The Chaplaincy Team
Monsignor Patrick
Chaplain
Lucia burgio
Facilities Manager
Father Chris
Assistant Chaplain
Dr. Mary Stevens
Assistant Lay Chaplain
Kate Aitken
Chaplaincy Secretary
Chaplaincy Facilities
Canmore offers a beautiful common room for students to socialise in, two first class reading rooms equipped with the University Wi-Fi, and an oratory where there is a daily routine of prayer. As well as self-service coffee available in the common room throughout the day, there is a daily coffee break at 11 am where students and staff get together with the Chaplaincy Team
History of Canmore
c.1844–1890s
Setting the Scene
As St Andrews expanded into a resort town, the Scores saw the rise of grand villas. In 1893, Professor Arthur Stanley Butler commissioned a three-storey home, setting the stage for what would become our chaplaincy.
1890s–1907
Early Foundations
Professor Butler named the house St Swithins. It was a bustling home for his large family, where academic and town life merged under the roof of this dedicated physicist and community figure.
1907–1914
The Generosity of Mrs Harmar
In 1907, the house found its true purpose when Annette Harmar renamed it Canmore. A devout Catholic, she funded the building of St James Church, cementing a legacy of faith on the Scores.
1914–1947
House and Hotel
Through turbulent world events, the building shifted roles—from a dignified residence to a hotel providing hospitality to visitors of the world-renowned golf links of St Andrews.
1947–1958
The White Fathers
The arrival of the White Fathers marked a return to religious use. They established a house for students and missionary preparation, deepening the spiritual roots of the property.
1958–1964
The Brothers of Christian Instruction
Under the Brothers, Canmore became a residence known as St Margaret's. It served as a home for young men studying at the University, balancing rigorous study with a prayerful environment.
1964–1969
Moving In
The Chaplaincy Trust via a generous donation, eventually acquired Canmore as a permanent centre. Fr Ian Gillan moved in, beginning a new era where the building became the official home of Catholic student life.
1970–1987
Change on all Fronts
The 70's and 80's saw growth and social change. The Assumption Sisters joined the community, providing a welcoming presence alongside Fr Gillan and later Fr Jock Dalrymple.
1987–2010
Canmore’s Legacy
Canon Brian Halloran led a thriving community for over two decades. Generations of students found a home here, creating lifelong bonds within the chaplaincy’s welcoming walls.
2011 onwards
Epilogue / Recent Years
Securing Canmore for the future required modern vision and investment. Today, under recent chaplains, Canmore remains a vibrant 'home away from home' on The Scores.