MEMBERS of the Church of England’s General Synod have voted to work more closely with the Church of Scotland.

Despite some concerns from the Scottish Episcopal Church, the vote on an agreement called the Columba Declaration – set out in a 15-page report by a joint study group – was carried 243-50 with 49 abstentions.

During the debate, the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, the Rt Rev Dr Angus Morrison, told the General Synod: “The strengthening of the bonds which already exist between us can only serve the advance of the Gospel, which is our united desire and aim.”

“I am fully persuaded that the report and the Columba Declaration now before the Synod for debate offer us all a very special opportunity”

The report will now go to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland in May.