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News Category: Christianity (654 posts)
Pope Francis invited to visit Rome's Pontifical Scots College
SCMO | 20th January 2016 | News Releases
Pope Francis has been officially invited to visit the Pontifical Scots College in Rome to help mark this year's 400th anniversary of its founding as a seminary. "The Pontifical Scots College has a truly remarkable history and, so, it would be wonderful if Pope Francis could join us as we celebrate that past with pride while looking to the future with great confidence and trust in the Lord," said Archbishop Leo Cushley of St Andrews & Edinburgh 20 January. The Pontifical Scots College in Rome was founded in 1600 by Pope Clement VIII to provide an education for young Scottish Catholic men who, due to the laws against Catholics, could not receive a Catholic education at home. Inspired by the martyrdom of St John Ogilvie, the sixteen students studying at the College vowed on 10 March 1616 to return to Scotland as priests, just one year after the saint's execution at Glasgow Cross. "It would be a great honour for the College and for all the young men studying with us if the Pope Francis is able to join us to mark 400 years of priestly formation," said Fr Daniel Fitzpatrick, Rector of the Pontifical Scots College. "I am sure the Holy Father's presence would be a great blessing to the College, a source of encouragement for our seminarians and an inspiration to other young men to join them here in Rome to continue the long tradition of the Pontifical Scots College." Archbishop Cushley issued the invitation on behalf of the Bishops Conference of Scotland and the Pontifical Scots College during a private audience with Pope Francis at the Vatican's Apostolic Palace 18 January during which the two men discussed a wide range of issues. "It's now over two years since the Holy Father sent me to Scotland to bring the joy of Christ's gospel to all those who live within the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinbu...
New Bishop of Argyll and the Isles
SCMO | 28th December 2015 | News Releases
Pope Francis has today appointed Monsignor Brian McGee as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Argyll and the Isles. The diocese has been vacant since April 2014 when Bishop Joseph Toal became the Bishop of Motherwell. Mgr. McGee is currently Vicar General of the Diocese of Paisley and Parish Priest of Holy Family Parish, Port Glasgow. Reacting to his appointment, Bishop-Elect McGee said: "It was very humbling, and indeed frightening, to be informed by the Papal Nuncio that Pope Francis had nominated me to be the new bishop of the Diocese of Argyll and the Isles. However, after reflection and prayer I now face this mission with quiet but definite confidence. Yes, I remain aware of my limitations but I am even more aware of the power of God's grace which, with our co-operation, overcomes our shortcomings. Experience has taught me that positively answering God's invitations is always to our own advantage." Bishop-Elect McGee added: "I am excited about coming to the diocese of Argyll and the Isles. It has an ancient and proud heritage whose roots stretch back almost one and a half thousand years preceding even its spiritual father, Saint Columba. Since then, the consistent witness to Christ and the contribution to the National and Universal Church have been immense and I pray that it will continue to be so. I am also mindful of the diocese's rich Gaelic character and I, although not yet a Gaelic speaker, will endeavour to promote its rightful use in the worship of God. We have entered into the Year of Mercy. I am inspired by this Jubilee's ethos and I hope to be a bishop that has an unshakable trust in God's mercy, unafraid to acknowledge my own need of God's mercy and one who shows mercy to all, especially those who are most in need. Pope Francis wrote of our Faith Communities being oases of mercy. Please God, as individuals, as parishes and the diocese as a body will be a constan...
Win minds and hearts first rather than coerce by force of law, Bishop tells MSP's
Bishop Stephen Robson, the Bishop of Dunkeld, delivered the Time for Reflection in the Scottish Parliament today (Tuesday 15 December) at 2pm. In his address he said that cultural change has arguably been Scottish Society's greatest challenge in the last decade. He called on legislators to "be compassionate about the effects of change" as not everyone can absorb it at the same rate – with some changes having left many people, including the elderly, straggling behind. The full text of Bishop Robson's comments are shown below. ENDS Peter Kearney Director Catholic Media Office 5 St. Vincent Place Glasgow G1 2DH 0141 221 1168 07968 122291 pk@scmo.org www.scmo.org My father was 90 yesterday. He has been badly traumatised by many of the developments in the world around him. Like so many of the elderly, he is ill at ease with modernity; he has had enough of drastic change in his life. So sadly, on his 90th birthday, he said to me: 'Son, I'm glad to be on the way out.' But it wasn't terrorist violence or the threats of war that caused him to feel like this, but rather the endless cultural changes in contemporary society. It brought home to me that my father, and countless others like him, are in culture shock. Sociologists tell us that 'Culture shock is the personal disorientation a person feels when experiencing a trauma caused by a clash between unfamiliar world-views'. In the last decade, cultural change has arguably been Scottish Society's greatest challenge. And it is not so much social changes as such that are the problem, as rather the increased pace of those changes - that have left many people, and not only the elderly, straggling behind. The result is cultural disorientati...
Catholic Bishops launch new Tribunal website
The Catholic Bishops of Scotland have launched a new website to support the work of the Scottish Catholic Interdiocesan (SCI) Tribunal. The launch coincided with the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception and the beginning of the Jubilee Year of Mercy, when recent innovations introduced by Pope Francis into the Church's marriage law begin to take force. The website provides information aimed at helping those you want to petition the Church for a marriage annulment. Monsignor Peter Magee, SCI Tribunal Officialis said: "The website is intended, firstly, to help people better understand what the Catholic Church teaches to be the beautiful and solemn reality of marriage as willed by God. Secondly, it tries to help explain why marriages can be invalid, or null, under what conditions, for what reasons." "In consequence, what the website does is to try and offer some idea of what a Church Tribunal is and does in regard to these most difficult matters for it is the Tribunal which processes and judges marriage nullity cases, except those reserved by law to the diocesan Bishop himself." ENDS Peter Kearney Director Catholic Media Office 5 St. Vincent Place Glasgow G1 2DH 0141 221 1168 07968 122291 pk@scmo.org www.scmo.org Notes to editors: Earlier this year, Pope Francis made a number of changes to the way the Church deals with annulments. Importantly, he reaffirmed traditional teaching on the "indissolubility of marriage", while reaching out to many Catholics alienated from the Church because of broken marriages, which can be proven to have been invalid from the start. For more information about these changes and the work of the SCI Tribunal visit www.scitribunal.org.uk ...
Bishops Conference of Scotland Meeting: November 2015
SCMO | 23rd November 2015 | News Releases
At their meeting in Edinburgh last week, Scotland's Catholic Bishops discussed a wide range of issues and received reports from a number of Departments of the Conference. They also held elections for Office Bearers and assigned Episcopal oversight responsibilities to new members. ELECTIONS & APPOINTMENTS: The Conference re-elected the exiting office bearers (President: Archbishop Tartaglia, Vice-President: Bishop Toal & Episcopal Secretary: Bishop Gilbert) for a further 3-year term. They also agreed that office bearers could not serve for more than two continuous terms. Bishop Nolan was appointed President of the Justice & Peace Commission and Bishop Keenan was given responsibility for the Episcopal oversight of the Department for Ordained Minsitry and Consecrated Life. Bishop Hugh Gilbert accepted a new responsibility for liaising with those in Consecrated Life (Religious). REPORTS: The Department of Doctrine, Unity & Evangelisation submitted a report on Ecumenism (Ms Liz Taite) and on the Committee for Inter-Religious Dialogue (Sr Isabel Smyth). Archbishop Emeritus Conti also reported on the Joint Commission on Doctrine, The Church: Towards a Common Vision The Department of Sacred Liturgy and Worship submitted reports on the 750th Anniversary of Blessed John Duns Scotus, and the Divine Office / Psalter and other liturgical matters (Bishop Gilbert)  The Department of Catholic Education report was presented by Mr Michael McGrath, Director of SCES and included an overview of the launch of "This is our Faith" (Senior Phase Programme) recently launched for use in S4/5/6. He also updated the Conference on plans for Catholic Education Week (31 Jan - 6 Feb 2016), issues surrounding recruitment of Catholic teachers and the Catholic Parents Assembly. The Department of Caritas Scotland, submitte...
Implementation Plan of the Recommendations of the McLellan Report
The Implementation Plan of the Recommendations of The McLellan Commission may be downloaded here. The Bishops have approved this Plan as the way ahead in implementing the recommendations of the McLellan Commission, like any plan it can change and develop. If anyone has any comments about the Plan or its working that would help it to develop please email us at implementationplan@bcos.org.uk The closing date for this consultation is December 31st 2015....
Mass for France
SCMO | 18th November 2015 | News Releases
Mass for France Following the terror attacks in Paris last Friday Archbishop Philip Tartaglia, Archbishop of Glasgow, will offer a Mass for France this evening in St Andrew's Cathedral at 5.15pm. The theme of the Mass will be "hope and solidarity". The Mass will be attended by the Lord Provost of Glasgow to represent the city and the Cabinet Secretary for Justice, Michael Matheson MSP, who will represent the Scottish Government. The Honorary Consul of France, Dr John Campbell, will do a reading in French during the Mass and will offer a vote of thanks at the end. Archbishop Tartaglia's homily is carried below. Publication of this text is embargoed until 5pm. ENDS Peter Kearney Director Catholic Media Office 5 St. Vincent Place Glasgow G1 2DH 0141 221 1168 07968 122291 pk@scmo.org www.scmo.org Note to Editors: 1. The event is open to the public and a general invitation is issued to anyone who wishes to come along and remember those who have been affected by recent terror attacks in France and elsewhere. 2. For more information call Ronnie Convery, Director of Communications, Archdiocese of Glasgow on 0141 226 5898. 3. You are invited to send a reporter/photographer/camera crew. Archbishop Tartaglia's homily 1. We gather for this Mass at St Andrew's Cathedral following the attacks on Paris last Friday evening. In these cowardly actions of murder and terror, 129 people so far have lost their lives, many are seriously injured, hundreds have been bereaved and saddened, France is in mourning, and, in one way or another, all people of good will throughout Europe and the world will have been affected. It has been a profoundly disturbing time for all of us, for if it happened in Paris in restaurants, at a concert venu...
A message of support to the Archbishop of Paris
The President of the Bishops' conference of Scotland, Archbishop Philip Tartaglia has sent a message of support to the Archbishop of Paris, Cardinal Vingt-Trois expressing his "sadness at the horrific events which unfolded in Paris last night" Archbishop Tartaglia's message also promises to " join with you in prayer, commending to God's love and mercy all those who were killed, injured, and bereaved" The full text of the message is shown below. ENDS Peter Kearney Director Catholic Media Office 0141 221 1168 mail@scmo.org Letter to Archbishop of Paris following terror attacks Dear Cardinal Vingt-Trois, Your Eminence, I wish to express my sadness at the horrific events which unfolded in Paris last night, where many people lost their lives in acts of murder and terror. I want to assure you that the people of Paris and of all France are in our thoughts and prayers here in Glasgow and throughout Scotland. We join with you in prayer, commending to God's love and mercy all those who were killed, injured, and bereaved, and all whose lives have been affected by these tragic events. Fraternally in Christ, +Philip Tartaglia Archbishop of Glasgow President of the Bishops' Conference of Scotland ...
Public service is "worthy, generous and good" Bishop tells MSP's
Public service is "worthy, generous and good" Bishop tells MSP's Bishop Hugh Gilbert, the Bishop of Aberdeen, delivered the Time for Reflection in the Scottish Parliament today (Tuesday 3 November) at 2pm. In his remarks he quoted Pope Francis who has spoken of "politicians with soul, people who have chosen deep down to be with others and for others" and also referenced Orcadian writer, George Mackay Brown. The full text of Bishop Gilbert's comments are shown below. ENDS Peter Kearney Director Catholic Media Office 5 St. Vincent Place Glasgow G1 2DH 0141 221 1168 07968 122291 pk@scmo.org www.scmo.org Before being bishop, I am a Benedictine monk. And I lived in a monastery which, thanks to an Act of the Scottish Parliament of 1560, became a ruin for 400 years! This Thursday its restored church will be re-dedicated. It's a privilege to be in this restored Parliament and to offer, simply, encouragement. Public service as a member of parliament, a legislator, as a member of government perhaps, is something worthy, generous, good. To use an old word, noble. I hope you hear this sometimes! Pope Francis has spoken of 'nurses with soul, teachers with soul, politicians with soul, people who have chosen deep down to be with others and for others.' Cicero was a senator with soul. Robert Harris' novels have been recalling him. He laid the foundations of our political, legal and linguistic culture. He coined the word humanitas - achievement enough. His Republic is a summons to political engagement. 'I simply state this..: nature has given to mankind such a compulsion to do good, and such a desire to defend the well-being of the community, that th...
