Pope Benedict XVI to visit Scotland next year

Published on Thursday 24 September 2009 18:10

THE leader of the Catholic Church in Scotland today welcomed the prospect of a visit by Pope Benedict XVI.

The pontiff is expected to accept an invitation from Prime Minister Gordon Brown next year.

The papal visit would be the first since predecessor John Paul II's pastoral trip in 1982.

He attracted crowds of thousands to Glasgow's Bellahouston Park and Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh during the stay.

Reports suggest Pope Benedict XVI's visit would include a stop-off in the capital.

Cardinal Keith O'Brien said: "I am delighted at the prospect of a visit to Scotland by Pope Benedict XVI next year and wish to express the happiness of the Catholic community in Scotland at the news.

The head of the Bishops' Conference of Scotland added: "The Scottish Bishops look forward to greeting the Holy Father in what would be the first state visit to this country by a reigning pope."

The Prime Minister, who has met the Pope several times as part of his work on international development matters, made the invite during a private audience in February.

According to the reports, the trip is expected to take place in autumn next year and may include a stay at Buckingham Palace.

Secular campaigners warned they would organise protests against his presence however.

A spokesman for the National Secular Society said it would organise "a coalition of groups to make clear to the Pope that whatever celebrations the Government lays on for him, he is not welcomed here by everyone".

• Photos of Pope John Paul II's visit to Scotland in 1982