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Edinburgh Inter-Faith Association Lecture
22/01/2009
The First Minister Alex Salmond will celebrate the strengths of a diverse modern Scotland when he delivers the annual Edinburgh Inter-Faith Association Lecture tonight at St John's Church, Edinburgh.
The First Minister will state the importance of building deep and lasting respect among faiths while recognising the work of the Edinburgh Inter-Faith Association to promote understanding among faiths.
Following the lecture the First Minister will formally launch a programme of events celebrating the 20th Anniversary Year of the Edinburgh Inter-Faith Association.
Speaking ahead of the Lecture the First Minister said:
"Scotland is a nation of more than five million people that boasts a rich mix of languages, cultures and faiths.
"It's important we celebrate diversity and recognise the many threads in the tartan that are being woven together to create a powerful, positive image of Scotland.
"The Scottish Government aims to build a peaceful, positive Scotland that is free from prejudice. We are working with police forces, schools, churches and youth groups to rid our society of Islamophobia and sectarianism, and to build understanding and a compassionate society.
"Scotland must take pride in its growing diversity and the strength, vigour and creativity multi-culturalism brings to this country.
"Much of Scotland's character comes from the historic role of the churches in building strong communities, caring for the vulnerable, delivering education and serving as the moral conscience of the nation. In more recent times, other faith communities have also made an important contribution to this social justice agenda.
"Centuries ago our churches laid the moral foundations and values of wisdom, justice, compassion and integrity that continue to prevail today. These values are clearly expressed in the work of Robert Burns and as well as celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Edinburgh Inter-Faith Association we also celebrate the 250th anniversary of Burns' birth this week.
"While our national bard was not always seen as the role model of Scotland's religious community his work demonstrated shared beliefs and demonstrated his great empathy for others. Burns has helped to define the ideals of the people of his time and spoke with a basic humanity that resonates powerfully today.
"This weekend we launch Homecoming 2009, a year-long celebration of Scotland's great contributions to the world. People across the world with an affinity for Scotland are being invited to join us for this momentous celebration and enjoy all our diverse modern country offers."