights for the weak,

Voices to plead the cause

Of those who can’t speak.

God of the poor,

Friend of the weak,

Give us compassion, we pray,

Melt our cold hearts,

Let tears fall like rain.

Come, change our love

From a spark to a flame.

3. Refuge from cruel wars,

Havens from fear,

Cities for sanctuary,

Freedoms to share.

Peace to the killing fields,

Scorched earth to green,

Christ for the bitterness,

His cross for the pain.

4. Rest for the ravaged earth,

Oceans and streams,

Plundered and poisoned,

Our future, our dreams.

Lord, end our madness,

Carelessness, greed;

Make us content with

The things that we need.

God of the poor,

Friend of the weak,

Give us compassion, we pray,

Melt our cold hearts,

Let tears fall like rain.

Come, change our love

From a spark to a flame.

5. Lighten our darkness,

Breathe on this flame,

Until Your justice

Burns brightly again;

Until the nations

Learn of Your ways,

Seek Your salvation

And bring You their praise.

God of the poor,

Friend of the weak,

Give us compassion, we pray,

Melt our cold hearts,

Let tears fall like rain.

Come, change our love

From a spark to a flame.

Words and Music: Graham Kendrick (b. 1950)

2.      Report of the Procedure Committee.

3.      Report of the Social Care Council (Reports 14/1).

4.      Report of the Ecumenical Relations Committee (Reports 15/1).

5.      Report of the Registration of Ministries Committee (Reports 16/1).

6.      Report of the Iona Community Board (Reports 17/1).

Day 4 - MONday 18 May 2026

the Sacrament of Holy Communion: 9.15 am

Call to Worship

Hymn:      Praise the Lord! His mercy is more

Praise the Lord!

His mercy is more.

Stronger than darkness, new every morn;

Our sins they are many, His mercy is more.

1. What love could remember no wrongs we have done;

Omniscient, all knowing, He counts not their sum.

Thrown into a sea without bottom or shore;

Our sins they are many, His mercy is more.

Praise the Lord!

His mercy is more.

Stronger than darkness, new every morn;

Our sins they are many, His mercy is more.      

2. What patience would wait as we constantly roam;

What Father, so tender, is calling us home.

He welcomes the weakest, the vilest, the poor;

Our sins they are many, His mercy is more.

Praise the Lord!

His mercy is more.

Stronger than darkness, new every morn;

Our sins they are many, His mercy is more.

3. What riches of kindness He lavished on us;

His blood was the payment, His life was the cost.

We stood ‘neath a debt we could never afford;

Our sins they are many, His mercy is more.

Praise the Lord!

His mercy is more.

Stronger than darkness, new every morn;

Our sins they are many, His mercy is more.

Praise the Lord!

His mercy is more.

Stronger than darkness, new every morn;

Our sins they are many, His mercy is more.

Our sins they are many, His mercy is more.

Words and Music: Matt Boswell & Matt Papa (2016)

Prayer and Lord’s Prayer:

Lord’s Prayer:

Our Father in heaven,

hallowed be your name,

your kingdom come,

your will be done,

on earth as in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

Forgive us our debts

as we forgive our debtors.

Do not lead us into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours forever.

AMEN.

Readings:      Colossians 1: 15—23

      Reader: Ms Christine Paterson, Depute Clerk

      Romans 3: 21—26

      Reader: Rev Dr John L McPake, Principal Clerk

Apostles’ Creed:

I believe in God the Father Almighty,

creator of heaven and earth;

I believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only Son our Lord,

who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,

born of the Virgin Mary suffered under Pontius Pilate,

was crucified, dead, and was buried;

he descended to the dead;

on the third day He rose again;

he ascended into heaven,

He is seated at the right hand of the Father,

and He will come again to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit;

the holy catholic Church; the communion of saints;

the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body;

and the life everlasting. Amen.

Hymn CH4 392:      When I survey the wondrous cross (Rockingham)

1. When I survey the wondrous cross

on which the prince of glory died,

my richest gain I count but loss,

and pour contempt on all my pride.

2. Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast

save in the death of Christ, my God;

all the vain things that charm me most,

I sacrifice them to his blood.

3. See! from his head, his hands, his feet,

sorrow and love flow mingled down;

did e'er such love and sorrow meet,

or thorns compose so rich a crown?

4. Were the whole realm of nature mine,

that were an offering far too small;

love so amazing, so divine,

demands my soul, my life, my all.

Isaac Watts (1674-1748)

Music: Melody Tunbridge from A Second Supplement to Psalmody in Miniature, c 1780, arranged Edward Miller (1731-1807) harmonised David Evans (1874-1948)

Sermon

Hymn CH4 19:      Ye gates, lift up your heads on high; (St George’s Edinburgh)

1. Ye gates, lift up your heads on high;

ye doors that last for aye,

be lifted up, that so the King

of glory enter may.

But who of glory is the King?

The mighty Lord is this;

Even that same Lord, that great in might

and strong in battle is.

Even that same Lord, that great in might

and strong in battle is.

