7 May 2026

The first century election of deacons has much to say about election, government, fairness and generosity. Firstly, democracy is not attractive to some people. It restricts their control and  the establishment of their views. This abuse of power breaks down trust, stymies true growth, inhibits the creation of something new.

Just as the election of the seven men to democratise the food distribution created the office of deacon, so the democratic right of a congregation to call its own minister led to the acceptance of gay ministers.

When Scott Rennie was called to his Aberdeen charge, the Presbytery sustained the call. Twelve presbyters dissented. But the minister was in good standing with the Church, it was unlawful to discriminate against gay people and the congregation at Queen’s Cross had elected him as their own minister!

Secondly, in today’s election, we have two votes – a first past the  post and a proportional representation. One system can elect a government without gaining a voting majority. The other gives smaller and more radical parties a bigger chance.

Each system of election has an inherent bias. It gives some an advantage. But we are human and cannot design a system which is fair to everyone. But it is democratic to the extent that everyone agrees and  is able to participate.

What is important in our elections  is that those who are  disadvantaged get a wise government. Clearly this is not always the case. But who is going to speak up for the most disadvantaged group in Scotland – white working class boys?