Worship and Music

 

The perception of worship in the Church of Scotland to some may appear to be of severity or wordiness, in contrast to the more liturgical tradition of other forms. This is less and less true, and throughout the Church of Scotland as a whole there is a revival of interest in exploring new ways of worshipping, where more and more we find colour, drama, participation and movement having a place. St. Machar's Cathedral is no exception.

 

It would be impossible in a Cathedral Church to be narrowly Presbyterian in outlook. In this Cathedral, the building speaks to us of our Celtic origins, the Roman Church, the years of the Reformation and the period of Episcopacy in the 17th Century. The congregation of St. Machar's feels itself to be part of the church catholic and understands Presbyterianism as simply a form of government.

 

At the celebration of Holy Communion which takes place at least twice in each month, an invitation is extended to members of all branches of the Christian Church to participate fully. The approach to worship in the Cathedral reflects the full scope of the religious experience through a millennium and a half during which the name of the Lord has been recorded here. Music forms an important part of the fullness of worship. We seek unity with all Christians through our experience of the Holy Spirit. Through word and sacrament and the encounter with the Divine, we believe that religious diversity can be more enriching than threatening, as we seek in our Christian believing an ecumenism of both time and place in our growth together towards God.

 

For centuries; music has played an important part in the worship of St. Machar's Cathedral. The Cathedral has a fine Henry Willis organ, and from early times a choir has existed. Choir and organ fulfil a vital role in leading worshippers on Sunday mornings and on other occasions, and in presenting anthems from a wide repertoire.