House of Lord's vote on Tax Credits
SCMO | 27th October 2015 | News Releases
Commenting on the House of Lord's vote on Tax Credits, Archbishop Philip Tartaglia said: "I hope the Government will be mindful of the concerns raised by members of the House of Lords in the debate on tax credits. I urge them to adopt a compassionate and humane approach when amending the benefits system remembering always the vulnerabilities of so many dependent on it." ENDS Cav Ronnie Convery Director of Communications Archdiocese of Glasgow 196 Clyde Street Glasgow G1 4JY Tel: 0141 226 5898...
Scottish delegation travel to Philadelphia for World Meeting of Families
SCMO | 22nd September 2015 | News Releases
For the first time ever, the Catholic Church in Scotland will be officially represented at the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia, between 22 and 25 September 2015. The delegation will be led by Bishop John Keenan of Paisley and include Fr. Nicholas Monaghan from the Church's National Commission for Marriage and the Family. They will be joined by John Deighan, former Parliamentary Officer of the Bishops Conference, now director of SPUC Scotland and his wife Angela, as well as Fr. John McGinley from the Archdiocese of Glasgow. The World Meeting of Families, from 22 September – 25 September, is an international event of prayer, catechesis, and celebration that draws participants from around the globe. It seeks to strengthen the bonds between families and to witness to the crucial importance of marriage and the family to all of society. The event is sponsored by the Holy See's Pontifical Council for the Family and the host diocese, and the theme for this World Meeting is "Love is Our Mission: The Family Fully Alive." Speaking ahead of the gathering, Bishop John Keenan of Paisley said, "We are happy Scotland is sending a strong delegation to this meeting. I cannot forget bring struck by the words of Pope St John Paul when he said, 'As the family goes, so goes the world'. He reminds us that the renewal of the Church as well as the safety and prospering of the human race depends on a culture of stable and happy marriage and family life." Bishop Keenan added: "Pope Francis too identifies the crisis of the natural ecology as, in essence, a crisis of within our human ecology, of which the family is the heartbeat. Indeed you could almost see all the threats to our world best when you see the effect they have in undermining natural families. So I have high hopes for this World Meeting of...
Catholic Bishops offer support to refugees
SCMO | 11th September 2015 | News Releases
Catholic Bishops offer support to refugees. In a letter to Scotland's First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, the President of Scotland's Catholic Bishops' Conference has offered to assist the Scottish Government in accepting refugees. Archbishop Philip Tartaglia has written in support of the First Minister's response and "inspired by Pope Francis" to "offer the assistance of the Bishops' Conference of Scotland in any plans that may emerge in the months to come to support and assist the new arrivals to our country" The letter sent on behalf of all of Scotland's eight Catholic Dioceses also offers to; "place our parish resources at the service of those 21st century newcomers who find themselves in greatest need" The full text of Archbishop Tartaglia's letter is shown below. ENDS Peter Kearney Director Catholic Media Office 5 St. Vincent Place Glasgow G1 2DH 0141 221 1168 07968 122291 pk@scmo.org www.scmo.org The First Minister of Scotland The Right Honourable Nicola Sturgeon 10 September 2015 Dear First Minister, Earlier this month Pope Francis called upon every Catholic parish community in Europe to offer support to refugee families currently fleeing to our continent from the Middle East. He said. "In front of the tragedy of the tens of thousands of refugees escaping death by war or hunger on the path towards the hope of life the Gospel calls us, asks us to be 'neighbours' of the smallest and most abandoned." In the days since, the UK Government has unveiled its plan to accept up to 20,000 refugees from Syria over the next five years and I note that your government is fully committed to cooperating with the UK authorities in whatever action needs to be taken to help alleviate this humanitarian crisis. In support of your response and inspired b...
Response to McLellan Commission
SCMO | 18th August 2015 | News Releases
Following the publication earlier today a "Review of Safeguarding Protocols and Procedures" by a Commission chaired by the Very Rev Dr Andrew McLellan, the Catholic Bishops of Scotland have welcomed the report and accepted its recommendations in full. The report comprises a detailed assessment of all aspects of Safeguarding within the church and can be viewed here: www.mclellancommission.co.uk In the report preface, Dr. McLellan notes: "The invitation to chair this Commission came from the Bishops' Conference of the Catholic Church in Scotland. When I accepted it I made it clear that I did not feel that my first responsibility was to them. My first responsibility was, and has been through all our work, to those who have been harmed." Dr. McLellan adds: "The fact that the Bishops commissioned a Minister of the Church of Scotland to carry out this review demonstrated an ecumenical trust, which could not have been guessed at in Scotland thirty years ago. I appreciate that generosity of spirit." In the Report, the Commission set out 8 principal recommendations: 1. Support for the survivors of abuse must be an absolute priority for the Catholic Church in Scotland in the field of safeguarding. The Bishops' Conference of Scotland should make a public apology to all survivors of abuse within the Church. 2. The "Awareness and Safety" manual should be completely revised or rewritten. 3. There must be some external scrutiny and independence in the safeguarding policies and practices of the Catholic Church in Scotland. 4. Effectiveness and improvement must be measured at every level of safeguarding in the Church. 5. A consistent approach to safeguarding is essential: consistent across different parts of Scotland and consistent across different parts of the Church. 6. Justice must be done, and justice ...
Church responds to McLellan Commission Report
CALL NOTICE Church responds to McLellan Commission Report You are invited to send a reporter, photographer, camera crew to St. Andrew's Cathedral, Clyde Street, Glasgow on Tuesday 18 August for 1pm, when Archbishop Philip Tartaglia, will formally respond to the publication of the Report of The McLellan Commission. Scotland's Catholic Bishops invited Dr. Andrew McLellan to establish a Commission to undertake a review of all aspects of safeguarding policy, procedure and practice within the Catholic Church in Scotland in November 2013. The Commission will publish its Report on 18th August 2015, at 11am. ENDS Peter Kearney Director Catholic Media Office 5 St. Vincent Place Glasgow G1 2DH 0141 221 1168 07968 122291 pk@scmo.org www.scmo.org Notes to Editors: 1. In the course of the 1pm Mass at St. Andrew's Cathedral, Archbishop Tartaglia who is President of the Bishops' Conference of Scotland will respond to the Report of The McLellan Commission in his homily. 2. Broadcasters wishing to record the homily should arrive at the Cathedral by 12.30pm. For more information, contact: Ronnie Convery, Director of Communications, Archdiocese of Glasgow, 07735 224789, Ronnie.Convery@rcag.org.uk 3. For information on the Report of The McLellan Commissioncontact: Christina Kelly, Managing Director, Golley Slater - Tel: 0141 204 7800 / 0131 220 8787 / 0787 558 1955 Email: christina.kelly@golleyslater.co.uk...
Fr.Dan Fitzpatrick is new Roman Rector
SCMO | 14th July 2015 | News Releases
Vatican appoints Paisley Priest Acting on the proposal of the Bishops Conference of Scotland, the Vatican Congregation for the Clergy has appointed Fr.Daniel Fitzpatrick as the next Rector of the Pontifical Scots College succeeding Monsignor John Hughes. Fr Fitzpatrick will take up his new post on 1st August 2015. A medical doctor prior to his ordination to the priesthood in 2001, Fr.Dan has been the Vice-Rector of the Scots College in Rome since February 2012. A native of Paisley, Fr Dan Fitzpatrick was a parishioner of St.Mirin's Cathedral Parish, where his mother Margaret remains a parishioner. He attended St.Catherine's Primary School Annexe and St.John Ogilvie Primary School (both Paisley) prior to his secondary education at St.Aloysius College, Glasgow. He studied medicine at Glasgow University where he qualified as a doctor. Dr Fitzpatrick was training in general surgery when he felt the call to the Priesthood. He began his priestly formation at the Scots College Rome in 1995. Reacting to his appointment he said:"I am deeply humbled to have been nominated by the bishops as the next Rector of the Pontifical Scots College in Rome. Having been on the staff for over three years as Vice-Rector, I am aware of the importance of the seminary in the history of the Church in Scotland and of the vital role it continues to play in forming priests for the future". In thanking Monsignor Hughes he also thanked the whole College community for its spirit:"I would like to thank Mgr John Hughes who departs after six years as Rector for his work and encouragement and indeed the whole college community for their commitment and enthusiasm for the Gospel". Reflecting on his experience and the task ahead Fr.Dan said:"I have been greatly blessed all my priestly life and pray that I will be able to guide our men through their years for formation to ordination and look forward to welcoming the new men that God calls through the prayers...
Archbishop Philip Tartaglia welcomes publication of Pope Francis' Encyclical "Laudato Si"
SCMO | 18th June 2015 | News Releases
Archbishop Philip Tartaglia welcomes publication of Pope Francis Encyclical Laudato Si on care for our common home.Commenting on the publication today (18 June) of the Pope s Encyclical letter, Archbishop Tartaglia said; "I welcome Pope Francis wide-ranging instruction, Laudato Si (Praise Be) on the care of God s creation as a timely and profound response to what is increasingly seen as an immensely pressing concern and unavoidable moral imperative to care justly and effectively for our natural environment which is shared by human beings and by all the creatures of the earth. Pope Francis proposes a much-needed vision of an integral ecology which is able to articulate the fundamental relationships of the person: with God, with one s self, with other human beings, and with the creation. In this vision, the Pope is able to address such key environmental themes as pollution and climate change, the loss of biodiversity, global inequality and the decline in the quality of human life. Pope Francis puts our moral responsibility for the creation at the centre of our religious duties: For human beings ¦to destroy the biological diversity ¦.by causing changes in its climate; ¦to contaminate the earth s waters, its land, its air, and its life " these are sins . From now on, our examination of conscience needs to include these things too. And the Pope calls for a global ecological conversion which will change attitudes and policies and action with regard to the the intimate relationship between the poor and the fragility of the planet, with regard to the inter-connectedness of everything in the world, with regard to technology and economics and progress. The Pope wants a forthright and honest debate, not just on individual environmental policies, but on an integral ecology for human flourishing and for the protection of the earth. Based firmly on the Catholic tradition, and relying upon insights from other religions, from phi...
Charles Kennedy Funeral - Additional Information
The funeral of Charles Kennedy MP, will take place in St. John the Evangelist, Caol, Fort William on Friday 12 June at 12 noon. The Principal Celebrant will be Monsignor James MacNeil, Administrator of the Diocese of Argyll and the Isles. The Parish Priest Fr. Roddy McAuley, will preach the Homily. The readings for the Mass will be:1st Reading: Ecclesiastes: 3:1-7, 11Psalm: 1392nd Reading: St. Paul's Letter to the Romans: 8:31-35, 37-39 Fourteen children from St. Columba s R.C. Primary school, Lochyside, which Charles Kennedy attended as a child, will sing the Psalm, O God, you search me and you know me . The family have chosen the following hymns: Christ be beside me, Our God loves us, I the Lord of sea and sky, Soul of my Saviour, How Great thou art. The text of the homily of Fr. Roddy McAuley is shown below. (Embargoed - 00.01 12 June 2015) ENDS Peter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.org Notes to Editors: 1. At the request of the Kennedy family, no cameras will be permitted in the church. A pooled audio feed from within the church and a video feed from within the church grounds of the church entrance, will be provided to broadcasters by the BBC. Further information from Kathy LongAssistant Editor, BBC News, Scotland Bureau, 07834 845 610. The Press Association will provide still pictures of the church entrance. Picture desk number is 0207 963 7156 2. A designated media area will be in place directly opposite St John's church and will be managed by Police Scotland Communication Officers at all times. Contact: 01786 896000With Media parking is available at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses on Moor Road (first on the right after St John's Road). 3. Limited access to the church for designated vehicles will be managed by police officers with members of the media directed to the location outlined above. No access to the ...
Charles Kennedy Funeral - Advisory Notice
The funeral of Charles Kennedy MP, will take place in St. John the Evangelist, Caol, Fort William on Friday 12 June at 12 noon.The Principal Celebrant will be Monsignor James MacNeil, Administrator of the Diocese of Argyll and the Isles. The Parish Priest Fr. Roddy McAuley, will preach the Homily.Fourteen children from St. Columba s R.C. Primary school, Lochyside, which Charles Kennedy attended as a child, will sing the Psalm, O God, you search me and you know me .The family have chosen the following hymns: Christ be beside me, Our God loves us, I the Lord of sea and sky, Soul of my Saviour, How Great thou art.Brian McBride, a friend of Charles Kennedy will offer a eulogy after Communion.John Cameron, a close family friend of the Kennedy s, will lead the musicians who also played at Charles parents funeralsFr. Pat Brown, Chaplain to the Westminster Parliament and Monsignor Thomas Wynne, of St. Margaret's Roy Bridge, a friend of the Kennedy family, will concelebrate. Fr. McAuley will not be available for interview, Mgr MacNeil will be available for interview by arrangement on Friday 12 June. ENDSPeter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.orgNote to Editors:At the request of the Kennedy family, no cameras will be permitted in the church. A pooled audio feed from within the church and a video feed from within the church grounds of the church entrance, will be provided to broadcasters by the BBC. Further information from Kathy LongAssistant Editor, BBC News, Scotland Bureau, 07834 845 610...
