The morning after – – – Scotland is to remain part of the United Kingdom.
I print here a statement from our Bishops with which I’m sure we all agree.
Speaking on behalf of the College of Bishops of the Scottish Episcopal Church, the Primus, the Most Rev David Chillingworth, says: “The people of Scotland have decided that Scotland will continue to be part of the grouping of nations which make up the United Kingdom.
“The Scottish Episcopal Church is an historic Scottish Church. Our story is interwoven with the story of Scotland. We commit ourselves to work with all the people of Scotland as our relationships with our neighbours continue to evolve.
“We hold particularly in our hearts and in our prayers today those for whom this decision brings a feeling of hopes dashed and vision lost. With our partner churches and all in the faith communities, we pledge ourselves to work for reconciliation and pray for healing in our community.”
In fact in the areas I live and work in, and amongst the people I meet and talk with, the debate has been remarkably amicable. However, it would be naive to think that the future will be stress free. All countries will face challenges and to change the relationships between the cultures and communities of our islands within the wider context of Europe and the world will not be easy.
The fundamentals of our faith include treating the stranger well, caring for our neighbours, supporting the weak and providing shelter, food and clothing for all who are in need. Finding the most effective political format for enabling us to do these things better will be a major adventure requiring imagination, generosity and a willingness to look through each other’s eyes. May God bless us in this endeavour.
Jim Mein. Interim Rector