2. Ye gates, lift up your heads; ye doors,

doors that do last for aye,

Be lifted up, that so the King

of glory enter may.

But who is he that is the King

The King of glory? who is this?

The Lord of hosts, and none but he,

the King of glory is.

The Lord of hosts, and none but he,

the King of glory is.

Alleluia! alleluia!

alleluia! alleluia! alleluia!

Amen, amen, amen.

Psalm 24, verses 7-10, The Scottish Psalter, 1929

Music: Andrew Mitchell Thompson (1778-1831)

The Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper

Hymn CH4 396:      And Can It Be (verses 1, 2, 4, & 5) (Sagina)

1. And can it be, that I should gain

An interest in the Savior’s blood?

Died He for me, who caused His pain–

For me, who Him to death pursued?

Amazing love! how can it be

That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?

Amazing love! how can it be

That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?

2. ‘Tis mystery all: the Immortal dies!

Who can explore His strange design?

In vain the firstborn seraph tries

To sound the depths of love divine.

‘Tis mercy all! let earth adore,

Let angel minds inquire no more.

‘Tis mercy all! let earth adore,

Let angel minds inquire no more.

4. Long my imprisoned spirit lay

Fast bound in sin and nature’s night;

Thine eye diffused a quickening ray;

I woke, the dungeon flamed with light;

My chains fell off, my heart was free,

I rose, went forth, and followed Thee.

My chains fell off, my heart was free,

I rose, went forth, and followed Thee.

5. No condemnation now I dread;

Jesus and all in Him, is mine!

Alive in Him, my living Head,

And clothed in righteousness divine,

Bold I approach the eternal throne,

And claim the crown, through Christ my own.

Bold I approach the eternal throne,

And claim the crown, through Christ my own.

Charles Wesley (1707-1788)

Music: Thomas Campbell The Bouquet, 1825 harmonised in Primitive Methodist Hymnal, 1889

Session 9: 10.30 am

Constitution of Assembly.

Report of the Procedure Committee.

Report of the Committee to draft a reply to His Majesty’s Most Gracious Letter.

Report of the Committee on Chaplains to HM Forces (Reports 18/1).

Circulation Break

Session 10: 11.30 am

Report of the General Trustees (Reports 19/1).

Report of the Nomination Committee (Reports 20/1).

Lunch

Session 11: 2.00 PM

Report of the Church of Scotland Pension Trustees (Reports 21/1).

Report of the Chalmers Lectureship Trust (Reports 22/1).

Consent Agenda Reports and remaindered business, both if required.

Draft Minutes of Sederunts not yet submitted to be read if required.

Appointment of Principal Clerk.

Report on the Printing of Acts.

Protestations called for.

Appointment of Committee to Prepare Minutes.

Act appointing the Commission of Assembly.

Pass an Act appointing the Commission of Assembly to meet in Autumn 2026 to determine the date, duration and format (in person with whether online to be determined) for the next General Assembly, which Assembly will meet in Edinburgh in May 2027.

Session 12: 4.30 PM - CLOSING CERMONY

Constitution of Assembly.

Call to Worship

Hymn CH4 457: All hail the power of Jesus’ Name! (Miles Lane)

1. All hail the power of Jesus’ Name!

Let angels prostrate fall:

bring forth the royal diadem

and crown him, crown him

crown him, crown him Lord of all.

2. Crown him you martyrs of your God,

who from his altar call:

praise him whose path of pain you trod,

and crown him, crown him

crown him, crown him Lord of all.

3. Let every tongue and every tribe,

responsive to the call,

to him all majesty ascribe,

and crown him, crown him

crown him, crown him Lord of all.

4. Oh, that with yonder sacred throng,

we at his feet may fall:

join in the everlasting song,

and crown him, crown him

crown him, crown him Lord of all.

Edward Perronet (1726-1792)

Prayer and Lord’s Prayer

Lord’s Prayer:

Our Father in heaven,

hallowed be your name,

your kingdom come,

your will be done,

on earth as in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

Forgive us our debts

as we forgive our debtors.

Do not lead us into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours forever.

AMEN.

Report anent Deceased Ministers, Missionaries and Deacons.

Presentations to the Moderator.

Moderator addresses the General Assembly.

Reading:      Acts 1: 6—11

      Reader: Rev Brenda Elwell–Sutton OLM, Dundee: Northeast

Sermon

Hymn:      We seek your Kingdom (Eventide)

This hymn was commissioned for Thy Kingdom Come 2022: 'We Seek Your Kingdom' song with LICC | Thy Kingdom Come

1. We seek your Kingdom throughout every sphere

We long for heaven’s demonstration here

Jesus your light shine bright for all to see

Transform, revive, and heal society.

2. Before all things, in him were all things made

Inspiring culture, media, and trade

May all our work serve your economy

Transform, revive, and heal society.

3. Peace, truth, and justice reigning everywhere

With us be present in our public square

Fill all who lead with your integrity

Transform, revive, and heal society.

4. Forgive us Lord, when we have not engaged

Failing to scribe your heart on history’s page

Make us again what we were made to be

Transform, revive, and heal society.

