
THE MERGER OF three Moray churches has led to a ‘can-do’ approach in the face of mounting financial pressures for congregations in the region.
That was the view being expressed last night by regional MSP Douglas Ross after he attended a ‘meet your MSP’ event in Elgin’s St Giles Church.
Arranged by the Scottish Churches Parliamentary Office, the event provided an opportunity for members of the St Giles and St Columba’s South church congregation to meet with their local representatives.
Following the gathering Mr Ross said: “I welcomed the opportunity through the Scottish Churches Parliamentary Office to meet members of St Giles and St Columba’s South Church and discuss the work they are doing in the churches at present, their efforts to recruit a new minister and some of their plans for the future.
“Following the successful merger of the three local churches – St Giles, St Columba’s and the South Church, it was clear there is a can-do approach from members as they consider how to meet the growing financial demands on any such large building.
“St Giles church is a great asset and iconic building with the main hall being used for many theatrical and musical shows throughout the year by groups such as the Out of the Darkness Theatre Group, and I am told it has one of the finest church organs in the North of Scotland.”
The church has been used in the past to host graduation ceremonies for Moray College – its capacity of around 400 providing a flexible venue for large or small groups.
Mr Ross added: “Like many organisations, the church has set up a development group to explore the future uses of the building.
“I am optimistic that it can continue to be used for the benefit of the community for many years to come and I am keen to assist the church with these plans in any way I can.”