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Scottish churches take first steps toward union
2003-009-7
1/17/2003
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[Episcopal News Service]
The Scottish Church Initiative for Union (SCIFU), announced January 10 that after seven years it is prepared to take 'a few, first steps on the way to union' with some recommendations for a model of a united church.
The recommendations call on participating churches to reaffirm their commitment to the goal of full visible unity; embrace the theological principles of the SCIFU report as an expression of that commitment; share resources and integrate structures of the four churches (the Church of Scotland, the Methodist Church, the Scottish Episcopal Church, and the United Reformed Church); promote and facilitate the piloting of the model locally; appoint a new group to complete the unfinished business of the proposal; and prepare a Basis and Plan of Union.
At the heart of the proposal is the Maxi Parish, in which worshiping communities would work together under one leadership body and be grouped together in regions with the office of a bishop and a regional council to carry out the responsibilities at this level. Fundamental to the life of each congregation, and in line with a commitment to 'the ministry of the whole people of God,' would be a 'church meeting of members and a congregational council' to enable each congregation to carry out its mission.
A National Council would meet annually, serving as 'the chief locus of authority' in declaring the mind of the church in matters of life and witness--and final court of appeal for approving the budget and program. Elders would be a vital part of the church locally, regionally and nationally and deacons would 'stir up consciences' on issues of justice, peace and integrity of creation. The bishops would be 'a pastor to the pastors,' their families and the ministry team. They would work closely with those who bear office in the regions and be expected to give 'personal leadership and inspiration' to the church's evangelism efforts, as well as fostering and nurturing communities of faith and articulating the demand for social justice for all in the name of Christ.
The Roman Catholic Church in Scotland and the United Free Church were observers, not participants in the initiative.
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