Join us at Methlick Parish Church
The Church of Scotland is restructuring due to a nationwide shortage of full-time ministers and a surplus of buildings.
What does this mean for the churches in this area – Methlick, Tarves Barthol Chapel and Udny & Pitmedden?
We are currently working this out but it is likely that instead of three separate parishes, we will move to become one single parish e.g. Formartine Churches.
Does a single parish mean one church congregation meeting in one location?
No. There will still be Sunday services in each of the areas. But one parish simplifies things like administration, charity numbers, bank accounts and avoids duplication of effort.
So is the church building in Methlick closing?
No.
Who will be my Minister?
Rev Dr Will Stalder and Rev Dr Alison Swindells will be the two full time ministers for the single parish and will lead/coordinate the services across each of the locations. Occasionally, other members of the church will help in leading worship, preaching etc. as they do now.
What about Elders?
There will be one Kirk Session made up of elders from each of the congregations.
When will these changes take place?
The Church of Scotland has given us a period of time to discuss how we can work together in the future so a working group of individuals from across the four congregations is currently meeting monthly to make these decisions. We have until December 2022 to sign what’s called a “Covenant Agreement” which will formalise the changes.
How Can I Have My Say?
We want to hear what you think about the proposed changes so please contact either Will (wstalder@churchofscotland.org.uk) or Alison (aswindells@churchofscotland.org.uk) if you have any further questions or if there is anything you wish to discuss.
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