THE Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland offered special prayers for the people of Ireland last night as the final votes in the referendum on the Good Friday peace deal were cast.
In his closing address to the Kirk's week-long conference, the Rt Rev Alan Main said: ''In this special time for our sisters and brothers in Ireland, we have heard from them and prayed with heart and voice for them and with them in these days of decision, that to them may be given the blessed and priceless gift of peace.''
The minister said that the church was sometimes too hard on itself, often forgetting some of its good work.
''Like any other human institution, we are not perfect and we would make no pretence of being so. But it would be my contention that we don't give ourselves a nearly good enough press and, in consequence, our negative aspects become blown up out of all proportion,'' he said.
He admitted the church still had its problems, such as the decline in membership, but said it should not be despondent.
His message of hope was reflected in the closing address of the Lord High Commissioner, Lord Hogg of Cumbernauld, who said he believed the Kirk was vibrant, facing up to its responsibilities, preparing for the new Parliament and speaking up for its people.
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