Anglican Communion News Service - Digest News

The Most Rev David Chillingworth, Bishop of St Andrews, Dunkeld & Dunblane and Primus of the Scottish Episcopal Church and the Very Rev Dr John Armes, Rector of St John’s Episcopal Church, Princes Street and Dean of Edinburgh met yesterday with members of Occupy Edinburgh in St Andrews Square.

The Primus speaking with members of Occupy Edinburgh

Photo Credit: SEC

Following the visit, the Primus commented “‘We were warmly welcomed at the Occupy encampment in St Andrews Square. As a church, we try to build relationships and engage in dialogue in every part of our society. This visit was part of that developing picture.

“For us as representatives of a church, it was both challenging and encouraging to find how quickly those we met wanted to discuss ‘what the Bible says’ and what we believe about issues such as justice and equality. Members of the Occupy Edinburgh encampment believe that they are modelling a better society - a community of sharing and one where leadership is based on service rather than hierarchy. They value their constant contact with members of the public who pass through the Square and they believe that their perseverance is a witness to the need for our society to re-evaluate the ethics and values of our financial systems.

“Our church must continue to be involved in debate about the better ordering of our society - particularly when so many aspects of our financial system seem to be failing. We look forward to continuing contact with the members of the Occupy encampment - as we also look forward to contact with those who are involved in our political and financial life at every level.”

The Primus has also written about the visit on his weblog www.bishopdavid.net