The Bishops' Conference of Scotland

The Roman Catholic Bishops in Scotland work together to undertake nationwide initiatives through their Commissions and Agencies.

The members of the Bishops' Conference are the Bishops of the eight Scottish Dioceses. Where appropriate the Bishops Emeriti (retired) provide a much welcomed contribution to the work of the conference. The Bishops' Conference of Scotland is a permanently constituted assembly which meets regularly throughout the year to address relevant business matters.

Members of The Bishops' Conference of Scotland

Click here to visit the Jubilee 2025 website

The Jubilee Prayer

Father in heaven,

may the faith you have given us

in your son, Jesus Christ, our brother,

and the flame of charity enkindled in our hearts by the Holy Spirit, reawaken in us the blessed hope for the coming of your Kingdom.

May your grace transform us into tireless cultivators of the seeds of the Gospel.

May those seeds transform from within both humanity and the whole cosmos in the sure expectation of a new heaven and a new earth,

when, with the powers of Evil vanquished,

your glory will shine eternally.

May the grace of the Jubilee reawaken in us, Pilgrims of Hope, a yearning for the treasures of heaven. May that same grace spread the joy and peace of our Redeemer throughout the earth.

To you our God, eternally blessed, be glory and praise for ever.

Amen

At Christmas, Christians across Scotland gathered around the crib to contemplate the life of a vulnerable child; God entering our world as a baby in need of care, protection and love. Christmas places fragile human life at the centre of everything.

It is therefore unsettling that this season saw the first person in Scotland charged under the new so-called “buffer zone” law in Scotland; a law the Church believes curtails Scotland’s commitment to freedom of expression and conscience, and restricts critical voices from democratic debate in the public square.

The Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) (Scotland) Act 2024 establishes “buffer zones” of up to 200 metres around abortion facilities — currently around 30 locations across Scotland. Within those zones, any conduct deemed to “influence” a decision about abortion may be criminalised. That vague description should trouble anyone who values legal clarity or free expression.

The Catholic Church does not condone harassment or intimidation, but that was not the intention of this law. The Church has been clear: harassment, intimidation and obstruction are wrong and unacceptable. But Scotland already has robust laws to deal with harassment, public disorder and threatening behaviour and it is telling that, when consulted on the proposed new law, Police Scotland did not ask for more powers, and went as far to state in written evidence to Parliament that, “existing powers and offences are sufficient to address any unlawful behaviour in the vicinity of healthcare premises.” When parliaments introduce criminal offences where existing law is already sufficient, questions should be raised and alarm bells ring.

We oppose this law because it is disproportionate and undemocratic. It represents state overreach and curtails basic freedoms. The Church would similarly oppose legislation mandating buffer zones outside nuclear weapons facilities or refugee detention centres. This should concern every Scottish citizen, regardless of their views on abortion.

As the Parliamentary Officer for the Catholic Church in Scotland pointed out, women experiencing crisis pregnancies may be “denied the opportunity to freely speak to people and organisations who may be able to help them.” A law supposedly designed to protect choice risks doing the opposite — eliminating one side of a conversation and one set of choices altogether.

Even more troubling is what the legislation anticipates. Official documentation accompanying the Act acknowledges that the law envisages criminalising “praying audibly” and “silent vigils."

This is unprecedented in modern Scotland, and it is no wonder it has raised eyebrows around the world, with concerns raised around Scotland’s commitment to human rights and freedom of expression and religion.

The implications go further. The Act extends to private homes within designated zones. A pro-life poster displayed in a window, a conversation overheard, a prayer said by a window; all could, in principle, fall within the scope of criminal sanction. When asked directly whether praying by a window in your own home could constitute an offence, Gillian Mackay, the Scottish Green Party MSP, who spearheaded the legislation, replied: “That depends on who’s passing the window.” That sends a chill down the spine of anyone who cares about civil liberties. Criminal law that depends on the perception of a passer-by is certainly not the hallmark of a free Scottish society.

The law also potentially criminalises a person standing alone in a buffer zone without any visible expression of protest, but who is deemed by others to be offering a silent pro-life inspired prayer. Even Police Scotland expressed unease. Superintendent Gerry Corrigan told Parliament that policing thought is an area they “would stay clear of,” adding: “I do not think we could go down the road of asking people what they are thinking or what their thoughts are. That feels really uncomfortable.” Yet, this is the territory into which Scottish law now ventures. Bishop John Keenan, President of the Bishops’ Conference, noted that “none of the arguments made were able to get around the basic premise that Police Scotland had never asked for more powers.” and that the law is “draconian” and “unnecessary,” particularly considering its impact on people of faith.

