No Pope here says McClure

Seconding the resolutions, the DUP president said: “While respecting the right of others to their own beliefs in an era of tolerance, I would argue that in so doing we should not feel obliged to dilute our faith one iota.”

Bro McClure continued: “We reaffirm our unswerving attachment to the great truths of the Protestant Faith. That is our God-given right. We totally reject the teachings of Roman Catholicism and remain resolute in our opposition to false ecumenism. That is our God-given right.

“As an Institution, we will have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness. We trust that no attempts will be made by those in church, state and the media to demonise or persecute Protestants who, on grounds of conscience, are unwilling to attend the Roman Catholic Mass. We have the right to be different in our belief.

“That is why I share the concerns of Brethren that the Pope might visit Northern Ireland in 2012. Whilst we hold to the great principles of civil and religious liberty for all and have no desire to deny our Roman Catholic fellow-countrymen the right to see their leader, I must point out, however, the arrogant and unparalleled temporal and spiritual claims of the Pope make it impossible for his visit to be merely pastoral or low-key.

“It will be hugely symbolic, both politically and spiritually, and I believe that all Protestant churches and organisations must unite against any such visit.

“That objection should be dignified and lawful. This is an opportunity to reassert the truths of Biblical Protestantism which are atthe heart of what we belief.

“Our founding fathers took a courageous stand on the failure to inspect the convent laundries, and the issue remains relevant today in light of the ongoing scandal of child-abuse allegations in the Roman Catholic Church. That Church must not be allowed to remain immune from justice and there can be no hiding place for those who are guilty of vile crimes against children.

“We thank God for the positive and beneficial impact of His Word through the King James version of the Bible.

“It is the 400th anniversary of the publication of the authorised version - a faithful translation of God’s Word.

“The word of God has messages of faith and hope and it impacts on so many aspects of our society and modern life. I urge you all to read God’s word and learn its truths.

“It has relevance for today. The power of the Scripture is unquestionable, as is the power of prayer. I urge you to pray for all those who are serving in Her Majesty’s Forces in Afghanistan and other theatres of conflict. In particular we remember with pride those soldiers from Ulster who have paid the supreme sacrifice in the service of their Queen and country.”