(sorry Jim!)

As someone who was presented at the General Assembly to the Moderator along with several other ‘newies’ the experience was one of mixed emotions. After 8 years of training and preparation not least having spent almost 2 of them with the folks at St Andrews Bo’ness I experienced a whole mixture of emotions last week.

Joy in having my call welcomed and affirmed amidst the commissioners of the Church of Scotland’s highest court, and pain at the level of disharmony that exists between us.

The way ahead must surely be negotiated on our knees. I cannot and will not believe I have been called to be a minister of Word and Sacrament only to have a gag placed around my mouth. The gospel of Jesus Christ is the most liberating news any of us can hear, let us be faithful in proclaiming it, in living it out and in humbly seeking the Lord’s face in the coming days, weeks and months.