Trustees' Perspective 'A defining moment'

The Rev David S Cameron explains why this is a time of lament but also a time to dream.

The Church of Scotland stands at a defining moment, facing stark financial realities while holding onto a compelling vision for the future.

The need for radical change has long been recognised as declining minister numbers, membership reductions, and shrinking income place strain on the Church at both national and local levels. Recent General Assemblies have introduced necessary reforms, but the urgency of the current financial situation demands even more difficult decisions, with free reserves now covering less than five months of operating costs.

In 2024, the General Assembly instructed the Trustees to reach a balanced budget by 2027. However, the financial outlook has worsened as income continues to fall in real terms as cost pressures increase, bringing the Church to a tipping point. As a result, the Trustees have had to implement measures they had hoped to avoid, including a Voluntary Exit Scheme, compulsory redundancies within the national administration, and significant reductions in the Seeds for Growth budget. Changes to the Vacancy Allowance, now covering only locum or pulpit supply costs for vacant congregations, took effect in January.

Further adjustments to the Presbytery Mission Plan Act will be presented at this year's Assembly, introducing a closer focus on financial sustainability and requiring mandatory adjustments for congregations unable to meet their debts.

These steps, while necessary, come with intense grief. They affect our people, ministries, and the Church's ability to serve communities. We acknowledge the pain these changes bring, and we hold in prayer those affected, trusting in God's guidance as we navigate this challenging landscape.

Yet even amid difficulty, we look beyond mere survival toward renewal. At the National Ministers' Conference in February, the Faith Action Leadership Team launched ‘Vivid Vision', a bold commitment to a future where the Church is vibrant, growing, and deeply rooted in Christ.

‘By 2027, we envision a Church where congregations – whether traditional, new, rural, or urban – find innovative ways to make Jesus known, serving their communities with compassion and courage. Local ecumenical partnerships are flourishing, and new worshipping communities are emerging organically, guided by the Spirit.'

The leaner national Church we have been moving towards will remain focused on empowering local mission and equipping leaders to serve faithfully. This transformation requires sacrifice. Some churches have closed, and others will still follow. Familiar ways of working may no longer be sustainable. But even as we lament these losses, we hold fast to a greater hope.

‘A new culture is taking root – one of faith, trust, and a "can-do" spirit that empowers congregations to dream, act, and serve in new ways. Presbyteries are becoming centres of support, and young leaders are stepping forward to shape the Church's future.'

Yet vision alone is not enough. The renewal of the Church will not come from words alone, but from the willingness to act. This is why what we do matters, stewardship matters. The choices we make now – how we allocate resources, what we prioritise, and where we invest our time and energy – will determine whether this vision becomes reality. The Church of Scotland must be both courageous and responsible, balancing tradition and adaptation, financial prudence and missional ambition.

This is a moment for lament, but also for resolve. A time to grieve, but also to dream. As we walk this road together, may we trust in God's provision and the guiding presence of the Holy Spirit, who continues to call us into a future filled with promise and purpose.

Rev David S Cameron

Convener, Assembly Trustees