Catholic chapel is 'hidden gem' in capital

St Margaret’s Chapel at The Gillis Centre in Edinburgh has been described as "a hidden gem" by the National Churches Trust (NCT).

The charity helps hundreds of churches, chapels and meeting houses each year to ensure they thrive.


The historic chapel is to benefit from a generous £10k grant from the charity to help with repairs, as announced in April.

The NCT website states: "This is a location with a rich and varied history.

"It's a hidden gem in the beautiful grounds of the Gillis Centre, the Chapel and adjoining former Convent was the first religious house to be built in Scotland after the Reformation."

The NCT has helped 13,000 places of worship since it was introduced in 2001, the vast majority of them churches.

The Listed Places of Worship Grants Scheme allows listed churches, chapels, meeting houses and cathedrals to reclaim VAT on urgent repair projects.

Archbishop Cushley said: “St Margaret’s Chapel is a special place for the Archdiocese.

 "It is a quiet sanctuary, a reminder of our past, and a space for reflection and prayer at the regular events we host."

Find out more about the work of the National Churches Trust here.

 

Day for Life

Day for Life is this Sunday (15 June) and presents an opportunity to celebrate the dignity of all human life from conception to natural end.

This year’s theme is Hope Does Not Disappoint: Finding Meaning in Suffering.

It builds on last year’s theme which affirmed the value of good end-of-life care in contrast to proposals for assisted suicide.

Bishop John Keenan of Paisley Diocese said: "This year we wanted to draw out the question of human suffering which is at the heart of this debate, and to present it more fully in the light of Christian faith.

"This is a not a simple message to get across, but the meaning of suffering lurks in the background of abortion, assisted suicide and suicide generally, and many of our contemporary problems come from a worldview that assumes all suffering is bad and to be avoided.

"We were also conscious of this Holy Year’s theme of Hope and the teaching of Spes Non Confundit that ‘beyond the darkness we glimpse a light (and) come to realize that evangelization is sustained by the power flowing from Christ’s cross and resurrection.’"

Collection

The Day for Life Collection takes place in parishes this weekend and helps foster human life in every stage and condition, with particular attention to pro-life causes along with other aspects of life deserving consideration. 

The collection is split fifty percent between national and diocesan initiatives.  Applications for grants should be sent to Day for Life Fund, Bishops’ Conference of Scotland, 64 Aitken Street, Airdrie, ML6 6LT or use the contact page.

In this booklet, you will find a message from Bishop John Keenan along with Bishops of England and Wales, Ireland, along with prayers that can be used on or around Day for Life.

Portraits of Courage to highlight persecution

A powerful photo exhibition depicting breathtaking images of inspiring Christians from all over the world takes place next week.

Portraits of Courage will shine a light on the stories of persecuted and suffering Christians from around the world.

It is hosted by Aid to the Church in Need Scotland (ACN) and takes place on Thursday 19 June from 6:00pm to 8:00pm, at ACN's Scottish office at Dalziel Building, 7 Scott Street, Motherwell.

Register here.

William More, Operations Manager for ACN Scotland, said: "Portraits of Courage offers a window into the lives and communities we serve at Aid to the Church in Need.

"This exhibition is more than just a display of photographs — it’s an opportunity for us to come together as ACN Scotland with friends, supporters and benefactors, and to connect with the stories that inspire our work every day.

“We extend a warm invitation to all who wish to become more aware and engaged with the story of Christian persecution.”

Fresh from the success of their sold out Scottish Catholic conference in March, Portraits of Courage will provide a further opportunity to engage with the charity but this time in their offices.

There will also be a chance to purchase handmade items from the ACN trading department and light refreshments and nibbles will be provided.

Benefactors can obtain free tickets for the event by calling 01698 337 470 or by visiting the Office.

Portraits of Courage Thursday 19 June, 6:00pm to 8:00pm, ACN, Dalziel Building, 7 Scott Street, Motherwell. Register here.

Archbishop announces clergy moves

Archbishop Cushley has announced the following clergy moves:

These moves will become canonically effective on Saturday 2 August 2025.

GALLERY: The St Margaret Pilgrimage

Thanks to everyone who joined us at the St Margaret Pilgrimage in Dunfermline on Sunday!

The highlight of the event was the colourful procession through the city centre with the relic of St Margaret.

In his homily, Archbishop Cushley said: "Thank you again for joining us to honour our great patron Saint Margaret.

"I’m grateful to Fr Syriac and the people of St Margaret’s parish, the musicians, helpers and volunteers, and everyone in Dunfermline for their warm welcome to the town."

Our next event is the Corpus Christi Procession in Kilsyth at 3:00pm on Sunday 22 June. Please join us to give public witness to the Eucharistic Christ!

