Testing time for Kirk

As the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland opened its doors for business yesterday, its delegates will have been well aware that for the duration of the following week all eyes will be upon them. One of the longest-standing and most respected institutions in Scotland, the General Assembly has a noble, if querulous tradition of examining the Kirk's attitudes to matters within and beyond its walls. This year the issue that seems likely to raise temperatures is that of civil partnership blessings.