Sacred Spaces and Special Moments
Baptisms & Memorials
The gift of a new child is always a moment of celebration and gratitude and a profound responsibility. The ministry team at Greyfriars are always happy to discuss the possibility of baptism, as a sign of our desire to nurture our children in the light of faith. Baptism normally takes place at a Sunday service, and there is no charge for this.
The Kirk is a beautiful and atmospheric setting to remember and celebrate the lives of those who have passed on. We can arrange large or intimate settings for family and friends. One of our ministers can conduct a traditional service format or you are welcome to arrange a bespoke service and we can advise about the content.
Pet Blessing
Our annual Pet Blessing service is one of our most popular events of the year! Coinciding with the feast day of Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals on 4 October, the informal service is held on the nearest Sunday afternoon. The Kirk opens up its doors to those of a furry, feathered or fluffy persuasion, for a short service of thanks and blessing for the animals in our lives – how they enhance our days, how they give so much and ask so little, and how they love unconditionally. Children are most welcome too!
The service has special significance due to Greyfriars Bobby’s association with the Kirkyard where the dog and his owner, Auld Jock, are buried.
The 2025 Pet Blessing Service will be Sunday 5 October at 3pm.
School & Special Services
Greyfriars Kirk has strong ties with the Edinburgh community with links to a number of organisations and alumni. We are very happy to offer the Kirk for one-off or regular school/university services, trades associations and civic bodies.
There is a strong connection between Greyfriars Kirk and the adjacent George Heriot’s School – indeed, one of their school’s houses is named “Greyfriars”. We are pleased to host primary and secondary pupils several times a year for their school services.
Nurturing our links with the Gaelic speaking community, we are also very pleased to host the annual Christmas service for the city’s Gaelic primary school, Bun-sgoil Taobh na Pàirce
Enquire Today
To find out more about services taking place here and/ or organising your own, please get in touch with the Operations Manager to discuss.