5. Faithful to govern ever may we be

Selfless in service, loving constantly

In everything may your authority

Transform, revive, and heal society.

Music: William Henry Monk (1823-1889)

The Lord High Commissioner addresses the General Assembly.

National Anthem.

God save our gracious King,
long live our noble King,
God save The King!
Send him victorious,
happy and glorious,
long to reign over us,
God save The King!

Dissolution.

THE BENEDICTION

Note It is hoped that this timetable will be adhered to but items could arise earlier or later than the times specified.

CONSENT AGENDA - PROVISIONAL REPORTS – proposer Procedure Committee

Report of the Church Hymnary Trustees (Reports 23/1).

Report of the Church of Scotland Housing and Loan Fund (Reports 24/1).

Report of the Church of Scotland Investors’ Trust (Reports 25/1).

Report of the Delegation of the General Assembly (Reports 26/1).

Report of the Ethical Oversight Committee (Reports 27/1).

Report of the Theological Forum (Reports 28/1).

COMMISSION

CHARLES THE THIRD, by the Grace of God of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and of Our other Realms and Territories KING, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith, to all whom these presents may concern.

GREETING! WHEREAS We taking into Our Royal consideration that the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland was appointed to meet on the fifteenth day of May and seeing We by reason of Our other weighty affairs cannot in Person be present in the said Assembly.

AND WE being desirous that Our Right Trusty and Well-beloved Counsellor, Lady Elish Frances Margaret Angiolini, Lady Knight of Our Most Noble and Most Ancient Order of the Thistle, Dame Commander of Our Most Excellent Order of The British Empire, One of our counsel learned in the law, shall discharge the great trust of Our High Commissioner to the General Assembly: WE ordain a Commission to be made and passed in due form under the Seal appointed by the Treaty of Union to be kept and made use of in place of the Great Seal of Scotland, nominating, constituting and appointing like as We by these presents do nominate, constitute and appoint the said Lady Elish Frances Margaret Angiolini, to be Our High Commissioner to the said General Assembly of the Church of Scotland.

GIVING AND GRANTING unto the said Lady Elish Frances Margaret Angiolini, power commission and warrant to represent Our Sacred Person and Royal Authority and supply His Presence and hold His Place in the said ensuing General Assembly as Our High Commissioner specially appointed for that effect, and to do all and everything belonging to the power and place of a High Commissioner to a General Assembly as fully and freely in all respects as any other in that High Station hath done or might have done in any time heretofore and as We Ourselves might do if Personally present, We hereby ratifying and approving all and whatsoever things the said Lady Elish Frances Margaret Angiolini, shall in the discharge of this Commission lawfully do or cause to be done:

WE HEREBY require and command all the Ministers, the Diaconate and Elders of the said Assembly and Church with all other of Our good subjects in Scotland of whatsoever degree or quality to acknowledge reverence, honour and obey the said Lady Elish Frances Margaret Angiolini, as Our High Commissioner to the effect and manner above mentioned, and We declare that this Commission shall commence and be in force from the fourteenth day of May and from thenceforward to continue during the ensuing session of the said General Assembly or until this Commission be by Us revoked and discharged:

IN WITNESS WHEREOF We have ordered the Seal appointed by the Treaty of Union to be kept and made use of in place of the Great Seal of Scotland to be appended hereto. Given at Our Court at Balmoral Castle this Ninth day of April in the year Two Thousand and Twenty-Six in the Fourth Year of Our Reign.

PER SIGNATURAM MANU S.D.N. REGIS SUPRA SCRIPTAM

Commission

In favour of

Lady Elish Frances Margaret Angiolini

to be

High Commissioner

to the General Assembly

of the Church of Scotland

Written to the Seal and Registered and Sealed at

Edinburgh on the First Day of May in the year

Two thousand and twenty-six

Keeper for the Registers of Scotland and Substitute Keeper of the Seal

SUPPLEMENTARY JOINT REPORT OF THE ASSEMBLY TRUSTEES AND THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND TRUST ON THE SCOTS HOTEL, TIBERIAS

SUPPLEMENTARY JOINT REPORT OF THE ASSEMBLY TRUSTEES AND THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND TRUST ON THE SCOTS HOTEL, TIBERIAS MAY 2026

Proposed Deliverance

The General Assembly:

Receive the Supplementary Joint Report.

Instruct the Assembly Trustees and The Church of Scotland Trust to lease the Scots Hotel to the preferred operator, or to another hotel operator which meets the selection criteria set out in the Joint Report, for a maximum period of 24 years and 11 months and on the commercial terms set out below and to be further agreed by the Assembly Trustees and the Church of Scotland Trust in line with professional advice received by them in the UK and in Israel.

Note: the intention is to withdraw section 2 of the proposed deliverance of the Joint Report and instead move section 2 of the proposed deliverance of this Supplementary Joint Report.

Executive Summary

The Assembly Trustees and Church of Scotland Trust commend the continued hard work and faithfulness of the hotel staff and directors throughout the recent difficult and uncertain geo-political circumstances, acknowledge the uncertainty resulting from the exploration of a lease of the hotel and its continued operation, and record gratitude for their sustained efforts and commitment.

