Three churches earmarked for closure as Kirk acts on crisis
have to be referred to North Ayrshire Council, so that they may assess the effect of any closures on the council’s ability to fulfil its community-based responsibilities.’
Another Kirk Session member told the Banner: ‘It’s such a blow after our Covid enforced closures for two and a half years and just at the time when groups are beginning to feel it’s safe enough to gather in person again.
‘Lamlash Kirk Session has been told this plan is a proposal and is not final but we must put our points forward by May 31 and then attend a presbytery meeting on June 14 in Beith, so time is of the essence.
‘People in Lamlash are completely unaware. They may not worship on a Sunday but a great many of them are part of our outreach activities and frequent users of the church hall.
‘Can you imagine it? No church bells ringing out during Covid lockdown was bad enough, but to think they may never be played again to call people to worship in Lamlash is just so sad.’
A spokesperson for the Church of Scotland said: ‘Ardrossan Presbytery has produced a draft presbytery mission plan that we believe will ensure the future of Church of Scotland ministry across Arran.
‘The proposals include providing two full-time ministry posts - a minister of word and sacrament and a ministry development staff worker - to work across the island. If the plan is agreed the seven existing congregations will consider uniting to form one large congregation. Four of the church buildings would remain open for worship while three would close.
‘Congregations across Arran are now considering the plan and Kirk Sessions have until May 31 to contribute to the consultation. No decisions will be taken until the presbytery meets on June 14.’
A new plan must be agreed by Ardrossan Presbytery, the faith nurture forum and the general trustees by December 31, 2022.