Hope in the Rural Church - Reflections on the Scottish Church Census
The Scottish Churches Rural Group (SCRG), which brings together churches within ACTS with rural interests, has attempted to tease out from the Census figures a rural orientated analysis.
Our report on the Census has a dual focus. We have looked at the church as it is now and assessed what we think are its ramifications for the future. We ask, what are the trends we currently see in the rural church? What conclusions can we draw? And what action needs to be taken to ensure a thriving future for rural ministry?
The information from the Census is not the only information which has recently become available. In 2016 Steve Aisthorpe published the results of a study he had undertaken into why some Christians no longer go to church, under the title 'The Invisible Church: Learning from the Experiences of Churchless Christians'.
In our report we have also tried to make use of this information in order to come to conclusions as to the way ahead, using all the information which has recently become available.
To download a copy of Hope in the Rural Church please click here
Local Ecumenical Resources
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Help to get started
Are you looking for help to start working with other churches near-by?
Here is a starting point "Progressing in Partnership", a step by step guide for congregations wishing to pursue local partnerships with their ecumenical neighbours.
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Guidelines for new Churches Together Groups
If you are looking for information about setting up a new Churches Together Group,
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Shared Buildings Agreement
In situations where two or more congregations share the same building for worship and/or other activities, it is good practice to set out in writing, the relationships between the parties involved. The document below sets out some of the issues which may need to be addressed in such a situation and is followed by an actual example of a shared building agreement.
To download the Resource Document "Shared Buildings" click here.
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How is a Local Ecumenical Partnership (LEP) formed?
Details are given below outlining the various steps which are taken in the formation of a Local Ecumenical Partnership (LEP).
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Definitions of a Local Ecumenical Partnership (LEP)
A Local Ecumenical Partnership is defined as existing where there is a formal written agreement affecting the ministry, congregational life, buildings and/or mission projects of more than one denomination: and a recognition of that agreement by the ACTS Ecumenical Development Group, and authorisation by the appropriate denominational authorities.
To find out more about LEP's, download the definitions here.
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Orientation for Incoming clergy
This document provides an orientation process that seeks to enable clergy to gain this understanding. The process involves the support of a colleague from another denomination in the LEP, together with a person appointed by the local congregation, and reading essential documents.
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An Ecumenical Service of Baptism and Confirmation
The Joint Liturgical Group of Great Britain have produced ther following resources:
A service of confirmation and baptism for use in Local Ecumenical Partnerships. Click here to download.
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Liturgical resource: when a Local Ecumenical Partnership ceases
The Joint Liturgical Group of Great Britain have produced ther following resource:
"An act of parting" - which can be used when a Local Ecumenical Partnership ceases to exist. Click here to download.
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Model Constitution for a Single Congregation Local Ecumenical Partnership
The Model Constitution for a Single Congregation Local Ecumenical Partnership was drawn up by the Constitution Group.
To download a copy, please click here