James Pitt-Watson

James Pitt-Watson (9 November 1893 – 25 December 1962) was a Scottish minister and academic. He was Professor of Practical Theology at Glasgow University and served as Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland in 1953. He has been described as an "ecclesiastical politician".

Life

James Pitt-Watson was born on 9 November 1893. He was educated at George Heriot's School, a private school in Edinburgh, Scotland. He studied and trained for ministry at the University of Edinburgh.

Pitt-Watson was ordained for the Church of Scotland in 1920. During his time as Moderator he presented a Bible to Queen Elizabeth II at her coronation, saying, "Here is wisdom, this is the royal law, these are the lively Oracles of God." Other duties as Moderator included opening the new church at Colinton Mains in south-west Edinburgh

He died on Christmas Day, 25 December 1962. His obituary was written by the Very Rev A C Craig.

Family

He was father to Rev Prof Ian Pitt-Watson (1923-1995). Through his son Ian, he is grandfather to the Scottish businessman, David Pitt-Watson.