I WAS interested to note the various comments on proposed expenditure on Church of Scotland properties in Govan (Letters, April 7, 11 &14).
It does appear Govan is well served by buildings in sharp contrast to the lack of same in several established and regenerated Glasgow housing estates. The essential assets of any progressive church are presence and people, not expensive buildings.
There are about 100 pulpit vacancies throughout Scotland's 43 presbyteries, indicating that there is a worsening problem in the recruitment and retention of candidates for the ministry. That is the challenge that must be addressed. The maintenance of redundant properties, however formerly highly acclaimed, must be secondary to the issue of presence within parishes countrywide.
We should live and provide for the present, look with hope to the future and not become preoccupied with the past.
Allan C Steele,
22 Forres Avenue,
Giffnock.
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