October 16, 2011
Berwickshire churches get temporary reprieve Comments Off
The six Berwickshire churches facing possible closure have been given a temporary reprieve as Duns Presbytery responds to over 200 letters and emails received after congregations were consulted about the proposals.
Instead of going ahead with closing the doors on Whitsome, Paxton, Leitholm, Burnmouth, Westruther and Longformacus and ceasing Sunday services at Fogo and Ladykirk, which would only be used for weddings, christenings and funerals, the Presbytery will now set up a building task group. The group will work with local congregations to review all churches within the Presbytery in three years’ time – with the exception of the churches deemed essential, which include Berwick, Coldingham, Coldstream, Duns, Eyemouth and Greenlaw.
Rev Bob Higham, of Duns Presbytery said: “Several church buildings are of great historical importance: Ayton, Coldingham, Cranshaws, Edrom, Fogo, Greenlaw and Ladykirk are ‘A’ listed by Historic Scotland.
“One of the challenges facing churches is to explore means of maintaining them through help from architectural heritage bodies or government. Legerwood church with its Norman arch has particular historical significance and the congregation was urged to approach Historic Scotland for ‘A’ listing.”
Duns Presbytery currently has nine charges with regular services being held in 27 church buildings and two village halls and Rev Higham went on to explain that staffing and financial constraints mean the number of full-time ministers will have to go down from nine to seven. “The introduction of non-stipendiary ordained local ministers will help in charges comprising linkages,” added Rev Higham. “Already there have been several enquiries about this new opportunity for ministry.”
• Full story at the Berwickshire Advertiser.
