What Presbytery does

Presbytery is the gathered life of the Church of Scotland across our region. It brings together ministers, elders and church leaders from local congregations, chaplaincies and other ministries to support and guide the life of the Church.

Together, Presbytery helps the Church to:

• Discern God’s leading for the Church in our area

• Support and encourage ministers, elders and congregations in their work and wellbeing

• Plan for the future of the Church through the Presbytery Plan

• Provide resources and advice to help congregations grow in mission and service

• Care pastorally for those serving in ministry

• Ensure good governance and accountability across the Church’s work

• Help congregations through times of change, including ministerial vacancies

• Represent the Church’s voice in the wider community

In simple terms, Presbytery helps local churches work together, support one another, and share in the mission of the Church across our region.

The Church of Scotland and Presbyterianism

The Church of Scotland is part of the worldwide family of churches shaped by the Reformation, particularly the work of reformers such as John Knox and John Calvin. One of the distinctive things about our Church is that it is Presbyterian.

Being Presbyterian doesn’t describe a particular style of worship or a single set of beliefs. Across the Church of Scotland – and across Presbyterian churches around the world – you’ll find a wide variety of worship styles and viewpoints.

Instead, Presbyterianism describes how the Church is governed.

In a Presbyterian church, decisions are not made by one individual or leader. Instead, the Church is led by groups of ordained leaders – ministers, elders and deacons – who work together to discern God’s will and guide the life of the Church.

In the Church of Scotland this shared leadership happens through three connected levels:

• Kirk Session – leadership within the local congregation

• Presbytery – leadership across a region

• General Assembly – the national gathering of the Church

Each of these groups brings together people called to leadership to pray, discern, and make decisions for the good of the Church. This means leadership is shared, accountable, and collaborative.

Where Presbytery Fits In

Presbytery is the place where churches in a particular area come together to support one another and share in God’s mission.

Through Presbytery, ministers and elders from across the region work together to:

• encourage and support congregations and those in ministry

• plan for the future of the Church in the area

• help churches respond to change and new opportunities

• ensure the Church’s work is carried out faithfully and well

Presbytery helps local churches work together, care for one another, and serve their communities more effectively.