May sunshine shone nearly as brightly as the smiles on the faces of the Scottish Redundant Churches Trust director and trustees as the church re-opened to the public over the bank holiday

 

The festivities kicked off with a concert by Cromarty Primary school. The singing by the whole school and playing by the orchestra was beautiful, and the school rightly proud of their performance. 

 

 

 

 

It was performance that was enjoyed by the whole audience, and which seemed a thoroughly fitting way to begin the new life of the church. The primary school has been one of the most regular visitors to the church, seeing the conservation work from start to finish, and we hope they will continue to enjoy the church on many more occasions.

 

 

 

On Sunday the re-opening was marked by a service conducted by Rev Willis Jones, with the Church of Scotland moving from their normal place of worship at the West Church.  Willis’ sermon gave much to contemplate about the significance, use and re-use of religious buildings; paving the way for new, appropriate, uses of the East Church. 

 

Sandy Jack provided accomplished harmonium accompaniment to the hymns, which were perfectly chosen by Willis to fit the occasion and the congregation’s singing. There was also a solo performance of Psalm 23 by Stephanie Kuleska, gt gt gt granddaughter of Hugh Miller. Her performance in the church which his family attended for so long couldn’t have been more appropriate, and her singing couldn’t have been more moving. 

 

If you would like to see a copy of the Order of Service, just click here - you'll need to imagine it folded for the order to work!

 

So, all in all the perfect way to complete the three years conservation work and the 13 years since the church first came in to the care of the Scottish Redundant Churches Trust.

 

Hopefully many of you will get the opportunity to visit the church and enjoy its atmosphere and fascinating history.