Gallery

The Comrie & Inverkeithing Pipe Band lead the procession through Dunfermline City Centre.
Pilgrims who walked from Kelty outside St Margaret's Cave.
Members of the The Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem.
Members of the Knights of St Columba with Archbishop Leo.
Archbishop Leo with altar servers from St Margaret's Church.
Holy Mass at St Margaret's Church.
Archbishop Leo with a dad and his daughter after blessing her rosary beads.
Holy Mass at St Margaret's Church.
Members of the Order of Malta.
Ecumenical Prayer Sercice at Shrine of St Margaret at Dunfermline Abbey.
Archbishop Cushley chats with pilgrims and parishioners after Mass.

 

Parish bulletin update for this Sunday

Here is our round-up of forthcoming events for parish bulletins.

St Margaret's Pilgrimage - Sunday 8 June
Join Archbishop Leo, clergy, and people from across Scotland for the procession through Dunfermline town centre with the relic of St Margaret at 2:00pm, followed by Holy Mass at 3:00pm in St Margaret's Church. Full schedule in the news-events section at archedinburgh.org

Day for Life: Special Collection next Sunday
The Day for Life is when we celebrate the dignity of all human life from conception to natural death. It takes place on Sunday 15 June and a collection will be taken up at Mass for the work of the apostolate of life. This year’s theme is Hope Does Not Disappoint – Finding Meaning in Suffering and we are invited to pray for those who suffer and to remain with them, bearing witness to their unique and unrepeatable value.

Study Catholic Theology in Edinburgh
Interested in finding out more about the MA in Applied Catholic Theology at St Mary's University Scottish campus in Edinburgh? An online information event takes place at 6:00pm on Tuesday 17 June where you can hear from staff and current students. Register at bit.ly/stmarysuni or email stephen.dolan@stmarys.ac.uk

Corpus Christi Procession: Sunday 22 June
Archbishop Leo will lead the Archdiocesan Corpus Christi Procession from St Patrick’s Church in Kilsyth at 3:00pm on Sunday 22 June. First Holy Communicants in the Archdiocese are invited to take a special place in the procession wearing their formal clothes. Parking available at the Church. Contact St Patrick's to reserve disabled/minibus parking or to book a space on the free shuttle buses from Croy train station to the Church: priest.stpatrickskilsyth@staned.org.uk or 01236 822136.

Urgent: Oppose the Assisted Suicide Bill
The Assisted Suicide Bill is set for a final debate and vote at Westminster on Friday 13 June. Please pray for wisdom and compassion in our society and to contact your MP to express your opposition to the bill. Your personal stories and concerns matter. Find your MP at https://writetothem.com

Jubilee Year Picnic for families
The Archdiocesan Jubilee Year picnic takes place on Saturday 28 June, 11:00am – 4:00pm at The Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB. There will be spiritual talks on the theme of Hope and talks and games for children. Includes Rosary at The Grotto and concludes with Holy Mass in St Margaret's Chapel. Childcare provided. Register at bit.ly/archpicnic

Parish communicators
The Archdiocese is hosting a webinar for those who are involved with parish communications (such as Facebook, newsletters). It takes place on Saturday 19 July at 10:00am-11:00am. The session will give tips and guidance on parish social media, newsletters and more. Register at bit.ly/parishcomms

Save the Date
The Venerable Margaret Sinclair Pilgrimage Day is on Sunday 21 September 2025 at St Patricks in The Cowgate, Edinburgh. More details coming soon.

St Margaret's Pilgrimage - Sunday 8 June
All are welcome at the annual St Margaret's Pilgrimage in Dunfermline on Sunday 8 June. Join Archbishop Leo, clergy and people from across Scotland for the procession through the town centre with the relic of St Margaret at 2:00pm, followed by Holy Mass at 3:00pm in St Margaret's Church. Full schedule in the news-events section at archedinburgh.org
New Dawn Conference - Saturday 14 June<
Experience the richness of the Catholic Faith at the New Dawn Day. It begins with Mass at 10:30am, followed by testimonies, workshops, healing prayers and more. Speakers are Fr James Anyaegbu and Gary Stephen. It takes place on Saturday 14 June 2025 at Ss Ninian & Triduana, 232 Marionville Road, Edinburgh, EH 7 6BE. Event organised by New Dawn Scotland.

Dignity Not Detention – Dungavel – Sun 15 June, 1pm
Join Justice & Peace Scotland to call for "Dignity Not Detention" and advocate for an end to the inhumane practice of unlimited immigration detention. The UK is the only country in Europe that does not have a statutory time limit on detention, meaning people can be held in prison-like conditions indefinitely with no idea when they will be released. Guest speaker: Archbishop William Nolan. It takes place at Dungavel House, Strathaven, ML10 6RF at 1:00pm on Sunday 15 June. Contact office@justice@peacescotland.org.uk for more info.

