Evangelical Alliance Scotland statement on outcome of referendum vote

The Evangelical Alliance Scotland has called for the nation to unite and build a new Scotland with Christian values at the heart following the results of yesterday’s vote. Responding to the outcome Fred Drummond, national director for Evangelical Alliance Scotland, said:

"This has been an incredible season for our nation and the referendum debate has invigorated Scotland with our churches at the heart of the debate.  With the votes now cast and the result declared the people of Scotland have spoken and it is now time for us to unite as a nation and build a new and better Scotland based on the vision, hope and aspiration which characterised the debate.

"As Scots now consider what kind of nation will now emerge from this campaign, the church must lead – and be allowed to lead – the way to ensure the new Scotland is one that reflects God's values in the economy, the family, our communities and our environment. As Christians we passionately believe that these values will shape our nation for good. There has been an exceptionally high level of engagement and this must not wane. The passion must continue.

"We recognise that while many are celebrating this morning there are also many in Scotland who are devastated at this result.  It is now time to show grace and kindness to those on the other side and move quickly to bring reconciliation where it is needed in our land. I know it will be a difficult thing for some people to do but we must love our neighbour. We are all Scots and Scots at heart together. If we put God’s love at the heart of what we do, healing will be much faster, genuine and long-lasting.

"Christian values have built Scotland and helped it to achieve the success in society. Let’s reinforce these principles and strengthen them. It is an undeniable fact that Christian values have been good for our society.

"Our evangelical churches are here to help. We are here to help heal divisions within families, workplaces, friendships and even in the Church itself. The Christian gospel provides the catalyst for reconciliation and as Christians we recognise our responsibility to model grace, forgiveness and reconciliation to our fellow citizens. 

"During this campaign all Scots have rallied around a flag. But as Christians our identity is not based on a flag or a national boundary but on the radical grace of being adopted into God's family.

"Scotland and the UK will not be the same after this vote. We the Evangelical Alliance and our member churches stand ready to play our part.

"We urge Christians in Scotland, England, Northern Ireland and Wales to come together to pray for Scotland as we build a future for our nation."