Archbishop Tartaglia on the death of Charles Kennedy
SCMO | 02nd June 2015 | News Releases
Reacting to the news of Charles Kennedy s death, Archbishop Philip Tartaglia, President of the Bishops Conference of Scotland, said; Charles Kennedy s death at the tragically premature age of 55 is a great loss not only to politics in our country but to the principles of civic and civilised engagement. His wisdom and courtesy were a mark of his highland upbringing, his political skill grew from his sharp intellect and his humility and concern for others was testament to his deeply held beliefs. He will be mourned by his family, by many in the world of politics and within the church, by the parishioners of St. John s Parish in Caol and beyond. Our thoughts and prayers are with them all at this time. ENDS Peter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.org ...
Pope Francis puts family at the heart of communication
SCMO | 14th May 2015 | News Releases
In a pastoral letter which will be read at all 500 Catholic parishes in Scotland this weekend (16/17 May, 2015) to mark the 49th World Communications Day, Archbishop Philip Tartaglia calls on all Catholics to embrace the role of the family as the true building block of a good society, which can be used as a force for dialogue and reconciliation and acknowledges the role of modern media in enabling families to share their stories, faith and forgiveness with others. Archbishop Tartaglia reflects on Pope Francis call to Catholics around the world to see families as a resource rather than as a problem for society and invites families to be examples of Christ s love, kindness and fellowship. The theme of this year s World Communications Day message is Communicating the Family " a Privileged Place of Encounter with the Gift of Love. Archbishops Tartaglia says, It is at the heart of the family that we learn communication has a religious dimension in the form of prayer. The children who learn to listen, respect and share at home will become what Pope Francis calls a ˜force for dialogue and reconciliation in society . In his message, Pope Francis says that it is in the family that we realise that others who have preceded us, have made it possible for us to exist and generate new life and do something good and beautiful. Adding, This virtual circle is at the heart of the family s ability to communicate among its members and with others ¦the model for all communication. ENDS Peter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.org Notes to Editors: The full text of the letter appears below Archbishop Tartaglia is the President of the Bishops Conference of Scotland 49th WORLD COMMUNICATIONS DAY TO BE READ/PUBLISHED/DISTRIBUTED AT ALL MASSES ON 7TH SUNDAY OF EASTER 16/17 JUNE 2015 My dear brothers...
Science and religion intertwined writes Bishop Keenan
Science and religion intertwined writes Bishop Keenan. Writing in today s Scotsman (12 May 2015) Bishop John Keenan, the Bishop of Paisley describes the Catholic Church and the science as "conjoined twins in the advancement of knowledge Dogmatic certainties are as likely to be found in both science as they are in religion writes Bishop Keenan, but rather than competing, science and religion should complement one another. Bishop Keenan claims that no one should feel "compelled to make a choice between science or religion, presuming that aligning ourselves with one entails rejecting the other. Adding "finding the really important truths of existence needs both faith and science working somehow in harmony." The full text of Bishop Keenan s article appears below. ENDSPeter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.orgNote to Editors:Bishop John Keenan is Scotland s youngest Bishop. He was appointed Bishop of Paisley by Pope Francis in February 2014 https://www.scmo.org/articles/pope-francis-appoints-new-bishop-of-paisley.htmlHe is a graduate of the University of Glasgow (LL.B) and the Gregorian University, Rome (S.T.B., Ph.L)Bishop John Keenan12 May 2015Friends of the Scotsman Dispassionate readers, who have studied the Galileo caricature of a war between science and religion will know that, for almost two thousand years either side of that sorry, somewhat isolated affair, the Catholic Church and the science lab have been conjoined twins in the advancement of knowledge. On Easter Sunday morning this year as Christians gathered to celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus from the dead, scientists deep underground at CERN were also gathering excitedly to switch on the Large Hadron Collider for first time since it had been temporarily shut down. Before giving up the ghost the Collider had already accomplished its mission of discovering what we speak of so easily as the ˜God...
Bishops urge Catholics to cast their vote
SCMO | 10th April 2015 | News Releases
In a pastoral letter which will be read at all 500 Catholic churches in Scotland this weekend (11/12 April) Scotland's Catholic Bishops, will urge parishioners to participate in the 2015 General Election and to be informed by the teachings of the Church. The detailed statement will list; Life, the Family, the economy, Human Freedom, Peace and Evangelisation as key areas. It will say; "The dignity and value of every human being should be at the heart of politics. The sanctity of human life, protected from its beginning to its natural end, is not a single issue. It is the fundamental issue. " "Politicians should defend the institution of marriage and the family as the basic unit of society on which so much depends" "The first consideration for any economic policy should be the dignity of the person, not the pursuit of profit" "Nuclear weapons represent a grave threat to the human family" The letter will also say, that "on serious issues some politicians who profess a Catholic faith remain silent " or even surrender " in the face of grave ethical injustice." and call on "a new generation of Catholics to join political parties and to dedicate themselves to political service in a way that remains faithful to the Gospel of Jesus Christ." ENDS Peter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.org Note to Editors: The full text of the letter appears below A Pastoral Letter from the Bishops Conference of Scotland on the General Election Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ On the Seventh of May the people of Scotland will vote in what may be the most unpredictable General Election in generations. While each of us alone will decide whom to vote for, the teachings of the Church can offer us a guide as we attempt to reach an informed judgement that advances the common good. Casting a vote is both a civic duty and a Christian moral obligation...
Bishops thank Parliamentary Officer for service
SCMO | 23rd March 2015 | News Releases
Scotland s Catholic Bishops have thanked their Parliamentary Officer Mr John Deighan for his resolute and dedicated service to the Bishops Conference over the past 16 years. Mr Deighan, who leaves to take up the post of Chief Executive Officer of SPUC (Society for the Protection of Unborn Children) Scotland next month became the Catholic Church s Parliamentary Officer in 1999 at the inception of the Scottish Parliament. Commenting on the move, Archbishop Philip Tartaglia, President of the Bishops Conference said; John has provided dedicated and energetic service to the church in Scotland for 16 years and we wish him well in his new role. His ability to skilfully analyse political developments and track legislative changes has been immensely helpful to the Bishops Conference. The Archbishop added; The links between the church and SPUC in Scotland are already strong, but they will be strengthened and renewed as a result of John s appointment. Responding to the Archbishop s comments. John Deighan said; I have been privileged to work with the Scottish Bishops during a period of great political and parliamentary change and thank them all for their support and friendship over many years. The greatest human rights challenge of our time is the right to life from conception. SPUC had been an outstanding organisation in its efforts to defend unborn children and those threatened by euthanasia. I greatly look forward to leading the organisation as it continues its work in this vital area and to continued collaboration with the Bishops Conference. I am confident there is much we can do to bring the justice of our cause to the attention of our fellow citizens and our politicians. ENDS Peter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.org Note to Editors:1. John Deighan was appointed Parliamentary Officer to the Bishops Conference in June ...
Church welcomes Pope Francis' decision to accept Cardinal O'Brien's resignation
SCMO | 20th March 2015 | News Releases
The Catholic Church in Scotland has welcomed the decision of Pope Francis to accept the resignation of Cardinal Keith Patrick O Brien from the rights and duties of a Cardinal. In what is an unprecedented action, Cardinal O Brien has now removed himself from the key duties that pertain to the office of Cardinal: the election of any future Pope and the assistance of the Holy Father in the governance of the Universal Church. Cardinal O Brien will also be reduced to a strictly private life with no further participation in any public, religious or civil events. Archbishop Leo Cushley of St Andrews & Edinburgh said; As most people are aware, Pope Francis is a good and prayerful man whose character embodies justice and mercy. I am confident therefore that the decision of the Holy Father is fair, equitable and proportionate, Cardinal O Brien s behaviour distressed many, demoralised faithful Catholics and made the Church less credible to those who are not Catholic. I therefore acknowledge and welcome his apology to those affected by his behaviour and also to the people of Scotland, especially the Catholic community. Today s announcement follows the decision by Pope Francis to send a personal envoy, Archbishop Charles Scicluna, on a fact-finding mission to Scotland last year. Based upon that investigation " the content of which is fully know only to Pope Francis and Archbishop Scicluna " Pope Francis has reached his canonical conclusion. Cardinal O Brien s decision followed a private discussion with Pope Francis. This was preceded by a period of prayer and penance in order to allow the Cardinal to reflect upon his misconduct. Archbishop Cushley added: For my own part, I would like to express sorrow and regret to those most distressed by the actions of my predecessor. I also pay tribute to those who had the courage to come forward to speak to Archbishop Scicluna. I hope now that all of us affected by this sad and regrettable episode will embrace a spirit of f...
Statement from Cardinal Keith O'Brien
Statement from Cardinal Keith O'Brien. Responding to the decision of Pope Francis to accept his resignation from the rights and duties of a Cardinal, the following statement has been issued by Cardinal Keith O'Brien: I wish to repeat the apology which I made to the Catholic Church and the people of Scotland some two years ago now on 3rd March 2013. I then said that there have been times that my sexual conduct has fallen below the standards expected of me. For that I am deeply sorry . I thank Pope Francis for his fatherly care of me and of those I have offended in any way. I will continue to play no part in the public life of the Church in Scotland; and will dedicate the rest of my life in retirement, praying especially for the Archdiocese of Saint Andrews and Edinburgh, for Scotland, and for those I have offended in any way . ENDS For more information contact David Kerr at the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh on 0131 623 8914 or 07903 621 232 David.Kerr@staned.org.uk...
400 Aniversary Mass for St. John Ogilvie
Pope Francis has sent a special envoy to Glasgow to mark the 400th anniversary of the martyrdom of St John Ogilvie, Scotland s only post-reformation canonised Catholic martyr. Cardinal Cormac Murphy O Connor " the former Archbishop of Westminster - has been asked by the Holy Father to be his special envoy at a Mass in St Andrew s Cathedral, Glasgow at 7.30pm on March 10, St John Ogilvie s feast day.In his homily, Archbishop Philip Tartaglia will highlight attacks on religious freedom, which he will claim, is: "fragile, not always recognised, not always respected, in some places denied, leading, as we know, to persecution, sectarianism and brutality. St John Ogilvie was a standard bearer for the right relationship between the state and the religious freedom of its citizens. It is important that churches, faith communities and religious bodies are in dialogue with government and civil authorities about what religious freedom and freedom of conscience mean in their circumstances." Archbishop Tartaglia will also commend ecumenical engagement in Scotland, saying; "Ecumenical relations between the churches teach us how to live and express our baptismal unity with prayer, dialogue, shared witness in the name of peace and justice, common service to the poor and needy, and with huge courtesy and friendship. If the goal of the ecumenical movement, full visible communion, escapes us still and seems as far away as ever, there is a very real and effective ecumenism of friendship, prayer, witness and service which is a great good and which keeps the hope alive. Oh " and an ecumenism of martyrdom too, because, as the Pope said, the martyrs belong to all Christians. So, even as the Catholic community rejoices for St John Ogilvie, I offer St John Ogilvie tonight as a martyr for all Scots Christians, so that we may together reap the rich harvest of faith and love which his blood has sowed in our land." ENDS Peter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent Place...
Little Sisters of the Poor Home, Wellburn, Dundee
In October of 2014 the Little Sisters of the Poor announced, that due to a shortage of Vocations they could no longer continue their mission at the Wellburn Care Home in Dundee, bringing to an end 152 years of caring lovingly for the vulnerable elderly in Dundee. On 27th February 2015, the Little Sisters verbally accepted an offer from the Diocese of Dunkeld to continue the vital mission of care and support for the infirm elderly at Wellburn, by allowing the Diocese to take over the Home. The legal and practical arrangements for the transfer of mission will be worked out over the coming months. Sr Joseph Christine, Mother Provincial of the Little Sisters on behalf of the Congregation said: The Little Sisters, are delighted to be able to entrust the continuation of their essential work to the Diocese of Dunkeld. We are very happy with the arrangements being negotiated and wish Bishop Stephen and the Diocese of Dunkeld God s blessing in continuing the work of our Foundress, St Jeanne Jugan. Commenting on behalf of the Diocese of Dunkeld, Bishop Stephen Robson said: The Catholic Church believes, that the continued operation of Wellburn will best serve the infirm and elderly and protect their rights, interests and dignity, by continuing the loving service and care of those in need. I have known the Little Sisters since I was a child and have always had a great love and respect for them and their work. We will be happily blessed indeed if we can achieve their level of service and love and dedication. ENDS Peter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.org...
