The Scottish Parliament has marked the 900th anniversary of St Giles’ Cathedral by describing it as 'a prominent part of the life of Edinburgh and Scotland for 900 years.'
The motion, introduced by Lothian MSP Miles Briggs, commends the cathedral for its enduring significance and its efforts to engage with people of all backgrounds and faiths in the city. St Giles' Cathedral, believed to have been founded by King David I in 1124, is hailed as an 'iconic' landmark, linking various facets of Edinburgh's rich heritage.
Professor David Bebbington of the University of Stirling, a leading Christian historian, reminded readers of en of the building’s significance for the Christian history of Scotland. 'St Giles' is Scotland’s Westminster Abbey. It was at the heart of the Reformation, for John Knox, its fiery champion, became minister there in 1559, the year before the Scottish parliament adopted Protestantism.
'Here resistance began against Charles I’s efforts to introduce a High Church version of Anglican worship when, in 1637, Jenny Geddes threw a stool at the clergyman who started reading from a Book of Common Prayer. The church remains a centre of national imagery. Here too Eizabeth II’s coffin lay in state for twenty-four hours after her death at Balmoral.'
George Whyte, the interim moderator and local minister of St Giles', welcomed the Scottish Parliament’s recognition and underlined the congregation's commitment to continued service in future.
The Parliamentary motion also highlights St Giles' role celebrating Scotland's heritage and culture, as it attracted 1.5 million visitors last year. This influx underscores the cathedral's dual function as both a historical landmark and an active place of worship. The motion will now be circulated among other Members of the Scottish Parliament for additional signatures, to emphasise the widespread recognition of St Giles' Cathedral within the Scottish legislature.
