Former Denny High School head teacher, Stephen Miller, has embarked on a new chapter in his career by following a family tradition and becoming a Church of Scotland minister at the age of 63. His father, the late Rev William Hastie Miller, and his mother, Rev Margaret Michie, both had roles within the church, with his mother becoming an Ordained Local Minister in 2013 at the age of 75. After a 40-year teaching career, Mr. Miller retired as the head teacher of Denny High School in 2020.
Last Tuesday, November 12, a special ordination ceremony took place at Auchterarder Parish Church, where Revs Michie and Miller, along with many friends and family, witnessed Stephen Miller moving into the role of an Ordained Local Minister. Among the attendees were Mr. Miller’s daughters, Paula and Jill, and his youngest grandchild, Ellie, who was just 25 days old at the time. As an elder for 38 years and a church organist for 39 years, Mr. Miller will be providing pulpit supply on Sundays while also undertaking roles within Perth Presbytery and the Church of Scotland nationally.
Reflecting on his new journey, Mr. Miller expressed his commitment to supporting school staff’s mental health and resilience post-Covid. He highlighted the importance of providing chaplaincy support to school staff who are facing increasing pressures. He will dedicate 50% of his time to developing best practices in chaplaincy support within schools in Perth Presbytery initially. The remaining time will be spent as a co-ordinator of the Education and Schools Group at the national church, focusing on policies relating to education.
Stephen Miller’s father had served as a minister at Cleland Parish Church and Markinch Parish Church, adding a rich family history to his new role within the Church of Scotland. His transition from education to ministry showcases a deep sense of calling and a dedication to supporting staff within schools and the wider education sector.
In conclusion, Stephen Miller’s journey from head teacher to minister demonstrates a seamless transition driven by a strong sense of purpose and a commitment to supporting others in their spiritual and mental well-being. His family’s legacy within the Church of Scotland adds a unique dimension to his new role, making his ordination a significant milestone both personally and professionally.