30 June | Perth, Scotland [Scottish Mission with tedNEWS]
Scottish Mission (SM) delegates gathered together in a spirit of unity and anticipation on Sunday, 30 June, for their 12th Triennial Session. Held in Perth known as ‘The Fair City’, the event brought together approximately 90 delegates, invitees, and observers. Together delegates reflected on the achievements of the past three years and layed out a dynamic plan for the work of the Mission over the next three years.
Achievements and Initiatives
With 42 new members experiencing new life in Christ through baptism, and 50 members transferring in from other parts of the UK and around the world, the SM continues to serve as a thriving, vibrant, multicultural community!
Upon hearing the report, Xander McDade, Provost of Perth and Kinross, and a special guest at the Session, offered words of support and recognition, highlighting the increasing influence of the Adventist Church amidst a broader trend of dwindling church attendance.
During the past triennium, SM leaders have spearheaded a variety of initiatives, including the Mission’s first Elders Symposium and the evangelistic campaign, Reflecting Hope. The latter saw eight pastors embark on a cycling tour across the Shetland Islands, distributing literature and connecting with local communities in a unique and engaging way. This, along with numerous departmental events and activities including training days, days of fellowship, retreats, health expos, camporees, and more, significantly enriched the Mission’s outreach and community engagement.
Leadership and Strategic Framework
The SM’s strong financial position has enabled significant investments in Communication and Youth Work. The appointment of Hellevi Walker as the part-time Communications Manager and the engagement of two Brazilian volunteers through the Adventist Volunteer Service exemplify this commitment. These efforts aim to enhance the SM’s outreach and engagement, particularly among younger members of the community. Additionally, the SM underwent a significant change in leadership and welcomed four new pastors, signalling a robust renewal of leadership across the country.
During the Session, delegates voted the members of the Executive Committee for the 2024-2026 term. Delegates were also presented with a strategic framework for the upcoming three years, informed by insights from a comprehensive Church Vitality Survey conducted in April. The survey, with nearly 200 responses, pinpointed three focal points: 1) community – compassion, 2) multicultural diversity – inclusivity, and 3) love – duty. These pillars will guide the SM’s efforts under the overarching theme of “Gratefully Received, Abundantly Shared.”
The Session “was a wonderful day for our community, an opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to those who have faithfully served the Scottish Mission over the past three years” reflected Pastor James Botha, SM President. “I extend my heartfelt thanks to all who served and pray for God’s blessings on their continued journeys.”
Pastor Eglan Brooks, President of the British Union Conference (BUC), concluded the Session with an inspiring address, envisioning a future where the SM shines even brighter with excellence as a Church, showing charity, and cooperation. He emphasised the importance of embracing and sharing the “profound grace of God with passion and purpose.”
The original version of this story was published by the Scottish Mission News.
[Photos: Weiers Coetser]
