Special songs of praise celebrate 200 years of Oban and Kilmore worship
A special songs of praise will celebrate 200 years of worship on the site of Kilmore and Oban Parish Church this Sunday.
Parishioners are extending a warm welcome to everyone to join them at the service on March 27, starting at 10.30am.
The date matches the exact day in 1822 when Reverend Alexander Beith was ordained at a new purpose-built chapel of ease at the bottom of Oban’s Glencruitten Road to also serve Kilmore, once the seat of Lorn and Oban presbytery.
Just over 70 years later, the chapel of ease - with a balcony on three sides and room for a 500-strong congregation - was demolished to make way for the bigger present day building.
Argyll Presbytery Moderator the Reverend Janet McKellar has been invited to the songs of praise service this weekend, as have other previous ministers.
A number of past ministers unable to attend, including the Reverend Cat Knott who is in America, will be sending their best wishes via video messages.
It is hoped the family of the Reverend William McDonald, who served there from 1937 to 1966, will be among the congregation. A small exhibition of memorabilia will be on display in the church and there is a special visitors’ book for people to add any memories.
There are more anniversary celebrations to look forward to.
Parishioners are organising a number of other events this year including a flower festival.