The Scottish Episcopal Church has appointed a city priest as the next dean of the Diocese of Edinburgh.
The Reverend Jane MacLaren, priest-in-charge at St Philip’s and St James’ Church in the Goldenacre area of the city, will take up the senior position from November 1.
Rev MacLaren previously served as associate rector at St Paul’s and St George’s Church on York Place, associate tutor at the Scottish Episcopal Institute, and diocesan ministry development officer.
She has also served at St James’ Church in Leith.
Announcing the appointment, The Right Reverend Dr Dagmar Winter, Bishop of Edinburgh, remarked: “This experience will stand her in good stead as she brings her gifts and skills to serve our Diocese and I very much look forward to working with her.”
Rev MacLaren said: “It’s a great honour to be invited by Bishop Dagmar to work with her as Dean of Edinburgh Diocese. From the Borders to the city and the Lothians, it’s an exciting place to be.
“Many of our churches are growing, embracing the challenges, and finding new opportunities for mission and ministry. I’m looking forward to working as Dean with Bishop Dagmar and the wider Diocese whilst continuing to lead St James Goldenacre.”
The Scottish Episcopal Church, which is part of the worldwide Anglican Communion, has around 23,000 members as of 2024.
It is the third largest church in Scotland, behind the Church of Scotland and Catholic Church.
The Very Reverend Frances Burberry will step down as dean on October 31, after ten years in the role.
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“I speak on behalf of all of you when I express my sincere and deep gratitude for her faithful commitment, gracious support and hard work which she has offered during this time,” Bishop Winter said.
“I am personally tremendously grateful to her for her help to me in these early days of my time with you.
“Please remember in your prayers both Frances and Jane at this time of transition.”
The Bishop Winter was installed as Bishop of Edinburgh in May 2026.
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