The Church of Scotland and public policy

Abstract

The content and manner of the Church of Scotland's contribution to debates about public policy can only be understood in the light of the history and theological stance which have given the Church of Scotland a distinctive shape, identity, and understanding of its role. Its sense of identity as a national church, its democratic polity, its strongly confessional nature, and its determination to retain spiritual independence have ensured that it sees its responsibilities in the public realm in a distinctive way.