The Bishops' Conference of Scotland

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.”

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.

17 December – O Sapientia

Today we begin the great O Antiphons, the ancient and beautiful prayers of the Church that have been sung since the early centuries of Christianity.

Over the next seven days, we journey through salvation history, calling upon Christ with the Messianic titles foretold in Scripture. These are days of longing and hope, as the Church remembers humanity’s deep desire for a Redeemer.

We begin with O Wisdom, the eternal Word through whom all things were made, who orders creation with gentleness and power, and whom we await to guide us in truth.

🌟Congratulations to the Caritas students from St Joseph's Parish Blantyre and St Anthony's and St Mark's Rutherglen, who both hosted moving holy hour services in their parishes last week as part of a project supporting Justice & Peace Scotland. The young people led their communities in prayer around two issues that have dominated news headlines this year, bringing them before God to intercede for love, justice and peace.

​✝️The group in St Joseph's have been learning about the situation in the Holy Land through exploring stories of the "Living Stones"; the Christians of the Holy Land. On Tuesday of last week they led a "Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem" holy hour, reflecting on the violence that affects all people there and praying for a just and lasting peace for all families in Gaza, the West Bank, and Israel.

​🙏In St Anthony's and St Mark's the young people have been exploring the issue of refugees and migration. They hosted a "Welcome The Stranger" holy hour, inviting their parishioners to reflect on how the Holy Family were once refugees, fleeing violence to find safety in a foreign land. They led the community in praying for compassion, safety, and welcome for all those forced to flee their homes today.

💜 A huge thank you and well done to all the Caritas young people involved for their commitment, courage and witness and to the parish priests and volunteers who support them. We’re so grateful to everyone involved in bringing the Justice & Peace Scotland Caritas Parish Project to life.

Bishop Toal's Sunday Reflection for the Third Sunday of Advent