About

Newcomers to St. Columba’s by the Castle often comment on the warmth and welcome they receive. Whoever you are and wherever you are in your life, the people of St. Columba’s strive to be radically welcoming, accepting and non-judgmental.

St. Columba’s is a progressive congregation worshipping in a mid-19th century Victorian Church located just off the Royal Mile in the centre of Edinburgh’s Old town. St. Columba’s is a gathered community, drawing people from throughout the city. It is a community that reflects the richness, vitality and diversity of Edinburgh. Whoever we are, whoever we love and whatever we believe, we all find a welcome here.

The people gathered in St. Columba’s take worship seriously without being formal. A relaxed and informal atmosphere co-exists with a deep sense of reverence before the mystery of God. The hymns are carefully chosen and sung with the accompaniment of a variety of instruments. Preaching is based in the application of scripture to the real world in which we all live from day to day.

We hope that in your own experience of St. Columba’s you find, as we have, an inclusive, ever-evolving and lively spirit of community, devotion, and service.