National and global events show the need for good inter faith relations. So often religion is a source of conflict and separation yet it holds the potential for bringing people of faith together to work for a nation and world that is characterised by respect, justice and harmony. Our present Holy Father, Pope Francis, has spoken of the importance of good interfaith relations and has shown us an example of this, particularly in his friendship with Rabbi Skorka whom he invited to stay with him at Santa Marta and accompany him on his recent visit to Jerusalem.

The Committee for Interreligious Dialogue was set up by the Scottish Bishops to:

address questions of an inter faith nature and to advise and represent the Bishops’ Conference in areas of inter faith relations.

alert the Bishops to issues being raised in inter faith relations and to provide a forum  for  discussion and advice to and  from the Bishops

alert the catholic community to the inter faith initiatives being taken by the Pope, the Vatican and the Bishops of Scotland

Identify opportunities for the Catholic Church in Scotland to engage in dialogue
 consider ways of raising the profile of inter faith relations among the catholic community of Scotland and of educating them in inter faith relations.

offer advice and support for inter faith initiatives being undertaken by Catholic parishes