Gay minister faces new challenge in ‘disrepute’ allegation

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Openly gay minister Scott Rennie, whose appointment threatened to split the Church of Scotland, is facing a new challenge after it was claimed his congregation had not known he was gay.

A parishioner has lodged a complaint, claiming the congregation were not aware of Rennie’s sexuality until the row started.

Rennie’s appointment was approved 326 to 267 by the General Assembly on Saturday. The complaint was made before the decision, but was placed on hold while his appointment was debated.

The complaint is now being investigated and it is unclear whether it will prevent him from beginning his post at Queen’s Cross Church.

William Low, session clerk at Brechin Cathedral, told the Daily Record: “It’s an emotive subject. Some people are finding it more difficult to cope with than others.

“Someone has lodged a complaint suggesting that Scott’s lifestyle is bringing the church into disrepute.”
Rennie is set to preach his first sermon at the church on Sunday.

However, his opponents say they will continue to fight his appointment. Forward Together, a vocal Evangelical group, has said Rennie’s will lead to Kirk members withdrawing financial support at a difficult time for the Church of Scotland.

They are also circulating a petition of dissent, which most of the 276 who voted against the appointment on Saturday are expected to sign.

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