AS one of Rev PS Aiken’s “so-called” theologians, I suggest his categorical condemnation of gay marriage (Letters, April 21) relies too much on scattered fragments of Scripture. Christians have form when it comes to cherry-picking phrases to defend traditional beliefs and even used dodgy Biblical quotes to support slavery and the subjugation of women.

A willingness to conduct Ruth Davidson’s wedding whatever her political beliefs may be “scandalous” as Graeme McCormick (Letters, April 21) suggests but the fact is that in 35 years as a parish minister I never once interrogated an engaged couple on the subject of their politics. Perhaps naïvely I believed it was absolutely none of my business.

Rev Dr John Cameron,

10 Howard Place, St Andrews.

THE long-awaited announcement by former General Assembly Moderator the Very Rev John Chalmers (“Kirk in landmark apology over gay discrimination “, The Herald, April 18 ) had barely been voiced when contrary views were resurrected by the Rev. Mike Goss on behalf of Covenant Fellowship Scotland. It is my understanding the latter body is a splinter group but still under the auspices of C of S control.

It really does not assist sincere placatory attempts to heal divisions within the church by attempting to reverse the welcome apology statement. Many Church of Scotland members will only be further confused by these contradictory stances. Conversely many others will identify the constant bickering and lack of compassion as to why they are no longer active in church life. "To see ourselves as others do" is so apt in this particular saga.

Allan C Steele,

22 Forres Avenue, Giffnock.