Reforming the Kirk is essential reading for anyone who cares about the future of the Church of Scotland or who wants to understand the deep challenges facing it in contemporary Scotland. The Church of Scotland has had a profound social and cultural influence on all aspects of Scottish life for over 450 years. Yet many feel that times now are harder for the Church than ever before - and that spirits are low. People are asking what has happened to the Church that they have loved, served and belonged to for so long and how the Church can have a strong, vibrant future. The Church's motto, semper reformanda, means 'always to be reformed,' but what kind of reformation is needed now to bring about the future for which so many so long? Doug Gay's analysis brings a rich blend of historical, theological and cultural understanding to bear on analysing patterns of decline within the context of a secularising Scotland and proposing bold and creative ways for the Kirk to respond. Based on the 2017 Chalmers Lectures.

About the Author
Doug Gay is a Church of Scotland minister who teaches theology at the University of Glasgow, where he is also Principal of Trinity College. He has been a regular speaker at Greenbelt Festival and is internationally known for his work on emerging church and alternative worship. He is the author of Honey from the Lion (SCM Press 2014) and Remixing the Church (SCM Press 2011).

Reviews
'...a thoughtful reflection and offers an opportunity for the Church of Scotland to take stock of where it is just now, and what might be needed for it to continue to play a part in Scottish life, as well as be true to the call of the Gospel.' -- Bryan D. Spinks, Anaphora 12 (2018/19)



Book Information
ISBN 9780861539017
Author Doug Gay
Format Paperback
Page Count 232
Imprint Saint Andrew Press
Publisher Saint Andrew Press