A leading figure in the Church of Scotland says her recent visit to the Armed Forces Chaplaincy Centre (AFCC) left her inspired.
The Right Reverend Sally Foster-Fulton, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, was received at Beckett House as part of a three-day tour to engage with HM Forces. An annual event in the Moderator’s diary, she sought to increase her knowledge and understanding of the spiritual, pastoral and welfare support available to service personnel.
The role of Moderator involves chairing the Church of Scotland’s annual General Assembly, acting as an ambassador for the Church of Scotland, and representing the Church at official events at home and abroad. Moderators are nominated to the role by a committee elected by the General Assembly. They hold office for one year.
During the visit, the Moderator was able to learn more about the wider Defence Academy’s delivery, as well as that of AFCC. She also visited the Royal Army Chaplains’ Museum, where she received a tour from curator David Blake.
AFCC Principal Reverend Dr Mark Davidson said:
Accompanying the Moderator were her husband, Church of Scotland minister The Reverend Stuart Fulton, The Reverend Scott Brown CBE, Convener of the Committee on Chaplains to His Majesty’s Forces, and The Reverend (Group Captain) Al Nicoll KHC RAF, Church of Scotland and Free Churches Principal Chaplain.
Reflecting on the highlights of her visit, the Moderator referred to a sign above the entrance to Beckett House’s reception area.
The Armed Forces Chaplaincy Centre seeks to develop and explore the ethical and spiritual foundation within the moral component of fighting power by developing the ‘spiritual edge’ in the joint force. Located in the Grade II listed Beckett House, it welcomes faith leaders from around the world.