Church of Scotland Moves Toward Formal Apology Over Historical Links to Slavery

The Church of Scotland is preparing to consider a formal apology for its historical involvement and benefit from transatlantic chattel slavery. The proposed statement, which will be presented at the General Assembly in May, acknowledges that members and affiliated families of the Church were directly and indirectly connected to slavery during the period of the British Empire.

The report, titled “Church of Scotland and the Legacies of Slavery,” highlights how some church figures in earlier centuries provided theological justifications for chattel slavery, a system that treated human beings as property. The Church now recognises that such interpretations of religious teaching contributed to sustaining and legitimising an oppressive system that caused long lasting harm across generations.

The proposed apology is also expected to acknowledge the continuing impact of slavery’s legacy on modern society. It refers to ongoing racial inequalities and social disadvantages that are linked to historical injustice. Church leaders involved in drafting the report say that acknowledging this history is an important step toward addressing its present day consequences.

The discussion follows a decision made at the 2023 General Assembly, when members agreed that an official apology should be developed after receiving findings on the Church’s financial connections to the slave trade. That earlier report outlined how institutional and personal wealth linked to slavery contributed to the Church’s historical resources and influence.

Alongside the apology, the upcoming General Assembly will also consider further actions aimed at promoting repentance, justice, and reconciliation. These may include educational initiatives, community engagement, and potential forms of restorative work intended to address the Church’s historical role and its modern responsibilities.