Legislation aims to lift the ban on Catholics holding the lord high commissioner role.
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In a groundbreaking move for religious representation in Scotland, Lady Elish Angiolini KC is poised to become the first practicing Catholic to hold the esteemed position of lord high commissioner of the Church of Scotland. This significant development follows the introduction of a new bill in the House of Commons aimed at lifting the longstanding ban on Catholics serving in this role.
Legislation to revoke 19th-century restrictions
The proposed Church of Scotland (Lord High Commissioner) Act 2025 seeks to repeal outdated legislation that has prohibited Catholics from assuming the role of the sovereign’s representative at the Church’s annual assembly.
Historically, the position has been reserved for prominent members of Scottish society, with the last notable appointment being King Charles himself in 2000. However, a provision in the Roman Catholic Relief Act of 1829 specifically barred Catholics from this role, despite allowing them to serve in other high offices.
Lady Angiolini’s appointment as a symbol of unity
Lady Angiolini’s appointment is not just a personal achievement; it represents a significant step towards greater inclusivity within the Church of Scotland. The cabinet office has described her upcoming role as a “significant gesture of unity, goodwill, and collaboration” between the Kirk and the Catholic Church in Scotland. Born in Glasgow to a family of Irish Catholic descent, Lady Angiolini has had a distinguished career, serving as solicitor general and later as lord advocate. Her acceptance of this role is seen as a historic moment, marking a shift in attitudes towards Catholic representation in Scottish ecclesiastical leadership.
A changing landscape in Scottish society
Reflecting on the past, the notion of a female Catholic representing the Sovereign would have been unimaginable just a century ago. In 1923, the Church of Scotland was grappling with sectarian tensions, as evidenced by a report titled “The Menace of the Irish Race to our Scottish Nationality.” However, over the years, significant ecumenical efforts have been made to bridge the divide between different faiths. Lady Angiolini’s appointment is a testament to these efforts and symbolizes a more inclusive future for the Church of Scotland.
As the legislation progresses, it is anticipated that Lady Angiolini will officially take her place as lord high commissioner in May, making history as she ascends the steps to the General Assembly hall. This moment not only marks a personal milestone for Lady Angiolini but also serves as a reflection of the evolving landscape of Scottish society, where barriers are being dismantled and new paths are being forged.
