The Primus of the Scottish Episcopal Church welcomed the presence of a Scottish Catholic as Lord High Commissioner as he addressed the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland this week, and rejoiced at the growing fellowship among Scotland’s churches “as we focus together on the task of proclaiming Christ in such a challenging world.”

The Primus, the Most Rev Mark Strange, Bishop of Moray, Ross & Caithness, said during the Delegates & Visitors session: “Today, as we have heard, following changes made in legislation, we are privileged to sit here under our Lord High Commissioner [Lady Elish Angiolini]. Until recently, this would not have been possible due to legislation that I suspect dates back to the time of William and Mary. It is wonderful to see a Scottish Catholic in this most important seat. As we sit here, our thoughts also turn to the election of Pope Leo XIV. Leo, please ensure that he knows we are all praying for him. His election is also a meaningful moment for relationships between the Catholic community here and across the world.

“It is also a privilege to be here to offer an ecumenical welcome to the new Moderator, the Right Reverend Rosemary Frew. I am aware of so much of your work: bringing life to ministry, boldly declaring your love for the Church, and being willing to see and serve the reality of parish life and the relationships within it. As we have already heard, you are a true cheerleader for the Church

“Here in Scotland, we are facing many challenges, including how we care for the stranger among us. I have a rather silly surname, but I am deeply aware that somewhere in my family’s history, we were likely the immigrants, the refugees, or the migrants in another land.

“We must continue to address the needs of children living in poverty, and find ways to help all children grow up in healthy environments without anxiety or fear, and instead filled with hope. We face the continuing scourge of addiction, and the rise of ideologies that alienate and marginalise the most vulnerable in our communities.

“We must also call out the appalling behaviour of world leaders and governments who serve themselves by mistreating others. We especially remember the people of Gaza, of Ukraine, of Sudan, and so many other communities with whom we are in partnership.

“On behalf of all the guests, may I thank you for your warm welcome, and for the growing fellowship among Scotland’s churches, which can be seen in every corner of this land. We rejoice that Church leaders now meet more often than I have ever known, as we focus together on the task of proclaiming Christ in such a challenging world.

“Please be assured of our prayers as you face the important matters of this Assembly and the decisions ahead. Bless you all, and bless your work.”

The full address can be watched here: Presentation of Delegates and Visitors

Main image of Delegates & Visitors by Andrew O’Brien, courtesy of the Church of Scotland