An historic declaration of friendship between the Church of Scotland and the Catholic Church in Scotland was signed at Dunfermline Abbey on 16 November 2022, St Margaret’s Day, during a special service to celebrate the 950th anniversary of the building.
Her Royal Highness, the Princess Royal, was in attendance along with around 300 invited guests from the local community, ecumenical partners, civic society and heritage organisations.
Written by senior figures from both churches, the declaration describes the churches’ shared beliefs, ‘rooted in the Apostles, Christ’s first disciples,’ and acknowledges a common heritage as Christians in Scotland.
It also recognises the divisions of the past, apologises for the hurt and harm caused and seeks to make amends, asserting ‘we repent and ask forgiveness of one other.’
It is accepted that some divisions between the churches remain challenging and more work is needed on reconciliation and healing.
Nevertheless, both Christian denominations say that what they hold in common is far greater than what divides them, and they commit to continue working towards greater unity.
For full details, please see the Church of Scotland website.
