Da Vinci 'should not test faith'

The Da Vinci Code is set for its big screen release

Senior religious figures in Scotland have dismissed Hollywood blockbuster The Da Vinci Code, saying it should not undermine anyone's faith.

The film, starring Tom Hanks, is based on the best-selling novel by Dan Brown.

The incoming moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland called it "theological mush".

The Catholic Church in Scotland has voiced concern that the story is leaving some Christians "unsure" about the basic truths of their faith.

Speaking just hours before the film's world premiere in Cannes, Moderator Designate Alan McDonald said he had read and enjoyed the book.

'Too po-faced'

"It's cleverly done but I really don't think it should trouble anybody and it certainly didn't trouble me," he said.

"I really do think that the best way to deal with that, the best response to it, is not to be too po-faced or serious about it.

"I really think because it is so theologically insubstantial it is not something to worry about."

The moderator designate, who will take up his post at next week's General Assembly, revealed that he planned to see the Ron Howard-directed film, which was partly filmed at the Rosslyn Chapel in Midlothian.

To those left feeling unsure about their religious beliefs we offer facts in place of fiction and reassurance on the basic truths of their faith Peter Kearney Catholic Church in Scotand

Meanwhile, the Scottish Catholic Media Office (SCMO) is to launch a DVD to tackle the "myths and misinformation" contained in the book and the film.

SCMO spokesman Peter Kearney said: "The church, in preparing this resource, is simply responding to reports that many Christians, having read The Da Vinci Code, felt their faith weakened or threatened by it.

"To those left feeling unsure about their religious beliefs we offer facts in place of fiction and reassurance on the basic truths of their faith.

"We hope people find this useful and see the release of the film as an opportunity to widen awareness of the Christian gospels rather than a threat."