St Giles' Newsletter

St Giles’ Cathedral: The High Kirk of Edinburgh

St Giles’ News

January 2020

St Giles’ Cathedral is a registered Scottish charity SC003565

A Message from the Minister

A Happy New Year to all!

As the New Year begins we find ourselves liturgically in the season of Epipha- ny (which means ‘appearance’) and we celebrate the manifestation of Jesus to the world as saviour. The traditional focus for the festival is the visit of the wise men to pay homage to the child Jesus in Bethlehem. The story of the visitation of the wise men has, of course, been a favourite of poets and artists throughout the years.

Have you ever wondered why this story has been such an inspiration to the painters and poets who even today return to explore its meaning? Perhaps it is because of the simple mystery of these anonymous star-gazers, gift-givers and dreamers; or maybe it is that the story has something so basically human about it – mother, baby, visitors – that it connects with our experience and transcends time; and I am sure that the theme of journey is one which resonates with many people who (rightly) understand faith not as a destination but a pilgrim- age.

I think it is safe to say that in addition to any of these, the story fascinates because of the paradox of these important men of the world who have audiences with kings, travelling to an insignificant corner of an insignificant town to kneel in front of an ostensibly insignficant child; a paradox that is prophetic of the new kingship God anoints.

Blessings on your journey of faith in 2020 and beyond.

Calum

Homeless Sunday—Charity Concert Sunday, 26 January, 2020—6.00 to 7.00pm in St Giles’

Very kindly presented by the Kevock Choir

Collection in aid of Bethany Christian Trust Organised by the Neighbourhood Group For programme and more information—see page 9

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Content

Page 1 Message from the Minister The Congregational Noticeboard Due to the renovations, current- Page 1 Homeless Sunday—Charity Concert ly being undertaken in the Low- er Aisle, the Congregational Page 2 Noticeboard & Heated Trolley Noticeboard has found itself Irina Pages 3 & 4 News from the Session situated in the middle of a worksite and in consequence Page 5 Presbytery Report h a s h a d t o b e Page 6 The Arabic Prayer ‘decommissioned’ on a tempo- rary basis. Pages 7 A Lunch Party by coincidence However, we have been as- Pages 7 & 8 Neighbourhood News sured by the Convener of the General Committee that this situation will only be Page 9 Chinese Lanterns & Charity Concert for a short period; restricted to just a few weeks. Pages 10—12 C of S—Structural Changes As with all active churches, the Noticeboard is an e s s e n t i a l Pages 14 & 15 65 years in the Ordained Ministry m e a n s o f passing on Page 15 ‘Discovered Lives: Ladies of St Giles’ important and time-sensitive Pages 16 & 17 Dr Martin Fair—Moderator Designate information. Page 16 I Spy! The current Page 17 The Wise Men situation is making life extremely difficult in our efforts to com- Page 18 Visitors to St Giles’ in 1909 municate effectively. So, please bear with us and hopefully the Noticeboard will once again be oper- Page 19 Recollections of a Steward ational within the next couple of weeks. Page 20 Contact Details Bethany Care Shelter—and a heated trolley

Teams from St Giles’, organised by the Neighbourhood Group, have provided full catering facilities at the Care Shelters organised by the Bethany Christian Trust for several years. Until recently the Bethany Care Shelters, providing overnight accommodation and a meal to homeless individuals, have been based at a variety of church halls and other such venues that would vary from evening to evening. However, Bethany, with the Church of Scotland and others, has now converted a former church (Stenhouse St Ai- dan’s) into a bespoke and permanent venue. This facility can accommodate up to 70 individuals on a nightly basis—the new venue is now known as The Diadem. When the St Giles’ team was recently catering at The Diadem, it identified that the abil- ity to serve hot meals was being severely hampered due to the lack of a heated food trolley. As a result, and with the generous support of the Tekoa Trust managed by a member of the congregation, funds were combined so the heated trolley, together with a range of appropriate accessories, could be purchased. A good and helpful result.

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News from the Session

Message from the Session Clerk

A full Cathedral at all the services over Christmas reminded us of one of our key mis- sions as the High Kirk of Edinburgh - to act as a focal point in the City for the many residents and visitors who may not regard themselves as church goers or perhaps even reli- Mark Batho gious but for whom attending church at Christmas has some significance. It doesn't matter if it's the building itself that they come for, or its atmos- phere, its services and music, the candles or the welcome they receive. What does matter is that we are here for them. And in the same way, not least through the wonderful work Willof theBriant Neighbourhood Group, collecting money, food and gifts and dis- tributing these, the Cathedral is there for people in our Parish who need a bit of help at this time. I make these points in a report that is supposed to be focussed on the work of the Kirk Session, simply because our last Session meeting, just before Christmas, was a demonstration of the 'nuts and bolts' deliberations that take place there, whose pur- Iain in action pose is, ultimately, to make sure that the Cathedral is able to welcome our Christ- mas congregations and to reach out to our parishioners. For example, at that meeting, we were able to agree an increase in the resources Getting ready for Christmas available for the Neighbourhood Group's work; we received a report from the Ses- sion's General Committee on the work being undertaken to introduce an up to date fire risk assessment and prevention strategy - absolutely essential for keeping the building safe; and we heard about the plans for re-fitting the lower aisle area and once again making available a facility for the congregation to meet and enjoy coffee after services. And we also had an important discussion about the need for continuing vigilance in relation to luggage that visitors are wont to bring into the Ca- thedral and which is sometimes left unattended. The connection between all this and a full Cathedral belting out 'O come Mark Oakley all ye faithful' at the Watchnight service is maybe not always seen. But it is real and it is a connection that is, I know, always in the minds of Ses- sion members. And as I close this piece, I should mention that at our last meeting, the Session gave thanks for the service of two Elders - to Elisabeth Downie, who has retired from active eldership after many years of devoted service to the Session and to the Cathedral; and to Harold Mills, long-serving as an Elder, as a former Cathedral Treasurer and as the organiserWill at work for many years of the large-scale civic and national services that take place in St Giles', who passed away in Novem- ber. All of us at St Giles' owe both of them a great debt of gratitude. Mark

Will Tamblyn FINANCIAL MATTERS

Message from the Treasurer—John Robertson At the time of writing, we have just passed the end of our financial year on 31 December 2019. It is too early, therefore, to give hard and fast details of the year’s results. While year-end adjustments have still to be made, it looks as though income in 2019 was John Robertson very substantially up on 2018. This is due in large measure to the increased visitor income, achieved by the hard work of our Heritage and Culture staff, and the volunteer guides, but offerings and donations appear to have held up well, too. Expenditure will also have risen, but, subject to the year-end adjustments, and provided the final figures do not disclose any significant oversight on my part, I am hopeful that we shall have achieved a modest surplus before extraordinary items. As to extraordinary items, we have been fortunate in 2019 to have received legacy payments of a little over £40,000. In addition to that, our Heritage and Culture staff were able to obtain for us payments from film com- panies of some £30,000. John

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News from the Session—cont.

