There will be a chance for you to come and to listen to each other’s questions, discuss the issues and debate the options relating to the future of our congregational life. All are encouraged to participate, given the enormity of the topic. Please read below for the background of the meeting.
Aberdalgie and Forteviot parish is blessed to have an active and happy congregation which is now linked with Dunbarney and Forgandenny and soon, will be further linked to Abernethy Church under the ministry of the Rev Allan Wilson and supported by Dr Ian Morrison (who will be ordained in December 2024).
All of this was determined by the Perth Presbytery Mission Plan which was approved in May 2023. This Presbytery Plan considers available ministry resources, the sustainability of congregations and the use of buildings.
With regard to the latter, the Presbytery Plan categorises buildings into: -
‘A’ to be retained beyond the five years from the date at which the Mission Plan is approved or annually reviewed, and
‘B’ to be sold, let or otherwise disposed of by a specified date which is within five years from the date at which the ecclesiastical building is first categorised as (B).
The latest end date for closure of a building in this plan is 31st December 2027.
The Plan categorised both Aberdalgie and Forteviot Church buildings as ‘B’ whilst the Kirk Session along with others conduct a review of congregational life and the rationale for retaining a building is worked out.
Aberdalgie and Forteviot is now part of a strong network with other active churches and members of a small working group drawn from the congregation believe that we should now prepare as best as we can to keep at least one of our church buildings open.
It is recognised that many of us have worshipped in one or other of our buildings for many years. We may have wonderful memories of being in one of the buildings – whether at a marriage, a baptism or at a funeral service. One building may be closer to our house and easier to get to. These practicalities, memories and feelings are valid and must not be disregarded.
It is, however, equally important to look ahead to the future and consider how our congregation and communities are changing and what that might look like in 10-20 years. How sustainable are we moving forwards? [CS1] As a semi-rural parish, where are the people living who would come to worship in one of our churches? Would one of the buildings be more suitable to serve the ministry and mission needs in the future? Furthermore, by focusing on one building, could we make further improvements to make it a well-equipped space?
There is a lot to think about. With this in mind, it is proposed that we hold a special meeting, dedicated to listening to each other’s questions, discussing the issues and debating the options. We do not have to make any decisions as yet, but we believe it will be helpful to start to discuss the many issues which we may have to confront and to provide guidance to the Kirk Session ahead of their meeting with the Presbytery Planners.
The congregational meeting will be held, immediately after worship on Sunday 17th November at ABERDALGIE. Refreshments will be provided after the meeting.
If there is anything else you would like to know, please contact Gordon Mackay, on 077397 14288 or aberdalgieforteviot@gmail.com.
Additionally, if there are points that you would like to raise but aren’t able to join us on the day, or if you would like to remain anonymous when raising a point, then please submit them in writing to Rev Allan Wilson, Dunbarney Manse, Manse Road, Bridge of Earn, PH2 9DY, or awilson@churchofscotland.org.uk.
Blessings
Allan Wilson
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