This section of our web guide focuses on faith, religion, and spirituality in Elgin, Scotland.
Elgin, a historic town in Moray, Scotland, has a rich tradition of belief, faith, religion, and spirituality that has evolved over centuries.
The earliest known religions in Elgin can be traced back to the Pictish era. The Picts, who inhabited the region before the arrival of Christianity, practiced a form of paganism. Evidence of Pictish religious practices can be seen in the Pictish stones, such as the Elgin Pillar, which dates back to the 9th century. These stones feature intricate carvings believed to have religious significance.
One of the most significant early places in Elgin is Elgin Cathedral. Established in 1224, the cathedral was dedicated to the Holy Trinity. Despite suffering extensive damage from fires in 1270 and 1390, the cathedral remains a monumental structure, showcasing the spiritual grandeur of medieval Scotland. While it is a popular attraction, Elgin Cathedral is a historic ruin and no longer a functioning church.
Another significant early church is Bernie Kirk, built around 1140. The church closed for regular worship following a final service on Sunday, November 19, 2023. However, it continues to be used by the Roman Catholic Church's ordinariate for weekly Evening Prayer and monthly Mass. As such, it is one of the oldest churches in Scotland still in use today.
Today, religion continues to play a significant role in Elgin, although the religious landscape is diversified. While the Church of Scotland and the Roman Catholic Church remain prominent, there are several other Christian churches, an Islamic mosque, and a presence of people from other faiths.
For centuries, Saint Giles Church has been a steadfast pillar in the Elgin community. Its earliest record dates back to 1224, and the current structure, with its imposing classical frontage and tower, has been a dominant feature in the heart of Elgin since 1826.
In 1906, Saint Columba's Church was built as a daughter church because it needed more seating capacity. After its union with Elgin South Church in 1999, St. Columba's building became known as Saint Columba's South Church.
Also part of the Church of Scotland, Saint Andrew's Lhanbryd & Urquhart Parish Church traces its history back to a deed from 1237. Its original church, dedicated to Saint Margaret, was replaced by its current structure in 1843.
Since its establishment in 1808, Elgin Baptist Church has been a cornerstone of the Elgin community, serving for over two centuries. As part of the fellowship of the Baptist Union of Scotland, it has played a significant role in the town's religious landscape.
The Elgin Free Church is part of Elgin, Forres, and Burghead Free Church and the Free Church of Scotland, an evangelical, reformed, and Presbyterian church.
Saint Sylvester's Pastoral Area is part of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Aberdeen, while Elgin Community Church is affiliated with the Church of God. River Church Elgin is part of the River Church Network in Scotland and the Antioch Ministries International Movement in Waco, Texas.
The Elgin Mosque is a place for prayers, a community centre for Muslims in Moray, and a place for non-Muslims to learn about Islam.
While traditional religious affiliation has declined, with a significant portion of the population identifying as non-religious, spirituality and personal faith practices remain important to many residents, and Elgin supports several places of worship.
Churches, mosques, and other places of worship in Elgin are appropriate resources for this category, regardless of the particular religion, denomination, or sect.
Recommended Resources
Founded in 1808, Elgin Baptist Church is part of the wider Baptist Union of Scotland. An introduction is designed to let those attending for the first time know what to expect, such as a call to worship, praise, prayer, a children's talk, sermon, and communion each week. The church's pastor and leadership team are introduced, and a statement of faith, a calendar of upcoming programs and events, and an overview of its ministries are provided, including schedules and contacts, as needed.
https://www.elginbaptistchurch.org/
Affiliated with the Church of God, the congregation meets at Gospel Hall on Bridge Street, Elgin, Moray, Scotland. The address, a map showing its location, telephone numbers, and an online contact form are provided, and contributions may be made via PayPal. The congregation's lead pastor and leadership staff are introduced. A mission statement and statement of beliefs are set forth. A calendar of events, announcements, notices, and a sermon archive are displayed.
https://elginccog.org/
The Elgin, Scotland congregation is part of the Free Church of Scotland. Sunday schedules, service times, a calendar of events, and other church programs are defined, and an introduction to the church's services, which last about an hour, is provided. Services may be viewed online or the order of service can also be downloaded. The church's website also includes informational articles on such topics as Jesus are provided. The address, a map, directions, and contacts are included.
https://elginfreechurch.org/
Elgin Mosque and Islamic Centre
Meeting in a building that once served as council offices on South Street, the Elgin Mosque serves as a community centre for Muslims in Moray, a place of prayer, and a place for non-Muslims to learn about Islam. The Five Pillars of Islam are featured on the website, along with prayer times, news, announcements, and a gallery of photographs. Information about future plans and projects are posted, and its address, a map, contacts, and an online enquiry form are available.
https://theelginmosque.org.uk/
In 1982, Riverside Church began as a small gathering meeting in homes and later in Macduff Town Hall. It has moved several times over the years, spawning other congregations. River Church Elgin is part of the River Church Network in Scotland. Meeting in Elgin, Scotland, on Sunday mornings and Tuesday evenings, a map shows its location, and contacts are provided. Its history, leadership, associations, and a statement of beliefs are provided, along with an even calendar, and children's programs.
https://riverchurchelgin.snappages.site/
St. Giles & St. Columba's South Parish
Located in Elgin, Morayshire, Scotland, the church's history dates back to 1224, with the current St. Giles building constructed in 1827, while St. Columba's Church, built in 1906, became known as St. Columba's South Church after merging with Elgin South Church in 1999. The church is known for its classical architecture, as well as for its active community involvement, including youth groups, street pastors, and a lunch club. Schedules, a photo gallery, and contacts are featured.
http://www.elginstgileschurch.co.uk/