GENERAL COMMITTEE REPORT Continuing the ongoing maintenance and development of St Giles’ - John Andrew

Mark Batho In this edition of the Newsletter, I am pleased to report on the continuing work to maintain the fabric of St Giles’ and the added work, which is already underway, to investigate and develop a future maintenance programme. In the following report I will update on the works, investigations and future improvements to the fire protection systems and also give an update on the ongoing repurposing of the Lower Aisle. In previous articles for this Newsletter, I have outlined the investigations that were instructed John Andrew by the General Committee on behalf of the Kirk Session following the events to Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris in April last year. Following this tragic event, and as reported, immediate investigations were instructed to review the level of projection of the fire system and to prioritise any additional works required. I am reassured that the current system provides a high level of protection. These investigations have been lengthy and comprehensive and are now complete and the final report is now awaited. These investigations also included a full inspection by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service that identified some initial remedial works to both the facilities in the Cathedral and to the management systems that govern this. The General Committee will fully review the content of the final report, this is anticipated in the near future, and together with the Cathedral Architect, in consultation with other professionals including the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, will instruct any additional remedial works that may be required to ensure that we have a compliant and appropriate system that fully covers any eventuality. The General Committee has also instructed a full review and revision of the current Fire Safety Risk Assessment and Management Plan for the Cathedral and this work will commence in early January. Much of this work will be undertaken in areas that are not visible to members of the congregation or visitors to the Cathedral and a full revised report will be issued in due course. Members of the congregation, regular readers, and visitors will be aware of the closure of the Lower Aisle Café in Autumn 2019. This difficult decision was made on several criteria including; increased competition in the surrounding area, the requirement for an extensive and expensive refurbishment to the fixtures, fittings and infrastructure in the café and the need for additional space for Cathedral activities. It is understood that the loss of the café especially to members of the congregation has caused concerns due to the lack of a communal meeting area, particu- larly following the Sunday Services. Since the closure of the café and the removal of the existing fixtures and fittings this has highlighted that a much-needed refurbishment project was well overdue. This time has also enabled further planning and development of the space and it is hoped that works to repurpose the Lower The Lower Aisle Aisle as a multi-functional space will commence early in 2020. This new Undergoing change space will provide: a congregational place for meetings and socialising following Sunday Services; a ‘Green Room’ and changing area facility for performers at the various concerts and events held in the Cathedral; improved robing and music library facilities for members of the St Giles’ Choir; an area for our staff and our dedicated volunteers working in the Cathe- dral; additional storage facilities; and further much needed staff office and meeting space. Further updates on the progress on these important matters will be provided as works proceed. A report on progress on the development of further restoration works will also be provided in future editions of the St Giles’ Newsletter.

John M Andrew FICE Convener of the General Committee

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An update from our Presbytery Elder, Gary Winney Gary

Much of the work undertaken by the Presbytery of Edinburgh is fulfilled by committees and covers a very wide range of local Church activity. Much of this is very detailed and business-based with the outcomes being min- uted and presented to Presbytery meetings for wider discussion. However, Presbytery is also keen to highlight significant events that are taking place locally with many of these appearing in their frequently produced and well illustrated Newsletter. This publication is available for downloading from their website—but it can also more conveniently be viewed at our own at www.st gilescathedral.org.uk Hard at work!

I thought the following items might be of particular interest. St Giles’ Cathedral

Tuesday 14th at 5.30pm

‘History of Scottish Theology’ launch

St Andrews in Jerusalem This three-volume work comprises seventy-nine essays surveying the history of Scottish theology from the early middle ages to the late twentieth century. Written by an inter- national team of scholars, the collection provides the most comprehensive review yet of the theological movements, figures and themes that have shaped Scottish culture. Attention is given to different church traditions, to the reception of Scottish theology in art, literature, stained glass and architecture, and to its dispersion through exile, migra- tion and missionary activity. A Lenten Banner

Following a brief introduction from co-editors Professor Mark W Elliott (Glasgow) and Work in progress Rev Professor David Fergusson (Edinburgh), a three-person panel will reflect on each of the three volumes – guest speakers are Professor Jane Dawson (Edinburgh), Professor Ewen Cameron (Edinburgh) and Professor Trevor Hart (St Andrews). This willLilian be Cameron followedSt Andrew’s by generalin Tiberias discussion and a drinks reception. The event will conclude by 7pm. All are welcome

New Presbytery Moderator appointed The Rev Dr Richard Fraser, Minis- ter of Greyfriars Kirk will be in- stalled as the Moderator of Edin- burgh Presbytery at the February Presbytery meeting. Richard was an Assistant at St Giles Cathedral from 1985—87. and is the current Convener of the Church and Society Council of the Church of Scotland. Richard was also the driving force behind the establishment of the significantly successful Grassmarket Community Project—a social enter- prise strongly supported by St Giles’. The Team

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Family matters

One of the greatest joys of being editor is the inevitable interaction with so many connected with St Giles’ who have stories to tell and events to share with me. Much of this exchange is just pleasant and informative chat- ter of little consequence. Nonetheless, as more people seem to want to engage and more importantly contribute to the newsletter, I find my self at the receiving end of incidents that I feel are very much worth sharing. The following two are such examples and I hope many more will be forthcoming as the newsletter continues to develop.

