Rev Judith Macleod, a former Eco-Congregation Scotland coordinator, was ordained on December 11, 2024, at Hilton Church in Inverness. With a deep passion for environmental care and social justice, she is now the assistant minister at St Columba Church in Inverness, which holds services at Drummond School.
A New Chapter at St Columba Church
Rev Macleod’s ordination marks the next phase in her ministry. “I’m loving St Columba,” she shared, noting the congregation’s youthful energy and the community’s commitment to worship and learning together. The church’s inclusive atmosphere, where members gather for breakfast and Bible study, resonates with her vision of church life. “It’s wonderful,” she says, emphasizing her enjoyment of encouraging creative ways for people to connect with God, especially through prayer and learning.
A Gradual Calling to Ministry
Her path to ministry developed gradually, with significant influences along the way. A Highland Theological College graduate, Rev Macleod credits her time with Eco-Congregation Scotland as pivotal in her spiritual journey. “It was part of sensing out where God was leading me,” she explained. Her role at Eco-Congregation Scotland, where she worked closely with Rev David Coleman on the eco-chaplaincy team, helped deepen her understanding of how ministry and environmental stewardship are interconnected.
Caring for Creation: A Central Focus
Environmental care remains a central focus for Rev Macleod’s ministry. “Caring for creation is part of who we are as Christians,” she said, emphasizing the need for justice and sustainability in both local and global contexts. Drawing from her experience at Eco-Congregation Scotland, she sees environmental advocacy as an integral part of Christian mission, which ties together themes of justice and stewardship.
“I’ve learned so much from working on eco-chaplaincy,” she added, noting her growth in video production and editing skills. “The environmental work underpins everything. It’s interwoven with the justice work we do for people and the world.” Rev Macleod believes that caring for the environment goes beyond addressing global issues—it also involves supporting those affected by eco-anxiety, offering hope through faith. “The hope is in God, in Christ, and the belief that everything will be made new eventually,” she said.
Encouraging Others to Answer the Call
Reflecting on her own journey, Rev Macleod encourages others to consider ministry, advising them not to hesitate or ignore their calling. “Explore it, dig deeper, find out what’s going on there—don’t hang back,” she urged, recalling her own experience of studying for a degree while raising a child. She also acknowledged the support she received from fellow probationers during their training, noting how they supported each other through sleepless nights and academic challenges.
A Charge to Live Out Her Promises
During the ordination service, Rev Scott McRoberts, the minister of St Columba, praised Rev Macleod’s commitment to justice and environmental stewardship. “Your passion for justice is constant and long-term,” he said, highlighting her advocacy for the oppressed and the forgotten. He emphasized that Rev Macleod’s approach to justice isn’t fleeting—it is rooted in her deep care for both the world and its people. “Help us keep justice high on our agenda,” he urged the congregation, acknowledging that it is often overlooked within the church.
As Rev Macleod embarks on this new chapter of her ministry, her dedication to social justice, environmental care, and faith-based service will undoubtedly continue to inspire her congregation and community.
