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Kirk relaxed as 'atheist' blockbuster opens

The Church of Scotland yesterday came out in support of a film that has been branded anti-religious, publishing leaflets advising people to go and see The Golden Compass and debate the issues it raises.

The film, which stars Nicole Kidman and Daniel Craig, is based on the novels of Philip Pullman, an atheist who many believe criticises the church in his books.

The Catholic League, which bills itself as the largest Catholic civil-rights organisation in the United States, has launched a nationwide boycott campaign.

However, the Church of Scotland has taken the opposite view. The Kirk is telling people to go along and consider some of the questions about spirituality the film raises.

The Rev Andrew Campbell, a development officer with the Church of Scotland, was wary of over-reaction.

"People have had a knee-jerk reaction to what they have heard about the film," he said.

"We are asking people to watch the film for themselves and ask questions which are relevant to their own lives, in particular about spirituality."

Full story at The Scotsman.