Scottish Parliament recognition for new minister
Published on 14 March 2024 2 minutes read
Members of the Scottish Parliament have welcomed a minister who has been called to lead a new congregation in Angus.
More than 20 cross-party MSPs have pledged their support for Rev Adriaan van Tonder, the spiritual leader at Brechin and Farnell Parish Church.
The South African is the first full-time minister called to lead the new charge, which was officially formed last year.
Lodged by Tess White, a north-east of Scotland list MSP, the motion states: "That the Parliament congratulates Brechin and Farnell Parish church on the induction of its new minister, Reverend Adriaan van Tonder."
Reacting to the news that his induction on 13 February has been recognised at Holyrood, the minister said: "I am very surprised though I am deeply humbled by it."
Great joy and fulfilment
Mr van Tonder holds a degree in theology from the University of Pretoria in South Africa and was ordained as a minister in the Dutch Reformed Church.
He served at Welgeluk Church in Oudtshoorn, his hometown, and later he became the minister at Aliwal North Church before exploring a call to serve overseas.
Married to Sanelle with whom he has two young sons, he heard in 2021 that the Kirk was encouraging ministers to come to Scotland and serve.
The following year, the family moved to Glenrothes so the minister could do a placement at St Columba's Parish Church and later took on a new role as associate minister in the Glenrothes cluster before moving to Brechin and Farnell Parish Church.
Mr van Tonder said: "My calling to ministry has been something that has carried me through many trials and tribulations and it has also brought me great joy and fulfilment.
"As a leader, I believe that God has called me to not only serve the faith community in Brechin and Farnell but also to serve the wider community.
"To be a presence in the community and to partner with other organisations and groups to try and make a difference".
Faith love and unity
Brechin and Farnell Parish Church describes itself as being a diverse and vibrant congregation at the "heart of the community".
"We pride ourselves on being a beacon of warmth, friendship, and growth," says a mission statement.
"Every day, we strive to embody and share the boundless love of God, reaching out to touch the lives of everyone we encounter.
"Our doors are always open, inviting you to join us in celebrating faith, love and unity."
Rev Dr John Ferguson, clerk to the Presbytery of Perth, said: "I was delighted to hear about Adriaan's Induction to Brechin and Farnell Church being recognised by the Scottish Parliament.
"It was a great occasion with a real sense of excitement about the start of a new ministry in a new congregation.
"For the presbytery, it is very encouraging that MSPs recognise the importance of our congregations and the significant role they play in our communities."
Prayers
The Church of Scotland is committed to supporting and encouraging those who undertake politics as a vocation for public service.
It recognises that despite differences in opinion over individual policies or ideologies, those who stand for elected office do so from a position of wanting to help make their fellow citizens' lives better.
