Arbroath churches bid to join forces in response to dwindling numbers.

ARBROATH: Both congregations will now consider the proposal

A pair of Arbroath churches are seeking to join forces in response to dwindling congregation numbers.

The kirk sessions at Knox’s Church and Arbroath West Kirk have voted unanimously to agree a Basis of Union.

Knox’s Church will sever the link between itself and St Vigeans as a result of the move, which will go to a vote at the close of worship on November 18.

A Church of Scotland spokeswoman said: “The kirk sessions of Knox’s Arbroath and West Kirk Arbroath have voted unanimously to unite their congregations and they are excited about moving forward together.

“The next step is for the congregations of both churches to consider this proposed union, which they will do on November 18.

“If both congregations agree to unite, the proposal will then be sent to Angus Presbytery which will make the final decision.”

Knox’s Church was built in 1866 by James Maclaren.

It became a United-free church from 1900 to 1929 but has since returned to Church of Scotland.

Knox’s has been linked with St Vigean’s Church since 1983 with both churches having the same minister.

Knox’s kirk session initially held talks with the kirk session of St Vigeans and representatives of Angus Presbytery as a result of “the gradual but continued decline in attendance and financial support”.

Knox’s then decided the best way forward was to sever its links with St Vigeans and seek another union with another town congregation “with whom we have shared vision and values”.

The church approached the kirk session of West Kirk regarding the possibility of a union and informal discussions took place which were described as “very productive”.

The name of the united congregation will be West Kirk which is where worship will be held.

The Rev Alasdair Graham, minister at West Kirk, will take up the role for the united charge.

Many buildings across Scotland are facing an uncertain future due to dwindling numbers including Brechin Cathedral.

The financial position, along with a continuing decline in attendance and the impending departure of the minister, has prompted talks to seek a union with Gardner Memorial Church.

They are excited about moving forward together

Pictures: Mhairi Edwards. Above, from left: the Rev AS Wayne Pearce (Edzell Lethnot Glenesk), the Rev Annette Gordon (Carnoustie Panbride), Mrs Irene Mcgugan, moderator of Angus Presbytery, and the Rev Alasdair Graham (Arbroath West). Below: West Kirk Arbroath.