John McIntyre (theologian) facts for kids

John McIntyre (born May 20, 1916 – died December 15, 2005) was an important Scottish minister and a deep thinker about religion. He was the leader of the Church of Scotland's main meeting (called the General Assembly) from 1982 to 1983. He also served as a special chaplain to the Queen in Scotland for several years.

John McIntyre's Life and Work

Early Life and Education

John McIntyre was born in Glasgow, Scotland, on May 20, 1916. His father was a carpenter, and John grew up in a working-class family.

He went to Bathgate Academy for his schooling. Later, he studied at the University of Edinburgh. He earned a special degree in philosophy in 1938 and another degree in divinity (the study of religion) with high honors.

Becoming a Minister

In 1941, John became a minister in the Church of Scotland. He worked in different places, including Glen Orchy and Fenwick, East Ayrshire.

A Professor and Principal

In 1946, John McIntyre moved to Australia. He became a professor of theology at St. Andrew's College, Sydney. Theology is the study of religious faith and practice. He stayed there until 1956, and in 1950, he became the Principal (the head) of the college.

He earned another advanced degree (a PhD) from the University of Edinburgh in 1953. In 1956, he returned to the University of Edinburgh to become a Professor of Divinity. He held this important teaching role until 1986.

He also served as the head of New College, Edinburgh (a part of the university) and was the Dean of the Faculty of Divinity from 1968 to 1974. He even acted as the main leader (Principal and Vice-Chancellor) of the entire university for a short time.

Important Roles and Honors

John McIntyre held many significant positions. From 1974 to 1989, he was the Dean of the Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle. This is a very old and special group in Scotland.

He was also a chaplain to the Queen in Scotland for many years, starting in 1974. This meant he was a religious advisor to the Queen. In 1985, Queen Elizabeth II honored him by making him a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order.

In 1982, he became the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland. This is the highest elected position in the Church of Scotland, like being the leader of their annual big meeting. After this, he led the Church of Scotland's Board of Education from 1983 to 1987.

Many universities gave him special honorary degrees because of his important work and contributions. He was also chosen to be a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh in 1977, which is a group of top experts in Scotland.

John McIntyre retired in 1996. He passed away on December 15, 2005, at The Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh.