The Bishops' Conference of Scotland

The Roman Catholic Bishops in Scotland work together to undertake nationwide initiatives through their Commissions and Agencies.

The members of the Bishops' Conference are the Bishops of the eight Scottish Dioceses. Where appropriate the Bishops Emeriti (retired) provide a much welcomed contribution to the work of the conference. The Bishops' Conference of Scotland is a permanently constituted assembly which meets regularly throughout the year to address relevant business matters.

Members of The Bishops' Conference of Scotland

20th October 2026

20 October 2026

Scottish Theologian Appointed to Vatican’s International Theological Commission

Dr Sara Parvis of the University of Edinburgh has been appointed by Pope Leo XIV to the International Theological Commission for its new five-year term (2026–2031).

The Commission brings together theologians from around the world to advise the Holy See on important questions of Catholic theology and doctrine.

Born in Aberdeen and raised in Edinburgh, Dr Parvis is an Associate Professor at the University of Edinburgh’s School of Divinity, specialising in early Christianity, Church history and patristic theology.

Welcoming the appointment, Bishop John Keenan, President of the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland, said:

“On behalf of the Catholic Bishops of Scotland, I warmly congratulate Sara on her appointment by Pope Leo to this important Commission.

“This appointment is a recognition of her distinguished theological scholarship and of the contribution Scottish scholars continue to make to the life of the universal Church.

“We wish Sara every blessing as she takes up this important responsibility and assure her of our prayers.”

Commenting on her appointment, Dr Parvis said:

“It’s a great honour to be appointed to the International Theological Commission, and I’m very pleased to be bringing a Scottish perspective to the conversations the group will be having over the next few years.”

...ENDS

Notes to Editor

Photo of Dr Sara Parvis: Photo of Dr Sara Parvis
The Bishops’ Conference of Scotland (BCoS) is the assembly of the Catholic bishops of Scotland, working together on national pastoral, social and legislative matters on behalf of the Church. www.bcos.org.uk
For further information, contact Fr Michael Kane, Director of the Communications and Evangelisation Office, Email: [email protected]

Contact:

Media Office

Bishops’ Conference of Scotland
64 Aitken Street, ML6 6LT
Tel: 01236 764061
Email: [email protected]

11th October 2026

11 October 2026

Scotland’s Bishops Lead Prayers for Pope Leo

The Catholic bishops of Scotland have offered their prayers and support for Pope Leo XIV following the announcement today that he is to undergo surgery in the coming days.

Speaking to pilgrims gathered in St Peter’s Square at today’s Sunday Angelus, Pope Leo revealed that recent medical examinations had identified a small, localised nodule on his lung. The Holy Father explained that it had been detected at a very early stage and that, following medical advice, he had decided to undergo surgery to remove it.

Speaking on behalf of the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland, Bishop John Keenan expressed the bishops’ solidarity with the Holy Father and invited Catholics and people of goodwill across Scotland to remember him in their prayers.

Bishop Keenan said:

“We are conscious of the concern that news of the Holy Father’s health will bring to Catholics and to so many others throughout the world.

“At this time, we wish to express our closeness to Pope Leo and our hope that he will be strengthened and reassured by the prayers and good wishes of so many people who hold him in great affection and esteem.

“On behalf of all the bishops of Scotland, I want to assure the Holy Father of our heartfelt prayers and support.

“We invite Catholics across Scotland, and all people of goodwill, to join us in praying for Pope Leo, for the medical team caring for him, and for a successful operation and a full and speedy recovery.

“May the Lord give him strength and peace in the days ahead.”

...ENDS

Notes for editors

Photo of Pope Leo: Photo of Pope Leo XIV
The Bishops’ Conference of Scotland (BCoS) is the assembly of the Catholic bishops of Scotland, working together on national pastoral, social and legislative matters on behalf of the Church. www.bcos.org.uk
For further information, contact Fr Michael Kane, Director of the Communications and Evangelisation Office. Email: [email protected]

Contact:

Media Office

Bishops’ Conference of Scotland
64 Aitken Street, ML6 6LT
Tel: 01236 764061
Email: [email protected]

News from the Commissions and Agencies

Archive by category: BCoS FacebookReturn

December 2025

21Dec

Bishop Toal's Sunday Refletion for Fourth Sunday of Advent

21 Dec, 2025 | Bishops' Conference of Scotland | BCoS Facebook |

Bishop Toal's Sunday Refletion for Fourth Sunday of Advent

21Dec

21 December – O Oriens

21 Dec, 2025 | Bishops' Conference of Scotland | BCoS Facebook |

21 December – O Oriens

Today we acclaim Christ as O Oriens, the Radiant Dawn and Light of the world. He is the true sunrise who breaks through the darkness of sin and despair. By His teaching, His example, and His saving sacrifice, Christ brings light to hearts searching for meaning. From the manger to the cross, from the tabernacle to the depths of our own lives, He shines as the answer to humanity’s deepest questions and the hope that never fades.

21Dec

21 December – O Oriens

21 Dec, 2025 | Bishops' Conference of Scotland | BCoS Facebook |

20Dec

As we reach the final Sunday of Advent, we bring our journey to a close by reflecting on what it truly means to welcome Christ, ...

20 Dec, 2025 | Bishops' Conference of Scotland | BCoS Facebook |

As we reach the final Sunday of Advent, we bring our journey to a close by reflecting on what it truly means to welcome Christ, not only at Christmas but here and now.

