Ministry to the Parish?

Abstract

This paper sets out to address the question: To the extent that the parish system of ministry in the Church of Scotland assumes a particular theology and practice of ministry, is it still possible to exercise such a ministry within a parish setting today? The author examines the historical background of the parish system and how this places limitations on the church’s ability to respond to social and cultural change in Scotland. The paper also presents conclusions from research into the impact of the parish system on the practice of ministry, as well as theological, cultural, ecumenical and social considerations towards establishing a new paradigm of ministry and developing new models appropriate for serving Scotland’s church and people.