Q and A: A modern Disruption could be facing the Kirk

Published on Friday 22 May 2009 23:38

WHAT is the controversy about? The Presbytery of Aberdeen had attempted to appoint the Rev Scott Rennie, an openly gay minister, to Queen's Cross Church. The appointment was challenged by members of the presbytery and so was passed to the General Assembly to decide whether or not it should stand.

How important is it?

It has been described as the most important debate in the Kirk for 100 years and could lead to a serious split.

When was the last major split in the Kirk?

In 1843 what is known as the Disruption occurred, when a third of its members left the Church over the right of congregations to choose their own ministers.

What it the Kirk's current policy on gay ministers?

It does not have one as such, which is the crux of the matter. However, broadly speaking the Kirk believes that sex is something that should take place between a man and a woman under the auspices of marriage.

What will happen today?

Today, the Assembly will sit as a court to hear the complaint from the dissenting members of the Presbytery of Aberdeen. Evidence will be heard from both sides and members of the Assembly will be able to ask questions.

The Assembly as a body will then decide whether the appointment should stand.

Following the court hearing, a motion, known as an overture, from the Presbytery of Locharron-Skye is expected to be placed before the Assembly to amend existing legislation so that the Church "will not accept for training, ordain, admit, re-admit, induct or introduce to any ministry of the church anyone involved in a sexual relationship outside of faithful marriage between a man and a woman".

Who are main protagonists in the argument?

The debate has been led by conservative evangelicals, mainly those who form the Forward Together group. The liberal wing of the Kirk has been less vociferous, though it has claimed that the petition is flawed.

If passed, will the legislation become effective immediately?

No. Because it is what the Kirk describes as "innovative" legislation, it has to be sent down to presbyteries for their approval. The Assembly could vote for the motion only for it to be killed by the church at large.