Christian Life
Welcome to the Christian Life section of the Diocese of Aberdeen and Orkney, where we explore faith and spirituality through living in Christ. Led by Very Revd Dr Jenny Holden, our Advisor for Christian Life, this section offers resources, guidance, and support for individuals and congregations, fostering deeper connections with God through prayer, pilgrimage and spiritual practices.
The Diocese of Aberdeen and Orkney promotes a rich Christian life, emphasising spiritual growth, community support and diverse practices. With the help and leadership of Very Revd Dr Jenny Holden, the Advisor for Christian Life, the Diocese offers resources for church seasons and spiritual practices, encouraging deeper faith exploration through online courses, prayer guides and pilgrimage opportunities.
Beliefs centre on a loving, generous God, revealed through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, fostering a triune worship. Prayer, both communal and individual, is essential and you’ll find help on how to pray here.
The Diocese supports spiritual practices such as retreats, spiritual direction, and pilgrimage, thus highlighting Scotland’s rich heritage of pilgrim routes. It also engages in chaplaincy services at Aberdeen hospitals and the city’s universities.
The Society of Our Lady of the Isles, a contemplative community, continues its mission despite recent transitions. Activities for children and young people are actively promoted, ensuring all ages feel welcome and included in the life of the church. For more details, contact the Diocesan Advisor for Christian Life or visit relevant church pages.
A church for…
Exploring Faith and Spirituality
Listening, exploring, developing new things, and building on established practices, seeking to allow all to live their Christian life in all its abundant fullness.
Chaplaincies
Members of the Diocese support the work, activities, patients, students and staff at Aberdeen Hospitals, universities, and further education college in Aberdeen.
Religious Communities
The Society of Our Lady of the Isles was established originally on the island of Fetlar around 40 years ago and consisted of Hermit Sisters, under religious vows, living a contemplative/hermit lifestyle of prayer.
Church Stories – The Diocese oF Aberdeen and Orkney
St Olaf’s Church and the relics of St Magnus
The relics and bones of St Magnus were transferred to St Olaf’s in the early 12th Century. St Magnus, also known as Magnus Erlendsson, was the Earl of Orkney and became a martyr and saint. He was murdered around 1115 during a power struggle with his cousin, Earl Håkon. Magnus was venerated as a saint soon after his death, and numerous miracles were attributed to him. Initially, Magnus was buried at Christchurch at Birsay, on the northwest coast of the Mainland of Orkney. In 1137, his nephew, Earl Rognvald, initiated the construction of St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall in honour of his uncle. Before the completion of the cathedral, Magnus’s bones were transferred to St Olaf’s Church in Kirkwall.