Children & Community

The people of St Ninian’s Cathedral, in recognising our need of each other, seek to share our resources with the local and the wider community. Several groups and organisations use the buildings every day for example youth theatre, aromatherapy and yoga. The Cathedral, Chapterhouse and other facilities are also available to hire for social and private events.

We believe that our faith calls us to engage with the needs of the local community and to demonstrate our care in meaningful ways. To this end we have recently embarked on an exciting renewal project called “Cathedral in the community”.

Love one another as I have loved you (John 15, 12)

St. Ninians Sunday School

St. Ninians Sunday School welcomes children, aged 3 to 12 years old, every Sunday during term time, in the Elsie Louden room. We meet from 11am until the children go into the Church to assist the clergy in giving Peace to the congregation. Newcomers and visitors are always welcome to join us and we encourage parents to stay during their child’s first visit.

Some pictures, drawn by the Sunday School

We use the 'Whole People of God' material, which is based on a three year cycle of scripture readings from the Common Lectionary. This means that we follow closely the readings and the teaching that is happening in the morning worship.

The children play an active part in the life of the Cathedral, helping at social gatherings, leading intercessions, reading, singing and in any way they feel able. They perform a Christmas play and take part in the Christingle Service. We also have an Advent party, a pancake party and run an activity morning on Easter Saturday. At the end of the school year we have a summer outing and a closing service where every child is given a book.

For more information please contact Catriona Mackay via the Cathedral office

Little Cherubs Toddler Group

This group meets in the chapterhouse every Wednesday from 9.30 – 11.30am during school term time. Any children from 0 – 5 years old are welcome to attend with their mums, dads, grandparents or carers. There is a wide variety of activities, including music, dressing-up and story time with a charge of £1 per family to cover refreshments. The group is run by St Ninian’s Mother’s Union and operates under the Episcopal Church child protection policy, supervised by Isabel Campbell. For further information please contact the cathedral office.

Country Dance Club

The dance club meets on the first Friday of the month from September to April. We meet in the chapterhouse from 2.30-5pm and anyone who enjoys country dancing in an informal setting is welcome. Come alone or bring a friend or two. Cost £1, paid on the day, to include afternoon tea.

Spirituality

Quiet days, usually Saturdays, are arranged through the year at various locations across the diocese. These are attended by over 20 people from various Christian denominations from across Perthshire and Fife. A variety of themes are used; this year they are based on St John’s Gospel.

Residential retreats to other parts of the country are also organised in the summer months

We also have short evening courses throughout Advent and Lent, which provide an opportunity for fellowship with others and stimulating debate to encourage a deeper understanding of faith.

Traidcraft

St. Ninians Magazine

The magazine is published ten times a year with an annual subscription of £8. It contains a 'Who's Who?' of the Cathedral, details of all services for the month, a letter from the Provost, reports from the Gateway, Mothers Union and details from the register, as well as other contributions from members of the congregation and Cathedral groups.

To email the editors via the Cathedral office click here

The Gateway Centre

The Gateway Centre, originally St. Ninians Episcopal Primary School, is immediately adjacent to the Cathedral. This is used by Perth and Kinross Association of Voluntary Service (PKAVS) to provide care and support to many vulnerable members of the community. The facilities include four day clubs, learning resource centre, information and advice plus befriending and advocacy services.

Many local voluntary organisations use the building on a daily basis; some have offices here. Members of St. Ninian’s Cathedral play a vital part in the life of The Gateway Centre, through support, assistance and volunteering.

The glass doorway between The Gateway and the Cathedral cloisters illustrate the strong links forged by our common goal: to recognise and serve those who need our love and support.

Mother's Union

The Mothers’ Union is a Christian organisation which promotes the well-being of families worldwide. The Mother’s Union is well established at St Ninian’s and is currently co-ordinated by Isabel Campbell. To see our programme for 2006 click here.

To read more about the Mother’s Union worldwide click the icon to visit their website .

Yoga

There are several yoga groups which meet during the week in the Chapter House. For details of these please contact Zoi Chisholm; Mobile phone 07884328826

Or visit the website www.specialyogascotland.co.uk