Over these past weeks, we have spoken about running towards the Lord rather than holding back in fear. In this final reflection, we are reminded that while Advent speaks of judgment and repentance, it speaks even more clearly of love. God does not wait at a distance. In Jesus, Emmanuel, He comes close to us. A God who is with us and who bridges the gap we cannot cross ourselves.

This reflection is also an invitation. Whether it has been a long time since you last came to Mass, whether you have never set foot in a church, or whether you come every week, Christmas is a moment of grace. Do not be afraid. The Lord does not force Himself on us. He waits patiently for us to respond.

The Lord is with us.
Will you be with Him this Christmas?

20Dec

20 December – O Clavis David

20 Dec, 2025 | Bishops' Conference of Scotland | BCoS Facebook |

20 December – O Clavis David

With O Key of David, we acknowledge Christ as the one who holds all authority. To Him belong the keys that open what no one can close and close what no one can open. He is Lord over the Church and over every human heart. In a world marked by uncertainty, error, and struggle, Christ alone has power over sin, darkness, and death. Today we place our trust in Him, confident that our lives and the life of the Church are held securely in His hands.

19Dec

Photos from Bishops' Conference of Scotland's post

19 Dec, 2025 | Bishops' Conference of Scotland | BCoS Facebook |

The Bishops of Scotland warmly congratulate Bishop Richard Moth on his appointment as Archbishop-elect of Westminster.

Bishop Moth brings to this new ministry considerable experience, shaped by his service as Bishop of the Armed Forces and as Bishop of Arundel and Brighton, offered with generosity, wisdom, and pastoral care.

As he prepares to take up this important pastoral office, we assure him of our prayers and look forward to working alongside him in the service of the Gospel across these islands.

We also express our heartfelt gratitude to Cardinal Vincent Nichols for his friendship and for his years of faithful and devoted leadership of the Archdiocese of Westminster, marked by humility, wisdom, and a deep love for the People of God.

Bishop John Keenan
President of the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland

📸 © Mazur/cbcew.org.uk

19Dec

19 December – O Radix Jesse

19 Dec, 2025 | Bishops' Conference of Scotland | BCoS Facebook |

19 December – O Radix Jesse

Today’s antiphon, O Root of Jesse, proclaims the mystery of Christ’s kingship. The eternal Son of God enters human history, born of the line of David, rising from what seemed a dead and withered root. From this humble beginning comes the King of all the earth, whose reign extends to every nation and people. The promises made long ago are fulfilled in Him, a ruler not of fading glory, but of everlasting justice and peace.

18Dec

The Scottish Parliament is currently considering amendments to the Children (Withdrawal from Religious Education and Amendment o...

18 Dec, 2025 | Bishops' Conference of Scotland | BCoS Facebook |

The Scottish Parliament is currently considering amendments to the Children (Withdrawal from Religious Education and Amendment of UNCRC Compatibility Duty) (Scotland) Bill, which would seek to change the current religious opt-out provisions in Scottish schools.

A spokesperson for Scotland’s Catholic Bishops said the Church is disappointed and confused with the Scottish Parliament Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee's decision to agree an amendment that has the effect of separating Religious Education (RE) and Religious Observance (RO) in schools.

The spokesperson said: “There is an intrinsic link between RE and RO in Catholic schools. Religious Education gives knowledge of faith, while Religious Observance is the living expression. One without the other risks empty ritual or solely ‘head’ knowledge.

“Separating them suggests that the Scottish Government, and those who voted for this amendment, do not value their role in Catholic schools. Furthermore, we are concerned that this amendment has the effect of changing the long-standing conscience clause in section 9 of the Education (Scotland) Act 1980 and removes important rights for parents.

“We continue to be disappointed with the policy of the Scottish Green party, as confirmed by Maggie Chapman during the Committee session on Tuesday, to campaign for the removal of denominational schools from the Scottish Education system. The inclusion of denominational schools in the state system in Scotland continues to be an example of a diverse, pluralistic, democratic education system in action.

“The Catholic Church looks forward to constructive engagement in Stage 3 of the Bill, and to working collaboratively with government, parliament, and other stakeholders to ensure that any final legislation respects both parent and children’s rights and the rich heritage of Catholic education in Scotland.”

18Dec

18 December – O Adonai

18 Dec, 2025 | Bishops' Conference of Scotland | BCoS Facebook |

18 December – O Adonai

Today we pray the second O Antiphon, O Adonai, addressing Christ as Lord and Ruler. Just as Moses approached the burning bush on holy ground, we too draw near to the mystery of God made present in the humility of the manger and in the sacrament of the Eucharist. The God who revealed Himself as “I Am” comes close to us.

With the Church, we cry out for His saving power, asking Him to stretch out His mighty arm and redeem His people, both now and at the fulfilment of time.

17Dec

Representatives of the Scottish Catholic Youth Service (SCY) got together in Edinburgh recently to plan faith events, activities...

17 Dec, 2025 | Bishops' Conference of Scotland | BCoS Facebook |

Representatives of the Scottish Catholic Youth Service (SCY) got together in Edinburgh recently to plan faith events, activities and pilgrimages for the young people of Scotland in 2026 and beyond!

From left:
Fr Gerard Gallagher (Secretary of SCY, Paisley)
Fr Paul Henderson (St Andrews & Edinburgh)
Fr Kevin Rennie (Galloway)
Fr Ryan Black (Paisley)
Sr Angela Marie Russell OP (Aberdeen)
Fyfe Daly (Glasgow)
Charis McCrosson (Dunkeld)
Canon Gerard Tartaglia (Glasgow)
Archbishop Leo Cushley (President of SCY, St Andrews & Edinburgh)