While modern technology enables instant communication there is a
still a significant role for face to face meetings between church
representatives and politicians. Meetings enable dialogue and the
growth of real relationships. For this reason SCPO organises a
series of regular visits to both the Scottish Parliament and
Westminster.
A normal year will see the Moderator of the Scottish Parliament
visit Holyrood to meet with all the party leaders including the
First Minister. In recent years the Moderator has been invited to
offer Time for Reflection during the visit. In 2009 the Right Rev
William Hewitt offered a reflection which can be found on the
Scottish Parliament website, by clicking
here.
The Church and Society Council of the Church of Scotland
annually visit Westminster in order to maintain contact with
Scottish MPs and Government Departments.
It is easy for members of the public to visit the Parliament.
When Parliament is not sitting (Monday, Friday, Saturday and
recess) it is possible to take a free guided tour. When Parliament
is sitting (Tuesday - Thursday) it is possible to watch the
business in the main chamber or in Committee rooms - all Committee
meetings are assumed to be open to the public, however, sometimes
the Committee will chose to take a specific meeting or agenda
item in private. Details of what you can do when visiting the
Parliament and how to book free tickets can be found by following
the link at the foot of this page.
The Scottish Churches Parliamentary Office is pleased to work
with denominations or organisations to arrange visits like this. If
you would like to discuss the possibility of a visit please contact
us.