Catholic Church endorses Jewish call for end to anti-Semitism
SCMO | 23rd February 2015 | News Releases
Catholic Church endorses Jewish call for end to anti-Semitism. The Catholic Church in Scotland has endorsed the all-party statement condemning anti-Semitism and released by the Jewish community today. Bishop John Keenan, Bishop of Paisley said; "In 1965, Pope Paul VI in the document Nostra Aetate proclaimed; "in her rejection of every persecution against any man, the Church, mindful of the patrimony she shares with the Jews and moved not by political reasons but by the Gospel's spiritual love, decries hatred, persecutions, displays of anti-Semitism, directed against Jews at any time and by anyone. This unequivocal denunciation of anti-Semitism ushered in a new era in Catholic-Jewish relations. It was followed almost 20 years later when Pope John Paul II described the Jewish people as; "our elder brothers in the faith of Abraham. when visiting a synagogue in Rome. Since then Pope Benedict and Pope Francis have visited Israel and restated the importance of the spiritual patrimony, which we share. Bishop Keenan added: Mindful of our unique bond with Judaism, recent murderous attacks on Jews across Europe and a growing tide of anti-Semitic incidents at home are upsetting for Catholics to witness. We deplore such intolerance and hatred and commit ourselves to peaceful coexistence and respect. The Jewish community in Scotland is small, located mostly within the Diocese of Paisley and according to some reports it is shrinking as many Jews decide to seek security and safety among larger communities elsewhere in the UK or in Israel. Their departure is Scotland s loss, as a nation we will be culturally and spiritually impoverished without a Jewish community and we should do all that we can to affirm and assure Scotland s Jews that they are valued, welcomed and safe. In the Diocese of Paisley, we look forward to the forthcoming Jewish-Catholic joint campus school, its construction in partnership with the civic authorities in East Renfrewshire is a sign of ...
Ordination of new Bishop of Galloway
SCMO | 13th February 2015 | News Releases
The Episcopal Ordination of Fr William Nolan as the new Bishop of Galloway will take place at the Grand Hall, Kilmarnock on Saturday 14 February 2015 at 11am. Fr. Nolan was appointed Bishop of the Diocese of Galloway in November 2014 by Pope Francis and will be ordained at the ceremony in Kilmarnock on 14 February, by Archbishop Leo Cushley, Archbishop of St. Andrews & Edinburgh. Speaking ahead of his Episcopal Ordination Bishop-Elect Nolan said; As I leave behind East Kilbride and the people to whom I have ministered the past 20 years, I think of a farewell card I received from local school children. In large letters, it read Pastures New not only do I move to new pastures I also encounter a new flock. I look forward to what for me are the new pastures of Galloway, and getting to know the flock, the people whom I will serve as bishop. Unexpected though the call to be Bishop of Galloway was, I know that contentment and fulfilment are found in following the will of God, and I hope, that together with the people of the diocese we may we face the future together, trusting in God who is the one shepherd of us all. As well as Archbishop Cushley, the Papal Nuncio, HE Archbishop Antonio Mennini, will attend, representing Pope Francis, together with bishops from Scotland, England and Ireland. ENDS Peter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.org Notes to Editors: 1. You are invited to send a reporter/photographer to the ordination on Saturday 14 February 2015 at 11am, to the Grand Hall, 9 Green Street, Kilmarnock, KA1 3BN The hall will be open from 10am and the Mass of Ordination will begin at 11am. The Grand Hall has a capacity of 950, while overspill accommodation will be provided in the nearby Kay Park Church (350) together with live audio & video relays of the ceremony. The Ordination will be streamed live online and archived so it can be wat...
Scottish Bishops ask Pope's senior child protection adviser to advise them on safeguarding
Scotland's Catholic bishops have been advised by the US priest appointed by Pope Francis to run the Commission for the Protection of Minors. Monsignor Robert Oliver travelled to Salamanca in Spain to address the bishops during an in-service session at the end of January. The bishops met to discuss the care of survivors of abuse and invited Mgr. Oliver to lead them in their discussions. In an opinion article in today's (Sunday 8 February) Sunday Times, Bishop Joseph Toal, admitted that the church had to learn from past failings and contnue to develp best practice in collaboration with others. He also describes how the church must "demonstrate to survivors a willingness to listen and an expression of understanding in the context of carefully prepared personal meetings." Bishop Toal also reveals that the church in Scotland is committed to acting on Pope Francis' call to be "spiritually united with those who have suffered and their families". The full text of Bishop Toal's article is shown below: ENDS Peter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.org Bishop Joseph Toal Sunday Times 8.2.15 Last September, Pope Francis named U.S. priest, Monsignor Robert Oliver as the new secretary of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors. The commission, whose members include survivors of clerical sexual abuse,mental health professionals and experts in civil and church law, is tasked with laying out a pastoral approach to helping victims and preventing abuse. The Pope established the Commission to advise him directly and to propose initiatives to encourage local responsibility within the Church, highlighting best practice from around the world and developing programmes of training for the whole Church in this important area. In recognition of the importance of such work, at their annual In-service meeting at the Scots College in Salamanca...
Bishop Keenan on three person embryos
Following today's vote in the House of Commons to allow three person embryos, Bishop John Keenan, the Bishop of Paisley said; "The proposed techniques fail on a number of ethical grounds which should concern us all: They destroy human life, since in order to construct a disease free embryo, two healthy ones will have to be destroyed. The technique is not a treatment, it does not cure anyone or anything, rather it seeks to remove anyone affected by certain conditions from the human gene pool. Destroying those who have a particular disease and presenting it as a cure or as progress is utterly disingenuous and completely unethical. No other country in the world has licensed these procedures. A majority of responses to the Department of Health consultation opposed the proposal. Experts are divided on the advisability of the techniques and the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) have suggested only that the procedures are "not unsafe". Mitochondrial Donation completely destroys and distorts the natural process of fertility. It is surprising that a society which increasingly favours and supports natural and "environmentally friendly products and services should countenance the genetic modification of human beings. How can we object when scientists genetically modify plants but not when they do the same with people?" ENDS Peter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.org...
Archbishop Tartaglia returns home
Archbishop Philip Tartaglia, Archbishop of Glasgow, arrived home earlier this evening Monday 26th January. A spokesman for Archbishop Tartaglia said: "The Archbishop was able to travel with the other Scottish Bishops as had been scheduled. It is expected that he will now undertake a period of convalescence. The Archbishop wishes to thank the medical team of the University Hospital Salamanca for their care. He also expresses his thanks to the Rector and staff of the Royal Scots College, to his fellow Bishops, the Catholic community in Scotland, and all who have prayed for him and expressed their good wishes. He is grateful to the First Minister for her good wishes and to Rt.Rev.John Chalmers, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, for the prayerful good wishes of the Church of Scotland. He also extends his thanks to everyone who offered prayers and good wishes by text, email or twitter. The Archbishop is humbled and deeply grateful." ENDS Peter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.org...
Updated medical bulletin on Archbishop Tartaglia
Updated medical bulletin on Archbishop Tartaglia.Following earlier news release: Archbishop Tartaglia suffers heart attack A spokesman for Archbishop Tartaglia said:"The Archbishop condition has markedly improved. This afternoon he will leave the University Hospital of Salamanca and return to the Royal Scots College. It is hoped that he will be able to return to Scotland next week. He remains in good spirits and is now supported by his brother Canon Gerard Tartaglia who has traveled from Scotland to be with him. The Bishops are delighted at this good news"ENDSPeter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.org...
Archbishop Tartaglia suffers heart attack
SCMO | 23rd January 2015 | News Releases
After feeling unwell, Archbishop Philip Tartaglia was admitted to hospital in Salamanca on Thursday 22 January. Following initial treatment and tests at the University hospital in Salamanca it has been confirmed that he has suffered a heart attack.The Scottish Bishops are currently attending an in-service week at the Scots College in Salamanca, Archbishop Tartaglia is President of the Bishops Conference of Scotland.Archbishop Tartaglia is conscious today (Friday) and in good spirits, he has been visited by other Scots bishops attending the meeting. The Archbishop will remain in hospital in Spain until he is well enough to return home. Further medical updates will be released if any change in the Archbishop s condition takes place.Catholic parishes in the Archdiocese of Glasgow have been informed of the Archbishop s illness and special prayers will be said this weekend throughout the Archdiocese for his recovery.ENDSNote to Editors:1. No one from the Archdiocese will be available for interview.2. Biography: Archbishop Tartaglia: http://www.rcag.org.uk/index.php/archbishopPeter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.org...
Catholic Bishops Publish Annual Safeguarding Audit
Catholic Bishops Publish Annual Safeguarding Audit In accordance with best practice and in line with a commitment given in 2013, Scotland s Catholic Bishops have today, 16 December 2014 published the Diocesan Safeguarding Audit for 2013. The results of this Audit give a statistical breakdown of reported safeguarding allegations during that year. The statistics show how many allegations were reported in 2013, the category of the incident, the category of the reported perpetrator and the outcome of any investigation. These statistics have been compiled by the Safeguarding Offices in each of Scotland s 8 dioceses, signed off by each Diocesan Bishop and collated by the Scottish Catholic Safeguarding Service. The Safeguarding Service has also collated and published an annual statistical return on behalf of all religious congregations and orders working in Scotland. A spokesman for the Church said: The Catholic Church in Scotland seeks to safeguard the welfare of people of all ages who are involved in whatever capacity with the Church and its organisations. The publication of this audit is an example of the commitment to transparency and openness made previously by Scotland s Catholic Bishops. The external Review of Safeguarding Protocols and Procedures being conducted by Dr. Andrew McLellan will report in 2015 and the Statistical Review of all Historic Cases of Abuse from 1947-2005 will be published at that time also. The spokesman added; The Catholic Church would support an evidence based inquiry into abuse in care in Scotland. ENDS Peter Kearney Director Catholic Media Office 5 St. Vincent Place Glasgow G1 2DH 0141 221 1168(T) 07968 122291(M) pk@scmo.org www.scmo.org Note to Editors: Summary of 2013 Audit: PVG Checks (previously Disclosures) have been carried out on 488 Clergy and 4,225 volunteers. Training: There are currently over 6,000 volunteers trained in Safeguarding and 170 Clergy There were 15 alleg...
Archbishop Tartaglia tells Clutha Service; "We have not forgotten"
EMBARGOED: 3PM - 29 NOVEMBER 2014Saturday 29th November 2014Archbishop Tartaglia tells Clutha Service; We have not forgotten Delivering the sermon at the Service to mark the 1st Anniversary of the Clutha Vaults Tragedy at Glasgow Cathedral on Saturday 29th November 2014, Archbishop Philip Tartaglia will speak of the effect the tragedy had on so many people, reminding those who lost friends or family, that "a year is not yet long enough for many people to come to terms with bereavement, and especially with bereavement which comes from an unexpected tragedy." Adding, "To you we say that we have not forgotten, that we care, that we continue to offer you our sympathies and help. You will never forget, but remember that the remaining pain in your heart is the undying fire of love, and, even if it hurts sometimes and brings you to tears, it will also fill you with the warmth of the person you will always love."Scotland's First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon will attend the service and in a plea for tolerance and inclusion, the Archbishop will also say;"There is a feeling around that we are in a special moment when we can shape a new Scotland." "Our new First Minister, who is happily with us here this afternoon, has proposed a more consensual form of government, less partisan, less party-political, and less adversarial. I think everyone would welcome that. Everyone should sense that he or she is an integral part of our country and of our democratic process." "We are all equal in Scotland, all welcomed, all valued, and above all, all free to express our views and follow our consciences."ENDSPeter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.orgNote to Editors:The full text of Archbishop Tartaglia's sermon is shown below:Glasgow CathedralSaturday 29th November 2014The Clutha Vaults Tragedy happened a year ago on this day Friday 29th November 2013 around 10.30pm. A police helicopter crashe...