The preferred operator identified by the Assembly Trustees and the Church of Scotland Trust is an established hotel company operating in numerous locations in Israel and internationally and which is part of a larger established group.

The preferred operator has a:

very good reputation and operates under sound and efficient business practices.

management team who are highly experienced in the hospitality sector and effective in their respective roles.

current portfolio of hotels which are maintained to a high standard and offer excellent facilities and guest service.

strong market reach throughout Israel and internationally.

growing customer base supported by an expanding loyalty programme which drives high occupancy rates and hotel guest expenditure.

capacity and commitment to refurbish and operate the Scots Hotel to a high standard and in keeping with the Christian ethos and heritage of the Church’s ownership.

A review by PwC of the financial due diligence of the parent group provided confidence in its ability to meet the required payments of annual rent and the commitments to the initial refurbishment and then the ongoing maintenance of standards within the Scots Hotel, even in times of challenging local conditions.

Report

INTRODUCTION

The negotiations with the preferred operator are commercially sensitive and accordingly not all of the details can be made public nor can the identity of the preferred operator be disclosed at this stage. It is anticipated that the identity of the preferred operator will be disclosed at the General Assembly. As much information as possible is summarised below while observing commercial confidentiality.

1.1      In recent weeks the Working Group established by the Assembly Trustees have engaged regularly with the preferred operator to negotiate in detail the terms of the proposed lease.

1.2      Subject to the agreement of the General Assembly to lease the hotel to the preferred operator, the agreed terms of the lease will commit the preferred operator to continue to operate the Scots Hotel in accordance with the current Christian ethos, maintain the heritage of the hotel, provide employment opportunities for staff and support small suppliers. A substantial, index-linked annual rent will be paid to St Andrews Galilee Ltd. After payment of estimated local operational costs and taxation the rent payable, will realise predictable, long term cash flows for the Church with a reduction in fluctuations caused by local conditions. St Andrews Galilee Ltd will be sustainable and the Church’s available unrestricted funds will be increased, thereby providing funding for growth and mission.

1.3      Below is further information on the major benefits that this lease will deliver to the Church of Scotland, the key aspects of the proposed lease, and the latest financial position of the hotel.

2.      BENEFITS OF THE LEASE TO THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND

2.1      The proposed lease offers the following benefits to the Church:

Christian land and Christian presence – the lease enables the Church to retain ownership of the land and buildings. This coupled with the retention of the hotel’s name and branding, recognition of ownership and the ongoing operation of the visitor centre will continue to demonstrate the Church’s ongoing commitment to the land and support for local Christians and Ecumenical partners.

Christian Ethos – The commitment of the preferred operator to operate the hotel consistently with the Christian ethos policy will maintain the hotel as a place in which all are welcome regardless of faith, nationality or background and operated in a manner consistent with fostering mutual understanding. Staff of diverse faiths, backgrounds and ethnicities will not face discrimination on grounds of religion, race, ethnicity, nationality, gender or disability and will enjoy fair wages, working conditions and training opportunities in line with hospitality industry best practice and in compliance with Israeli employment law.

The funds available from rent received after deduction of operational costs and taxes will provide a reliable and substantial cash flow each year, conservatively estimated over the period of the lease to be an amount in excess of

£22m. This will enable the Church to:

Develop and support mission in Israel and Palestine.

Support the growth of the Church and its mission in Scotland and elsewhere.

Fund the necessary repair and ongoing maintenance (e.g. roofs, electrical systems, drainage etc.) of the hotel buildings and infrastructure, maintaining and enhancing the condition and value of this important heritage asset.

Receive repayment of the loan made to St Andrew’s Galilee Ltd.

The preferred operator will pay for the much-needed immediate refurbishment of the hotel, including upgrading operating equipment, furniture, fitments and décor in public areas and guest bedrooms and bathrooms - costs which neither the hotel nor the Church can fund currently.

The preferred operator will be responsible for the ongoing costs of maintaining guest facilities and services to the current standard or higher.

Transfer of financial risk from the Church to the preferred operator namely:

The reduction in income and profitability in periods of poor trading will fall to the preferred operator and no longer result in losses to be met by the Church.

During times when the hotel is closed and with no income, costs of essential staffing and standing charges must continue to be met. Currently, these are calculated to be over £100k per month. Responsibility for such costs will, in future, be met by the preferred operator.

Most of the current staff will be offered employment by the new operator. If the hotel was forced to close or be sold all staff employment would be immediately at risk and the Church could not commit to ongoing employment of current staff.

Agreement of the proposed lease reduces the risk of insolvency for St Andrew’s Galilee Ltd.

The lease will bring an immediate income stream through rent payments to St Andrews Galilee Ltd. This will enable payment of operational costs of St Andrew’s Galilee Ltd, will fund the necessary repairs to the hotel and, over time, will facilitate the repayment of the loan to the Church of Scotland Trust.

3.      KEY ELEMENTS OF THE LEASE

3.1      Whilst the full details cannot be disclosed the key elements of the proposal are:

The lease will be for 24 years and 11 months maximum, with 2 break points.