Some parliamentarians attempted to mitigate the effects of the law— proposing a reasonableness defence, or exemptions for chaplains who might be criminalised for pastoral conversations. All amendments were rejected or withdrawn.

We support all those who, motivated by conscience and compassion, stand up for the right to life. It cannot be a crime to give our voice and our prayers to the unborn.

Christmas is the message that every human life has infinite dignity from its beginning. That truth is not confined to private thoughts. A society confident in its values does not fear opposing voices. It does not criminalise silent prayer. It does not ask its police or judges to peer into the minds of its citizens.

Scotland’s buffer zones law represents a profound shift in the relationship between the State and the individual — one that restricts free speech, free expression and freedom of religion in ways that should concern us all.

As we look to the child in the manger this Christmas and Epiphany, we are reminded that babies do not have a voice of their own. It is a shame that the State has now also curtailed the voices of ordinary citizens who advocate for them within its borders.

The Catholic Bishops of Scotland
6th January 2026

News from the Commissions and Agencies

Archive by category: Justice & Peace Scotland FacebookReturn

October 2025

24Oct

Photos from Justice & Peace Scotland's post

24 Oct, 2025 | Justice & Peace Scotland | Justice & Peace Scotland Facebook |

📸DIGNITY NOT DETENTION: National Day of Solidarity to End Immigration Detention

Justice & Peace Scotland joined with Scottish Detainee Visitors and Glasgow Solidarity Stall last Saturday for a community advocacy event marking the National Day of Solidarity to End Immigration Detention.

We reflected on the growing injustice of immigration detention in the UK, shared stories, and wrote postcards to people currently detained in Dungavel Immigration Removal Centre.

We’re especially grateful to Ronnie Tagwireyi, Scottish Detainee Visitors board member, for sharing his first-hand experiences of detention, reminding us of the human cost of this inhumane system and the urgent need for change.

💬Our Campaigns & Communications Officer, Andrew Smith, said:

“At a time when the cruel and unjust practice of immigration detention is becoming more prevalent in the UK, it was affecting to come together with empathy to show our opposition to the detention system. As Pope Leo XIV has said of those seeking sanctuary, safety and security, ‘it is important that there be a growing desire in people’s hearts for a future of peace and respect for the dignity of all.’”

We are deeply grateful to all who joined us in solidarity last weekend and were encouraged by those who left inspired to take further action: to volunteer, campaign, demonstrate, and advocate for change.

Justice & Peace Scotland continues to call for an end to indefinite detention and for an immigration system rooted in human dignity, compassion, and respect.

22Oct

🇻🇦On the Feast Day of St John Paul II, his teaching from the encyclical Centesimus Annus reminds us that our faith is not a priv...

22 Oct, 2025 | Justice & Peace Scotland | Justice & Peace Scotland Facebook |

🇻🇦On the Feast Day of St John Paul II, his teaching from the encyclical Centesimus Annus reminds us that our faith is not a private matter; it must be lived out by concrete action in our communities and throughout the world.

✝️Jesus calls us to this way of living in the Gospels: in the Sermon on the Mount, He instructs us to be peacemakers and to hunger and thirst for what is right. And in the Parable of the Last Judgment, Christ identifies Himself with the most vulnerable, declaring that we are close to Him when we respond to their needs: “whatever you did for one of the least of these… you did for me.”

🙏May St John Paul II inspire us to take up active discipleship by living the Gospel not only in word, but in deeds of compassion, courage, justice and hope. St John Paul II, pray for us!

21Oct

📢SCOTLAND DEMANDS BETTER

21 Oct, 2025 | Justice & Peace Scotland | Justice & Peace Scotland Facebook |

📢SCOTLAND DEMANDS BETTER

If you believe in a Scotland built on dignity, community, and solidarity we are calling on you to join us and thousands of others in Edinburgh this weekend as we demand better jobs, better investment in life’s essentials, and better social security for all.

We will be marching alongside the Church of Scotland, the Scottish Episcopal Church, and fellow Christian denominations - meeting point info at the end of this post. ⬇️

In a time when division and uncertainty can so easily take hold, this is a march for all of us. Lasting change comes when we stand together in a positive and united call for fairness, compassion, and the common good for each and every person - not when we are a society fragmented.

KEY DETAILS:
📅 Saturday 25th October.
🕥 Gathering from 10:30am at Scottish Churches' Meeting Point | March sets off at 11am.
📍 Scottish Churches' Meeting Point - beside the Scottish Water Top-Up Tap, outside the Scottish Parliament Visitors' Entrance.
🪧Look out for the J&P Scotland banner and "Scottish Churches Demand Better" placards at the meeting point.
👣For details about the March route or accessibility information, head to the Scotland Demands Better website.
🎵The March ends with a rally and family friendly mini-festival in The Meadows, which will include speeches and a headline set from Colonel Mustard and The Dijon 5.

