The Diocese of Edinburgh has sadly lost two members of its clergy in the past week, with the deaths of the Rev Canon Ruth Innes and the Rev Margaret Pedersen.
The Rev Canon Ruth Innes
Canon Ruth retired as Synod Clerk last September having served in the diocese for nearly 20 years. After her curacy in Perth, she served in Linlithgow and Bathgate, then St Mark’s, Portobello and Christ Church, Falkirk. At the point of her retirement, Ruth was Rector of St Fillan’s, Buckstone. For her distinguished service in the diocese, including her role as Synod Clerk, the Chapter nominated her to be an Honorary Canon, a nomination approved by Standing Committee on behalf of Synod.
She was also a member of General Synod, and was well known across the province.
The Rt Rev Dr John Armes, Bishop of Edinburgh, said in a message to the Diocese: “There is, of course, much more to be said about such a fine, colourful and devoted priest, and we shall have the opportunity to do this. In the meantime, please hold Ruth and her family in your prayers. May she rest in peace and rise in glory.”
There will be a requiem for Ruth at at St Mary’s Cathedral, Edinburgh on Thursday 31st March at 11.30am. Clergy are invited to robe.
The Rev Margaret Pederson
Rev Margaret’s curacy was at Holy Trinity in Melrose and she was recently commissioned to serve at St Andrew’s, Kelso, when her health deteriorated after what had been a long illness. She had been heavily involved in a St Francis-like project to transform an old church in Morebattle into a coffee stop for pilgrims.
Bishop John said: “Margaret is defined for me not by her illness but by her grace and determination, her strong sense of call and quiet wisdom.
“I am deeply sorry that we have lost her and we entrust her to God praying that God’s purposes will be fulfilled through her both in this world and the next. Please pray for her and her family.
“May Margaret go from strength to strength in the life-giving and healing presence of God.”
There will be a Requiem Mass for Margaret at St Andrew’s, Kelso on Monday 4 April at 10.30am. This will be followed by a reception nearby and a private family committal. Clergy are welcome to robe (white stoles, please). Please let the Rector, Canon Bob King, know if you plan to do so. (rectorofkelso@gmail.com)