OUR TREASURES - In St. John's Kirk, the creative fire of the artist is given free rein
to enrich the vocabulary of devotion.

Prized and ancient relics stand side-by-side with contemporary items - a wooden collection box, over 300 years old, is not far from the covers for each of our two Communion Tables. Both beautiful cloths were gifted to us and display symbols of Perth life. The one illustrated is an interpretation of the Kirk at the centre of Perth and the surrounding countryside, and was given to us as recently as 2000 and is the work of the Embroiderers Guild of Perth.

Our stained glass windows date mainly from the restoration of the Kirk in 1923-26, when there was a resurgence of the art in Scotland. The great east window is the work of Douglas Strachan and depicts John the Baptist (to whom the Kirk is dedicated), the Last Supper, and the Crucifixion. Its colours and images come to life and change according to the time of day and the time of year - a living picture. The most modern window was presented by the Town Council in 1975 to mark the long association between the Kirk and the Council. It is by Harvey Salvin and the symbols have local and ecclesiastical significance. See more on the Windows here.

Ancient metal work is seen in the brass candelabrum which pre-dates the Reformation and is a rare survivor. It represents the twelve Apostles with the Madonna and Child. Nearby is a sculpture of John the Baptist by Finandra Bose. This guards the Shrine and came to the Kirk as part of the restoration in 1923-26. Changes were made to the chancel in the 1970s and new furnishings at that time included the metal baptismal font and lectern - the work of Schomberg Scott. The sculpture on the lectern is the work of George Wyllie. The most recent metalwork is seen in the votive candle stand which was commissioned in 1998. Made of mild steel, it is the work of Ratho Byres Forge and represents Christ and the 12 disciples.

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