The Church of Scotland, often referred to informally as ‘the Kirk,’ is a Protestant denomination and the national church of Scotland. While its core membership numbers approximately 250,000, the number of Scots who identify with the Church is much larger. In the most recent census, more than 20% of the population of Scotland selected ‘Church of Scotland’ as their religious identity.
The large proportion of people who identify with the Church of Scotland reflects the importance of the Kirk in Scottish society. Parish churches play a significant role in their local communities. For example, many are involved with various social initiatives, such as providing support to unemployed people and asylum seekers, or offering debt relief services and financial assistance to people in poverty.
Scotland has had an independent national church since the 12th century but the origins of the modern Church of Scotland can be traced to the Scottish reformation, when the Church of Scotland separated from the Catholic Church. This was part of the broader Protestant Reformation that swept across Europe during this period.
While the Church of Scotland may be a national church, it is independent from the Scottish state. This independence is reflected in the Church’s presbyterian structure, where no individual acts as the head of the faith. Instead, an elected elder serves as the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland for a one-year term. The current Moderator is Reverend Rosemary Frew.
The teachings of the theologian and minister John Knox are particularly important to the Church of Scotland and shaped the Church’s early direction and development. Knox lived in Switzerland for a few years and during this period was influenced by the teachings of fellow theologian John Calvin. Calvin’s teachings were also highly influential on the development of Anglican doctrine in this period.
For example, the Church of Scotland recognises two sacraments – Holy Communion and Baptism. The importance of Communion in the Church of Scotland is influenced by Calvin, who taught that Communion was a spiritual act rather than a physical one. In the Church of Scotland communion services are usually held quarterly, on a Sunday.
Its unique history and important role in Scottish society today mean the Church of Scotland is a central part of the religious landscape in Scotland today, and a vibrant Protestant denomination with a rich history.