Church deeply distressed at offence over Koran reading in Cathedral, says leader
The Scottish Episcopal Church is deeply distressed at the offence caused by the reading of a passage from the Koran in a Glasgow cathedral, its leader has said.
The Scottish Episcopal Church is deeply distressed at the offence caused by the reading of a passage from the Koran in a Glasgow cathedral, its leader has said.
The verses were read at St Mary's Episcopal Cathedral on January 6 to mark the Feast of the Epiphany but sparked criticism.
Church Primus, the Most Rev David Chillingworth, wrote in an online post that the church is committed to interfaith development and will meet with those involved.
He also said he regretted abuse targeted at the cathedral.
A reading from the Koran given at the service told the story of the birth of Christ saying Jesus was not the son of God.
Members of the local Muslim community were also invited to the service in an effort to build relationships between the Christian and Muslim faiths.
The cathedral said it had since received offensive messages from online platforms and police are investigating.
Rev Chillingworth wrote: “Those who seek to work in the area of interfaith relationships must weigh carefully whether the choices which they make are appropriate or otherwise.
“In today's world, those judgments must give careful consideration to good relationships which have been carefully nurtured over many years in a local context.
“They must also weigh carefully the way in which national and international issues shape perceptions of what is appropriate or inappropriate
“The decisions which have led to the situation in St Mary's Cathedral are a matter for the provost and the cathedral community but the Scottish Episcopal Church is deeply distressed at the widespread offence which has been caused.
“We also deeply regret the widespread abuse which has been received by the cathedral community.
“In response to what has happened at the cathedral, the Scottish Episcopal Church will bring together all those who are involved in the development of interfaith relations.
“Our intention will be as a church to explore how, particularly in the area of worship, this work can be carried forward in ways which will command respect.”
Last week, Police Scotland confirmed it was investigating the offensive comments directed at the cathedral and did not tolerate any form of hate.
A spokesman said: “We can confirm we are investigating reports of offensive comments made towards St Mary's Episcopal Cathedral in Glasgow and inquiries are ongoing.
“Police Scotland will not tolerate any form of hate and encourages all communities to work together to ensure no-one feels threatened or marginalised.”