The preferred operator will adopt the Christian Ethos policy defined by the Assembly Trustees. It includes adherence to non- discrimination practices and laws, providing employment of staff and hospitality to guests of differing faiths, ethnicities, backgrounds, gender and disabilities, treating all with respect, dignity and mutual understanding, marking major Christian festivals, in particular Christmas and Easter, and working in cooperation with our Mission Partners.

In keeping with the Christian Heritage, the name and brand of the hotel will be retained, it will remain non-kosher, the Visitor Centre and displays will be retained with access provided to Christian pilgrims and other groups.

Staff of the hotel will be employed on the same or similar terms and conditions of employment as at present. All staff employed by St Andrew’s Galilee Ltd will be subject to redundancy procedures and will be entitled to full severance pay from St Andrew’s Galilee Ltd.

Purchasing from local, small suppliers with whom the hotel has established supply relationships will continue wherever commercially reasonable.

The value of the rent is substantial, in line with sector standards for a hotel of this size and quality. Our professional advisors have confirmed that this offers a very fair return to the Church. The rent will increase each year in line

with Israeli CPI, thereby maintaining the real terms value of the rent. In addition, there will be a further uplift at an agreed point.

The preferred operator will invest over years 1 to 3 of the lease term in the refurbishment of the hotel a substantial sum considerably in excess of that identified by the directors as necessary.

Thereafter a minimum percentage of the gross revenue (in line with industry standards for this standard of hotel) will be allocated annually by the preferred operator to the ongoing maintenance of furniture, fitments and equipment within the hotel to the preferred operator’s standard.

The following activities are explicitly prohibited:

No gambling activities will be carried out from the hotel nor will the operation of a casino or nightclub be permitted from within the hotel premises.

No promotion of political or sectarian positions will be permitted by the hotel.

Appropriate bank guarantees will be in place in respect of rental payments.

Mechanisms will be available to enable the Church to exit the lease if there is a major and unresolved breach of the lease conditions by the preferred operator including a failure to cure breaches of the Christian ethos policy.

The directors of St Andrews Galilee Ltd will engage positively with the preferred operator building a relationship that will enable prompt resolution of any issues which might arise during the term of the lease.

4.      FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF THE HOTEL

4.1      In addition to the key financial results of the hotel set out in the Executive Summary of the Joint Report the following should be noted:

Cash provided since December 2025 to the hotel to support ongoing operations was £0.34m. Some of this may be repaid by the Israeli Government when war compensation is received.

Trading conditions remain difficult due to the ongoing geo-political situation. The directors have budgeted a deficit for 2026 of £0.65m.

The full report of the building survey commissioned by the Assembly Trustees has yet to be considered. However, the preliminary information provided by the surveyors indicates that there are several aspects of the building and infrastructure which require repair and maintenance, the costs of which would be borne by the owner, not the lease holder. St Andrews Galilee Ltd has insufficient funds available and therefore these costs will have to be funded by the Church.

5.      PROPOSED STRUCTURE

5.1      After careful consideration of options and expert Israeli and UK tax advice from PwC and Azets, it is proposed that the Church of Scotland Trust will issue a new lease for the hotel to St Andrews Galilee Ltd and in turn St Andrews Galilee Ltd will lease the hotel to the preferred operator. This approach fits within the structures we have, requires no change to the purpose of the Church of Scotland Trust, maintains St Andrews Galilee Ltd and is considered to meet the necessary tax requirements in the most efficient way.

5.2 In the negotiation of the terms of the lease detailed advice and guidance has been sought from HVS and Firon Law Firm on Israeli legal requirements and hospitality industry standards and what the Church should aim to achieve for the Scots Hotel to meet its requirements. The Working Group have held regular meetings with representatives

of the preferred operator. These negotiations have been challenging as each party has pressed for terms which meet their objectives. Throughout these meetings the Working Group has sought to strike an appropriate balance between maintaining the Church’s Christian ethos and presence in the area and achieving a strong and reliable financial return to the Church. All discussions with the preferred operator have been conducted in good faith and it has been clear that both parties seek to establish a positive, long-lasting relationship with outcomes which are fair and to the benefit of both the hotel company and the Church of Scotland.

6.      CONCLUSION

6.1      Following much careful and prayerful consideration, The Assembly Trustees and the Church of Scotland Trust commend to General Assembly the proposed lease of the Scots Hotel to the preferred operator on the terms and conditions set out above. It enables continuity of presence in the area, and continued ownership of Christian land. It demonstrates and will enable our ongoing commitment and support to local Christians and ecumenical partners, coupled with the development of our Christian mission in Israel and Palestine. It offers staff positive future employment opportunities and provides much needed sustained income for the Church to maintain this heritage building and to support and grow the Church and its mission in Scotland and elsewhere.

