Church of Scotland nominates prison chaplain as next Moderator

The Church of Scotland has nominated the Rev Jill Clancy to serve as the Moderator of its General Assembly for 2027. This marks the first time in the denomination's 466-year history that a prison chaplain has been selected for the role. If confirmed, the 56-year-old will become the seventh woman to hold the position, succeeding the current Moderator, the Rt Rev Gordon Kennedy.

Rev Clancy has served for nine years as the full-time Facilitating Chaplain at HMP Barlinnie in Glasgow. Her ministry includes providing pastoral support to staff and inmates, and she notably operated the prison's radio station during the COVID-19 pandemic. Previously, she served as a parish minister in Gourock, Glasgow, and Ayrshire.

As Moderator, Rev Clancy will chair the Church’s annual General Assembly and represent the denomination internationally for one year. Reflecting on her nomination, she expressed that she views the appointment as a divine calling, despite her initial personal reservations regarding the prominence of the role. Her term is set to begin in May 2027, coinciding with a period of transition for both the Church and the prison facility where she currently serves.