Worship at St. Giles

Enjoyed a Sunday service at St. Giles Cathedral, the roots of the Presbyterian church.  The hymns were challenging with the words in one place and the music in another with unfamiliar tunes, but the acoustics in the space were fabulous.  I particularly liked the message of the pastor who spoke openly and at length about the Brexit vote, but tied it back around to the theme of unity among Christians and that the church is called to be a church in the world, not one with borders that divide.

I badly wanted an audio recording of the choir singing, so I unobtrusively got out my phone and recorded the ceiling while they sang.  (The choir robes were interesting, looked kind of like monks robes with rough fabric).

I was fascinated by the layout of the sanctuary space.  The alter was in the center of the church instead of one end.  Seating was laid out on either side, so the congregants were looking at each other facing the alter in the center.  The Choir was off to one side in short riser stalls.  The lectern (where scripture is read) was on the right side of the aisle (brass eagle structure), and the pulpit was on the opposite side (round carved stone structure on the left).  There were four officiants who led the service.

I found the stained glass beautiful.  And it was a sunny morning.

 There was also an exhibit of quilts on display that were inspired by the book of Revelation.  The detail of the work was exquisite and the verses behind each panel were also very moving.

 close ups from the panel above.

 Another close up 

They were created with multiple strips of fabric sewed on in layers with embroidery as well.