Corpus Christi Procession - Sunday 22 June
Archbishop Leo will lead the Archdiocesan Corpus Christi Procession from St Patrick’s Church in Kilsyth at 3:00pm on Sunday 22 June. This is a joyous occasion with the Blessed Sacrament being carried through the streets. First Holy Communicants in the Archdiocese are invited to take a special place in the procession wearing their formal clothes. Parking available at the Church. Contact St Patrick's to reserve disabled/minibus parking or to book a space on the free shuttle buses from Croy train station to the Church: priest.stpatrickskilsyth@staned.org.uk or 01236 822136.

Jubilee Year Picnic for families - Saturday 28 June
Join families from across the Archdiocese for a Jubilee Year picnic on Saturday 28 June, 11:00am – 4:00pm at The Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB. There will be spiritual talks on the theme of Hope and talks and games for children. Includes Rosary at The Grotto and concludes with Holy Mass in St Margaret's Chapel. At 4:00pm there is the chance to walk to the Jubilee Cross at St Mary's Cathedral (optional). Childcare provided. Register at bit.ly/archpicnic

Bishop Frank to lead new comms office

Bishop Frank Dougan will lead a new national office for communications and evangelisation to better proclaim Christ.

The announcement ties in with World Communications Day, which is this Sunday (1 June).

It has been held each year since 1967 on the Sunday before Pentecost, marking the role of media and communication in spreading the Gospel. 

He said: "We plan to build on the work done by groups, parishes and dioceses and produce quality content across the various media platforms so that we can keep on spreading the Word.

"(Your) support will help us as the Church in Scotland to use all the means of communication to help bring others to Christ.

"I look forward to sharing with you the work of this Office which will develop over the coming months.

"You will see how it truly responds to the urgency of Christ’s Mission."

Social media

Bishop Frank Dougan, of Galloway Diocese, has been given the responsibility for communications by the Bishops' Conference of Scotland.

He added that social media is a way in which we can engage with those who are seeking Christ.

"Not everyone will be lucky enough to have a face-to-face encounter that brings them to Christ," he added. "So, we must use all the means available to reach out to them.

"It is not good enough to wait for our brothers and sisters to come to us. We must do all we can to go to them."

His comments come in a pastoral letter that will be shared with Catholics at Mass this Sunday. There will also be a special collection for communications and evangelisation.

He added: "I am going to ask for your financial support. And that support will help us as the Church in Scotland to use all the means of communication to help bring others to Christ.

I look forward to sharing with you the work of this Office which will develop over the coming months.

In the meantime, please continue to pray for the spread of the Gospel, and please do support this weekend’s collection."

Follow the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh: Instagram, Facebook, X, YouTube. Archbishop Cushley is on X. 

Meeting Pope Francis: 'a shining moment'

Archbishop Cushley organised a meeting between Pope Francis and the Very Revd Derek Browning in 2017. Here, the former Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland reflects on the encounter...

In a moderatorial year, shining moments are many.

Amongst the brightest of my shining moments was an invitation to meet Pope Francis, kindly organised by my friend and neighbour, Archbishop Leo Cushley.

Meeting Francis, the first thing to notice was the sparkle in his eyes, then the warmth of his smile, and finally the firmness of his handshake, both hands.

I had prepared a formal statement touching on the 500th anniversary of the German Lutheran Reformation, and the plight of the refugees and economic migrants, and the importance of the Diaconate and its recognition, over a century ago in Scotland, of the role of women in the Church.

“I’ve never met a female Deacon”, the Pope said. “If you wait a moment, I can make one appear through that door”, I replied, and later introduced one of my chaplains, Anne Mulligan DCS, to Pope Francis. He was clearly delighted, and so was she!

We sat in the formal audience room on opposite sides of a table and with a mixture of English, Italian, Spanish and Latin began to talk and listen.

We embraced, and laughed, and commented on the colour of each other’s socks (mine red and yellow; his black).

After a short time, he got up, came around the table, pulled a chair beside mine and sat closer. “Better”, he said.

It was a very simple action but spoke volumes of the man who spent his ministry, and his pontificate, getting alongside others, and allowing others to get alongside him.

Soon we got up to walk about the apartment, keeping careful not to go too near the windows which looked onto St Peter’s Square, in case crowds rushed forward expecting him to wave from the balcony, he said!

In the hour and a half of one-to-one conversation, we touched on many important matters. Before the later formal part of our meeting he asked if I would pray for him, and he would pray for me.

We embraced, and laughed, and commented on the colour of each other’s socks (mine red and yellow; his black).

The lasting memory is of his warmth, sincerity, compassion, sparkling humour, and faithfulness.

