Unfortunately for Presbyterians, the creation of a new Presbytery cannot compete for the world’s attention with the election of a new Pope. However, while all eyes were on St Peter’s Square in Rome this week awaiting the emergence of Pope Leo XIV, I was journeying up the west coast of Scotland to acquaint myself with a new Presbytery.
It has adopted the Gaelic name “Clèir Eilean Ì” – literally the Presbytery of the Isle of Iona. Far from this meaning that it is concerned only with one small island, it extends across the whole of the Highlands and Islands, covering 42% of the land area of Scotland (and bringing together eight former Presbyteries). The reference to Iona, of course, calls to mind the island base from which much of western and northern Scotland was first evangelized.
It is an inspiration that is much needed as there is a sense that faith is receding, or at least the church as we have known it is in retreat. Nevertheless, on my travels I found people of hope and vision who are seeking not only ways to sustain the heritage of faith but also new departures that can open up fresh horizons for the future.
Amongst the new initiatives is a partnership between the new Presbytery and Zomba Theological University. This aims to develop a deeper understanding between the two of the struggles and the opportunities that they face. A particular focus is a commitment by Clèir Eilean Ì to award a scholarship at ZTU each year. This promises to be a welcome boost to the Masters programme at ZTU while also creating common purpose in the new Presbytery by providing an outward-looking focus.
It was a joy for me to visit a variety of congregations within the Presbytery and to sense their enthusiasm for this project. The visit took me to some of the most beautiful parts of Scotland, including Knoydart – a peninsula that cannot be reached by road transport and is served by a daily ferry from Mallaig. Long may the flame of faith be kindled along the coasts and up the glens of Clèir Eilean Ì.
Thinking Mission Blog 