Surely, you’ve noticed the Italianate campanile towering above us here at St Peter’s Catholic Church. It watches over a welcoming courtyard. St Peter’s is often called Robert Lorimer’s most innovative design.
Let’s step inside St Peter’s. The church was built in two stages. The first part was constructed from 1906 to 1907. The nave was completed later from 1928 to 1929. Its towering nave is made of white-washed brick. Six tall windows fill the space with light.
After Vatican II, the interior was changed. However, many original artistic details still remain. The painted timber rood screen is a highlight. The sculpture on the apse of The Crucifixion is by Joseph Hayes.
Look closely at the stained glass. It is by Morris and Gertrude Alice Meredith Williams. You will also see the work of Nina Millar Davidson and Francoise Pierre Fourmaintraux. Don’t miss the lead font. It features a distinctive fish motif by George Percy Bankart.
St Peter’s has links to some interesting people. It is closely associated with its first priest Canon John Gray. The church also has ties to its benefactor Marc-André Raffalovitch. Both men were part of Oscar Wilde’s inner circle.
The church was privately funded. The man who paid for it had a Road to Damascus experience. Before that he was part of London’s literary scene. He was friends with Oscar Wilde. The wealthy benefactor spared no expense. He wanted St Peter’s to be an architectural jewel. It boasts exquisite stained glass windows. There are mosaics and stone and metal work of the highest order.
In 2010, Benjamin Tindall Architects renovated St Peter’s. The redecoration and relighting transformed it. Some say it changed one of Edinburgh’s least interesting churches. Now it is one of its most beautiful.
The bold use of red is striking. Golden keys are stenciled in a diamond pattern. A daisy chain border adds to the richness. Painting the window tracery made the interior lighter. The colours now glow. The practice’s signature chandeliers delicately light the entire space.
St Peter’s also has a first-rate choir. They sing under the leadership of their Director of Music Rupert Forbes.
Today St Peter’s welcomes everyone to its services. They are held each Sunday at 9am and 10.45am. Process is on the second Sunday of the month. Choral Evensong is usually on the last Sunday. A traditional Communion service is on the first Thursday of the month.
All children are welcome at St Peter’s. There is an activity and coloring-in station for them. It’s located at the back of the church in the Children’s Corner. During the 10.45am service children can join in fun activities. These activities are based on the day’s Bible theme.
St Peter’s is more than just a church. It is also a community space. It’s open to people of all faiths and none.
Take a moment to appreciate the beauty and history of St Peter’s Catholic Church. Its unique design its artistic details and its connections to notable figures make it a special place in Edinburgh. Its doors are open offering spiritual resources. All are warmly welcome.