The moving story of the Arabic Prayer

A small team of congregational volunteers support the Treasurer and Finance De- partment by counting and banking the funds placed by visitors in the four large donation boxes that are strategically placed throughout the Cathedral. One such donation box is placed at the entrance to the Holy Blood Aisle where those, who so choose, can light a votive candle and take their time to enjoy the opportunities that this quiet space provides. One such opportunity is to write a prayer or other such message and to leave it in a small basket which is provided for that purpose. Recently, following the emptying of the donation box at the Holy Blood Aisle, a small insignificant piece of paper was found mixed-in with the cash and notes. Finding odd bits and piec- es, of what is usually rubbish in the donation boxes, is not uncommon and they quickly find themselves in the wastepaper basket. However, this small piece of paper caught the eye of the ’cash counter’ who noticed that it contained a pencilled note written in an unknown lan- guage, thought possibly to be in Arabic. By sheer good luck, on that day, one of the cash counters was Session Member, Professor Lindsay Sawyer, whose nephew, Adam Bruce-Watt, is an expert on Arabic translations. So it was speedily decided that the note should be re- tained and passed to Adam to see if a translation was possible. The translation took place and the following message (with names removed and concealed) was revealed. Holy Blood Aisle

When the significance of the message became apparent, it was passed to our Assistant Minister, Doug- las Nicol who later reported ‘I've now researched that it was at the Noon service on Friday 13 Septem- ber 2019 that I used an English translation of the Arabic Prayer found in our Votive Offering box. It seemed to me that it fitted in well with the two Lectionary readings from the Psalms and Luke's Gospel set for the day, and I also included in the service a reading of Hymn 577 based on the 8th century St. Patrick Breastplate. As I chatted to worshippers afterwards there were a number of positive comments about the use of the prayer.’ All that were involved with this simple exercise do very sincerely hope that the prayer, so carefully written by its author, brought all the positive results she was seeking. And, from our part, we are simply pleased to have facilitated the process that led to the prayer being included as a significantly important part of our daily worship.

Family matters continued next page

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Continued from previous page Family matters—continued

………..and a lunch party by coincidence

In the October 2019 Newsletter, we featured an article outlining the long and historic relationship between St Giles’ and the Society of High Constables of Edinburgh. That article was authored, on behalf of the High Constables, by Jim Raeburn OBE. Indeed Jim was the ideal person to write such an article as he is a For- mer Moderator of the High Constables and in consequence has been a fre- quent visitor to services in St Giles’ over many years.

Jim Raeburn In Jim’s article there was mention that he had spent his childhood in the Scot- Douglas Nicol tish Borders. However, and coincidentally, that same edition of the Newsletter contained an article by our Assistant Minister, Douglas Nicol. Within his article, Douglas had made mention of his previous role as the minister of Hobkirk and Southdean in the Scottish Borders. As a result, Jim wrote to the newsletter commenting - “The article by the Rev Douglas Nicol caught my eye with his reference to serving the parishes at Hobkirk and Southdean in the Scottish Borders. The last two years of my primary school education were at Hobkirk Primary School before I moved on to Hawick High School. The minister at Hobkirk in those days was the Rev Stephen Goodbrand. Although, I was not a member of his church, he and his wife attended the General As-

sembly, I think in 1965, not long after I had arrived in Edinburgh, and invited me out for a most sumptuous dinner in a Newington hotel. It was so extraordinarily kind of Bonchester Bridge them that I remember it to this day.” - but most importantly, we were able to put Jim in touch with Douglas. As a result, Douglas organised a lunch party at Bonchester Bridge and successfully ensured that Jim was able to be reunit- ed with a number of those who had attended Hobkirk Primary School with him—and that was many decades ago. If the newsletter can help foster or rekindle old friendships such as this. then our task suddenly becomes extremely rewarding.

Neighbourhood Group News ADVENT APPEAL

Report and thanks by Victor Ashton

This was the fifth Advent Appeal in support of the Trussell Trust Edinburgh Food Project and it was the most successful . The congregation responded with great generosity, contributing ,week by week, large quantities of food and making financial donations, many of them gift aided.

Over the four weeks, six car-loads of food—amounting to one tonne in all—were delivered to the Trussell Trust warehouse on Broomhouse Road. From there, the food is weighed, allocated according to a balanced format into portable crates, and delivered to foodbanks throughout the city.

A final total of money donated is still being assessed, but it is clear that there is enough Fill the boot to plug the gap to enable The Neighbourhood Group to contribute throughout 2020, purchasing in bulk and delivering particular food items which have been found to be in short supply in the Food Project stock. It means that the Appeal provides more than a single gift of food, but creates a long-term support fund to be called on whenever there is need. 18 deliv- eries were made during 2019, plugging particular gaps in stock and involving two tonnes of food.

May I take this opportunity to thank all those who contributed so very generously. It has been very gratifying to see such a response to a cause which, sadly, continues to need support.

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Neighbourhood Group News—continued

Poor of the Parish Fund

As already reported by Mark (see page 3), the Session allocated additional funding this year in support of local charities and others for whom donations from churches and others makes a significant difference. In the case of St Giles’, this funding is made possible from the income earned from the Poor of the Parish Fund. This fund was established a very long time agoNotre and -Dame one of its original objectives was to supply coal in the winter to those in need within the Old Town.

In more recent years the Session has asked the Neighbourhood Group for recommendations as to how the financial allocation from the Poor of the Parish Fund might be distributed. On this occasion the amount involved was £7,500.

After careful consideration the Neighbourhood Group made the following recommendations which were accepted by the Session with the funds being distributed just before Christmas.

• The Edinburgh Clothing Store £1,500—providing clothing for homeless, refugees and those in serious need.

• FreshStart £1,000—supporting its Annual Cooker Appeal.

• Grassmarket Community Project £1,000—helping to fund, with other local churches, its Drop-in Meal programme .

• Rock Trust £1,500—providing support to prevent/reduce homelessness in the Under-25s.

• Streetwork £1,500—providing support to the more mature homeless community

• The Welcoming £1,000—to help integrate refugees and asylum seekers into the community.

