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Church of Scotland leaders see many parallels with PC(USA)

Persistent membership losses. Struggles to keep young people in the church. Simmering controversies over homosexuality that threaten church unity. Restructure of the national offices.

Yes, it’s the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)

But it’s also the Church of Scotland, two visiting officials of the PC(USA)’s “mother church” told the Presbyterian News Service during an Oct. 24 visit to the Presbyterian Center here [in Louisville, Kentucky].

“There are parallels all over the place,” said the Rev. Angus Morrison, pastor of St. Columba Old Parish Church in Stornoway and convenor of the Convener of the Church of Scotland Mission and Discipleship Council.

“We see so many common strands that we’re hoping we can spark each other,” agreed the Rev. Douglas A. O. Nicol, who is Secretary of the Mission and Discipleship Council.

Nicol’s and Morrison’s visit is the result of conversations they had with the Rev. Tom Taylor, the PC(USA)’s deputy executive director for mission, when he was in Scotland last spring. At that time, Taylor was struck by the similarities between the two churches.

“We’re here for useful interactive work,” said Nicol. “Personal contact is essential. Until you know your colleagues, Web sites and resources have their limits.”

Full story at the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).