In the name of the Assembly Trustees and The Church of Scotland Trust

DAVID CAMERON, Convener of the Assembly Trustees

LEON MARSHALL, Chairman of The Church of Scotland Trust

SUPPLEMENTARY REPORT OF THE
LEGAL QUESTIONS COMMITTEE

LEGAL QUESTIONS COMMITTEE MAY 2026

Proposed Deliverance

The General Assembly:

Receive the Supplementary Report.

Pass an Act amending the Discipline Act (Act I 2019), as set out in Appendix A to this Report (Section 1 and Appendix A).

Report

1.      A further amendment to the Discipline Act is proposed, to expand the category of those who may act as Assessors to include solicitors in private practice. This amendment is required to support the work being handled by the solicitors in the Law Dept and allow disciplinary referrals under the Act to be progressed as efficiently as possible, thus reducing uncertainty and stress both for those individuals facing disciplinary allegations and the congregations in which they serve.

In the name of the Committee

MARJORY MACLEAN, Convener

KATHERINE TAYLOR, Vice-Convener

JOHN L McPAKE, Secretary

Appendix A

[ ]      ACT AMENDING THE DISCIPLINE ACT (ACT I 2019) (AS AMENDED)

Edinburgh, [ ] May 2026, Session [ ]

The General Assembly hereby enact and ordain that the Discipline Act (Act I 2019), as amended, shall be further amended as follows:

1.      Amend section 1(4) by inserting after the words “professional misconduct”, the words “or (iv) a solicitor in private practice;”.

amendments after election of commissioners, DELEGATES, VISITORS, youth representatives, PROBATIONERS AND Admissions Candidates on Familiarisation

AMENDMENTS TO ORDER OF PROCEEDINGS

Page 5

20. Rev William Watt, Kirk of Calder

24. Dr Hilary Clydesdale, Edinburgh: Greyfriars

Page 6

84. Rev Gary J Peacock, Dumfries: St Michael’s and South l/w Irongray, Lochrutton and Terregles

98. Dr Simon Hales, Ardrossan

119. Rev Sue MacGregor, Helensburgh

Page 7

207. Rev Muriel Pearson, Interim Minister, Holytown l/w New Stevenston: Wrangholm Kirk and Kirk O’Shotts and Carfin*

208. Rev Sarah L Ross, East Kilbride: Moncreiff

Page 8

258. Rev Brenda Elwell-Sutton OLM, Dundee: Northeast

297. Mrs Jean O’Connor, Gargunnock

Page 9

355. Rev Steven Sass, South Kintyre Parishes

Page 10

412. Mary Woodward (Saturday and Sunday)

421. Rev Ondřej Titěra First Deputy Moderator

Page 11

480. Miss Sofiia Sokolova

COMMISSIONERS

Presbytery of Edinburgh and West Lothian

Delete

Mr Hugh McDiarmid, Edinburgh: North and South Leith (33)

Presbytery of Glasgow

Add

Rev Dr Doug Gay, Principal, Trinity College Glasgow (160)

Presbytery of the North East and the Northern Isles

Add

Mr William Rae, Aberdeen: Devana (336)

Add

Mrs Mary Omand, Orkney (337)

Presbytery of England and the Channel Islands

Delete

Mrs Susan Pym, London: St Columba’s l/w Newcastle St Andrew’s (392)

Add

Mr Ian Russell, London: St Columba’s (392)

OVERSEAS DELEGATES

Delete

Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Ghana

418. Rev Dr Lawson Dzanku, Synod Clerk

Add

Evangelical Church of Egypt, Synod of the Nile

488. Rev Ragaai M Ghobrial, Lecturer in Reformed Theology, PhD candidate, New College

Add

Presbyterian Church of Ghana

489. Rev Dr Victor Okoe Abbey, District Minister of South London

VISITORS

Add

Presbyterian Church of Ghana

490. Rev Emmanuel Kwame Tettey, PhD candidate, New College

Add

The Salvation Army

491. Major David Cavanagh, Ecumenical & Parliamentary Officer (Scotland)

other CORRECTIONS

REPORT OF THE ASSEMBLY TRUSTEES

Please note corrections as follows:

In section 7 of the proposed deliverance, amend the reference to "5.6.1" to be to "5.8.1".

Section 4.1.1 - refors should be reforms

Section 4.2.3 - ordered should be ordained

Section 8.2 - demission's should be demissions

Section 9.2 - interim should be acting

Section 10.7.2 - worshiping should be worshipping

Sections 11.8.2, 11.9.1, 19.8, 20 and 24 all make reference to the Blue Book, which should read Volume of Reports.

In section 13.2 on Alistair May's background the following sentence:

Dr May will be moving into post following parish ministry in Rutherglen Stonelaw from 2002 till 2005 and Motherwell: Kirk at the Cross from 2005 till 2026.

Should be

Dr May will be moving into post following parish ministry in Rutherglen Stonelaw from 2002 till 2020 and Motherwell: Kirk at the Cross from 2020 till 2026.

In Appendix 2, Israel Palestine Committee Membership, delete "Member (& Assembly Trustee) Will Storrar."

In the Addendum, the words "Rev David Cameron joined the Assembly Trustees in 2022" should be "Rev David Cameron joined the Assembly Trustees in 2021 and became Convener in 2022".

