ABOUT ST JAMES EPISCOPAL CHURCH MUTHILL
Welcome to St James Episcopal Church, Muthill. We strive to be rooted in tradition while seeking
contemporary applications of the Christian faith.
The the site of St James has seen Episcopalian worship since 1698.
We value our heritage and look to journey into tomorrow in a way that helps make our Christian faith real and accessible to those we journey with in an inclusive way. Building on the strong tradition of Strathearn being a centre of Episcopalian faith and worship with St James’ at its heart, we gather together a community who worship in both traditional and contemporary ways. Our links with the local community and partnership with the Parish Church are important expressions of our common life together. Come and see for yourself!​​
Facts,
Questions,
Answers
1 / Style of Worship
We worship God! As part of the Episcopalian (Anglican) family of churches our worship uses forms authorised by the Province of the Scottish Episcopal Church. We follow the Revised Common Lectionary for our readings of Scripture which cycles through the seasons of the church year. The hymns and songs that we sing in our services reflect the themes of the readings on a given Sunday and are led by a fine pipe organ. Prayer is another important part of our worship together. On the first Sunday of each month, we have a Eucharist (Holy Communion) and on the other Sundays Evensong from the Scottish Prayer Book. Whilst our services are usually at 5.30 pm on a Sunday, on Easter Sunday and Christmas Day we worship at 11:00 am.
2 / Why might I benefit from attending?
Setting time aside to reflect on God, ask questions and worship with others are things valued by those who gather each week. Furthermore, you would be joining a community of pilgrims articulating their questions and doubts as well as affirming their beliefs through the Creed. An important aspect of gathering together is the time after services when we share a drink and refreshments and catch up with one another. You would be welcome to come and see and make your own contribution to the congregation.
3 / Are you inclusive?
We try to be. “For God so loved the (whole) world…" (John 3:16) that we want to welcome everyone to St James’.
4 / What is the Scottish Episcopal Church?
The Scottish Episcopal Church is the continuing historic church in Scotland, diverse in its tradition, outlook and culture. Such diversity enriches the Church and is expressed in warm relationships of mutual respect for one another. Firmly rooted in the life of Scotland and part of its rich history, the Scottish Episcopal Church is also deeply committed to its membership of the world-wide Anglican Communion, which is a family of over 70 million Christians in more than 160 countries.
Geographically, the Scottish Episcopal Church is divided into seven dioceses each of which is led by a Bishop – the Greek for Bishop is Episkopoi, hence the church being described as Episcopal. We are in the Diocese of St Andrew’s, Dunkeld and Dunblane and we are led by our Bishop Ian.
5 / In the age of science why attend church?
The advent of Newtonian physics and the philosophy of Descartes did not make God disappear. Scientific endeavour and philosophical debate have contributed to a deepening understanding of God and who we are as his creatures. Whilst science seeks facts and philosophy understanding about existence and knowledge, Christianity, as a faith, offers a worldview that includes beliefs about God, the nature of reality, and human purpose. There is plenty of room for scientists and philosophers in the church – their presence helps enrich it!
Who we are:
clergy
Rev. Duncan Strathie
Duncan has a passion for helping people to grow and be more confident in their faith and to share it with others. Prayer and spirituality are also important components of the Christian life. Drawing on more than forty years of pastoral ministry and preaching the good news of the gospel, he sees building community as a central part of his role leading our church. With a background in vocational discernment, ministerial formation and a range of church contexts, he is well, placed to use his experience to serve St James’ and those linked with the church. Away from church, Duncan has a passion for photography, travel, cooking and the odd wee dram.
Welcome to the Scottish Episcopal Church
THE SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH
As you travel across this remarkable land, from Highland to Lowland, East to West, from the mountaintops to Glen, in cities and in towns and villages, you will see a very distinctive sign. It is the sign of the Scottish Episcopal Church...But what is the Scottish Episcopal Church?