Church of Scotland General Assembly to vote on same-sex marriage
The annual Kirk gathering is getting underway
Church of Scotland ministers and elders are beginning its General Assembly this weekend - which will discuss whether clergy will be allowed to conduct same-sex marriages.
For the first time the annual gathering is being held in a hybrid format, with around 400 expected to attend in person in Edinburgh.
Commissioners will vote on whether to enable parish ministers and deacons to apply to become authorised celebrants to conduct same-sex ceremonies on Monday.
Those who do not wish to would not have to participate in marriage ceremonies, if the measure is approved.
A report earlier this month found the majority of presbyteries in Scotland were in favour of same-sex marriages.
New moderator Dr Iain Greenshields - who is expected to be officially installed said: "I am honoured and humbled to have been chosen and I aim to represent the Church and God in a way that is positive, instructive and hopeful.
"There are a great many challenges facing our society today including poverty, mental health, social isolation, addiction and climate change and the Church is active in supporting those in genuine need.
"Ultimately the greatest need in our society is the spiritual vacuum that exists in the lives of so many."
The General Assembly is also expected to welcome a historic declaration of friendship with the Catholic Church in Scotland.
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