The Annual Christmas Can Collections ………and the Annual Christmas Gifts

In almost perfect weather conditions, volunteers from St For more years than most of us can remember, St Giles’ has Giles’ took part in the 14th Annual Can Collections which appealed for Christmas Gifts for the residents of Cunning- took place in the City Centre on Friday, 21 & Saturday, 22 ham house. December. These gifts arrive in the weeks leading up to Christmas and On this occasion the money collected was in support of the are stored, prior to delivery, in the large Kist situated beside work undertaken by Cunning- the Noticeboard in the Lower Aisle. The gifts are then tradi- ham House in the Cowgate tionally transferred to Cunningham House on 23 Decem- whose prime objective is to help ber—ahead of Christmas Day. Harvest Thanksgiving rehabilitate homeless individu- Well, thanks to the enormous als back into ‘society’. Cunning- generosity of so many, the Kist ham House is owned and man- was full to overflowing by the Kevin working hard in aged by CrossReach which in time it came for them to be de- the German Market turn is part of the Social Care livered. Council of the Church of Scot- land. As requested the gifts are not wrapped to ensure that each The street collections, with other individual donations, was recipient receives things that supplemented by an extremely generous donation from the are appropriate for their particu- Choir. This resulted in St Giles’ being able to transfer a rec- lar set of circumstances—and ord amount of £3,481.15 to Cunningham House. that needs to be determined by Despite this significant success, so strongly supported by the the staff at Cunningham House. Choir, the actual money collected from the general public was The picture shows about half the goods that were delivered somewhat less than in other more recent years. This was –and, from just looking at the various gifts that had been partiallyThe (but group inevitably at Penicuik due) toHouse less volunteering to help on placed in the bags, it was very obvious that many had been the Saturday and possibly due to us all carrying less change very thoughtfully selected to meet the circumstances under in our pockets as we increasingly use which they were being donated. our bank cards to complete ‘contactless’ transactions. Once again the Neighbourhood Group is extremely grateful to all those whose kindness helped to make Christmas a

happier day for others who otherwise would have had very A huge ‘thank you’ to all who helped little to celebrate. and donated funds.

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What’s on in St Giles’ Chinese Lanterns & Charity Concert By Heritage & Culture By Neighbourhood Group

Charity Concert Homeless Sunday The Edinburgh Kevock Choir

Directed by Graham Lovett in support of the Bethany Christian Trust

Sunday, 26 January 2020

6.00-7.00pm—Entrance free

Programme

Arr. Emerson Elijah Rock! • Arr. Shaw Let the river run

Arr. Johnston Pie Jesu • Arr. Goodall Love divine

Arr. Maunder Border Ballad• Arr. Mulholland Red, Red Rose

Collection in support of Bethany Christian Trust One of Bethany’s team will speak in the interval Bethany’s services focus on relieving the immediate suffer- ing and meeting the long terms needs of homeless and vulnerable people in Scotland. They don’t just work with homeless people– they stop people becoming homeless in the first place.

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Church of Scotland STRUCTURAL CHANGES AGREED

As all are aware the central governance of the Church of Scotland is undergoing major structural reform following a series of recommendations discussed and agreed at the 2019 General Assembly. The following three pages—copied from articles appearing in a special edition of Life & Work and with the ever-friendly and supportive help of the Church’s Communications office—outline the decisions taken by the Commission of Assembly at its meeting on 21 November. I am extremelyTiberias grateful for all the support received that has enabled me to report accurately on these important developments. Fiona Graham

A MAJOR reorganisation of the central structures of the Church of Scotland will take effect from the New Year. A Commission of Assembly held in Edinburgh on November 21 approved the ‘thanking’ and discharging of the Ministries, Mission and Discipleship, Church and Society and World Mission Councils, with their work to be combined into two new agencies on January 1. The replacement bodies have the working titles Faith Nurture Forum (combining the work of the Ministries and Mission and Discipleship) and the Faith Impact Forum (Church and Society and World Mission). At governance level, the forums will consist of 15 members each, including a convener and vice-convener, who will serve for three years. Individual areas of work will be looked after by small implementation groups (which could include staff). The staff of the four councils will initially be transferred into the new groups, pending in-depth discussions about the remits and work of the forums. These discussions will be held in the early months of 2020 and recommendations made to the General Assembly in May. They will include assessments of which work should continue, which should be devolved to the new, larger presbyteries (when they have gone through their own reforms) and which can be discontinued, in the context of the target of reducing the cost of the central administration by 20-30%. Presenting the proposals to the Commission of Assembly (a body consisting Theof about Shed 10% of the last General Assembly), the Convener of the Assembly Trustees, the Very Rev Dr John Chalmers, said that ‘the overall priority is that the centre must serve the local’. He said that the reforms were ‘the foundational layer of a new way of governing and a new Gathered at the foot of the Mound way of working’: “One which leaves managers to manage, one which empowers staff to do what they are good at without having to hold a meeting every time they want to sneeze. And one that encourages the development of cross-departmental teams whereThe no Diadem-one belongs to an independent silo, where everyone belongs in a unified workforce supporting one another in delivering the work they have been invited to deliver by the General Assembly.

Dr John Chalmers “We believe 15 is a sufficient number to ensure oversight of the responsibilities that will fall to these bodies, and we understand that with a proper cycle of meetings and good use of elec- tronic decision making, savings of something like £60-70,000 per year could be made in this Peter Backhouse area of the church’s work alone. That might be the salaries with on-costs of two members of staff. “The work of these forums will be done by small implementation groups. For the purposes of good governance, one forum member will be allocated to each implementation group, but we expect that at this level of the operation staff will have au- thority under a scheme of delegation to make decisions, fulfil remits and getPeople on with from the the work.”refugee community working on the allotment He said that the names of the Forums were felt to be ‘dynamic as well as descriptive’: “Faith Nurture was the idea of taking us into the heart of God, and Faith Impact was about the idea of taking us out into the heart of the world where our faith makes a difference.” However, he emphasised that they were working titles and ‘the least important part of this report’. An attempt to put forward alternative names during the Commission of Assembly was rejected. Another part of the proposals is that at least twice a year the two forums, along with the Assembly Trustees and other groups, will meet in the same place and share their work, in a further effort to encourage co-operation and discourage working in separate silos.

