In a distinctive way, the churches are part of Scottish civic life; together, they played a significant part in the movement which created the Scottish Parliament. And their commitment to the well-being of the nation and its people has continued in the new political scene. 

The Scottish Churches Parliamentary Office enables them to:
- Engage effectively in the new political process, 
- Translate their commitment to the welfare of Scotland into Parliamentary debate, and 
- Contribute the range and depth of their experience, and their faith reflection on that, to the decision-making process.

Churches are active in every kind of community in Scotland, in ways ranging from personal caring and support, to a wide variety of local and national projects. As churches care and listen, they learn. And they have a strong record of building on that, through tough thinking and faithful reflection. At times, they have a prophetic word of challenge to bring; at times, they have insights to contribute; always, they share concerns for the people of Scotland.

This is done through updates and briefings to Parliamentarians and to the churches, and by bringing people together for dialogue. Often, this is done in partnership with others in Scottish civil society.