“The decisions which have led to the situation in St Mary’s Cathedral are a matter for the Provost and the Cathedral community but the Scottish Episcopal Church is deeply distressed at the widespread offence which has been caused. We also deeply regret the widespread abuse which has been received by the Cathedral community.
“In response to what has happened at the Cathedral, the Scottish Episcopal Church will bring together all those who are involved in the development of interfaith relations. Our intention will be as a Church to explore how, particularly in the area of worship, this work can be carried forward in ways which will command respect. Our desire is that this should be a worthy expression of the reconciliation to which all Christians are called.”
A well-written statement, as far as it goes. “Friendship, understanding and mutual respect” are well and good, as long as it’s truly mutual. The decision to read those heretical and blasphemous passages is hardly friendly, clearly does not show understanding, and goes far beyond disrespectful.
A bit of internet searching reveals that the cathedral provost knew what he was doing and is unrepentant:
http://thurible.net/2017/01/13/keeping-the-faith/
He’s no stranger to controversy:
http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/13070512.Church_invites_pro_gay_Catholics_to_join_service/
He’s openly homosexual and supports same-sex ‘marriage’:
http://www.scotsman.com/news/senior-cleric-comes-out-for-gay-weddings-in-church-1-1354380
How about reaching out to Wicca?
In Ralph’s first link, the cathedral provost thinks it’s fine because they’ve done it before, as have others. That really doesn’t excuse it. He doesn’t understand the distinction between being glad that Muslims are willing to attend Christian services and inviting the recitation of a passage from the Qur’an asserting the virgin birth of Jesus but specifically denying his divinity. Inviting Muslims to experience Christian worship and visiting Eid festivities in a neighborly way are fine. Permitting a non-Christian, indeed, anti-Christian, reading at a Eucharist is not fine.