Legal threat from religious leaders over restrictions

RELIGIOUS leaders in Scotland have written to the Scottish Government threatening legal action if places of worship are not allowed to reopen.

Lockdown measures designed to stop the spread of coronavirus have forced the closure of churches and other places of worship.

Signatories to the letter, who warn they will pursue a judicial review if they cannot reopen, include representatives from the Church of Scotland, the Free Church of Scotland, the Free Church of Scotland (Continuing) and a number of independent churches.

Rev Geoffrey de Bruin, leader of Christian Revival Church Edinburgh, said: “Since the lockdown began, the need for us to provide spiritual and mental support to the many needs in our community has been essential.

“We as a church cannot help or minister to these individuals from an online platform.

“We would need to have the restrictions lifted as a matter of urgency in order to provide the much-needed support our society and community needs during this lockdown.”

Rev Dr William Philip, leader of the Tron Church in Glasgow, added: “The severe restrictions upon gatherings of churches throughout recent months, and in particular the enforced complete closure to public worship, has brought significant distress, suffering and ill-health to many in our congregation.

“Many of these are vulnerable people, and the church community serves as a life support for many at this time. We urge the Government to reverse these measures urgently.”

As part of the latest lockdown rules, places of worship are only permitted to conduct weddings or funerals – with the number of attendees strictly limited – and to broadcast services online.

Church leaders have given Scottish ministers until 5pm on Thursday to respond.