The staff Continued next page

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Continued from previous page

The Ministries and World Mission Councils will remain in existence as constituent committees of the new agencies, for the purposes of acting as the statutory employers in terms of the Church’s pension schemes for their staff. Dr Chalmers said: “This is not a legal fiction but a significant responsibility which will have to be carried out by those members of the forums appointed to these subcommittees.” Of the ‘crossover’ bodies that don’t currently belong to any of the existing councils, Ecumenical Relations and the Theologi- cal Forum will sit within the management structure of the Faith Nurture Forum, and interfaith work within the Faith Impact Forum. However, they will continue to report independently to the General Assembly. Dr Chalmers said that this had been a much-discussed issue among the Trustees. “We are quite clear this is not about ad- ministrative convenience. It is an attempt to be more strategic about this than in the past. “In no way does this exclude (Ecumenical Relations, interfaith or the Theological Forum) from being engaged in wider work that might come under the department of the General Assembly, or because the Moderator or Principal Clerk or others re- quire their input.” The move from four councils to two forums is the first significant reorganisation of the central administration since the councils were created in 2006. It represents the next step in the reforms agreed by the 2019 General Assembly, which has already seen the Council of Assembly replaced by the Assembly Trustees; and the appointment of Dave Kendall as the Church’s first chief officer. Next steps for the Assembly Trustees include the establishment of a £25m Growth Fund to resource projects aimed at church growth; continuing conversations with the Social Care Council about how it can become more financially viable; the establishment of a research and analysis unit which will inform Church vision and strategy; and progress on deciding the future of the church offices at 121 George Street. Presbytery reform is also gathering pace, with the aim of reducing the number of Scottish presbyteries to 12 (from the current 43). While discussions are at different stages in different parts of the country, some of the proposed mergers are expected to be ready to be legally approved by the General Assem- bly of 2020. However, Dr Chalmers cautioned that all the reforms ‘may all be for nothing’ unless they are accompanied by culture change in the Church of Scotland. He said: “We can engineer yet another restructuring of the central administration, and this time we might actually manage the reorganisation of presbyteries. But if we do not change the way we think of our colleagues, or learn to speak well of our brothers and sisters in Christ – even those we disagree with – it may all be for nothing. “Ours is a culture that needs to change. It has been said many Assembly Trustees times that culture can eat strategy; and, in the history of our Church, culture has had many a hearty breakfast. “We have to understand and embrace the fact that change may be the only constant. And as we’ve crept closer to this first and very modest change in our culture, it has become increasingly clear that while everyone wants change, mostly people want change on their own terms. “Each of us, in fact, has to be the change we want to see in our Church.” The deliverance from the Assembly Trustees was passed as proposed, apart from technical amendments. An amendment from the Rev Hugh Conkey sought to remove a rule that bars employees of the church from being forum members, as that would exclude Associate Ministers and other ministers who are employees (as opposed to parish ministers, who are legally office bearers rather than employees, and will be eligible for forum membership). However it failed to gain support after Dr Chalmers said the exclusion of employees was important to prevent conflicts of interest. Elder Jo Elliot brought a motion calling for clarification of the roles and responsibilities of the Assembly Trustees, chief officer and forum conveners and members in directing staff. Dr Chalmers said that he wasn’t against clarity in principle, but that the Trustees shouldn’t be given another piece of work at this stage of the year and that in any case the issue would come up in the discussions about the new structure. The Rev Scott Rennie spoke in favour of devolving as much resource as possible to the new presbyteries, in order to meet the demand for training and vocations work locally. He said: “We should only keep centrally what has to be done centrally.” Dr Chalmers replied: “I couldn’t agree more.” The Nomination Committee has been instructed to make appointments of interim conveners, vice- conveners and members of the new Forums, to sit until the General Assembly of 2020.

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The family

Steve Aisthorpe

Note—This article has been compiled from information made available through the Church of Scotland website and Life & Work Ed. www.stgilescathedral.org.uk

Don’t forget the website. It is not just for visitors! It contains a wide range of information about future events and, just in case you miss a Sunday, it also includes the ‘Intimations’ and details of all forthcoming events (musical and otherwise) including St Giles’ at Six.

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A survey of 65 years in the ordained ministry by Rev Ian M.P. Davidson

In the October edition of the newsletter, Gary Winney, as part of his Presbytery Report, recorded that congrat- ulations had been extended to our former minister the Very Rev Gilleasbuig Macmillan on reaching 50 years since his ordination. However, in a subsequent conversation with our current minister, I learnt that Rev Ian Davidson—a very active member of our congregation supported by his wife Isla—had, totally unknown to most of us, been ordained some 65 years ago. So it was with considerable delight when IanBethlehem very readily agreed to share his lifetime of service to the Church of Scotland with us. Thank you Ian and congratulation to both you and Isla for such dedicated and significant service. Ed.

Early in 1951 in the main hall of St Mary’s College, St Andrews, a selection panel for the ordained ministry met. The present writer was a candidate - son , grandson, and great grandson of the manse, with the portrait of his great grandfather, the Very Rev. Professor John Cunningham, former Principal of the College, looking down on the pro- ceedings. The illustrious grandson of the Principal, who took a kindly interest in his young kinsman, was Lord High Commissioner to the General Assembly in 1950 and 1952. His memorial in St Giles is on a pillar near the choir stalls.

A year or two earlier I had decided that there were other ways of serving the church. Though not in uniform that day , I was still on National Service – the equivalent of more than a gap year – time to be won over by the urgent need for ordained ministers.

In 1954 I began my ministry as ordained assistant at Holburn Central, Aberdeen, a congregation of nearly 3,000. These were the days when Billy Graham was holding forth in the Kelvin Hall, with relays to Holburn Cen- tral - and ‘Tell Scotland’ was active. It was a lively time for the kirk, with membership of more than a million and a quarter, increasing and not decreasing.

In 1955 I was inducted to the newly united charge of Crieff North and West, with worship initially in two church buildings. Following a contentious ballot in 1957 to decide the sole place of worship , the redundant building became St Ninian’s Lay Training Centre, with the Rev. Dr D.P. Thomson at the helm, a legend in his time. Recognising that lay training was ever more urgent in the reducing numbers of ordained ministers, I gave the Centre active support.

The ‘Bishops in Presbytery Report’, concerning the government of the church, sur- faced in 1957, deserving a more Christian study than it received – this my view, not- withstanding that in 1662 my earliest ministerial ancestor, minister of Ettrick, resist- ed episcopacy, and was forced out of his charge, moving off to his nearby property Crieff North of Hyndhope. Parish Church

In 1961 I was called to Grange Church, Kilmarnock, a lively congregation, with an unusual willingness to accept new ideas, the dream of any parish minister. It did not take part in what, by this time, was national decline.

