The College of Bishops of the Scottish Episcopal Church has issued a statement today (6 May 2020) to address current debate over how the country emerges from coronavirus lockdown once restrictions on movement are gradually eased by government.

Public debate on this matter includes the churches, where buildings have been closed for several weeks to help protect the vulnerable in society from the spread of Covid-19. Recent reports in the UK and abroad have highlighted a variety of possible approaches from different denominations, and the College of Bishops would like to clarify the position of the Scottish Episcopal Church.

On behalf of the College of Bishops, the Most Rev Mark Strange, Primus, said: “The College of Bishops will be meeting next week following what we expect to be new information from the Scottish Government. We will meet to try and ensure that we remain in step with the government’s position, while beginning to prepare for what might change over the coming weeks and months.

“We were interested to hear comments from the First Minister about regional variety in the easing of lock down, this is a matter which we are very aware of and which we too will be exploring.

“We would also like to thank the people of the Scottish Episcopal Church for the loving and generous way they have looked after others who have struggled with the current situation, and for the way in which the Holy Spirit continues to flow through the worship and prayer of our church.”

Until further notice, coronavirus guidance from the College of Bishops remains as previously set out on the Scottish Episcopal Church website at this page: https://www.scotland.anglican.org/coronavirus-updates/

Any significant new updates will be posted on the SEC website and on social media channels.