The congregation of a Campbeltown church threatened with closure is thanking the community for its support as it prepares to resume weekly services.
In June, the leaders of St Kiaran’s Scottish Episcopal Church launched an appeal for support as it faced “a crisis” amid unexpected repair works.
Despite careful maintenance over the years, two purlins – rafters helping to support the roof – above the windows of the Argyll Street kirk had slipped from their sockets.
With the estimated costs of the repair work escalating and threatening to go beyond the reducing congregation’s means and putting the church’s future in doubt, people were asked to show their support.
Speaking to the Courier this week, vestry secretary and treasurer Lesley Barford said: “We are pleased to announce that we are back in business – the roof is repaired and the scaffolding is down and our Sunday services are being held in the church again.
“We wish to thank all those who gave us financial support – our own Scottish Episcopal Church, the wind farm trust, the Rotary Club, Courier readers from near and far, and friends and family.”
She added that members of the congregation are also grateful to Father Tony Wood and his St Kieran’s RC Church congregation on nearby St John Street for offering them hospitality during the two months they were prohibited from entering their own church by the Scottish Episcopal Church’s Diocese of Argyll and the Isles on insurance grounds.
“It has been a long haul for our small congregation but we go forward in faith to offer our service to the Campbeltown community in any way we can,” said Mrs Barford.
“We are starting with Wednesday morning services of Holy Communion which will commence on October 25 at 9.30am, followed by a pop-up café which will be available from 10.30am.
“In the afternoon, we are opening our church for table-top sales with the aim of giving people the chance to make a little money for themselves and by providing a warm hub for those who would appreciate it.
“We are planning to have the church open throughout the day on other occasions for visitors and personal prayer – but you might need your thermals during the winter months on those occasions.
“Thank you everyone for all your support, whether financial or the comforting word – we are most grateful.”