Summary of the History of St. John's, Portobello

1825 - Episcopalian chapel (also St. John's) built on the site of the present church

1835 - purchased by Bishop Carruthers at a cost of £600

1844 - appointment of Fr. Clapperton as a resident priest

1877/78 - the church was extended by 20 feet

1904 - Old church demolished, new foundation stone laid on 19th October

1906 - New building complete, formally opened on 25th February

1927 - church consecrated following clearance of the re-building debt

1931 - the silver jubilee of the church building

1956 - the golden jubilee of the church building

1961 - a Rushworth and Dreaper organ installed

1962 - The Second Vatican Council brings changes in the roles of the laity

1968 - St. John's Parochial Council is formed, High Altar moved forward to top of steps

1972 - Canon Gordon succeeds Canon Ward as parish priest

1990 - new hall opens beside the church

1997 - church rewired and lighting redesigned

2006 - the centenary of the church building, flower festival and other celebrations

Link to read more history

Mary Magdalene, detail from crucifiction
St. John's is a Parish of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of St. Andrews and Edinburgh, a charity registered in Scotland - number SCO08540
Copyright © 2008 by St. John's RC Church, Portobello, Edinburgh
Canon Donlevy 1890 - 1924
Canon Rae 1981 - Present

History of St. John's, Portobello