GLASGOW City Council has received the backing of the church in their decision to prohibit loyalist and republican marches through the city this weekend.
Speaking ahead of a planned demonstration by loyalist and Orange Order protesters, the Church of Scotland has said it is supportive of a decision by Glasgow City Council taken this week.
Following advice from Police Scotland, Glasgow City Council has taken the unprecedented step to block six public processions on Saturday and Sunday.
The announcement was met with criticism from protestant groups and flute bands, as well as the Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland.
READ MORE: All republican and loyalist marches this weekend banned by Glasgow City Council
However, the Church of Scotland have said they recognise the decision was not taken to "oppress the protestant faith".
In a statement, Rev Dr Richard Frazer, convener of the Church of Scotland’s Church and Society Council, said: "Following the sectarian violence we have seen on the streets of Glasgow in recent weeks, we recognise that the decision made by Glasgow City Council to ban further parades planned for this weekend was not based on religious discrimination nor a desire to oppress the protestant faith.
“The City Council has a responsibility to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all within the city and in doing this the Council needs to take into account the advice it receives from the police and the concerns of the communities involved.
READ MORE: Why one Orange march is going ahead just 3 miles from banned parades
“We believe it is in this vein that the decision has been made and we are supportive of the decision."
As well as support for the council, the church also denounced sectarianism in Scottish society, describing it as a "painful scar in the life of our nation".
Rev Dr Frazer added: “As Christians we believe that our words and actions should seek to demonstrate a deep love of our neighbours and of those with whom we disagree.
“When we fail to do this we present a Christianity which fails to reflect the love and life and character of Christ whom we serve.
READ MORE: Irish Republican group ‘demand answers’ after Glasgow march ban
“For many years now the Church of Scotland has acknowledged and publicly expressed our regret for any part our Church has played in sectarianism.
“We recognise that sectarianism remains a painful scar in the life of our nation but one which with sufficient will, resource, and collaboration we can tackle together as we seek to build the tolerant society we know we can be.”
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