An Easter message from the Most Rev Mark Strange, Primus of the Scottish Episcopal Church.

As we rejoice at the dawning of Easter we do so with the knowledge that we are living in a world of conflict. The list of countries caught up in war and deprivation seems to grow longer each year. Yet the family of the Church still gathers in communities across the world to rejoice at the resurrection, despite the seemingly increasing attempts of some to cause division amongst those who believe in Christ.

It was a joy last week to travel across the Highlands, visiting congregations who had taken time to prepare prayer stations, vigils and services to offer prayer and support to the people of the Middle East.

I was challenged by one person who asked why we weren’t praying for our own people. My reply was “we are”. The Church is a family spread across the world, and the people in church this morning in Jerusalem, New York, Hong Kong and Inverness are part of one family. If others are hurting, then so are we and when we rejoice we want all our sisters and brothers to rejoice.

I have listened to politicians attempting to use Christianity as a weapon of exclusion and division.  “The Church is ours not yours.” It is therefore important that we declare this Easter morning that Jesus Christ is risen having freed his earthly family from sin, the family which his Father gave him, the family which is the people of this world.

A glorious Easter to our family across the world, may peace overcome and joy return as we pray for you as I know you pray for us.

Alleluia.