The Bishops' Conference of Scotland

Holy Mass of the Solemnity of the Holy Trinity | 31 May 2026
This music is licensed under one license number: A-623356

Gospel
Mark 11:27-33
‘By what authority are you doing these things?’

At that time: Jesus and his disciples came again to Jerusalem. And as he was walking in the Temple, the chief priests and the scribes and the elders came to him, and they said to him, ‘By what authority are you doing these things, or who gave you this authority to do them?’ Jesus said to them, ‘I will ask you one question; answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things. Was the baptism of John from heaven or from man? Answer me.’ And they discussed it with one another, saying, ‘If we say, “From heaven”, he will say, “Why then did you not believe him?” But shall we say, “From man”?’ — they were afraid of the people, for they all held that John really was a prophet. So they answered Jesus, ‘We do not know.’ And Jesus said to them, ‘Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.’

Votive Mass of the Blessed Virgin Mary | 30 May 2026
This music is licensed under one license number: A-623356

The words chosen by a bishop at his episcopal consecration often become a guiding thread throughout his ministry.

In tonight’s video, Bishop Frank Dougan reflects on the meaning behind his episcopal motto: “Quench not the wavering flame.”

Inspired by the suffering servant songs of the Prophet Isaiah and the light of the Easter Vigil, Bishop Frank speaks about the delicate flame of faith, how easily it can be weakened, and the importance of protecting and nurturing it in others.

From one small flame can come a great light.

Watch now as Bishop Frank shares the story and spirituality behind his motto.