FORTY members of the Channelkirk and Lauder congregations descended on the monthly meeting of the Presbytery of Melrose and Peebles this week.
The members of the Lauderdale churches were anxious to ensure no-one was left in any doubt of the solidarity across the area in the need to call a successor to the Reverend Jamie Griggs.
Mr Griggs had requested permission to demit office as minister to the Parish of Channelkirk and Lauder as from December 31 – just over a year after he accepted the call to Lauderdale.
It was stated at the meeting that if matters associated with the suitability of the manse were resolved, Channelkirk and Lauder could call a new minister.
If alterations are agreed, the presbytery vacancy committee will meet with the kirk session early next year to set out the vacancy procedure.
An interim moderator will now be appointed for the period of the vacancy.