Pope Francis appoints new Bishop of Galloway
SCMO | 22nd November 2014 | News Releases
Pope Francis has today (Saturday 22 November 2014) appointed Fr. William Nolan, as Bishop of Galloway. Fr. Nolan is currently parish priest of Our Lady of Lourdes, East Kilbride and Vicar General of the Diocese of Motherwell. Reacting to the announcement, Bishop-Elect Nolan said;"I am overawed to be appointed by Pope Francis as Bishop of Galloway. Ialready know some of the clergy and I look forward to working with them andwith the the people of the Diocese to help the faith flourish in the landwhere Ninian planted the seeds of faith so long ago. I wish to serve the Diocese as best I can, but knowing I am hindered by my failings and weaknesses, I ask everyone to pray for me."Bishop-Elect Nolan added;"The last 20 years of my life have been spent in Our Lady of Lourdes parishEast Kilbride. I wish to pay tribute to the people of the parish for theirkindness and support to me over the years. My move to Galloway is tingedwith sadness at leaving Our Lady of Lourdes behind."Welcoming the appointment of his successor, Bishop John Cunningham said I am delighted with the appointment of Fr. Nolan, and I look forward to working with him in the period of transition. I know that he brings with him experience in many pastoral situations, and that this will serve him well as he leads the Diocese of Galloway. Galloway is a diocese consisting of parishes which are both rural and in large towns, and so Fr. Nolan s wide expertise in dealing with people in his parish ministry, and in being able to adapt to different situations, will serve him well. Bishop Cunningham added: I leave my role as Bishop of Galloway confident in my successor, and can assure him that the people and the priests of Galloway Diocese will offer him every support. Commenting on the appointment, Fr. William McFadden, Vicar General of the diocese, said: On behalf of the priests of the diocese I welcome the appointment of Fr Nolan, and can assure him that the clergy of Galloway will support him in every way. ...
Little Sisters of the Poor to leave Dundee
The Little Sisters of the Poor order have today announced that they will be leaving Dundee in 2015. The Sisters are making every effort to ensure continuity of care at the Wellburn Care Home which they operate and are actively negotiating with various parties at present, in the hope of securing a new operator for the facillity. Commenting on the decision, the Provincial of the order, Sister Joseph said; It is with great sadness and regret that the Little Sisters of the Poor have decided that they will be leaving Dundee in 2015. This has been a very painful decision for us, but due to a decrease in the number of Vocations to the Congregation and the age of the sisters, they now feel that they are unable to continue their mission here. Sister Joseph added; The Little Sisters have been in Dundee since 1863 and last year celebrated 150 years of service to the elderly in the city, in the footsteps of their foundress St Jeanne Jugan. The sisters are immensley grateful for the support they have been given by the people of Dundee, Bishop Emeritus Vincent Logan, Bishop Stephen Robson, the priests and religious in the Diocese of Dunkeld and by the City Council and they are thankful to God for all that they received from their benefactors and friends. Reacting to the decision, Bishop Stephen Robson said; While I am saddened by this decision, I understand completely the challenges which the Sisters face and sympathise with the circumstances they find themselves in. I have always had and continue to have the highest regard for the Little Sisters of the Poor and the work that they do. They have made an immeasurable contribution to the life of the City of Dundee over the past 150 years. I share their hope that the Wellburn Care Home will continue to providing much needed care to some of the most vulnerable elderly people in our community. ENDSPeter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgww...
Bishops commend First Minister
Scotland's Catholic Bishops commend First MinisterThe following letter has been sent today to Scotland's First Minister by the President of the Bsihops' Conference of Scotland, Archbishop Philip Tartaglia.The Right Hon Alex Salmond MSP20th September 2014Dear First Minister,You have announced your decision to step down as First Minister of Scotland and Leader of the Scottish National Party.On behalf of the Bishops Conference of Scotland, I want to acknowledge your long and outstanding career in politics, and your distinguished service as First Minister of Scotland. With good reason, you have been described as one of the most able and influential political leaders that Scotland and the United Kingdom has ever produced.The Bishops are especially grateful for your recognition of the important place of religion and faith in Scotland, for your support of Catholic education as making its own distinctive contribution to the good of Scotland as a whole, and for your sensitivity to the issues around religious freedom which are emerging in our country as they are elsewhere. You have also shown real concern for those in our society who are less affluent and less fortunate. And of course, you have always been a wonderful champion and ambassador for Scotland at home and abroad. We hope that your political successors will be inspired by your example and continue to protect and promote these same values. And lastly, we remain grateful for the support and assistance given by your government before and during the visit of Pope Benedict XVI to Scotland in 2010.The Bishops Conference of Scotland wishes you every blessing and happiness in the future.With my prayerful good wishes,Philip Tartaglia, Archbishop of GlasgowPresident of the Bishops Conference of ScotlandENDS Peter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.org...
Response to Proposed Organ and Tissue Donation (Scotland) Bill
Responding this week (15 September) to the Proposed Organ and Tissue Donation (Scotland) Bill, the Catholic Parliamentary Office on behalf of the Bishops Conference of Scotland has made clear its objection to an opt-out system of organ donation as it removes the important principle of consent in our legal system and undermines the integrity of the person The response goes on to state, that; The present system recognises the importance of genuine consent in the treatment of persons and the charitable nature of organ donation which is based on a gratuitous act of kindness on behalf of the donor. The Parliamentary Office response also goes on to uphold the role of family members in the consent process and to support A campaign promoting organ donation, provided it is based on free and consensual giving stressing that the Catholic Church is an enthusiastic supporter of organ donation ENDS Peter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.org Note to Editors: The full text of the Church response is shown below: Proposed Organ and Tissue Donation (Scotland) Bill Organ donation is a peculiar form of witness to charity. In a period like ours, often marked by various forms of selfishness, it is ever more urgent to understand how the logic of free giving is vital to a correct conception of life. Indeed, a responsibility of love and charity exist that commits one to make of their own life a gift to others, if one truly wishes to fulfil oneself. As the Lord Jesus has taught us, only whoever gives his own life can save it (cf. Lk 9: 24). - Pope Benedict XVI, November 2008 Consultation ResponseCatholic Parliamentary Office15 September 2014 Consultation questions1. The overarching purpose of my proposal is to move from the current opt-in system to a soft opt-out system of organ donation. Do you support this move? Please indicate yes/no/undec...
Scotland's Archbishops urge Referendum participation
29 August 2014Scotland s Archbishops urge Referendum participationBoth of Scotland s Catholic Archbishops; Archbishop Philip Tartaglia of Glasgow and Archbishop Leo Cushley of St. Andrews and Edinburgh, will this weekend (30 & 31 August) distribute pastoral messages on the Independence Referendum to be read at all Masses.Both Archbishops will urge participation in the referendum and ask Catholics to engage with the issues being raised in the period up to 18 September.Archbishop Tartaglia commented:"The Scottish Independence Referendum is now just a short time away. Along with the Bishops of Scotland, who are deeply conscious of the importance of this referendum, I encourage and urge all those eligible to vote to do so with complete freedom of choice and in accordance with their prayerful judgment of what is best for the future. May God guide us and bless us in whatever choice we make in good conscience. Archbishop Cushley said:"I encourage you, in the light of Catholic social teaching, carefully to consider the issues and to do your civic duty on the day itself. No matter the result of the Referendum, I would hope that all Catholics will continue to engage positively in public discourse, and ensure that the Christian message and its values are better expressed and understood, to the benefit of the whole community. By doing so, our beloved land will be a more just, peaceful and prosperous place for all its citizens. ENDSPeter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.orgNote to Editors:1. The full text of both messages are shown below:My dear Brothers and Sisters, The Scottish Independence Referendum is now just a short time away. Along with the Bishops of Scotland, who are deeply conscious of the importance of this referendum, I encourage and urge all those eligible to vote to do so with complete freedom of choice and in accordance with their prayerful judgment o...
Statement on Fergusons of Port Glasgow from Bishop John Keenan
SCMO | 23rd August 2014 | News Releases
Statement on Fergusons of Port Glasgow from Bishop John Keenan, Bishop of Paisley 23 August 2014 Commenting on the closure of the Ferguson Shipbuilders yard in Port Glasgow, Bishop John Keenan said: Together with the entire community of Port Glasgow and the whole population of Inverclyde, I was deeply saddened to hear the news last week that Ferguson Shipbuilders in Port Glasgow had gone into administration after more than 100 years in business. My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this news; the employees themselves, but also their families and the wider community for whom this yard had been a landmark on the Clyde for so long. It was testament to the skill and dedication of generations of workers that Fergusons was the last remaining independently owned shipbuilding yard on the Firth of Clyde and its closure will mean that there are now no other merchant yards open on the lower Clyde. In the days since the announcement, we have heard business and political leaders offer support and talk of a potentially profitable future for Fergusons, building ferries and carrying out work on vessels for the oil, gas and renewable energy sectors. I understand potential owners have been bidding to buy the yard and I sincerely hope that this will allow its continued operation. I assure all those involved in these efforts of my prayerful support. ENDSPeter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.org...
Church sets pace with innovative sport and faith conference
Church sets pace with innovative sport and faith conference Pope Francis has sent his good wishes and prayers to athletes and theologians gathering at a conference in Glasgow on the eve of the Commonwealth Games. The "Celebrating the Gift in Sport" conference takes place on Thursday 17 July at Blessed John Duns Scotus church hall in the Gorbals, Glasgow. Hosted by the Archdiocese of Glasgow, Celebrating the Gift in Sport will explore how sport and faith can combine to champion the gifts of each person " especially people with disabilities " while promoting values of solidarity and respect. It will be opened by the Archbishop of Glasgow, Philip Tartaglia, who said: With his message for our Conference, Pope Francis has shown himself close to all athletes and to everyone who enjoys sport as a means of celebrating the sheer joy of the gift of life and of promoting the dignity and potential of the human person. The Archbishop added: The Glasgow Commonwealth Games is an ideal opportunity for us to celebrate that gift and proclaim the dignity, respect and purpose that God bestows on all people, no matter their ability or nationality. Speakers at the conference include 2004 Olympic sprint relay champion Jason Gardener, Special Olympian Leanne Peter, paralympian Frank McGuire, former British Taekwondo champion-turned broadcaster John Cullen, Gordon McCormack chair of Scottish Disability Sport, and Professor John Swinton and Christina Gangemi of the Kairos Forum at the University of Aberdeen. Members of the Cornerstone Community will tell how sport has changed their life, building up their confidence and providing opportunities to influence wider society.ENDSPeter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.orgNotes to Editors:1. You are invited to send a reporter/photographer/camera crew. Participating speakers will be available for interview on the day " conta...
Archbishop Leo Cushley receives his Pallium from Pope Francis
On Sunday, June 29, 2014, the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, Archbishop Leo Cushley will receive his Pallium from Pope Francis. The Pallium is an ancient ecclesiastical vestment in the Catholic Church, bestowed by Popes on Metropolitan Archbishops as a symbol of jurisdiction and of communion with the See of Peter.Archbishop Cushley, who became Archbishop of St Andrews & Edinburgh on 21 September 2013 will travel to Rome with a party of Scots pilgrims and join Archbishops from around the world who will also receive a pallium from the Pope.Commenting before the ceremony, Archbishop Cushley said;"I am honoured to receive the Pallium from our Holy Father Pope Francis, the supreme Shepherd of the universal Church, as a sign of communion with him and of our shared pastoral duty towards Christ's flock. I am delighted that my family and friends and many from the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh, especially many young people, have chosen to come on pilgrimage with me to the Tomb of Peter and to greet the Pope. I also bear the good wishes and affection of many Scots, Catholics and not, who have expressed to me their esteem for the Holy Father. I hope these days will be a great source of peace and joy for all those present in Rome on this happy occasion."ENDSPeter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.orgNote to Editors:1. Photographs will be available from: Fr Scott Deeley " 07734 5297672. The pallium is a circular band of white wool about two inches wide, worn about the neck, breast, and shoulders, and having two pendants, one hanging down in front and one behind. The ornamentation of the pallium consists of six small black crosses " one each on the breast and back, one on each shoulder, and one on each pendant. The crosses on the breast, back, and left shoulder are provided with a loop for the reception of a gold pin set with a prec...
