We cannot conclude these reflections without recalling the impact of the
Papal visit on the rest of the Christian community in Scotland. Indeed it
is in the ecumenical sphere that the visit had perhaps its greatest impact,
breaking down barriers and removing centuries-old suspicions.

Much of the progress made in inter-church relations in recent decades was
advanced enormously by the Holy Father’s memorable encouragement …
“We are only pilgrims on this earth, making our way towards that heavenly
Kingdom promised to us as God’s children. Beloved brethren in Christ, for
the future, can we not make that pilgrimage together hand-in-hand,
“bearing with one another charitably, in complete selflessness, gentleness
and patience,” doing all we can “to preserve the unity of the Spirit by the
peace that binds us together”? (Eph. 4, 2-3) This would surely bring down
upon us the blessing of God our Father on our pilgrim way.”

We invite our Christian brothers and sisters once again to join us
confidently in preaching the Gospel to the non-believers and the unchurched
of our land.