St John’s was packed with over 200 people on Thursday 30th October to celebrate the institution of Rev. Graham Taylor as our new rector by Bishop David Chillingworth in a joyous and inspirational service. The congregation of St John’s was joined by many members of Graham’s former congregation at St Mary’s, Carden Place, Aberdeen; a large body of clergy and lay readers from several dioceses; local clergy from other Christian churches; and representatives from the civic authorities, including Provost Liz Grant and other councillors.

David Rose, the Rector’s warden at St Mary’s, Carden Place, read the epistle and Rt Rev. Bruce Cameron read the Gospel. As a former rector of St John’s before his consecration as Bishop of Aberdeen and Orkney, as well as his recent time as Interim Pastor of St John’s, Bishop Bruce is well known to Graham and to both congregations. The sermon was preached by the Very Revd Gerald Stranraer-Mull, Dean Emeritus of the diocese of Aberdeen and Orkney.

Many people commented on the inspirational music during the service, which included Howard Goodall’s anthem ‘Love Divine’ after communion and the Toccata by Charles Marie Widor as a closing voluntary. Our thanks go to Alison Grant as director of music and Robin Miller as organist.

This was the first time many clergy from the diocese had seen inside the church since its redevelopment, and they were impressed by the spacious interior which was enhanced by some beautiful floral arrangements.

After his institution Graham recognised the input from so many members of the congregation and thanked everyone who had played any part in enabling the service to be such an overwhelmingly positive occasion.

The service was followed by refreshments at the Royal George Hotel in Perth, which provided an opportunity for guests to mingle and share in fellowship.

The Vestry unanimously agreed to offer the vacant Rector’s post to the Rev Canon Graham Taylor from Aberdeen and he has kindly accepted our offer. He is currently Rector of St Mary’s Church, Carden Place, Aberdeen, a post he has occupied since 2005.

Graham worked in commerce from 1987 to 2001 and during this period he studied at  the Theological Institute of the Scottish Episcopal Church between 1998  and 2001. He became Curate at St Mary’s on the Rock, Ellon, and St James’, Cruden Bay, with special responsibility for St Peter’s, Peterhead in 2001. In 2004 he became Priest in Charge of these churches prior to taking up his present post.

He is currently Diocesan Director of Ordinands for the Aberdeen Diocese and in 2008 was made Canon of St Andrew’s Cathedral, Aberdeen. Graham occupies a number of Provincial roles within the SEC including being a member of the Provincial Panel for Selection for Ministry and membership of the Provincial Home Mission Committee. He also serves as a Pastoral Selector for Ministry in the Church of England.

We look forward greatly to working with Graham over the next three months or so ensuring that his move to Perth to join us at St John’s goes smoothly. His date of Institution will be announced once this is agreed but in the meantime please hold Graham in your prayers.

Applications for our new Rector have now closed. We have received applications from several strong candidates and the Vestry will be considering them over the next few weeks. We would appreciate your prayers as we work out who is the best person to help us follow God’s call.