In 1967 my longest and in many ways most straightforward ministry began at Cam- Cambuslang buslang. It started with a major scheme on the parent buildings, following the demoli- Old Parish Church tion of the mission church. Included was the rebuilding of the pipe organ. The parish is noted for its preaching braes, and the Wark ( a Revival) of 1742.

I look back with great affection to all my charges, not least to Cambuslang for their support in my accepting to be a General Trustee of the Church of Scotland, the start of a 28 years commitment. Within the Cambuslang period I was also serving on the Assembly’s Board of Ministry, latterly as Convener. In the ensuing years, with involve- ment in special commissions, deputations and arbitrations, there were few parts of the UK with a Church of Scotland connection which I did not visit, ranging from most of the islands to St Columba’s , London, regarding the link with Newcastle: St An- drews. Continued next page

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Continued from previous page

A survey of 65 years in the ordained ministry by Rev Ian M.P. Davidson (continued)

Commissioned by the Board of Ministry, a critical analysis of the church appeared in the mid 1970’s entitled ‘The Church of Scotland An Economic Survey’, the work, with his associates, of J.N. Wolfe, professor of economics at Edinburgh University. Many of the recommendations in the 465 pages analysis were soon imple- mented, but too many postponed to another day, the day being the General Assembly of 2019, perhaps the most significant Assembly since 1929 when the Auld Kirk and the United Free Church united. In 1929 I was too young and in 2019 too old to claim any part !

In 1985 I was called to Stirling Allan Park South Church with the Church of the Holy Rude. In 1994 I retired soon after the completion of a £1 ½ m renovation scheme at Holy Rude, including major work on the pipe organ, one of the finest in Europe.

Like St Giles, Stirling’s Holy Rude attracts visitors from all over the world, its greatest claim to fame the place where in 1567 the infant King James VI was crowned on the forced abdication of Mary Queen of Scots. Shortly before retiring I received an MBE from the Queen. Church of the Holy Rude Stirling Did I retire, or didn’t I ? There was chairmanship of the General Trus- tees, locums at St George’s West and Newbattle, and pulpit supply. Now I am happy with Isla to be appreciative members of St Giles, with which my family has had many associations across the years.

Asked to give some account of the 65 years as an ordained minister, I have given the above framework. But a highly important fact must be added. The kind of ministry which I exercised could not have happened without Isla my wife who has shared 63 of the 65 years. We have two sons who continue to be so supportive.

In 1845 the future Principal Cunningham was ordained as parish minister of Crieff where he served for 40 years. By the marriage of his daughter to my scholarly grandfather, the minister of St Cyrus, there has been an unbroken succession of ordained ministers in my family for 175 years. In the 19th century the Principal proved himself a minister far ahead of his times. In theFetternear 20th centuryBanner I aimed to be at least a minister of today’s times, not yesterday’s times !

Ian & Isla

‘Discovered Lives: Ladies of St Giles’, 1587-1672’

Dr Rosalind K Marshall

The century after the Reformation was a time of turmoil in Scotland. The careers of the principal statesmen, lawyers and ministers are well-known, but what about the women who were also prominent in society? They have been almost entirely ignored. Now however, their identi- ties have been discovered in the record of special seats built for them in Edinburgh’s great church of St Giles’, making it possible to investigate their dramatic and often touching life experiences. So, if you have ever wondered about who used to sit here four hundred years ago, you will find the answer here!

All proceeds from the sale of the book will go to the Cathedral funds. Price £15.00

Dr Rosalind K. Marshall’s previous books include biographies of Mary of Guise, Mary, Queen of Scots and John Knox, as well as full-length histories of St Giles’ Cathedral and Iona Cathedral.

Front cover: Marcus Gheeraerts, Margaret Hay, Countess of Dunfermline, 1615, oil on canvas (Collection of the Dunedin Public Art Gallery). 248 pages plus 8 pages of colour illustrations, 234 x 150mm, paperback, ISBN 978-1-5272-4717-8

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Rev Dr Martin Fair, Moderator Designate for 2020-21

A minister who set up a mental health support service following the suicide of Frightened Rabbit frontman Scott Hutchinson has been chosen to be the next Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scot- land.

Rev Dr Martin Fair, the minister of St Andrews Parish Church in Ar- broath, is the Moderator-Designate for 2020-21.

Martin Fair, who will take up the ambassador role next May, said he was left “devastated” after the singer of one of his favourite bands took his own life and decided he could no longer stand idly by and do nothing.

The 55-year-old, minister of St Andrews Parish Church in Arbroath, Angus, oversaw the rollout of three services delivered by the congregation’s social action project, Havilah, earlier this year.

Dr Fair said faith groups and other bodies have an “obligation” to fill gaps in public provi- sion because the level of statutory support for drug addiction and mental health in Scot- land is “desperately short” of what is needed.

He said too many vulnerable people were being failed and politicians must redouble their efforts to address the crisis.

Dr Fair, who was ordained and inducted into St Andrew’s Parish Church in 1992, said he hoped to highlight addiction and mental health issues during his year in office.

He will be the first Moderator from Arbroath to serve as the Kirk’s ambassador at home and abroad during what will be the 700th anniversary year of the Declaration of Arbroath.

Dr Fair was brought up in Spiersbridge Church, now called Thornliebank Parish Church, and his wife Elaine, a primary school teacher by profession, was his childhood sweetheart.

The couple, who grew up on the same street and attended the same school, have three sons, Callum, 23, An- drew, 20 and Fraser, 18.

Dr Fair said he is excited and a bit daunted about becoming Moderator and his one regret is that his beloved parents,Ciara Ena and Bill who were born and bred in the Church, did not live long enough to see him take up the 12 month role.

“I am really excited about the future of the Church and quite frankly, if I solely focused on statistics that suggested terminal decline I would have quit the ministry years ago,” he added.

“It is at a key crossroads and we are letting go of some of what has been and embracing what is to come. Bethlehem St Andrew’s Parish Church “I am looking forward to getting out and about and being alongside folk in the Arbroath local church and hope to be an encouraging voice to help prepare all of us for what God has in store. From the rooftop

“There is a wonderful opportunity for the Church right now to rediscover its meaning and purpose for the people of Scotland and beyond in the here and now.