New Rector nominated for Royal Scots College Spain
New Rector nominated for Royal Scots College SpainCollege to re-open as a Seminary in January 2016 In a dual announcement the Bishops of Scotland have nominated a new Rector for the Royal Scots College, Salamanca, Spain and have asked him to do the preparatory work for the re-opening of the College as a Seminary. As a Royal foundation it is the King of Spain who will appoint the new Rector, with the approval of the Holy See, and the Bishops of Scotland propose the candidate. Father Tom Kilbride, currently parish priest of Our Lady of Good Counsel, Glasgow, has been nominated by the Bishops Conference of Scotland and has been tasked by them to prepare the College to receive seminarians from January 2016 for an annual six month long propadeutic period (See note) in preparation for their entry to the Pontifical Scots College in Rome the following September.Since 2007 Fr Kilbride has been the Director of Religious Education for the Archdiocese of Glasgow and it is this educational experience that Archbishop Tartaglia, Archbishop of Glasgow and President of the Bishops Conference of Scotland highlighted: I am very pleased that Fr Tom Kilbride will be the next Rector of the Royal Scots College, Spain. His nomination was welcomed enthusiastically by the Bishops Conference. Fr Kilbride is an experienced parish priest who has held responsibility for directing the Religious Education Office of the Archdiocese of Glasgow. He has also shown a special interest in adult religious education and spirituality which will be an invaluable asset for him in his work with candidates for the priesthood. Archbishop Tartaglia added; Fr Kilbride's appointment coincides with our decision that the Royal Scots College in Salamanca, Spain, will once again be used for the formation of candidates for the priesthood in Scotland, its historic purpose for the last 4 centuries. It is envisaged that from January 2016, candidates for the priesthood will follow a 6-month propaeduetic pe...
Archbishop Leo Cushley, Opinion Column, Sunday Times 22 June 2014
Would the moral consensus be any different in an independent Scotland? Archbishop Leo Cushley (Opinion Column, Sunday Times 22 June 2014) Today I am back living in Scotland after a twenty-year absence from it, and I find it has changed dramatically. I came back last September to a country I had only visited in the meantime as a tourist, and found myself living in city not my own - Edinburgh - and among people neither my kin nor my friends, although I already feel happily at home again. Edinburgh is a great city. It welcomes people from all over the world. It is much more cosmopolitan than its prim façade suggests. Just after I moved there I walked up The Bridges, a road at the east end of Princes Street, and in a minute I passed by conversations in five different languages. The locals are polite. The buses are excellent. The restaurants are busy. The parks are numerous. There is a large student population that keeps the place feeling young and vibrant. And it is undoubtedly a good city to live and work in. I willingly tell my Italian pals to come and visit me, because I know they re going to be enchanted by all of it, not just the whisky and the cashmere. Other things have happened since I last lived in Scotland. There is now a parliament. I have tried and failed to like it from the outside, but we know that it s the inside that counts. Having got past all the layers of security, and having been marked out with a humbling Visitor" lanyard, I saw the parliament s interior and it is, in contrast to its exterior, an impressive space. Now that it s up and running, it feels like a seat of power. It hasn t the grandeur of Westminster, but it suggests that Scotland may be growing. But into what? Standing there, as you look at its chambers in action, the parliament dares you to ask, Will this, Ought this to be the seat of a sovereign state? What Scottish Catholics have to say about this comes from a mixture ...
Pope invited to Glasgow
Pope invited to GlasgowGlasgow s Archbishop, Philip Tartaglia has written to Pope Francisasking him to consider a day visit to the city to mark the 400thanniversary of the martyrdom of St John Ogilvie, who was executed atGlasgow Cross on 10 March 1615.In his letter to Pope Francis asking him to visit the city on thesaint s anniversary and feast day, the Archbishop said: It would bewonderful if you could come to Glasgow for a day for this unique event.I would envisage your visit as being of a purely religious-pastoralnature, ¦ I know that this is short notice for the visit of a Pope ¦ I presentthis request to you without any expectations or sense of entitlement. Ido not even know if it is practical! However a visit would be such agrace."The news is carried in this month s edition of Flourish, theArchdiocese of Glasgow s official newspaper, out today [Thursday June5].John Ogilvie, a convert to Catholicism who came from Banffshire, was aJesuit priest martyred for his faith. He was hanged in Glasgow on 10thMarch 1615. He was canonised in Rome by Pope Paul VI on 16th October1976. Archbishop Tartaglia was present at the ceremony as a youngpriest. Many Scottish pilgrims travelled to Rome for the canonisation.Easterhouse man John Fagan s miraculous cure from cancer provided themiracle needed to proceed to the canonization.St John Ogilvie is Scotland s only post-reformation canonised saintand was recently painted by celebrated Scots artist Peter Howson - thepainting now being on display in St Andrew s Cathedral, just a fewhundred yards from the saint s execution site.Although Papal visits are usually planned with several years ofanticipation, Pope Francis has surprised many by choosing to make shortday visits within Italy to places of special significance, most notablylast year when he went for the day to the island of Lampedusa which isthe arrival point for many immigrants from Africa. Two further dayvisits within Italy are due this summer.Archbishop Tartaglia sa...
Communications Sunday 2014
Communications Sunday 2014 THIS MESSAGE TO BE READ/PUBLISHED/DISTRIBUTED AT ALL MASSES OF 7TH SUNDAY OF EASTER 31 MAY / 1 JUNE 2014 My dear brothers and sisters in Christ This Sunday the Church reminds us of the great responsibility that is ours for the world of communications. It is not something for which others have responsibility. Each one of us communicates messages every day through our relationships, actions and words. It is good to pause occasionally and ask ourselves whether in our communications, we communicate Jesus Christ, His values and His message. We may ask too, how are we to carry out this task of witnessing to Jesus in the world and in our engagement with the media, both traditional and new? In his Message for this World Communications Day, the Holy Father focuses on bringing a Christian presence to the world of digital communications. Today, newspaper sales are in freefall, TV audiences are ever more fragmented, and more and more communication takes place on social networks such as Facebook and Twitter. It is here that the Pope has therefore placed much emphasis. Some have questioned whether the Church should be present in such forums. The Holy Father answers that question head on: ˜As I have frequently observed, if a choice has to be made between a bruised Church which goes out to the streets and a Church suffering from self-absorption, I certainly prefer the first. Those streets are the world where people live and where they can be reached, both effectively and affectively. The digital highway is one of them, a street teeming with people who are often hurting, men and women looking for salvation or hope. By means of the internet, the Christian message can reach to the ends of the earth . The Pope offers us clear guidelines on how to use social media well " guidelines which can apply more widely to all our communications and relationships. He suggests our communicati...
Diocese of Motherwell expresses 'significant concerns" over North Lanarkshire's schools proposals
SCMO | 02nd May 2014 | News Releases
2 May 2014 Diocese of Motherwell expresses ˜significant concerns over North Lanarkshire s schools proposals In an extensive submission to North Lanarkshire Council s recent consultation on school provision, the newly appointed Bishop of Motherwell, Bishop Joseph Toal, has raised significant concerns about the Council s commitment to provide Catholic schooling and promised to stand together with the Catholic community in opposing proposals which would dramatically reduce the number of Catholic schools in the diocese. In a letter to the Council which accompanies a lengthy submission delivered to the Chief Executive today (Friday, 2 May 2014), Bishop Toal says that proposals to alter the school estate provision have been carefully considered, together with the consequences that these might have for the pupils, teachers, families and communities involved . The Bishop adds: In the past few weeks the Diocese has met representatives from schools, parishes and the local communities and I have listened to their views on the matter. The formal response from the Diocese of Motherwell then lists a series of significant concerns about what some of these proposals might suggest about the Council s commitment to provide Catholic schooling on an equitable basis within this Diocese. The submission points out that at public meetings NLC officers claimed that larger secondary schools are necessary to ensure adequate curriculum provision. Yet, they are content to have non-denominational schools with rolls as small as 414 in one case and fewer than 700 in 4 other cases. Across the authority Catholic secondary school rolls would be on average one third larger than non-denominational schools. This is highlighted by the Diocese, as inequitable treatment of pupils attending Catholic schools. In asking for a reconsideration of their proposals, the Bishop assures the council, that the Diocese will always be keen to work in partnership with the Council to en...
Pope Francis appoints new Bishop of Motherwell
Pope Francis appoints new Bishop of Motherwell Tuesday 29 April 2014 Pope Francis has today (Tuesday 29 April 2014 - the Feast of St Catherine of Siena) appointed Bishop Joseph Toal, as Bishop of Motherwell; he is currently Bishop of Argyll & the Isles and has been Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Motherwell which has been vacant since 31 May 2013, when Pope Francis accepted the resignation of Bishop Joseph Devine. Reacting to the announcement, Bishop Toal said: Over the past eleven months, I have come to know the Diocese of Motherwell and appreciate the warmth and generosity of the clergy and laity, I look forward to deepening that relationship with them. While I am sad to be leaving my home diocese of Argyll and the Isles, I know the deep faith of the people there will sustain them as they await a new Bishop and I ask them to pray for me as I prepare to translate to the Diocese of Motherwell. Commenting on the appointment, the President of the Bishops Conference of Scotland, Archbishop Philip Tartaglia said: While sympathising with the priests and people of the Diocese of Argyll and the Isles on the transfer of their much loved and respected bishop, I welcome the nomination of Bishop Joseph Toal as the new Bishop of Motherwell and I wish him every blessing in his new appointment. ENDS Peter Kearney Director Catholic Media Office 5 St. Vincent Place Glasgow G1 2DH 0141 221 1168 07968 122291 mail@scmo.org www.scmo.org Notes to Editors: 1. The installation of the new bishop will take place in Our Lady of Good Aid Cathedral in Motherwell on a date to be advised. 2. The Diocese of Motherwell is the second largest Diocese in Scotland, by Mass attendance and Catholic population. It was erected as a Suffragan See of the Archdiocese of Glasgow by the Apostolic Constitution Maxime interest of the 25 May 1947. Bishop Toal will be the fifth Bishop of ...
Ordination of new Bishop of Paisley
Tuesday 18 March 2014Ordination of new Bishop of PaisleyThe Episcopal Ordination of Fr John Keenan as the new Bishop of Paisley will take place at St. Mirin s Cathedral in Paisley on Wednesday 19 March 2014 at 7pm.Speaking ahead of his Episcopal Ordination Bishop Elect Keenan said; I know Paisley is a wonderful diocese with good priests and people full of faith. I am looking forward to being with my brother priests, many of whom I already know really well, and getting to know the people and the parishes of the diocese. I hope just to settle in and listen a lot. The new Bishop will be consecrated by Archbishop Philip Tartaglia of Glasgow and the co-consecrators will be Archbishop Leo Cushley of St. Andrews & Edinburgh and Bishop John Mone, former Bishop of Paisley.The Papal Nuncio, HE Archbishop Antonio Mennini, will attend, representing Pope Francis.In a first for a Scottish Diocese, the Diocese of Paisley has produced a 16 minute biographical video production comprising interviews with the new Bishop. The film is designed to introduce Bishop Elect Keenan to the Diocese of Paisley and will be shown in the Cathedral and relayed to both the Cathedral Halls and the Lagoon Leisure Centre in Paisley, which will act as overspill venues. The film will be shown at 6.00pm.ENDSPeter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.orgNotes to Editors:1. You are invited to send a reporter/photographer to the ordination on Wednesday 19 March 2014 at 7pm. The Cathedral will be open from 5.30pm an introductory video on Bishop Elect Keenan will be shown at 6.00pm. There will be a procession of Civic and Ecumenical guests at 6.40pm and the Mass of Ordination will begin at 7.00pm. St. Mirin s Cathedral has a capacity of 1,000, while overspill accommodation will be provided in the Cathedral Halls (550) and The Lagoon Leisure Centre (1,000) live audio & video relays of the ceremony wil...
Pope Francis appoints new Bishop of Paisley
Pope Francis appoints new Bishop of Paisley Pope Francis has today (Saturday 8 February 2014) appointed Fr John Keenan, as Bishop of Paisley. The Diocese of Paisley has been vacant since September 2012, when Bishop Philip Tartaglia became Archbishop of Glasgow. Fr David Boyd has been the Administrator of the Diocese in the interim.Reacting to the announcement, Bishop-Elect Keenan said; While nervous at my appointment, I have been very uplifted at the congratulations and good wishes I have received so far which have given me more confidence. Everyone I speak to says Paisley is a wonderful diocese with good priests and people full of faith. I am looking forward to being with my brother priests, many of whom I already know really well, and getting to know the people and the parishes of the diocese. I hope just to settle in and listen a lot. At the same time I leave Glasgow with a heavy heart. I have loved my priesthood there from the very beginning and know I have family and many friends who will continue supporting me. This is an exciting time in the Church under Pope Francis' lively leadership and I hope to put as much of his vision into my own personal life and ministry as I can. I know many people in Paisley and Glasgow will be praying for me and I thank them very much. Welcoming the appointment of his successor, Archbishop Tartaglia said; I welcome the appointment of Father John Keenan as Bishop of Paisley. As Archbishop of Glasgow, I am glad that a priest of the Archdiocese has been named by Pope Francis as Bishop of Paisley. Father Keenan has been a much-loved and respected Parish Priest, and an inspirational Catholic Chaplain to Glasgow University (Turnbull Hall). His appointment gives me a huge headache in trying to replace him. But, in the Church, when one part of the body is made stronger, the whole body benefits. So, in this case, Paisley s delight is Glasgow s joy, and I am certain that Fr Keenan will be a fine bishop f...
