In December, online training for present and potential elders and deacons began in Cumbernauld Free Church of Scotland.
This theological and practical workshop is offered via the ETS Centre for Mission, through encouragement from the Free Church of Scotland and the Mission Board (Generation).
This was the first time that John Angus MacLeod, lecturer and course organiser at ETS, conducted this developing course via Zoom.
John Angus said “It has been hugely encouraging to see a combination of elders and deacons with long experience alongside others who crave the opportunity to prepare for serving the church in these biblical roles.”
Andy Longwe, minister at Cumbernauld, has been encouraged by the workshop and the thoughtful interaction of all participants as they covered the vital topic of Knowing God, basing the discussion on the Westminster Confession of Faith as a useful summary of the Scripture truth:
“In our first workshop, John Angus facilitated a robust group-discussion on the importance and relevance of the Confession to our everyday ministries as elders and deacons. Our discussions reinforced the fact that the truths summarised in the Confession are an excellent pastoral tool for discipling God’s people.
I’d say whether you’re an established church, a new church plant in the process of training office-bearers for the first time, or a church revitalisation considering adding new elders and deacons to an existing group, this course will be of great benefit to you.”
The next workshop at Cumbernauld Free Church will take place this weekend. The discussion will be on the topic ‘Knowing Ourselves’, exploring the importance of our characters, attitudes and qualities as we serve in God’s mission.
Tain & Fearn Free Church of Scotland will soon undertaking the same course by Zoom on Tuesday evenings, once a month, beginning next Tuesday (26th Feb).
If any other churches are interested in such training, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
