Born in 1958 in Texas, the youngest child of the Manse, Stephen Taylor realised a calling on his life to service in ministry in the
early 1980s. After receiving a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in
Government from the University of Texas at Austin in 1981, he completed a Bachelor of Biblical Studies degree from Abilene Christian University the following year. Stephen followed this in 1985 with a Master of Divinity from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary.
While at Seminary, and later as a University Lecturer in Abilene, he participated in
archaeological digs at Khirbet Iskandar in Jordon and Banias in Israel. He is a fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland and is currently a Doctor of Ministry student in the University of Aberdeen / Pittsburgh Theological Seminary programme.
Stephen
combines his lifelong interest in archaeology with the study of
architecture, politics, travel and genealogy (he's a seventh-generation Texan of Cajun descent). He met his wife Gillian
Trew during a week on Iona. They were married at
Iona Abbey in 1995 and are both associate members of the Iona Community. They have an Elkhound, Åsta, who enjoys the Aberdeen weather.
After
his divinity degree, Stephen worked as an Associate and Interim
Minister in Churches of Christ in Texas. In 1990, he moved to Great Britain, serving as minister to congregations of the United Reformed
Church in Greater London. In 2005, he joined the Kirk of St Nicholas
Uniting as the Minister, bringing with him a passion to see this
historic Kirk renewed in building and spirit – reconnected with the
surrounding community.
As Minister of the Kirk of St Nicholas
Uniting, Stephen seeks to encourage and provide an inviting, inclusive,
ecumenical, supportive and challenging ministry, creating an atmosphere
for worship, education, fellowship and service.
