- 0131 210 0540
- info@granton.org.uk
- 55 Boswall Parkway, Edinburgh EH5 2DA
- 0131 210 0540
- info@granton.org.uk
- 55 Boswall Parkway, Edinburgh EH5 2DA
We don’t talk much these days about formal membership of the Church. Our individual relationship with Jesus is far more important.
However, there are reasons why someone should join the church even if they are already a regular attender. Perhaps the most relevant reason right now is that it gives the person a formal vote on any proposed union of congregations.
Below are some key facts about Church membership. We would encourage all those interested in exploring membership or adherence further to contact Mary, Dan or any of the Welcome Team at Church.
If you’re curious or would like to know more, we’d love to chat with you.
Please speak to Mary, Dan, or any member of the Welcome Team.
There’s no pressure at all—we’d simply be delighted to answer your questions and help you explore whether membership is the right next step for you.
Why Join the Church?
Below are some questions and answers about Church membership. We would encourage all those interested in exploring membership further to contact Mary, Dan or any of the Welcome Team at Church.
Why should I join the church?
Joining a particular congregation does not make you a Christian. You can be a Christian without becoming a formal member. Most Christians see it as important to be part of a fellowship, but membership has no significance on one’s standing before God.
So, why should I join?
Joining is a sign of commitment to the particular congregation. It does not tie you there for life and it is easy to move to another congregation or even simply to ask to be removed from the roll of members. There are certain things that formal members of a congregation need to approve and being a member gives you a vote.
Do I get a say in the proposed union?
If you are a member then you have the opportunity to vote on the basis of any union. Only members and those on the formal register of adherents can vote. Any proposed union must be approved by the vote at a congregational meeting.
Who is an adherent?
An adherent is a regular worshipper but not a member and whose name appears on the Register of Adherents. They also are entitled to a vote at a congregational meeting.
What is the difference between a member and an adherent?
The member is making a commitment to the particular congregation to pursue a life of faith, such as by taking part in regular worship, prayer, Bible reading and giving of their time, talents and money for the work of the Church. There is no subscription or specific undertaking to do certain things. It is between the individual and God and should be taken seriously. Members are able to serve on committees of the church both locally and nationally and also some in time may be approached join the eldership. Regular worshippers are encouraged to become full members as a sign of commitment.
Who are the Elders?
The elders are the governing body of the congregation. They are members of the congregation who have been ordained as elders to govern the affairs of the congregation. Technically once ordained as an elder, you are an elder of the Church of Scotland for life. However, the affairs of the congregation are controlled by the elders who are members of the Kirk Session of the particular congregation. An elder transferring to a new congregation is not automatically a member of the Kirk Session in their new congregation. The elders who are active members of the Kirk Session are in terms of Charity law the trustees of the congregation.
What do I have to do to join?
There are three different ways of joining. If you are a member of a Church of Scotland congregation elsewhere you can get a certificate of Transference (“lines”) which means your membership is transferred to your new congregation. If that is not possible and you have been a member of a Christian Church elsewhere, it is possible for the Kirk Session to approve your membership. If you have not been a member elsewhere, it is usual to make a declaration of faith by answering certain questions at a Sunday service. You declare your belief in one God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit and promise to play your part in the life of the congregation. If you have never been baptised (whether as an infant or an adult) then it is accompanied by the sacrament of baptism. This public declaration of faith can be a very meaningful occasion particularly for those who have recently come to faith. The minister will explain what is involved.