Spiritual Support for Safeguarding
Spiritual Support for SafeguardingThursday 30 January 2014A ˜Dedication and Commissioning Service for all those who work in Safeguarding in the Diocese of Motherwell will take place on Feb 2nd at Our Lady of Good Aid Cathedral in Motherwell. The service will take place during Solemn Vespers at 5pm.Speaking ahead of the Service, Tina Campbell who is National Safeguarding Coordinator for the Catholic Church in Scotland said: Throughout Scotland a considerable amount of the work of safeguarding in each Diocese is dependent on many volunteers who give generously of their time as Parish Safeguarding Coordinators, as well as Trainers who deliver the Awareness and Safety Programme and Counter signatories and ID checkers who implement the PVG (Protection of Vulnerable Groups) Scheme. This work represents a huge commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of everyone in the Church and I am delighted it is being recognized in this way. An important aspect of our safeguarding work is to place all we do into the hands of God both for His protection and guidance. In my first few months in post I have been encouraging each Diocesan Safeguarding Team to consider the Dedication and Commissioning of all who share in this important work of Safeguarding. Tina added; The first such service will take place on Sunday February 2nd in the Diocese of Motherwell. It is rather fittingly the Feast of the Presentation of the Christ Child in the Temple. All who share in the work of safeguarding in the Diocese will gather at the Cathedral for Solemn Vespers. The principal celebrant will be Bishop Joseph Toal and priests and Deacons throughout the Diocese have been invited to join him. During Vespers, everyone will be invited to take part in the Act of Dedication and also to say the Prayer of Dedication and Commissioning together. This will be a very powerful witness to the good work which is taking place in our parishes and a clear sign of the importance given to the work of safeguarding....
Installation of new Bishop of Dunkeld
Installation of new Bishop of Dunkeld 8 January 2014 The Mass of Installation of the Right Reverend Stephen Robson as Bishop of Dunkeld Will take place in St. Andrew s Cathedral, Dundee on 9 January 2014. Archbishop Leo Cushley, the Archbishop of St. Andrews & Edinburgh, will deliver the Homily. Bishop Stephen Robson, previously Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of St. Andrews and Edinburgh was appointed as the new Bishop of Dunkeld, by Pope Francis on 11 December 2013, replacing Bishop Vincent Logan who stood down as Bishop of Dunkeld after almost 30 years in December 2010 on health grounds. Reacting to his appointment, Bishop Robson said; I am deeply honoured to have been chosen by Pope Francis as the next Bishop of Dunkeld. I look forward to trying to build up the People of God in the Faith and in the confidence of being Catholic in a challenging world and look forward especially to helping the young and families to live the Gospel and to serve Christ in the Church. A big priority must also be to encourage vocations to the priesthood and religious life In his homily, Archbishop Cushley will refer to the recent Feast of the Epiphany (5th January) and the gifts offered by the three Kings, suggesting that the gifts of prayer, wisdom and service will be essential to Bishop Stephen as he takes up this most important task of his many years of priestly service, in the pastoral leadership of the Church of Dunkeld. Archbishop Cushley, will add; My wish for Bishop Stephen is that God grants him a spirit of prayer leading to holiness, a holiness that will make his actions a living Gospel among all the people of Dunkeld. The second gift I would ask for him is a spirit of wisdom. In accepting to be your Pastor, Bishop Stephen swears his obedience to our Holy Father, Pope Francis. This is not some empty act, some token gesture. This is an essential part of his mission. The third gift that I would ask for Bishop Stephen is a spirit of s...
Pope Francis appoints new Bishop of Dunkeld
WEDNESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2013 Pope Francis appoints new Bishop of DunkeldPope Francis has today appointed Bishop Stephen Robson, currently Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of St. Andrews and Edinburgh as the new Bishop of Dunkeld. Bishop Robson will replace Bishop Vincent Logan who stood down as Bishop of Dunkeld after almost 30 years in December 2010 on health grounds. Monsignor Basil O Sullivan has been the Administrator of the Diocese in the interim.Reacting to the announcement, Bishop Robson said; I am deeply honoured to have been chosen by Pope Francis as the next Bishop of Dunkeld. Dunkeld is a beautiful diocese set in the heart of Scotland and I look forward to living and working there, getting to know the clergy, religious and laity and accompanying them on their Christian journey. I look forward to trying to build up the People of God in the Faith and in the confidence of being Catholic in a challenging world. I look forward especially to helping the young and families to live the Gospel and to serve Christ in the Church. A big priority must also be to encourage vocations to the priesthood and religious life Welcoming the appointment of his successor, Bishop Vincent Logan said; I was delighted to hear that Pope Francis has chosen Bishop Stephen Robson as my successor as the Bishop of Dunkeld. I offer Bishop Stephen my warmest congratulations on his appointment and assure him of my prayers and support as he prepares to begin his ministry in the Diocese of Dunkeld. Commenting on the appointment, Archbishop Leo Cushley, Archbishop of St Andrews & Edinburgh, said: I am delighted that the Holy Father has nominated Bishop Stephen Robson as Bishop of Dunkeld. In my brief time in Edinburgh, I have learned of a widespread affection and respect for him as a person and as a priest, and I will miss his wise counsel, energy and hard work at the service of the Archdiocese. I am sure that the people and priests of Dunkeld will benefit greatly from his goo...
Archbishop Leo Cushley delivers Scottish Parliament's 'Time For Reflection'
10 December 2013Archbishop Leo Cushley delivers Scottish Parliament s 'Time For Reflection' Delivering the "Time For Reflection in the Scottish Parliament today, Archbishop Leo Cushley, the Archbishop of St. Andrews and Edinburgh, welcomed the opportunity to address the Parliament and told MSP s that Scots law has been heavily influenced by Christian belief and "reflected our relationship with God and our relationship with our fellow human beings The Archbishop added, "If our human laws failed in either of these two dimensions, the argument went, they would fail to promote the common good that all law must surely strive to uphold."In his first ever address to the Parliament, the Archbishop, added that law must always evolve saying; "Human laws are of course imperfect just as we ourselves are fragile and imperfect. he concluded by praying "for all those who make Scotland s laws, that the Lord may bless them with justice and temperance, with courage and prudence. The full text of Archbishop Cushley s reflection is shown below.ENDSPeter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.orgTime For Reflection " Scottish Parliament " 10 December 2013Archbishop Leo CushleyDear friends, I am grateful for this opportunity to address this distinguished group of representatives in our nation s ancient capital. I have not lived in Scotland for a long time, and so it is a wonderful thing to return and to have the chance to stand here in our new parliament and to consider all that has been achieved here in so short a time. We hear it said life is sacred without thinking about it too much, but it remains impressed upon how we relate to each other as a society - and that is why it is in the bedrock of the laws of our country. When we look at Scots law, we can see the various origins and influences upon it, and one of them is Christianity. Of course, that pleases me as a ...
Pope's message to Glasgow following helicopter tragedy
SCMO | 02nd December 2013 | News Releases
Pope Francis has sent a message expressing his "closeness" to the people of Glasgow following the Clutha helicopter tragedy. The message was conveyed to Archbishop Philip Tartaglia by the Papal Nuncio Archbishop Antonio Mennini. The text reads:Your Grace,Having learned the sad news of the tragic accident which occurred in Glasgow when a police helicopter crashed into Clutha Vaults pub, close to the Cathedral, causing the death of several people and numerous injured, I would like hereby to convey to you, as Archbishop of Glasgow, the closeness of the Holy Father as well as my most sincere sympathy in these difficult moments.I assure you of my prayers for those who have tragically lost their lives or have been injured as well as their relatives. May the Lord grant eternal rest to those who have died and comfort their relatives and the entire community of Glasgow in these moments of distress and sadness.While kindly asking you to transmit these sentiments of the Holy Father and mine to all those affected by this tragedy, I remainYours fraternally in ChristArchbishop Antonio MenniniApostolic Nuncio ENDSPeter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.org...
Archbishop of Glasgow offers special Mass after helicopter tragedy
Archbishop of Glasgow offers special Mass after helicopter tragedy The Archbishop of Glasgow, Philip Tartaglia, will today offer a special Mass at St Andrew's Cathedral for all who have been involved in the Clutha helicopter tragedy.The Cathedral is just 400m from the crash site and last night priests from the Cathedral parish were on hand during the rescue to offer assistance to the injured and relatives.The Mass - which takes place on St Andrew's Day - will be held at 1pm at St Andrew's Cathedral, 196 Clyde Street Glasgow.You are welcome to send a reporter/photographer/film crew to the Mass.Commenting on the tragedy, the Archbishop said: "I was distressed by the news of last night s incident in central Glasgow near our Cathedral when a helicopter crashed into the Clutha Vaults Pub. My heart goes out to all those who have been affected by this tragic accident. Prayers will be offered for everyone, especially for those who have died, for the injured, and for the bereaved. May the gentle presence of Jesus comfort us all at this difficult time. Saint Andrew, patron of Scotland, pray for us."ENDSPeter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.orgNotes to Editors:To coordinate access to the Cathedral and for further information, please contact:Ronnie Convery, Director of Communications, Archdiocese of Glasgow on 07735 224789...
Scotland's Catholic Bishops announce range of safeguarding initiatives
Scotland s Catholic Bishops announce range of safeguarding initiatives.Monday 25 November 2013.Embargo 11.00The Bishops Conference of Scotland has today announced details of three safeguarding initiatives, which will be launched over the next 12 months. In a letter read out at all of Scotland s 500 Catholic parishes yesterday (24 November, the Feast of Christ the King) the President of the Bishops Conference, Archbishop Philip Tartaglia said: We recognise the trauma and pain that survivors of abuse have suffered and we are committed to providing for them both justice and healing. The Archbishop added that 2013 had been a test of faith for Catholics, but the Church was committed to consolidation of our safeguarding practices, the renewal of trust in our unshakeable commitment to atoning for abuse in the past, guarding against abuse in the present and eliminating abuse in the future, and supporting those who have been harmed. Archbishop Tartaglia also promised that all the initiatives were being launched in a spirit of openness and transparency and in recognition of the fact that safeguarding is a priority within the Church, and all who work in the Church must realise this. The initiatives concerned are:1. Immediate publication of all Diocesan Safeguarding Audits from 2006-2012, giving a statistical breakdown of reported safeguarding incidents during those years. 2. An external Review of Safeguarding Protocols and Procedures which will review the suitability and robustness of safeguarding procedures and the quality and rigour of their implementation nationally. The Very Rev Dr Andrew McLellan, CBE, former Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland and former Her Majesty s Chief Inspector of Prisons will direct this.3. A Statistical Review of all Historic Cases of Abuse from 1947-2005A full description of each of these processes is given below.Commenting on his participation in the review process, Dr McLellan sai...
Catholic Church pledges support for Philippines
Catholic Church pledges support for Philippines15 November 2013Following the devastation caused in the Philippines by Typhoon Haiyan last week, the President of the Bishops Conference of Scotland, Archbishop Philip Tartaglia has written to his counterpart Archbishop Palma in Manila promising both spiritual and financial support for those affected, from Scotland s Catholic community.The Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund (SCIAF) has already pledged £250,000 towards the relief effort and continues to collect contributions which so far have amounted to over £200,000.The full text of the letter is shown below.ENDSPeter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.org16 November 2013Feast of St Margaret of Scotland His ExcellencyArchbishop Jose S. PalmaArchbishop of CebuPresident of theCatholic Bishops Conference of the PhilippinesManilaYour Excellency,I write on behalf of the Catholics of Scotland to convey to you, your Bishops Conference and to the People of the Philippines our solidarity with you at this terrible time.Please be aware of our spiritual closeness to you as you face the many difficulties that lie ahead. Last weekend at Masses in our churches we offered special prayers for the victims, both living and dead, of the typhoon. We will do so again this coming weekend. And you will continue to be in our prayers in the weeks and months ahead.We wish to be near to you also practically and financially. Our own overseas aid agency, SCIAF, is actively fundraising to support the relief efforts in your beloved country. SCIAF has already pledged £250,000 sterling for the aid effort and more funds will follow as they come in from our parishes and from donations.We ask God to work through His Church and the aid agencies to bring healing in the midst of this crisis. We pray, too, that the Blessed Virgin Mary, patroness of the Philippines, will int...
