Congregation

  Kirkcudbright

  Presbytery

  Dumfries and Kirkcudbright

  Interim Minister

  John Collard

  Period of Interim Ministry

  June 2017 - Present (5/12/18)

1. What impact has the interim ministry process had on your church?

• Overcoming difficulties together has given the congregation a new sense of vision and confidence for the future.
• The congregation have confidence in their ability to discuss even contentious matters in a constructive way. They are able to respect individual points of view and have experienced greater harmony in their fellowship.
• There has been a strengthening of the spiritual life of the congregation through a new focus on prayer.
• Better governance has been established in finance and through the Unitary Constitution.
• There has been a “clearing out of rubbish” – both actual and spiritual.
• New things are happening:  10 new elders were ordained and admitted, a new organist has been appointed, Messy Church has begun and an Alpha programme is planned.
• Increased church attendance and more regular attendance.
• A new way forward has been found for Atkinson Place.
• There is a culture of welcome in the church and this welcome is beginning to impact the church’s profile in the community.

2. What needs to happen next to enhance the life of the church and build on its achievements

• Further consolidation of the Unitary Constitution - working in teams.
• Consolidation of the good practice now established. This especially important as the Building Team continues its work.
• Continuing to recognise and use the skills and talents present in the congregation.
• The challenge to use the vacancy positively. It is a time to continue the move forward not for inertia.
• Keeping up good communication.
• Using the time John has left with the congregation to prepare for vacancy.
• Employment of a new Youth Worker.

3. What further support from the Presbytery and national church would be helpful to this church?

• The congregation are ready for Presbytery to restore the Right to Call.
• When Presbytery appoint an Interim Moderator, the congregation would be best supported in the vacancy by an Interim Moderator who is able to help them continue their new vision and ways of working as they go through vacancy. The Interim Moderator should have the time and skill to accompany the congregation in the work begun in Interim Ministry.
• When appointing an Interim Moderator Presbytery should bear in mind the variety of people in the congregation from a range of different denominational backgrounds. Also, the link with Barcaple and the thread of theological thinking that brings to the congregation.

4. Further comments.

• The TSG commend the work done by this congregation over their time of Interim Ministry. They have tackled difficult issues and emerged with deepened faith and increased confidence.
• This congregation has huge potential for further growth.
• The congregation are encouraged to continue to take their view of new ministry into the vacancy.