A Dundee kirk leader fears an imminent exodus from the church may be down to personal relationships rather than “deep theological” reasons.
The Rev James Wilson, clerk to Dundee Presbytery, also said those quitting the church in the row over gay clergy would be welcomed back if they change their minds.
Talking to The Courier, Mr Wilson questioned why the faction are actually leaving St James in Broughty Ferry this Sunday.
“How many will be going for deep theological reasons and how many are just going because of their personal relationship with the minister?” he asked.
“They have decided to go and I am saddened that they are leaving, but there will always be a place for them if they wish to come back.”
The Rev Alberto de Paula, most of his session and an unknown number of other members are splitting from St James because of the Church of Scotland’s stance on ordination of homosexuals as ministers.
The General Assembly of the Church of Scotland will make a final decision on the controversial subject at its assembly next year, but dissenters at St James believe the very discussion of the major change is a departure from the Scriptures and undermines the authority of the Bible.
Mr de Paula and the breakaway group will from August 17 worship 100 yards east in the Scout halls as Broughty Ferry Presbyterian Church.
The Brazilian preacher has stressed the new church has come about through “a respectful disagreement” and not a revolt, and said there was regret and not rancour over the departure.
As well as the proposal to train, ordain and induct practising homosexuals, the departing members have concerns including changing religious observance in schools to a “time of reflection”, and the church “walking together” with humanists.
Mr Wilson said: “Those leaving St James are premature because a final decision on the ordination of ministers in same sex relationships will not be taken until next year.
“I am very sad at the loss of membership, but it seems to be their wish to go. There will always be a place for them in the church if they change their minds, and I hope some will change their minds.”
He was anxious that there should be no animosity between those leaving and staying at St James.
The parting was “like a family dispute over a piece of theology” which he hoped would lead to no lasting divide.
Mr Wilson said good progress is being made towards rebuilding the congregation at St James under interim moderator the Rev Janet Foggie of St Andrew’s Parish Church.
Members split from Logie & St John’s Cross in the west of Dundee in similar circumstances last year, the breakaway group worshipping as the Grace Church in Menzieshill Community Centre.