Expansion for St Margaret's Adoption Agency
Expansion for St Margaret's Adoption Agency15 November 2013Scotland s first dedicated Catholic centre for the family opens thisweekend (16 November) on the feast of St Margaret of Scotland. St Margaret sChildren and Family Care Society, is expanding its services and movinginto bigger and better accommodation.The Agency which is currently awaiting a ruling from the ScottishCharities Appeal Tribunal on whether it will be allowed to continue tooperate as a charity, was this month nominated as one of the top threevoluntary adoption agencies in the UK by the British Association ofAdoption and Fostering.On Saturday, November 16 - appropriately the Feast of St Margaret - theagency will open the doors to its new Centre for the Family at 26Newton Place, Glasgow. Archbishop Philip Tartaglia will bless the newcentre, which aims to address the many complex issues in modern familylife for people of all faiths and none. It will house Fertility CareScotland and will be a new base for the St Margaret of Scotland YouthGroup and will provide educational facilities for families consideringadoption as a positive choice. At the opening there will be testimoniesfrom families and individuals whose lives have been transformed by StMargaret s.Brian McGuigan of the Board of St Margaret s said: The expansionof our services and premises will be a great boost for staff and themany families we work with, of all faiths and none, who know of the goodwork we do on a daily basis to help find families for children in need. Despite the distressing challenges we have faced over the last yearwe are committed to improving and expanding our services. StMargaret s is Scotland s smallest voluntary adoption agency butwe have ambitious plans to provide services to families and childrenwell into the future."Archbishop Tartaglia said: I am delighted that St Margaret s iscontinuing - and indeed expanding - its services. The agency is a realtreasure of the Church in this part of Scotland and it is our h...
Scottish Church is one of UK's best modern places of worship
Scottish Church is one of UK's best modern places of worshipSt Bride's RC Church in East Kilbride has been voted one of the UK's best modern places of worship. The new - town landmark has been named in the top three of the Best Modern Churches architecture competition run by the National Churches Trust, the Ecclesiastical Architects and Surveyors Association and the 20th Century Society.St Brides was picked out from over 200 entries UK-wide and is the only church in Scotland to make the top three places of worship judged to be the best sacred spaces built in the last 60 years. The Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby presented the awards at a ceremony held at Lambeth Palace.The top place was awarded to ST Paul's Church, Bow Common London and silver to St Mary's RC Church, Lancashire with St Bride's taking the National Churches Trust Bronze award.St Bride's Church was built in 1964 and was designed by Gillespie Kidd and Coia architects. Its distinctive red brick modernist style makes it one of East Kilbride's best known buildings.The judges said of St Bride's: A tour de force of powerful form, a seemingly unforgiving massif (sic) of brick revealing carefully considered but sparely created details that relate very well to the function of building as a post-Vatican 2 church. There is nothing here out of place.See more at: http://www.bestmodernchurches.org.uk/st-brides-church-east-kilbride-lanarkshire-g74-1nnEndsFor further press information on St Brides, please contact Claire Gemson on 07815512005For media enquiries on the awards scheme contact Communications Manager Eddie Tulasiewicz Telephone: +44 (0)207 600 6090Peter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.org...
Archbishop urges prayers for Grangemouth workers.
Archbishop urges prayers for Grangemouth workers.Archbishop Leo Cushley has called for prayers for all those affected by the closure threatened Grangemouth plant, situated in his Archdiocese and has urged those in a position to influence to work towards fair outcomes for all those involved. The oil refinery and petrochemical plant in Grangemouth is in the St Mungo s & St Ninian s deanery of the Archdiocese of St. Andrews & Edinburgh. It has two Catholic parishes served by Canon Leo Glancy, with a total Catholic population of about 2,000. Reacting to the situation, Archbishop Leo Cushley said: I would ask the people and clergy of the Archdiocese to pray and support those affected by this crisis, and those in a position to influence positively a path that will lead to fair outcomes and long term employment for the families and communities that are already struggling in the current economic climate. In a statement being sent to all parishes in the Archdiocese this weekend, the Archbishop also draws attention to recent comments by Pope Francis on the importance of work for individuals and communities and the responsibility of those in public office to encourage growth in opportunities for fair and equitable employment. Speaking on 1 May 2013, (the Feast of St Joseph the Worker), the Pope said; Work is fundamental to the dignity of a person. Work, to use a metaphor, anoints us with dignity, it gives one the ability to maintain oneself, one s family, to contribute to the growth of one s own nation. Pope Francis added; I am thinking of how many, and not only young people, are unemployed, often due to a purely economic conception of society, which seeks profit selfishly, beyond the parameters of social justice. I wish to extend an invitation to solidarity to everyone, and I would like to encourage those in public office to make every effort to give new impetus to employment, this means caring for the dignity of the person, but above all I would...
Episcopal Ordination of Archbishop-elect Leo Cushley.
Episcopal Ordination of Archbishop-elect Leo Cushley. The Episcopal Ordination of Archbishop-elect Leo Cushley will take place at St. Mary's Cathedral, Edinburgh at 11am on Saturday 21st September 2013. Archbishop Elect Cushley who was appointed new Archbishop of St. Andrews and Edinburgh by Pope Francis on 24 July will become the eighth Archbishopof St. Andrews and Edinburgh since the restoration of the Catholic Hierarchy in 1878. He will be consecrated by: Cardinal James Harvey, who will be the principal consecrator and principal celebrant of the Mass of Episcopal Ordination/Consecration. Cardinal Harvey was Mgr. Cushley 's first superior in the Secretariat of State andis a long-time colleague in the diplomatic service. Cardinal Harvey also worked as a deacon in a parish Edinburgh in the summer of 1974. Cardinal Harvey is from Wisconsin, USA. His Excellency Archbishop Antonio Mennini, Apostolic Nuncio to Great Britain, the Pope 's representative in the United Kingdom. Most Rev. Philip Tartaglia, Archbishop of Glasgow, in his capacity as Apostolic Administrator of the Archdiocese of St Andrews and Edinburgh. Among the guests will be: Rt. Hon Alex Salmond, the First Minister, the Moderator of the General Assembly, Dr Lorna Hood, Bishop John Armes Episcopal Bishop of Edinburgh, the British Ambassador to the Holy See,Nigel Baker, together with the Catholic Bishops of Scotland and other civic and religious dignitaries. Commenting on the Ordination, Cardinal Harvey said; I am delighted and honoured to part of this historic moment in the life of the Church of St Andrews and Edinburgh. Archbishop Cushley brings many gifts of mind and heart to his new office. I am convinced that these gifts, suitable for prudent pastoral governance, will redound to the good of this Archdiocese and beyond. ENDS Peter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.org �...
Scottish National Ecumenical Event
Friday 13 September 2013Scottish National Ecumenical EventA national ecumenical event will take place in Aberdeen tomorrow (Saturday 14 September) which will include a "Walk of Witness" between two of the city's most prominent places of worship.The day will start at 10am for 10.30am with a Lecture by Mgr Peter Hocken at Bishop s House, AberdeenThen at 1.30pm participants will gather at St Nicholas Kirk, (the Mither Kirk) Union Street, Aberdeen for aCivic welcome from Councillor John Reynolds, Deputy Lord Provost . This will be followed by Prayer led by Rev Stephen Taylor and at around 2.30pm a Walk of Witness from St Nicholas Kirk to St Mary s Cathedral will take place.From 3pm there will be a Service of Evening Prayer at St Mary s CathedralSpeaking ahead of the event, the Bishop of Aberdeen, Rt. Rev Hugh Gilbert said:"The National Ecumenical Event which will take place in Aberdeen this weekend is a further sign of the common witness of Christians in Scotland today. At a time when many secular voices urge the removal of a Christian perspective from our national life, we come together as Christians to bear witness to our faith and to show how far ecumenical friendships in Scotland has deepened and grown." ENDSNote to Editors: You are invited to send a reporter/photographer/camera crew for further information, contact Fr. Tom Boyle " 07900 492750Peter KearneyDirectorCatholic Media Office5 St. Vincent PlaceGlasgowG1 2DH0141 221 1168(T)0141 204 2458(F)07968 122291(M)pk@scmo.orgwww.scmo.org...
Bishops announce new National Coordinator for Safeguarding
SCMO | 03rd September 2013 | News Releases
Bishops announce new National Coordinator for Safeguarding Tuesday 3 September 2013 The Bishops Conference of Scotland has appointed a new National Coordinator for Safeguarding, who will take up the post on 1 December 2013. Tina Campbell, who is currently Head of Counselling Services Sandyford Greater Glasgow & Clyde NHS and Chair of British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy Healthcare Division has extensive experience in education, counselling and support work.Announcing the appointment, General Secretary of the Bishops' Conference of Scotland, Mgr Hugh Bradley said;"Together with the Bishops, I am delighted that Tina is able to take up the post of National Coordinator for Safeguarding. Her extensive experience and proven abilities in this field will be of great value to the Church in Scotland." I wish her every success and look forward to working with her."Reacting to the appointment, Tina Campbell said;"I am delighted to have been appointed as National Coordinator for Safeguarding by the Bishops' Conference of Scotland and determined to ensure that the work carried out by many experts and advisers over the past 15 years is developed and continues into the future. Society, quite rightly, has a heightened awareness of safeguarding matters today and as an organisation active in every part of Scotland we must continue to ensure that we provide a safe and secure environment for everyone who encounters the church in any way and to support those who have been harmed in the past." Tina concluded;"I look forward to working with the Bishops of Scotland, our clergy and the many dedicated people across the country who both implement and support our National Safeguarding policies and procedures in their parish communities. The work of Safeguarding is an important ministry in the Church and I am privileged to be appointed to this role"ENDSNote to Editors " A full biography of Tina Campbell is shown below, photographs are available from the Catho...
Safeguarding procedures within the Catholic Church in Scotland
In a letter published in the Tablet newspaper today (23 August) Archbishop Mario Conti corrects a number of inaccuracies relating to Safeguarding procedures within the Catholic Church in Scotland. At their June 2013 meeting the Bishops' Conference of Scotland agreed to publish the existing National Audits conducted by the National Safeguarding Office. These audits draw together the work of the Diocesan Safeguarding Offices in any one calendar year beginning in 2006. It is hoped to publish these audits late in the autumn of 2013. They will contain all the aspects of the work of the eight dioceses of the Church in Scotland with regard to safeguarding and will detail any complaints made about clergy, church workers, volunteers or anyone else and how these complaints were dealt with. Prior to 2006 there was no National Audit and so at present, renewed consideration is being given as to how the statistics which exist for the earlier years can be drawn together and published. The Church remains willing to engage in any process which allows lessons to be learned and survivors to be supported." The full text of Archbishop Conti s letter is shown below. Peter Kearney Director Catholic Media Office 5 St. Vincent Place Glasgow G1 2DH 0141 221 1168(T) 0141 204 2458(F) 07968 122291(M) pk@scmo.org www.scmo.org The Editor, The Tablet. I respond to your editorial of 10th August which has as yet gone unanswered (Curse of Complacency) in which you make some damming judgments of the Catholic Church in Scotland with respect to Safeguarding, suggesting that it has a long way to go and that the Catholic Church in England and Wales (is) streets ahead of Scotland in respect of caring for survivors. You illustrate this with reference to the recent revelations about alleged abuse of boys at Fort Augustus School by monks of the Abbey. Let us deal first of all with Fort Augustus. It was within the ecclesiastical area of Scotla...
Archbishop Elect names Consecrators
Monsignor Leo Cushley, the Archbishop-elect of St Andrews and Edinburgh has released the names of the bishops who will be the traditional three principal consecrators at his episcopal ordination next month. They are:His Eminence James Michael Cardinal Harvey, Archpriest of the Patriarchal Basilica of St Paul-outside-the Walls: Cardinal Harvey will be the principal consecrator and principal celebrant of the Mass of Episcopal Ordination/Consecration. Cardinal Harvey was Mgr. Cushley s first superior in the Secretariat of State and is a long-time colleague in the diplomatic service. Cardinal Harvey also worked as a deacon in a parish Edinburgh in the summer of 1974. Cardinal Harvey is from Wisconsin, USA.His Excellency Archbishop Antonio Mennini, Apostolic Nuncio to Great Britain, the Pope s representative in the United Kingdom.Most Rev. Philip Tartaglia, Archbishop of Glasgow, in his capacity as Apostolic Administrator of the Archdiocese of St Andrews and Edinburgh.Mgr. Cushley has also commented on his meeting last Tuesday (13 August), with Pope Francis, saying;"I