Jamie Sutherland (MA (Hons) MDiv PGDip)

Thesis title: Theological Formation and the Identity of the Reuniting Church of Scotland, c.1900-1939.

Biography

Background

Jamie Sutherland is a PhD candidate in the History of Christianity. His thesis focuses on the history of the Church of Scotland in the early 20th century, considering the interrelated themes of intellectual culture, theological identity, and theological formation. Originally from Inverness, he studied MA (Hons) Philosophy & Linguistics at the University of Edinburgh before qualifying in Library & Information Studies at Robert Gordon University. After graduation, he worked primarily in libraries and archives within the higher education sector. Entering training for Full Time Ministry of Word & Sacrament in the Church of Scotland, he completed a Master of Divinity (MDiv) at the University of Edinburgh. He currently serves as Probationer Minister at St Giles' Cathedral.

Qualifications

MA (Hons), Philosophy & Linguistics, University of Edinburgh

MDiv (Hons), Divinity, University of Edinburgh

PGDip, Library & Information Studies, Robert Gordon University

Responsibilities & affiliations

Trustee (Elder), Chalmers Lectureship Trust

Member, Church Service Society

Member, Scottish Church Society

Member, Scottish Church History Society

Member, T.F. Torrance Theological Fellowship

Research summary

My research interests focus on the history of Reformed theology in the Scottish context, particularly as it overlaps with questions of the church identity, the history of ideas, and socio-political forces. My areas of interest include:

  • History of the Church of Scotland
  • Religion, politics, and social identity
  • Philosophical theology
  • Liturgical theology
  • Historical theology and intellectual history

Current research interests

My doctoral research, funded by The Hope Trust, examines the theological identity of the Church of Scotland and the United Free Church of Scotland in early 20th century, particularly during the period surrounding their re-unification in 1929. Developing upon existing literature, I aim to examine this period from the new angle of theological formation. The project aims to examine to what extent the identity of the Church of Scotland reflected the theological trends emerging within the church, and how this affected the Church of Scotland’s theological self-understanding during the process of reunification. In turn, it explores how the theological identity and intellectual culture of the reuniting Church of Scotland affected the ways in which its members were formed through its statements of faith, public lectures, and publications.

Project activity

Theological Formation and the Identity of the Reuniting Church of Scotland, c.1900-1939.

Current project grants

The Hope Trust Doctoral Fellowship (2026-2029)

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