The Rev Canon Dr Marion Chatterley, Vice-Provost at St Mary’s Cathedral, retires

There were tributes, tears, sunshine and smiles as the Rev Canon Dr Marion Chatterley led her last service as Vice-Provost at St Mary’s Cathedral, Edinburgh on Sunday 13 September.

“Every priest has phrases that they lean on, in prayers and preaching; phrases that reveal something of what truly matters to them,” said Provost John Conway as he paid tribute to his retiring Vice-Provost, who began worshipping at the cathedral 40 years ago.

“Perhaps the phrase that is most characteristic of you, is ‘make a difference.’ Action reveals who we are and what difference God makes; you want to, and want us to, make a difference in the world. Today gives us an opportunity to recognise the difference you have made to this Cathedral, to our Diocese and our city.”

Giving thanks for Marion’s ministry at St Mary’s, the Provost continued: “You have exemplified a commitment to help the Cathedral look outward, to engage with our city, and the myriad and varied people who pass through the doors of this place.

“Above all you have supported the music which is the heart and soul of this place.

“And through it all, you have been unwavering in your commitment to the prayer of this place, the heartbeat and rhythm that gives everything else meaning and purpose.”

“I will miss you. The staff team, the choir, the congregation will miss you. I know that you will miss us. But we wish you, and pray for, every blessing in your retirement.”

There were two presentations made to Marion at the morning Eucharist, with the young people of the Sunday Club gifting her a framed design they had created of the St Mary’s building which features each activity of the cathedral, and the congregation providing a splendid bouquet of flowers and a card with enclosed gift.

Marion gave the sermon at the morning service on inclusion and also chose the hymns, along with those for Choral Evensong later in the day – a service which acknowledged her work with the wider Edinburgh Diocese, the Province and her chaplaincy roles – as she fulfilled her Vice-Provost duties for the final time. At the end of Evensong, attended by Bishop Dagmar Winter, the choir made a further presentation to Marion.

She had predicted there would be tears. There were. And as it turned out, not just from Marion herself. But more than that, there was an over-riding sense of joy and celebration of someone who truly has made a difference.

Photos and text: Scottish Episcopal Church. For more pictures, see the SEC’s Facebook page.