March with us for a Scotland where everyone can thrive!

09Oct

Justice & Peace Scotland welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire in Gaza

09 Oct, 2025 | Justice & Peace Scotland | Justice & Peace Scotland Facebook |

Justice & Peace Scotland welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire in Gaza. This development brings much-needed hope and respite to the Palestinian people after unimaginable suffering, grief and loss.

We recognise the anxious longing of Israeli families who have continued to wait for the safe return of loved ones taken hostage and the hope that this announcement brings to them.

When Fr Gabriel Romanelli, parish priest of the Holy Family Church in Gaza, visited Scotland last year he spoke clearly about what all people of the Holy Land need: a sustainable, authentic, and just peace, grounded in equal rights, dignity, and security for all.

This ceasefire must mark not an end point, but the beginning of a genuine peace process rooted in justice, accountability, and respect for human life. Only such a peace can bring lasting security for both peoples and a future where all can live in freedom and safety.

08Oct

📢JOIN US AT SCOTLAND DEMANDS BETTER – The March for All of Us

08 Oct, 2025 | Justice & Peace Scotland | Justice & Peace Scotland Facebook |

📢JOIN US AT SCOTLAND DEMANDS BETTER – The March for All of Us

🗓️ Saturday 25th October
🕥10:30am–12:30pm
📍 Scottish Churches Meeting Point: at the Scottish Water Top-Up Tap, outside the Scottish Parliament Visitors’ Entrance - (What3Words: wiping.small.chief)

We envision a future for Scotland built on unity, solidarity, and inclusion, not on division and intolerance.

That’s why Justice & Peace Scotland is proud to stand alongside The Poverty Alliance, the Church of Scotland, the Scottish Episcopal Church, and over 200 organisations and faith groups for the Scotland Demands Better March in Edinburgh.

We are uniting this October to call for:
1️⃣Fair jobs and wages.
2️⃣Decent social security.
3️⃣Investment in essentials so that every household can thrive.

We know that the challenges facing our communities – poverty, low pay, homelessness, lack of resources – are leaving many frustrated and angry. We also know a better way is possible: one that rejects division and the scapegoating of minority groups and instead is rooted in solidarity and hope.

✝️ We need YOU to join us in Edinburgh as we come together as people of faith against poverty, against division, and demanding better for all people in Scotland.

🚶‍♀️The march will set off from the Scottish Parliament at 11am, travel up the Royal Mile to The Meadows, and conclude with a family-friendly rally full of music, speeches, and community spirit.

🪧Look out for the J&P Scotland banner and placards at the meeting point - bring your family, bring your friends, and let's demand better for Scotland.

07Oct

🕊️"Blessed are the peacemakers."

07 Oct, 2025 | Justice & Peace Scotland | Justice & Peace Scotland Facebook |

🕊️"Blessed are the peacemakers."
The Bishops' Conference of Scotland have asked that we keep today, the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, as a day to pray for peace in the Holy Land and wherever there is violence or conflict in our world.

🕯️Justice & Peace Scotland are also asking you to "Light a Prayer for Peace" at some point today too - light a candle as a symbol of your prayer and as a sign of hope shining in the darkness.

⛪Many churches across Scotland are opening their doors in response to the Bishops' request, if you are able to, please visit and light a candle there. If this is not possible, take a moment in your day to light a candle at home and pray for peace throughout the world. Here is a prayer we invite you to say:

God of peace and justice, we pray for the people of the Holy Land:
Israeli and Palestinian; Jew, Christian, and Muslim.
We pray for an end to acts of violence and terror.
We lift to you all who are fearful and hurting.
We ask for wisdom and compassion for those in leadership.
Above all, we ask that Jesus, the Prince of Peace, establish lasting reconciliation and justice for the Holy Land and for all nations.

🙏Our Lady of the Rosary, Queen of Peace, Pray For Us.

📸 - This photograph was taken in the Garden of Gethsemane, Jerusalem.

06Oct

🚨 TOMORROW: Pray and Act for Gaza 🕊️

06 Oct, 2025 | Justice & Peace Scotland | Justice & Peace Scotland Facebook |

🚨 TOMORROW: Pray and Act for Gaza 🕊️

As we approach two years of war in Gaza, the Bishops' Conference of Scotland have asked Catholics across the country to dedicate 7th October to praying for peace in the Holy Land and wherever there is violence and conflict in our world.

