12/06/2026
In light of unfolding events across the UK this week, a reflection on behalf of Inverness Cathedral by Cathedral Curate, Revd Laura Symon:
‘As the first night of organised violence unfolded in Belfast, and reports emerged of intimidating demonstrations by masked people elsewhere in Scotland, a group of us were gathered in the Cathedral Hall studying the Book of Ruth. These conversations have the potential to get a little lively. We don’t all agree on the best ways to solve a migration crisis – but part of this study has been committing to begin a dialogue, even when it’s uncomfortable, but beginning in a place of trust.
Our Bible study focused on themes of borders and belonging. The story of Ruth places a migration story at its centre, giving a human face to someone who is viewed as an outsider. In the midst of economic uncertainty, scarce resources and historic grievances between peoples, Ruth's story becomes one of welcome, kindness and belonging. It is a reminder that communities can choose a different path.
As someone who grew up in Northern Ireland, the scenes from Belfast have been particularly painful to witness. As someone who has made Scotland home, it has been painful to see how these actions are part of a wider wave of division and suspicion here and in the wider UK. We know something of how quickly fear, division and suspicion can take hold in a community, how it spreads, and how long it can take to rebuild trust once it has been broken.
As a Cathedral, we are horrified by the attack which left the victim, Stephen Ogilvie, seriously injured, and we continue to pray for his recovery and for all who love him. We have also heard his family's plea not to allow their trauma to be used to advance any agenda; and as Christians, we believe firmly that that retaliatory violence targeted against whole communities and vulnerable people can never be justified.
Conversations about migration, identity and belonging are often difficult. People will hold different views about causes, policies and solutions. Those conversations matter. But violence, intimidation and attacks on vulnerable people can never be justified. As Christians, we believe every person bears the image of God. That conviction calls us to build communities where people of different backgrounds and opinions can live well together, to care for our vulnerable neighbours, and to keep talking even when conversations are uncomfortable.
This Sunday we will hear the story of Abraham welcoming strangers beneath the trees of Mamre. We will preach it, pray it, and seek to live it. Today, that means saying clearly that Inverness Cathedral must be a place of welcome - where people are not statistics to be counted or issues to be solved, but children of God and neighbours in God's kingdom.
In a climate that too often reduces people to categories, labels or causes, the Gospel calls us to see one another first as human beings, loved by God and worthy of dignity, compassion and welcome. Whatever conversations we need to have about migration, identity or public policy, we believe we must begin there.’
