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with Connie McLaughlin

A look back at this year's General Assembly of the Church of Scotland; what's happened to the protest song; the rise and fall of megachurches

The annual General Assembly of the Church of Scotland has closed for another year, we take a look at some of the key talking points, from acknowledging the Kirk’s historical connections with the slave trade, to issues around assisted dying. Connie is joined by Rev Bryan Kerr, Minister of Greyfriars Parish Church, Lanark; Rev Dr Robert Smith, Minister of Rubislaw Parish Church; and Rev Tara Granados, Minister of Ibrox Parish Church.

Scottish painter John Lowrie Morrison, also known as Jolomo, talks about the special space in which he works, one that is both spiritual and sacred.

As a film adaptation of the classic young adult book "Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret" hits our screens, how do young people navigate questions about religion and where it fits into their lives? Connie talks to Rev Hayley Cohen of Northesk Parish Church in Musselburgh; and Rev Ruth Kennedy, the Pioneer Minister with Under 40s in Dunblane.

We often talk about the end of romantic relationships, little time is given to the breakup of our friendships. Connie chats to Suzy Beaumont, development consultant and Founder of Change Your World; and musician Anna Shields, about how to keep, and how to leave, a friendship.

The folk singer Shirley Collins recently said that her genre of music is not a potent political tool, though it has a rich heritage of protest. So what’s changed? Have social issues become more subtly weaved into contemporary music? Folk artist Elisabeth Flett and protest musician Kapil Seshasayee give their thoughts.

A new documentary series, The Secrets of Hillsong, comes to the UK soon. It chronicles the rise and the dramatic fall of this megachurch, but what factors contribute to the immense popularity of churches like this? Author and broadcaster Justin Brierley explores their appeal.

1 hour, 55 minutes

Last on

Sun 28 May 2023 08:00

Music Played

  • Stevie Wonder

    I Wish

    • Songs In The Key Of Life.
    • Tamla Motown.
  • Bruce Springsteen

    Dancing In The Dark

    • Bruce Springsteen - Greatest Hits.
    • Columbia.
  • Madonna

    What It Feels Like For A Girl

    • (CD Single).
    • Maverick.
  • Curiosity Killed the Cat

    Down To Earth

    • Now 1986 - The Millennium Series.
    • Now.
  • Arlo Parks

    Too Good

    • Too Good.
    • Transgressive.
    • 2.
  • Rhiannon Giddens

    Don't Let It Trouble Your Mind

    • Tomorrow Is My Turn.
    • Nonesuch.
    • 002.
  • Karine Polwart

    Better Things

    • This Earthly Spell.
    • Hegri Music.
    • 3.
  • Paolo Nutini

    Jenny Don't Be Hasty

    • Single.
    • Atlantic.
    • 1.
  • Tina Turner

    We Don't Need Another Hero

    • The Ivor Novello Winners.
    • EMI.

Broadcast

  • Sun 28 May 2023 08:00