Black Isle community rallies to plight of axe-threatened Killearnan Church
MEMBERS of a Black Isle community have given a ringing endorsement to a bid to safeguard the future of an historic church dating back over five centuries.
Killearnan Parish Church is set for sale by the Church of Scotland as part of a wider rationalisation of its estate to make the best use of its resources.
Activists are seeking to pull together a positive vision for the building and held an open day at the weekend to gauge opinion.
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One of them, Sandra Riach, said later there had been a hugely positive response. She said: “We invited them in to have their say on what they need from a church today and in the future.
“And they told us what they want! They want ministry with meaning and compassion for the pressures of today. They want community activities for all ages but especially for vulnerable elderly and isolated parents with children.
“They want fun, old fashioned family events that involve everyone, they want cultural and musical opportunities with a bit of good old exercise and health teaching.”
The congregation had transformed the interior of the church with displays and exhibits which included the history of the building, local artwork, a display of wedding and baptismal gowns and some fun activities for children.
Delicious tea and cakes were served up in the hall after.
Ms Riach said: “It was really buzzing, and the good weather was an extra blessing. The most important part of the day was to measure public support and interest in keeping the church open and functioning for the benefit of the community.
“From the results of our survey and talking with the public we have a growing body of evidence that shows a real desire to keep the church and hall both as a centre for worship and to make much more use of both buildings for activities that the community need and want and would enjoy.”
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