REPORT OF THE REGISTRATION OF MINISTRIES COMMITTEE

Add an Addendum:

ADDENDUM

Angus Mathieson has served as Registrar of the Registration of Ministries Committee faithfully and diligently and it would be remiss of the Committee not to pay tribute to him. He has contributed to the work, shape and development of the Committee, and the legacy that he leaves is immense.

Angus’s experience of the Church is broad – Ministries Officer, Partnership Development Secretary, Mission and Discipleship Council Secretary, Interim Head of Faith Action, and Presbytery and Partnership Support Manager. His knowledge of the Church – especially its ministers and congregations – is vast which has been a tremendous help to the Committee and its work. His wisdom has also been appreciated as he as gently advised and guided the Committee in its work and decision-making. In serving on the Committee, Angus has supported not only the Committee but the Church as a whole and those who make application to the Committee or seek its advice. All of this has been appreciated by his colleagues and we wish him every blessing in his retirement, recognising that he plans to continue to support the work of the Church.

ROBBIE HAMILTON, Convener

HILARY MCDOUGALL, Vice-Convener

REPORT OF THE GENERAL TRUSTEES

In respect of section 2 of the Proposed Deliverance, please note that the Manse Memorandum of Understanding can be found on the Church’s website at the following link:

https://www.churchofscotland.org.uk/about-us/departments/general-trustees/property-management/manses

In respect of section 5.1.4 of the Report, 2024 should read 2025

In respect of 7.1.3.1 of the Report, the words “meet at least of the five marks of mission” should be “meet at least one of the five marks of mission”

report on the printing of acts and regulations

GA 2026

Interim Report of the Committee on Commissions (Standing Order 21)

The Acts and Regulations of the General Assembly

The Committee recommends that it be empowered to revise the List of the following Acts, and to publish them:-

I      ACT AMENDING THE SAFEGUARDING ACT (ACT XVI 2025)

Edinburgh, 15 May 2026, Session 2

[Here take in Act as set out in the Volume of Reports pages 4/7-9]

II      ACT AMENDING THE DISCIPLINE ACT (ACT I 2019)

Edinburgh, 15 May 2026, Session 2

[Here take in Act as set out in the Volume of Reports page 4/9]

IIA       ACT AMENDING THE DISCIPLINE ACT (ACT I 2019)

Edinburgh, 15 May 2026, Session 2

[Here take in Act as set out in the Assembly Paper page 34]

III      SELECTION & TRAINING FOR NATIONAL MINISTRY OF WORD AND SACRAMENT ACT

Edinburgh, 16 May 2026, Session 5/6/7

[Here take in Act as set out in the Volume of Reports pages 11/56-66]

IV      CAPABILITY PROCEDURE FOR PARISH MINISTERS ACT

Edinburgh, 16 May 2026, Session 5/6/7

[Here take in Act as set out in the Volume of Reports page 11/76-83]

V      ILL HEALTH & INCOME PROTECTION PROCEDURE ACT

Edinburgh, 16 May 2026, Session 5/6/7

[Here take in Act as set out in the Volume of Reports page 11/84-89]

VI      ACT AMENDING THE CALL, ELECTION & APPOINTMENT OF MINISTERS OF WORD AND SACRAMENT (ACT XI 2025)

Edinburgh, 16 May 2026, Session 5/6/7

[Here take in Act as set out in the Volume of Reports page 11/91]

VII      ACT AMENDING THE REGISTRATION OF MINISTRIES (ACT II 2017)

Edinburgh, 17 May 2026, Session 8

[Here take in Act as set out in the Volume of Reports pages 16/3-4]

VIII      ACT AMENDING THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND GENERAL TRUSTEES (PROPERTIES, FUNDS AND ENDOWMENTS) ACT (ACT V 2024)

Edinburgh, 18 May 2026, Session 10

[Here take in Act as set out in the Volume of Reports page 19/14]

IX      ACT APPOINTING COMMISSION OF ASSEMBLY

Edinburgh, 18 May 2026, Session 11

X      ACT APPOINTING THE COMMISSION OF ASSEMBLY TO MEET IN AUTUMN 2026 TO DETERMINE THE DATE, DURATION AND FORMAT (IN PERSON WITH WHETHER ONLINE TO BE DETERMINED) FOR THE NEXT GENERAL ASSEMBLY, WHICH ASSEMBLY WILL MEET IN EDINBURGH IN MAY 2027

Edinburgh, 18 May 2026, Session 11

The Committee also recommends that it be empowered to revise the List of the following Regulations, and to publish them:

I      REGULATIONS AMENDING THE CONGREGATIONAL FINANCE REGULATIONS (REGS II 2016)

Edinburgh, 15 May 2026, Session 3

[Here take in Regulations as set out in the Volume of Reports page 5/28]

II      REGULATIONS AMENDING THE REGULATIONS FOR REMUNERATION AND REIMBURSEMENT OF PARISH MINISTERS (REGS I 2015)

Edinburgh, 16 May 2026, Session 5/6/7

[Here take in Regulations as set out in the Volume of Reports page 11/93]

III      MANSE REGULATIONS

Edinburgh, 18 May 2026, Session 11

[Here take in Regulations as set out in the Volume of Reports page 19/15-18]

This list is provisional, as the Acts and Regulations mentioned here are considered after this Report is circulated.

intimations

The Book of Confessions

Some hard copies of the Book of Confessions will be available for purchase at the Assembly. These will be held in the Assembly Office and any person who wishes to purchase one should visit the Office to arrange this.