No bad way for this good man to be remembered.

Published in Life and Work. Reproduced by kind permission. Read the full article here.

THIS SUNDAY: Corpus Christi Procession

Join Archbishop Cushley for the Archdiocesan Corpus Christi Procession at St Patrick’s Church, Kilsyth, on Sunday, 22 June.

The procession through the town will begin from the church at 3:00pm.

First Holy Communicants are especially invited and may wear their First Holy Communion formal clothes to take a special place in the procession.

Clergy are welcome to join the procession in choir.

There will be a celebration in the parish hall following the procession to which everyone is invited.

Event guide

Free shuttle bus

The nearest train station to St Patrick's Church is Croy, on the main Glasgow-Edinburgh line. There will be a free shuttle bus to and from the church - please contact the parish to book a spot: priest.stpatrickskilsyth@staned.org.uk or call 01236 822136.

Parking is also available for parish minibuses and cars in the parish car park.

To reserve parking for the disabled or for minibuses please contact the parish.

THIS SUNDAY: St Margaret's Pilgrimage, Dunfermline

Join hundreds of people in Scotland's ancient capital of Dunfermline on Sunday 8 June for the annual St Margaret Pilgrimage.

The highlight of the event is the colourful procession of the saint's relics through Dunfemline city centre led by Archbishop Leo Cushley.

He said: "This Jubilee Year, themed Pilgrims of Hope, offers a unique opportunity to make a pilgrimage on our doorstep, walking in St Margaret's footsteps.

"Our beloved patroness exemplified faith, charity, and leadership, transforming Scotland through her holiness and compassion.

"I look forward to seeing you there and to celebrating the life and work of St Margaret, praying to her for our nation and for our Church."

The procession will begin at 2:00pm from the Louise Carnegie Gates at Pittencrieff Park, opposite the Seven Kings Pub.

The famous relic of St Margaret, which is on display at the Church, will be paraded in the procession.

Hundreds of pilgrims will walk alongside pupils, teachers, nuns, priests and major historic Catholic organisations such as the Knights of St Columba, the Order of Malta and the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre.

Schedule

12:00pm
Angelus at St Margaret's Cave, Chalmers Street Car Park, KY12 8DQ.

1:00pm
Outside Prayer Service at St Margaret’s Tomb at Dunfermline Abbey, St Margaret Street, KY12 7PE.

2:00pm
Procession with relic from Louise Carnegie Gates in Bridge Street KY12 8DA (opposite Seven Kings Pub) to St Margaret’s Memorial Church. Gather at 1:45pm.

3:00pm
Mass at St Margaret's Memorial Church in East Port, KY12 7JB, celebrated by Archbishop Cushley and priests of the Archdiocese.

Getting there

Bus: Dunfermline Bus station, Queen Anne Street, KY12 7BB, is in the centre of town and is a 5 minute walk from the starting point of the procession.

Train: Dunfermline City train Station, KY12 7HT is a 5-10 minute walk (uphill) from St Margaret's Church, and a 15 minute walk from the start of the procession

Parking

There is on street parking throughout the town centre (charged) and free parking outwith the main town centre.

Poster

Download a print poster for your parish here, or a JPG version to share online here.

Walk to Dunfermline

A group from the Holy Family Family Parish will walk from Kelty to Dunfermline and you are welcome to join them. The team, led by sisters of the Religious Family of the Incarnate Word, will leave from St Joseph's Church in Cocklaw Street at 8:00am, expecting to arrive in Dunfermline at midday. Bring a packed lunch. To join them, please email Sr Ostrabrama at m.ostrabrama@servidoras.orgor call 07717 793486.

History

The roots of the summer pilgrimage date back to June 1250 when the relics of Saint Margaret were translated to a new shrine in Dunfermline Abbey following her canonisation by Pope Innocent IV.

A pilgrimage to Dunfermline soon emerged and continued until the late 16th Century. It was then resurrected in 1899 and continued again until 1974.

Archbishop Cushley revived it in 2015 and it has continued since then, except for a hiatus due to the Covid pandemic.

Make a Day of it

Why not spend the day in Dunfermline and take advantage of what the historic city has to offer? You can enjoy a wander around Abbot House and its gardens, visit Andrews Carnegie's Birthplace Museum and enjoy the beauty of Pittencrieff Park (known locally as 'The Glen'). There are many cafes, pubs and restaurants in the city centre. Alternatively you can come for any part of the programme. Whatever you decide, we look forward to welcoming you! See dunfermline.com

Queries

You can contact the helpful team at St Margaret's Church in Dunfermline with any questions about the event: priest.stmargaretdunfermline@staned.org.uk. Alternatively, email matthew.meade@staned.org.uk