The Church of Scotland and Jewish community are to hold formal talks on Jewish-Christian relations which it is hoped will help "repair the damage" caused after the anti-semitism scandal that rocked the Kirk.
The Church said it and the Jewish community are to form a group of 10 to discuss issues issues including theological similarities and differences between the two, geopolitical matters that affect inter-faith relations such as Israel and Palestine and anti-semitism, including joint action to tackle the problem.
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The Church said the group will "seek to address issues arising out of the publication of the Inheritance of Abraham? report that led to a strain in the relationship".
The 2013 report which seemed to question Israel's right to exist prompted Daniel Taub, Israeli ambassador to the UK, to describe the paper as "truly hurtful".
While figures in each faith have met, this is the first such formal move since the row, which led to the Kirk re-wording its report.
READ MORE: Scottish churches will not "turn into fortresses" in wake of France priest attack
Ephraim Borowski, Director of the Scottish Council of Jewish Communities, said: "We very much welcome this initiative to re-establish the close relationship between the Church of Scotland and the Jewish Community and repair the damage caused in recent years.
We look forward to constructive and productive discussions that will have the lasting legacy of resources that will continue to support better understanding for generations to come."
READ MORE: Scottish churches will not "turn into fortresses" in wake of France priest attack
Rev Richard Frazer said, “Alongside others from within the Church of Scotland, I am looking forward to embarking on this important piece of work together with our colleagues from within the Jewish community.
"We hold a great deal in common as people whose shared faith is rooted in the story of Abraham.
"That faith inspires us to work together for a better world as well as striving for a deeper understanding and greater mutual respect for one another."
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