The Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005

The Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005 received Royal Assent on the 1st June 2005. Enshrined in the Act is the aspiration that Gaelic should enjoy equal respect with the English language in Scotland.

The Diocese of Argyll and The Isles encompasses parts, or all, of the three District Councils initially chosen to spearhead the implementation of the Act – Argyll and Bute Council, The Highland Council and Western Isles Council. These Councils have all drawn up Language Plans to take forward this requirement.

Is Gaelic just for native speakers? 

No. Many people from all over Britain and abroad are interested in keeping the Gaelic language alive. The Scottish Episcopal Church is often labelled the “English Church”, because of the many English people who find a natural cultural home in it, and one of the most important contributors to Gaelic education was an Englishman, Edward Dwelly, (1864-1939). He was born in southern England, near Arundel and he became interested in Gaelic when he was stationed in Scotland with the British Army. He compiled a Gaelic Dictionary, published in 1911, which is still in use today. For his efforts, he was awarded a civil pension by King Edward VII. One of Scotland’s most loved Gaelic singers, George Clavey (1928-2003), began his musical development as a choirboy in St Peter’s Episcopal Church, Edinburgh. Although a learner, he became fluent in the language, winning the Mod Gold Medal in 1960.

Can the Scottish Episcopal Church be part of helping to keep the language alive?

Yes. The repetitive nature of the Liturgy lends itself very well to learners using the language in that context.

Can Gaelic and English be used together in the Liturgy?

Yes. St Luke’s account of the Day of Pentecost reminds us that different languages can exist together quite comfortably in a state of spiritual recognition.