The Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland met First Minister John Swinney to discuss some of the most pressing issues facing Scotland and the wider world.During the meeting at Bute House in Edinburgh, Rt Rev Gordon Kennedy and the SNP leader explored how the Church and the Scottish Government can work together to address challenges at home and overseas.
Their conversation covered action to tackle human trafficking and violence against women and girls, financial support for listed places of worship, international development, climate change and the importance of interfaith and ecumenical work.
Mr Kennedy thanked the First Minister for his attendance at the General Assembly in May, while Mr Swinney recognised the vital work congregations carry out in communities across Scotland.
The Church of Scotland believes that the Good News of Jesus Christ is relevant within the spheres of politics and decision-making.
Ministers and worship leaders regularly pray for those in positions of political authority in the hope they make decisions that uphold the principles of integrity, compassion, justice and wisdom.
The Moderator hopes to meet with the leaders of Scotland’s other main political parties – Labour, Reform, Greens, Conservatives and Liberal Democrats – during his year in office.