News by email Donate

Suggestions

Top Stories

Most Read

Popular Videos

Prayer HUMZA YOUSAF banner.png
@HumzaYousaf
Prayer HUMZA YOUSAF.png
@HumzaYousaf
World News

Church of Scotland congratulates Humza Yousaf as he is set to become first minister

by Kelly Valencia

The moderator of the Church of Scotland has offered his "warmest congratulations" to Humza Yousaf after he was elected by MSPs to replace Nicola Sturgeon as first minister on Tuesday.

Yousaf, a practicing Muslim, won by a narrow margin against Christian candidate Kate Forbes in Monday's election. At 37 years old, he is set to become Scotland's youngest first minister and the first person from a non-white background to hold the position.

On Tuesday, he and his family spent their first night in Bute House.

In a statement, Rt Rev Dr Iain Greenshields said he will be supporting the first minister in prayer.

"The Church recognises the difficult decisions that people in political authority have to make on behalf of all the people of Scotland, regardless of their political preferences," he said.

"We pray that God is with the new First Minister and all those who hold positions of authority and responsibility. We pray that Mr Yousaf is imbued with wisdom, justice, compassion and integrity and he finds the strength and peace to do what is right.”

"The people of Scotland are living in challenging times," the moderator continued. "We look forward to engaging with the First Minister and his government as we all seek to address the most pressing social issues for the common good."

Yousaf's name will now be submitted to the King.

On Wednesday, a formal session to swear him in is expected at the Court of Session in Edinburgh.

A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference

In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.

Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.

For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.

Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate