Kirk leaders approve Brechin gay minister for Aberdeen post
Critics expected to try to block move within 10 days
Published:
CHURCH of Scotland leaders have approved the controversial appointment of a gay minister at an Aberdeen church despite opposition from conservative members who do not approve of his lifestyle, it has emerged.
The city’s presbytery voted 60-24 to instal the Rev Scott Rennie at Queen’s Cross Church. However, sources within the Kirk say it is highly likely that critics will lodge an appeal to block the move within the next 10 days.
The Church of Scotland General Assembly, which is divided over civil partnerships, would then make the final decision in May.
Mr Rennie is currently minister at Brechin Cathedral in Angus, where he has worked since 1999.
Separated from his wife with whom he has a young daughter, he shares the manse with another man.
The Church of Scotland said Mr Rennie was widely recognised as an “enthusiastic and gifted preacher”.
Prof Trevor Salmon, joint session clerk at Queen’s Cross, said: “This appointment was given a resounding endorsement by the kirk session and congregation.
“We believe Scott Rennie has the qualities to build upon the tradition of excellent ministry that has been a hallmark of Queen’s Cross worship for many years.”
Mr Rennie, who stood in the Angus constituency for the Lib Dems in the 2005 general election, is poised to take over the position vacated by the Rev Bob Brown.
Despite opposition to his appointment, Queen’s Cross Church has a reputation of being liberal-minded.
In 2006, members Monica Stewart and Paula McDonald entered into a civil partnership and Mr Brown was a guest at the “wedding”.
The same year he took a stand against evangelical organisation, Forward Together, which wants ministers and deacons banned from leading ceremonies because it goes against what is said in the Bible.
Mr Brown, brother of former Scotland manager Craig Brown, argued homosexuality was a God-given orientation while the organisation claimed civil partnerships condoned something that God actually condemns.
It is illegal to discriminate against someone due to their sexual orientation. The presbytery, which met in private at Aberdeen’s Holburn West Church on Tuesday, focused on Mr Rennie’s lifestyle as opposed to his orientation.
Mr Rennie was not available for comment.
