The Bishops' Conference of Scotland

‘Ill- thought out, confusing, and fundamentally illiberal’ – Aidan O’Neill KC’s devastating verdict on the Scottish Government’s conversion therapy proposals Proposals will criminalise mainstream pastoral work of churches and parental guidance given lovingly and in good faith   Aidan O’Neill KC has slammed proposals by the Scottish Government to ban so-called ‘conversion practices’, saying that they mark a disproportionate intrusion into private and family life and freedom of religion and freedom of expression.   In a 46-page opinion, Mr O’Neill says that no “gap” in the law has been evidenced by Scottish Ministers and has warned of the potential impact...

“Artificial Intelligence and the Wisdom of the Heart” – Pope Francis’ address for the 58th World Day of Social Communications Ahead of the 58th World Day of Social Communications, which will be held on 12 May 2024, Pope Francis released a message on artificial intelligence and the wisdom of the heart. In his message, the Holy Father addresses the profound impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on information, communication, and societal foundations and acknowledges the excitement and disorientation caused by rapid technological innovations, prompting reflections on fundamental questions regarding human nature, uniqueness, and the future of humanity in the era of...

Scottish Government launches consultation on ‘banning conversion practices’ The Scottish Government has launched a consultation on banning what it refers to as “conversion practices.” The Catholic church in Scotland has expressed serious concern about the nature and scope of any such legislation, and a spokesperson has said:  “While the Church supports legislation which protects people from physical and verbal abuse a fundamental pillar of any free society is that the state recognises and respects the right of religious bodies and organisations to be free to teach the fulness of their beliefs and to support, through prayer, counsel and other pastoral...

Pope Francis appoints new Bishop of Galloway At 12 noon today (22 December 2023) in Rome (11am GMT) it was announced, that Pope Francis had nominated Fr. Frank Dougan as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Galloway. He will succeed Archbishop William Nolan who was Bishop of Galloway from 2014 to 2022 when he became Archbishop of Glasgow, since when it has been administered by Fr. William McFadden.   Reacting to his appointment, Fr. Frank said; “I am humbled and more than a little bit nervous that Pope Francis has asked me to take on this office. I feel...

Bishops to visit UK Parliament with Moderator Members of the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland will visit Westminster this week, on Wednesday 22 November, where they will join the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, in a joint pilgrimage. The Church leaders will meet Scottish MP’s attend Prime Minister’s Questions as well as a reception in the House of Lords, which will focus on International Aid to South Sudan. Archbishop Leo Cushley of the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to meet the UK Government and our Westminster MPs to discuss...