“I am totally fired up as a minister and as Moderator, I want to communicate that excitement and positivity.”

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Continued from previous page

Dr Fair, who spent a year as a youth minister in Bermuda before swapping the island for Arbroath, said claims that the Kirk is in its “death throes are well wide of the mark”.

“As I travel round the country even now, I see green shoots of growth and live in hope for what is going to come,” he added.

“What we will see emerge will be fresh and new and to quote a phrase, God is not finished with Scotland or His Church.”

In addition to his doctorate from Princeton Theological Seminary, New Jersey, USA, the Moderator Designate Church of the Holy Rudeholds in Stirling a degree in Politics and Geography from Strath- clyde University in Glasgow and a Bachelor of Divinity from the University of Glasgow.

When he is not engaged in ministry in all its permutations, Dr Fair enjoys exploring the great outdoors and is a keen hill walker, mountaineer, camper, football fan and golfer.

As a teenager, he had a handicap of two and a favourite family story is the time he forfeited the chance of win- ning a club championship by walking off three holes early because he feared he would miss a cinema date with his now wife.

Golf continued to be a passion into adulthood but a “life changing” accident in August 2017 now means Dr Fair’s handicap of eight has slipped.

He tripped and fell in the street in Arbroath and broke his left arm which has never properly healed despite three operations.

His left hand does not function properly and he is unable to tie his own shoelaces and necktie and relies on a specially adapted car to get around under his own steam.

Dr Fair said: “It has been a huge learning curve and for the first time in my life I have had to ask for help.

“While I wish this had not happened to me, good things have come from it because when you are dependent on people for help you take on a different view of life.

“The support I got from my family and the Christian community was phenomenal and I think I am a more round- ed person because of that experience.

“My attitude is ‘ok, let’s get on with life’ and I am not going to let it stop me or define me.

“I am now learning how to play golf one-handed.” Easter Sepulchre—St Giles’ Much of this article was taken from information made available on the Church of Scotland website . Ed.

I spy!

There are a lot of very knowledgeable people involved with St Giles’ but there are many more like myself that simply do not appreciate the historical significance of so many of the items within the Cathe- dral that we just walk past every Sunday and ignore. One such is the bell mounted in an ornate wooden structure situated at the entrance to the Chambers Aisle. It is recorded that the bell was one of 23 music bells, from the late 17th Century, that allegedly played ‘Why are you so sad on your wedding day’ when the Union of the Parliaments between England and Scotland took place in 1707—and that to some might be a sentiment that they still share. However, and of equal interest, is the point that the wooden mounting is believed to have come from a ship that took part in the Spanish Armada—and many were wrecked as they fled around the Scottish mainland and Islands. Ed.

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The Wise Men (in Matthew 2:1-17)

Each year at Christmas time we hear the story of the Three Kings and enjoy singing the carol whose well known first verse goes as follows “We three kings of orient are, Bearing gifts we traverse afar, Field and fountain, Moor and mountain, Following yonder star.” But who were these Kings, otherwise referred to as the Magi or Wisemen I was therefore delighted that once again our good friend and fellow congregational member, the Rev Professor William Johnstone, so willingly agreed to share his knowledge on this subject with us. Thank you William

Once again, the editor with his commendably enquiring mind has set a puzzle: Who were the Wise Men in the Christmas story? What were their names? How many were there? Where did they come from? Matthew does not inform us, or at least not fully. As so often in his Gospel, Matthew’s priority is to tell the story of Jesus and the events of his life as the fulfilment of the promises so long awaited by his people. His account is therefore steeped in references to the expectations expressed in the Old Testament. Thus Matthew 2 is full of echoes of such a passage as Isaiah 60:1-7: “... the LORD will arise upon you, his glory will appear over you. Nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn [cf. the star of Bethlehem] ... the wealth of nations [hence the title of Adam Smith’s famous 1776 work on economics!] shall come to you ... the young camels of Midian William Johnstone and Ephah; all those from Sheba shall come. They shall bring gold and frankincense ...”

Bruce M. Metzger, the leading scholar behind the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible which we use in St Giles’ (he signed the “address to the reader,” pp. xi-xvi), has commented on issues raised in connection with the Wise Men in his article “Names for the Nameless in the New Testament: A Study in the Growth of Christian Tradition” (1970):

“As nature abhors a vacuum, so early Christians were reluctant to leave unidentified this or that person who is mentioned but not named in the pages of the New Testament. ... A variety of traditions developed concerning the number of the Wise Men, their names, dress, appearance, and age ... It is usually assumed that the Magi were three in number (probably because Mat- Sir Edward Burne Jones—Adoration of the Magi thew mentions that they presented three gifts) ... That they were twelve ... was rather widely held ... The earliest literary reference to the names occurs in ... a chronicle drawn up by an Alexandrian Christian who lived in the sixth century A.D. ...” The English scholar the Venerable Bede [ca 673-735 A.D.] held thatDuncan the three were Melchior (an old man, who brought gold), Caspar (a beardless youth, who brought frankincense), and Balthasar (in prime of life, who brought myrrh). They represented the three continents of Asia, The Venerable Bede Africa, and Europe (cf. the sons of Noah in Genesis 10). The sixth century mosaics in Sant’ Apollina- re Nuovo in Ravenna give a representation of them [https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/stories- 46650911]. Metzger continues: “The name Melchior appears to be derived from Hebrew words meaning ... ‘my king is light’ ... Balthasar seems to be related to the Aramaic name Belteshazzar [understood to mean ‘protect his life’] given to Daniel while in the Babylonian court (Daniel 1:7). ... Caspar ... may be a corruption of the Indian [surname] Godaphar ...”

Some of the best-loved Christmas carols, e.g., Peter Cornelius’s “Three kings from Persian lands afar,” depend on such imaginative developments. We can continue to enjoy them so long as we do not lose sight of the central point of the coming of the Wise Men celebrated at Epiphany on January 6th: “the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles.”

The St Giles’ emailing list

We can only send the St Giles’ News and other periodic communications by email if we have specific permission to do so. However, if you are not on the emailing list but would like to be added then please send an email to [email protected] to give us the necessary permission. If in doubt or you would like further information please contact the Editor—Simon Bolam—at 07850 790051. Equally, if you would rather we stopped contacting you by email then please let us know.

