Baptism by Skype: Enter the virtual congregation

Under radical plans being considered by the Church of Scotland rites such as baptism and communion could be administered online via Skype, in a move that redefines the idea of a congregation in the internet age. The proposal, to be debated by members of the Kirk's decision-making general assembly, which meets in Edinburgh next week, stems from initiatives such as streaming services to enable housebound parishioners to join in despite being unable to attend.