His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh was joined by incoming MSPs, the Presiding Officer, and representatives from Scotland’s faith and belief communities at the Kirking for the Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament in St Giles’ Cathedral last night (Wednesday 13 May).
The service in Edinburgh traditionally takes place on the evening before the first sitting of a new parliamentary term.
The Kirking is a ceremonial tradition that reflects on the responsibilities of leadership in public service, while recognising Scotland’s wide range of religious and non-religious beliefs.
It also provides an opportunity for organisations from across Scotland, including participants from civic society, the diplomatic corps, academia, business, industry and charities, to meet with the newly elected MSPs.
The ecumenical service was led by The Reverend Dr Scott Rennie, The Minister of St Giles’ Cathedral, with the Sermon being delivered by the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, The Right Reverend Rosie Frew.
This, together with readings by the Presiding Officer and the Chair of the Scottish Youth Parliament, is intended to encourage thoughtful reflection on serving others.
The congregation heard performances from the Choir of St Giles’ and the National Youth Choir of Scotland as well as from Royal Conservatoire of Scotland traditional Scottish music duo Stella Rose McIntyre (clàrsach) and Naomi Priestnall (fiddle). Interfaith blessings also featured.
The seventh session of the Scottish Parliament will formally begin today when MSPs will be sworn in by the Presiding Officer in the Holyrood Chamber.
An election will then be held to choose a new Presiding Officer and Deputy Presiding Officers.
PICTURES: Scottish Parliament