The People of Perth

It is sometimes said that Perth is the ancient capital of Scotland, but it would be misleading to think of it in the same way as present day capital cities. In mediaeval times, it was necessary for the King to travel around his kingdom - to be seen, to settle disputes, to exert his authority. He travelled with his household, his advisers, the trusted nobility. It therefore needed a substantial town with wealthy inhabitants and spacious buildings to accommodate the entourage - and Perth was one such town. Therefore legislation was frequently dated and signed in Perth.

After King James 1 was killed in Perth (at Blackfriars) in 1437, the popularity of Perth declined and Edinburgh became more favoured by royalty. Given this background, it is not surprising that royalty is mentioned in connection with St. John's Kirk.

• 1126 - David 1 grants the tiends (income) to the monks of Dunfermline Abbey
  

• 1296 - Edward 1 (English invader) heard Chrismas Mass here.
  
• 1633 - Charles 1 `came to our churche, and in his royal seat heard ane reverand sermon'.
  
• 1650 - Charles 11 - a captive of the Covenanters, attended and complained about long sermons.
  
• 1745 - Prince Charles Edward Stewart attended a Protestant Service for the first time, although the preacher was an Episcopal minister.
  
• 1955 - H.M. Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother unveiled the Black Watch memorial window.
  
• 1977 - H.M. Queen Elizabeth and H.R.H. The Duke of Edinburgh toured the Kirk during a visit to Perth.

Through the centuries the citizens of Perth took great pride in the Burgh Kirk, and many have left their marks ... more

Those who have died while in the Armed Services are commemorated in the Shrine. Wreaths are placed here each November on Remembrance Sunday when the Provost of Perth and Kinross Council and representatives of the Armed Services attend the Service.

Whilst young people are no longer visible in the traditions of Sunday School and Bible Class, the members of Perth Youth Orchestra play each year at the inaugural Service for the Perth Festival of the Arts, and local schools present lunchtime concerts in the Kirk. Perth Academy pupils hold a Carol Service in the Kirk each December and the pupils of Caledonian Road Primary School come for their Closing Ceremony at the end of each session.

St. John's Kirk has frequently welcomed visiting preachers, such as Billy Graham in 1955 during the `Tell Scotland' campaign; and Pastor Neimoller in Holy Week 1961.

The milestones of life are celebrated within the walls of the Kirk today, as they have been for centuries, and the Minister writes about baptism, marriages and funerals - read what he says.

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