Church of Scotland: One member asks if they are not giving enough already

By Bill Heaney

A Church of Scotland fund-raising initiative has been met with a cool reception in the pews, it was revealed on social media today.

Shelagh Campbell sent this message to 121 George Street: “I’m not sure in a country that is struggling deeply entrenched in charitable living conditions and thousands struggling to make ends meet financially this is a time to be expecting people to feel obliged to give more than they already give.”

Ms Campbell suggested church-goers had more than enough on their plate keeping food banks going and struggling to meet bills for church buildings upkeep and functioning — “unless maybe guilt tripping a few very wealthy”.

She added: “I would be surprised if this will be something the already struggling elderly will be able to contribute much to, and maybe feel obliged when they’ve already got commitments aiding their families. We really ought to be very careful what we burden an ailing nation with!”

The legacy initiative in question which involves the Church of Scotland has recently been recognised with two major national awards for its innovation and impact in fundraising.

Faith Will, a collaborative campaign launched in June 2023 by Christian Aid, brings together several key Christian denominations – including the Church of Scotland, the Church of England, the United Reformed Church and the Quakers in Britain – to encourage people of faith to consider leaving a gift in their Will both to their local church and to Christian Aid.

The campaign has won two of the most prestigious awards in the legacy giving sector this year: the Smee & Ford Legacy Campaign of the Year Award and the Chartered Institute of Fundraising Legacy Campaign of the Year.

The Chartered Institute of Fundraising praised Faith Will as “superbly innovative, clever, insightful and a genuine and rare example of successful fresh thinking”.

They highlighted the campaign’s strong emphasis on partnership working and its success in raising the profile of gifts in wills to generate future legacy income to support the work of the partner organisations.

The campaign’s message is simple: “your faith is powerful – and so is your Will.”

Faith Will encourages individuals to consider leaving a gift in their Will both to their local church and to Christian Aid, supporting communities at home and around the world.

Christian Aid is Moderator Rosie Frew’s chosen charity this year and she promoted it at the General Assembly this year.

Faith Will is more than an award-winning idea – it’s a practical tool for congregations. Free, flexible resources are available to help churches explore the topic of legacy giving in ways that suit their own context, says a Kirk publicity statement.

These include a short film, worship guide, posters and printable leaflets. Congregations can also book a free guest speaker from Christian Aid, should they wish to open up the conversation around faith-inspired giving.

Pauline Wilson, Stewardship Consultant for the Church of Scotland, said:

“This campaign has opened up an important space for congregations to talk about legacy giving in a faithful and hopeful way.

“We’ve been privileged to work closely with Christian Aid and church partners to shape Faith Will, and we’re delighted to see it receive such significant recognition.

“We hope more churches will make use of the resources – they’re designed to be simple, adaptable and deeply rooted in the faith and values we share.”

Top of page picture: The Rt Rev Rosie Frew said she hoped church members would show extravagant love, her theme for the year, and donate money to Christian Aid.