Grey Book

The Convener of the Legal Questions Committee, the Rev Dr Marjory MacLean, has written a not-for-profit book entitled “Church of Scotland Governance: The Underlying Principles” (the “grey book”), which addresses the long-term structures of the Church. It discusses our constitutional make-up, our system of Courts, the complementary roles of Church Law and Civil Law (including Charity Law), and the way our processes and regulations work in the everyday life of a congregation. It is an ideal ordination gift, or bookstall addition. The book can be purchased by searching for its title on Amazon. Bulk purchases of more than 30 copies at a reduced rate can be arranged by contacting the Convener direct (mmaclean@churchofscotland.org.uk).

Copyright

Words and music of songs in copyright are used by permission under the following licences: Christian Copyright Licensing International (CCLI) Church Copyright Event Licence no. 23082714, CCLI Music Reproduction Event Licence no. 23082721, CCLI Streaming Licence no. 22438046.

Notices of Motion

A list of Notices of Motion will first be published on the website (on the Publications page: https://www.churchofscotland.org/about-us/general-assembly/publications) on Tuesday 12 May and then as appropriate until the Assembly opens; thereafter, the list will be published on the website and may be collected in hard copy from the Assembly Office by in-person commissioners who have no digital means of access on the mornings of Saturday 16 May and Monday 18 May.

At this General Assembly, the most up-to-date list of Notices of Motion will be found in the Assembly Hub, as the Hub will constantly be updated in real time. If you have submitted a Notice of Motion and you are wondering why it does not appear in the list or in the Hub, then it is probably because it is still in the process of being published by the Clerks.

Consent Agenda

Following last year’s trial of a Consent Agenda, the process is being used again this year.

The Assembly Business Committee proposes that certain Reports (see page 13 of the Order of Proceedings and page 27 of this Assembly Paper) be taken as read and their Proposed Deliverance be agreed to by the Assembly without being heard in debate. However, Commissioners will be able to intervene and direct that a Report should be heard and debated in the normal way. This may be done by emailing pcoffice@churchofscotland.org.uk, giving your commissioner number and naming the Committee(s) whose Report you propose be heard and debated by the Assembly in the normal way. Such an email requires to be received by us by 12 noon on Saturday 16 May. For each Report a request will need to be received from at least five commissioners.

The Convener of the Procedure Committee will announce at 2pm on Saturday 16 May which Report(s) have been taken as read and have had their Proposed Deliverance taken as agreed to by the General Assembly, and for which reports the requisite number of requests have been received, such that the Report(s) will be heard and debated in the normal way.

Scottish Bible Society

A brief update on the work of the Scottish Bible Society will be provided by its Community Partnership Manager, Norman Liddle, in the Martin Hall at 1:30pm on Friday 15 May. Commissioners are warmly invited to hear the latest report, which will also include a short time for questions.

Moderatorial Year 2025/2026

The Very Rev Rosie Frew will share some reflections from her year in office in the Martin Hall at 1:30pm on Saturday 16 May. This will be an excellent opportunity to discover more about Rosie’s time representing the Church in settings near and far.

Legacies of Slavery Fringe event

A fringe event is happening on Friday 15 May at lunchtime at Augustine United which is being hosted jointly by the Legacies of Slavery task group and Christian Aid, entitled Songs and Living Legacies. This session will explore the long lasting effects of colonisation in our world and in our worship and will showcase Christian Aid’s Restore campaign – which aims to restore dignity and balance for the world’s poorest communities who are experiencing the worst of the global debt crisis and climate crisis combined.

The event is free and lunch will be provided. Please register your attendance on Eventbrite so that the correct number of lunches can be ordered: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1987932031219?aff=oddtdtcreator

Legacies of Slavery pastoral session

After the Legacies of Slavery debate, Place for Hope will offer a flexible, gently structured session that enables participants to process the debate and attend to their own wellbeing in a supportive environment. This will take place in the Quaker Meeting House, 7 Victoria Terrace on Saturday 16 May from 5pm – 8.30pm.

Coffee, tea and cake will be provided.

People & Training Welcome Lunch

Now an annual event, we gather on Saturday 16th May during the Assembly lunchtime in St Columba's by-the- Castle (14 Johnston Terrace) to allow you to meet our apprentices, probationer and familiarisation candidates, and hear about all things new within the areas of recruitment, training, Ascend and CofS Learning. This is an opportunity to meet the staff team who oversee the work of the national Church in these areas and who regularly interact with elders, ministers and presbyteries as key partners within our work.

St Giles’ Service

The Assembly Service will take place at 10.30 am in St Giles’ Cathedral on Sunday 17 May.