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Several American ladies visit St Giles’ in 1909

I was delighted when Ted Duvall sent me details of a book he had been reading titled ‘Eight Lands in Eight Weeks’ which was authored by Marcia Penfield Snyder from New York in 1911. The book re- counts the trip undertaken in 1909 by a small group of American ladies who visited eight countries in eight weeks. Most importantly this speedy journey included a quick visit to Edinburgh and St Giles’. The relevant extract from the book is outlined below and makes one wonder if times have changed! Ed.

Important Facts

1. Sixpence in 1909 would equate to £2.92 in today’s money—so they were getting a bargain. 2. St Giles’ is so old that any thing we now think of as an original idea has previously been thought about on numerous occasions. 3. Ted Duvall is the husband of Marjorie who is the sister of our Treasurer John Robertson. 4. As charging for entry is a difficult and complex subject, I think that Ted was extremely brave by bring- ing this article to the attention of the newsletter unless (of course) John primed him to do so. But I suspect we will never know.

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Recollections of a Steward

By Chris McGregor—a member of the Congregation

I was delighted when I received this article from Chris Mc Gregor following her retirement after 40 years of Sun- day stewarding. I know it is for others, much more senior within St Giles’, to acknowledge and thank Chris for Irene Brownher many helped years of dedicated service. Nonetheless, it is committed individuals such as Chris who ensure that break theall Enigma are welcomed Code to the Cathedral and through that to then inspire others to get involved with this essential and rewarding work. Well done Chris. Ed.

I have recentlyIan Moffat given up being a steward after almost forty years in Team C. I do so with regret as I realise that it has been an enriching experience and that I will miss the camaraderie of the team, the wider stewarding group and the opportunities to meet and greet people.

My career as a steward was almost over before it started. On the first Sunday of duty all these years ago, I led the West first circle at Communion to the right in- stead of to the left. An erstwhile Session Clerk of St Giles used to say if you make a mistake when on duty carry on with dignity and no one will notice. All very well to wing it solo but followed by thirty trusting souls as one ploughs into the path of the unrelenting choir - not easy. A very messy turn around followed. It took all the tact and caring of Liz Kemp to put me together again and to let me go on. I am so glad she did.

For many stewards the most significant duty is the carrying of the elements and there can be a feeling of privilege in being part of Communion in this way. I often Chris McGregor felt quite awed as the team gathered in the office with open door, listening to the prayers of intercession and on the cue of the music starting, taking up chalice, plate or flagon and moving into procession. Of course, like all things that are worth doing, there can be nerve racking moments especially if one has a bad back or a dodgy knee and the chancel marble steps loom large.

I always found the most difficult duty was W1, manning the front door. It requires sensitive courtesy to turn those away who only want to see the cathedral. The nightmare scenario is a “ bus load” of Italian tourists wanting “ vedere la chiesa”. Irina Vettraino It is largely the case that in Europe comings and goings during a church service are usual and it can be hard to explain our different approach. One also needs eyes in the back of the head as the more determined nip in and out, cameras flashing. Thank goodness for the times when the Beadle can help.

I imagine most stewards have accounts of their own worst moments to tell. My most recent one was when sub- stituting in another team at the East end. The steward on door duty forgot to come in for Communion and I found myself alone at the front row with a decision to be made about whether to lead the folk or bring up the rear. A hurried word to a somewhat bewildered visitor “ Follow that line round till you come to a minister “ was the best that could be done.

Equally, I am sure most stewards have had lovely experiences of encounters with people. The one that comes to mind for me happened recently. An elderly lady in a wheelchair needed a little help in coming into the church and we chatted. At the end of the service she came to me and said “ Do you not use the embroidered offering bags any longer? It was a green silk one today” I explained that the embroidered bags were mainly used and the others were back up. She said “ Oh that’s good to hear - l did some of the embroidery many years ago” She came with me to the office and I took a bag out to show it to her. She said “ How wonderful, that is exactly the design I worked on.” “Perhaps this is the very one you embroidered “ said I. “ Oh no my dear, I made mistakes and this one is perfect” was her reply. A lovely lady I won’t forget.

Despite Tom my mentionFoggo of personal mishaps, my closing note is one of just how worth- while and rewarding stewarding is and I would encourage members from the congregation to join in - but perhaps not for a forty year stint.

Chris McGregor

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Contact Details—January 2020

*Minister:

Rev Calum I MacLeod [email protected] *Assistant Minister Rev Craig Meek [email protected] *Session Clerk Mark Batho [email protected] *Treasurer John P Robertson [email protected] *Business Committee Convener Carole Hope [email protected] *General Committee Convener John Andrew [email protected] *Presbytery Elder Gary Winney [email protected] *Minister’s Secretary Alison Wylie [email protected] *Organists Michael Harris: Master of the Music [email protected] Jordan English: Assistant Organist [email protected] * Phone 0131 225 4363

Beadles 0131 226 0672 David Hall & Alan Foggo [email protected] Finance Office 0131 225 8683 Suzanne Whitehead [email protected]

Neighbourhood Group William Taylor: Convener [email protected] Lesley Elliot: Secretary [email protected] Simon Bolam: Treasurer [email protected] Christian Aid: Duncan Watson [email protected] Edinburgh Clothing Store: Jean Ferris 0131 332 5584 Foodbank: Victor Ashton [email protected] FreshStart:: Carole Hope [email protected] Refugee Welcoming Project: Fiona Graham [email protected]

Heritage and Cultural Department 0131 226 0674 Sarah Phemister—Head of Heritage and Culture [email protected] Stephen Preston—Deputy Head of Heritage and Culture [email protected] Rebecca McKinley—Music & Performance Coordinator [email protected] Jess Meagher—Heritage & Culture Assistant (Group Visits) [email protected]

Archivist 0131 225 4363 Kevin Hall [email protected]

Shop 0131 226 0673 Irina Vettraino: Retail Manager [email protected]

Editor 07850 790051 Simon Bolam [email protected]

Cathedral’s Address St Giles’ Cathedral, High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1RE 0131 225 4363 www.stgilescathedral.org.uk

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