Justice & Peace Scotland is inviting everyone to take part in two simple but powerful steps:

🕯️Step 1: Light a Prayer for Peace
Join us by visiting a Church tomorrow if you can, and lighting a candle for all those affected by the war in Gaza. Pray for an immediate end to violence, for any ceasefires or peace agreements to hold, for families to be reunited with loved ones taken hostage, and for a just and lasting peace to be achieved for all Palestinians and Israelis.

✍️ Step 2: Write to Your MP
A template letter is available on our website for you to download and personalise. Use it to urge the UK Government to do all in its power to help end the suffering, ensure humanitarian aid reaches those in need, and support genuine peace where both Palestinians and Israelis have agency in shaping their own futures.

Even as the situation continues to change rapidly, these actions remain vital. Together, through prayer and advocacy, we can shine a light in the darkness and be a voice for justice and peace.

04Oct

🕯️PRAYERS FOR THE WORLD DAY OF MIGRANTS AND REFUGEES

04 Oct, 2025 | Justice & Peace Scotland | Justice & Peace Scotland Facebook |

🕯️PRAYERS FOR THE WORLD DAY OF MIGRANTS AND REFUGEES

This weekend, as we mark the 111th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, coinciding with the Jubilee of Migrants in Rome, we are inviting you to pray with us in a spirit of solidarity and hope for all people who are on a journey seeking safety, security and refuge.

Pope Leo XIV, in his message for the occasion, has called us to see migrants as missionaries of hope: as men, women, and children whose presence challenges us to live our faith in a deeper, more authentic and more inclusive way.

The intercessions below from Jesuit Refugee Service UK are offered to help you pray for migrants, refugees, and displaced persons around the world. They are especially suited for use during this special Jubilee weekend but can be prayed at any time, as a reflection of the Gospel call to welcome the stranger and to work for justice and peace.

✝️“I was a stranger and you welcomed me” (Mt 25:35)
For all migrants and refugees around the world, that they may find safety, welcome, and dignity in their journey, and that we may open our hearts and communities to receive them with love.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

✝️“The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble” (Ps 9:9)
For all people forced to flee their homes due to war and persecution, that they may find safety, and find hope through the compassion of others.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

✝️“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfil the law of Christ” (Ga 6:2)
For all people working to give a warm welcome to refugees, in thanksgiving for their effort and generosity. We pray for organisations like the Jesuit Refugee Service, and for all who accompany, serve, and advocate for refugees.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

✝️“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it” (Heb 13:2)
For our local communities, that we may be moved by the Gospel call to welcome the stranger and act in solidarity with those on the margins.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

✝️“Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression” (Is 1:17)
For political leaders and decision-makers: that they may uphold the dignity and rights of migrants and refugees, and work for peace and justice in our world.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

✝️“You shall love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt” (Dt 10:19)
We remember the Holy Family’s flight into Egypt, and all the stories of migration in Scripture. We pray for children and families displaced by conflict, that they may be protected, reunited, and given the opportunity to flourish in safety.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

✝️“He will wipe every tear from their eyes” (Rv 21:4)
For all who have died on their journey seeking refuge, that they may rest in God’s eternal peace, and that we may honour their memory by working for change.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

03Oct

Archbishop Nolan has expressed his horror at the terrorist attack on a Manchester synagogue

03 Oct, 2025 | Justice & Peace Scotland | Justice & Peace Scotland Facebook |

Archbishop Nolan has expressed his horror at the terrorist attack on a Manchester synagogue.
He said: "The attack on innocent people taking part in a religious event in broad daylight is an act of evil which should be condemned by all right-thinking people. The Jewish community was memorably defined by Saint John Paul II as ‘our older brothers in the faith’ and we feel a special closeness to them in this hour of sorrow and fear.
"My prayers, and those of the Catholic community are for those who have died, the bereaved, the injured, and those who feel anxious and afraid. Leaders of all faiths must unite in times like this to make it clear that killing and destruction in the name of religion is abhorrent. Violence and inhumanity have no place in the tenets of the great world faiths.”

02Oct

This Sunday we have been invited to speak at an urgent and vital public meeting: "Conflict in the Holy Land: What do we need to ...

02 Oct, 2025 | Justice & Peace Scotland | Justice & Peace Scotland Facebook |

This Sunday we have been invited to speak at an urgent and vital public meeting: "Conflict in the Holy Land: What do we need to know and what can we do?"

As the urgency for true peace in Gaza, the West Bank and Israel intensifies, this is a crucial opportunity to gain deeper understanding and explore meaningful actions.

🗓️ Sunday 5th October 2025
🕒 3 PM
📍 St Mary's Hall, Saltcoats, KA21 5BW

If you are in the RC Diocese of Galloway, or simply moved by the call for justice and peace in the Holy Land, please join us on Sunday in Saltcoats.