The Scottish Government has apologised for ‘inconsistency in messaging’ as it confirmed that places of worship should be closed now.
The First Minister originally confirmed that places of worship would be closed from Friday 08 January as part of new lockdown measures. However, a note to faith communities from the government last night changed this guidance.
The Scottish Government last night confirmed that places of worship must close now, rather than Friday as originally announced by the First Minister. It has apologised to faith communities for “inconsistency in messaging”.https://t.co/JzfyqEHWZk
— Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh (@archedinburgh) January 6, 2021
It stated: “It is now a legal requirement to stay at home unless it is essential. The Stay at Home guidance is now in regulations and came into force at 0001hrs today and there is no exemption to attend a place of worship between now and Friday.
“This effectively means that Places of Worship should be closed for both congregational worship and individual prayer with immediate effect.
“Additionally given the current position in relation to the pandemic the Scottish Government would also discourage more than 5 (or 6, if an interpreter is required) from attending a marriage in a level 4 area before Friday. All associated guidance is being amended now to reflect what will be the regulatory position from Friday.
“We apologise for the degree of inconsistency in messaging.”
