Local and SEC News

Reports in the media over the past 24 hours have suggested that permitted changes to the text of the 1982 Scottish Liturgy have altered the Church’s understanding of God. The permitted changes are, in fact, a small selection of alternative words to replace those which may be considered to be gender specific, particularly those which refer to people in general. The suggested alternatives use language in a way that reflects everyday speech and writing. Since the 1982 Scottish Liturgy was drafted, conventions have changed concerning the use of words which express gender, and the Church is merely seeking to reflect these in its worship. No change in our understanding of God is taking place. Other churches have been addressing the use of inclusive language in liturgy for some time now and therefore these developments are neither new nor unique to the Scottish Episcopal Church. A survey was carried out amongst clergy on the use of the 1982 Liturgy three years ago – feedback from this survey requested that the use of inclusive language in liturgies be considered and appropriate alternatives be offered. The production of the list of permitted changes was a response to this request. -ends-

The draft Minutes of the meeting of the General Synod 2010 are now available.

The Rt Rev Dr. John Mantle, who has been Bishop of Brechin in the Scottish Episcopal Church for five years, has announced that he will take early retirement in October. He will be 65 early next year. Bishop John was diagnosed with a cancer 18 months ago.

Bo'ness Community Council's next meeting will be held this Wednesday, September 8.

It's time to take part in the Journal and Gazette Bonny Baby competition 2010!

A BUTTERFLY species was spreading its wings when it arrived in Bo'ness recently for a summer holiday.

AWARD winning political journalist Lesley Riddoch is set for a grilling at this year's Question Time Linlithgow.

PROPOSALS to make cuts across the education sector including chopping free fruit and bread were discussed last week.

BUDGET cuts could mean nearly 200 police officers being axed, the boss of Central Scotland Police has warned.

A DEVOTED dad was killed in a horror accident on a building site.

AMBITIOUS plans to transform the Little Kerse site at Grangemouth have been launched by a local businessman.

BIRTHDAY girl Jane Graham had an extra special reason for celebration last week as she became Falkirk district's latest centenarian.

A GRANGEMOUTH girl is on top of the world after scooping a prestigious dancing title.