The number of people joining the Church of Scotland has nearly doubled since the pandemic, according to new figures.

Over 800 people within the Kirk professed their faith in 2025, up from 428 in 2021.

Twenty-seven per cent of congregations welcomed new members last year, and Rev David Cameron, convener of the Kirk’s General Assembly trustees, said the news was "very encouraging” and “reflects the fact that even in uncertain times there remains a deep spiritual hunger within our parishes”.

There were 3,292 professions of faith between 2021 and 2025 across the 841 Church of Scotland congregations. The figures come as two new programmes aimed at making new disciples and encouraging growth are set to be outlined at this year’s General Assembly, which opens in Edinburgh this week.

'Resource Church' is a mission hub to plant new worshipping communities in areas close to universities where the Kirk has limited reach, and to help revitalise existing congregations. It’s hoped it will tap into the “growing spiritual curiosity among young people”.

The 'Good News Collective' has resources and opportunities to "strengthen confidence in the good news of the Gospel for our lives, communities, church and world".

Rev Cameron said: "The challenge is not simply to celebrate growth but to nurture it well.

"We need to continue investing in discipleship and intergenerational ministry by creating spaces where younger people can explore faith honestly and belong meaningfully.

"If we are willing to remain outward looking and bold in our mission in Christ's name, then I believe this upward trend can become part of a deeper renewal in the life of the Church."

As of 31 December 2025, there were 229,000 Church of Scotland members, a fall of 5% from 2024, with the primary cause being death.