The Cathedral Community

Its People

You don't have to be a member of the congregation to be welcome at St Machar's. The building is open every day of the year, from 9 to 5 in the summer, 10 to 4 in the winter. Visit this historic church as a tourist or join us for a Sunday Service or on special occasions.

Or simply step in and take a moment for reflection and prayer.

The worshipping congregation is an interesting mixture. There are those born and bred in Old Aberdeen, a community with an identity distinct from the City since Old Aberdeen was originally a separate Burgh of Barony. Many of these members are now scattered widely across Aberdeen and beyond but feel still a strong bond to the Cathedral. Since the parish is dominated by the University of Aberdeen, there are academics and students in the congregation. Numerous others are drawn by the austere beauty of the place, by its rich liturgical and musical traditions, and by the opportunities that exist for children.

Overall St Machar’s has about 600 members, and 30 adherents. Though coming from a wide variety of Christian churches, and from many parts of the world, the majority does have a Church of Scotland background.

Sunday morning services are attended by between 80 and 120 people; there are usually 20 to 30 in the evening, sometimes as many as 40, and between 40 and 60 at Music at Six.