The Society also seeks to promote increased awareness and knowledge of the Cathedral to the general public. By joining the Friends you are supporting the Cathedral and helping to secure this magnificent building for future generations.
History
The Society of The Friends of St Magnus Cathedral was formed in 1958 when it became apparent that additional funds would be required for the long term maintenance and development of the Cathedral. The main objective of the Society is to raise funds to ensure the preservation of St Magnus Cathedral as an inspiring place to visit and worship. Members of the Society come from all over the world and are united in a common love for this beautiful and ancient holy place.
The Society welcomes as members, those who have an interest in the history, architecture or music of the Cathedral, and who are willing to help in any way in its preservation and welfare.
When established the objective of The Society was the support of any project connected with, or incidental to, the care and improvement of the Cathedral and its furnishings, together with the raising of funds for these purposes. All this was to be done in association with the Local Authority, at that time Kirkwall Town Council (now Orkney Islands Council {OIC}). The then Provost James Scott was appointed Chairman of the Society and Cathedral Minister the Revd John Rose vice chairman.
A Council of Members was set up to manage the affairs of The Society and its membership comprises representatives of OIC, the Cathedral congregation, and four other independent members. The Lord lieutenant of Orkney is the Chairperson of the society under the patronage of the Duke of Gloucester.
Over the last sixty years the Society has contributed over £1.5 million towards Cathedral Projects.
Scottish Charity Number SC007980