The community of Christ at the heart of our community

A fire ripped through St. Philip's in December 1998 but it is now beautifully restored as a building and is as vibrant as the congregation. The sanctuary is bright and modern, with no pulpit and with chairs that can be moved to provide a contemporary worship space. The stained glass windows, designed by Douglas Hogg, won a Saltire Society Art and Architecture Award for quality and originality. These windows are complemented by chancel furniture which reflect the curves of beach and shells on the nearby sea. The furniture was designed by Catherine Rennie, a member of the congregation.

But it is the congregation that deserves the most recognition. They banded together after the fire, restored the building and maintained their faith and their activities. It has been suggested that nearly 1,000 people pass through St. Philip's sanctuary and hall over the course of a week. There are organisations galore, both church related and community based. There are organisations for children, youth, families and the elderly. There are those that are tried and tested, like the Guild, and there are those, like the Book Club, that discuss controversial and not-so controversial novels in a local pub.

A recent report from Presbytery noted the vibrancy of St. Philip's. It is a church, located about 20 minutes east of Edinburgh along the sea, which has a rich history and a promise-filled future. We are full of life and energy and spirit, heeding our call to bring the love of God and the love of Christ to our world. That we do with joy, dedication and faith.

Our Minister, Rev. Dr. Stewart Weaver, has his own website designed to give a flavour of his thoughts and musings and to provide some further reading on his sermons and other ideas. The website can be found at www.stewartweaver.org.