A deep sense of frustration and apprehension has gripped the picturesque village of Kenmore in Perthshire as locals rally to prevent the sale of their centuries-old church. The Church of Scotland’s decision to put the 265-year-old building on the market has sparked widespread disbelief, particularly as the area stands on the cusp of significant revitalization.
For generations, Kenmore Church has been a focal point for spiritual life and community gatherings. Its imminent disposal by Kirk officials, citing dwindling congregation numbers and unsustainable maintenance costs, feels particularly ill-timed to residents witnessing a resurgence in local activity.
Leading the charge to preserve this architectural and spiritual landmark is the Kenmore Community Council. They have initiated an ambitious £80,000 fundraising campaign with the aim of purchasing the property for continued community use. However, the clock is ticking, as their exclusive agreement with the Church of Scotland to secure the building is set to expire on December 31st. A Community Blindsided
The sentiment on the ground is one of profound disappointment. Irena Menzies, a passionate local, expressed the community’s anguish, stating, “There’s just utter despair that this decision can be taken when we’re just starting to bloom as a community.” Her words resonate deeply with many who see the burgeoning Taymouth Castle estate transformation as a sign of brighter days ahead for Kenmore, promising an influx of new residents and families who could reinvigorate the church’s congregation.
Locals argue that the decision-making process lacked transparency and adequate consultation. Joan Denton-Thompson recalled previous assurances, highlighting how the community was led to believe Kenmore Church, classified as ‘Category A,’ would be safeguarded, while Fortingall Church, a ‘Category B’ site, was deemed less secure. “We knew there was to be a five-year consultation on the future of the churches in our group,” she explained. “But it was announced in church that Kenmore would be safe, since it was a Category A church, while Fortingall was Category B. Now we learn it’s Fortingall that’s staying open. But there was never any announcement that the position has changed.”
This abrupt reversal has left many feeling unheeded and confused. Denton-Thompson further implored, “We just want the Church of Scotland to pause what it’s doing here. The consultation should have another three years to run. Why is this being rushed through?” The community believes a re-evaluation is crucial, considering the changing demographics and potential for growth in the Perthshire village. The Future of Kenmore Church
Despite the strong local opposition, the Church of Scotland maintains its course. A spokesperson confirmed that the Kirk Session decided on September 19th that Fortingall Church would serve as the primary place of worship for the Loch Tay and Glenlyon area from December. Kenmore Church, while no longer primary, “will continue to be used occasionally,” according to the official statement.
The Church of Scotland also conveyed its preference for a community-led future for the building. “The Kirk Session remains keen that ownership of Kenmore Church transfers to a local community group, on the basis that the building continues to be used for occasional worship services and church activities such as weddings, funerals, harvest services and Christmas Carol events,” the spokesperson added. This sentiment aligns with the community council’s vision, but the timing and perceived lack of flexibility remain a sticking point.
A recent survey conducted by the Kenmore and District Community Council underscores the widespread desire for local ownership. Out of 219 respondents, an overwhelming 83% expressed support for the community acquiring the church to operate as a versatile community space. Colin Morton, spokesperson for the community group, emphasized their commitment to religious continuity should their bid succeed. He stated that it is “very much part of our vision that the church would remain available for religious ceremonies for all denominations.”
The sale process coincides with the induction of a new minister, Reverend Joanne Foster, who is set to begin her role with the Churches of Loch Tay with Glenlyon and Rannoch on October 7th. This transition period adds another layer of complexity to an already emotionally charged situation, as the community hopes for a resolution that honours both the church’s spiritual heritage and its integral role in the fabric of Kenmore life.
As the December 31st deadline looms, the fate of Kenmore Church hangs in the balance. The community remains steadfast in its resolve, hoping that their unified voice and significant fundraising efforts will persuade Kirk officials to reconsider and safeguard a beloved institution for generations to come, allowing it to flourish alongside a revitalized Kenmore. The discussions surrounding this cherished Perthshire landmark will undoubtedly continue to captivate local attention.
For generations, Kenmore Church has been a focal point for spiritual life and community gatherings. Its imminent disposal by Kirk officials, citing dwindling congregation numbers and unsustainable maintenance costs, feels particularly ill-timed to residents witnessing a resurgence in local activity.
Leading the charge to preserve this architectural and spiritual landmark is the Kenmore Community Council. They have initiated an ambitious £80,000 fundraising campaign with the aim of purchasing the property for continued community use. However, the clock is ticking, as their exclusive agreement with the Church of Scotland to secure the building is set to expire on December 31st. A Community Blindsided
The sentiment on the ground is one of profound disappointment. Irena Menzies, a passionate local, expressed the community’s anguish, stating, “There’s just utter despair that this decision can be taken when we’re just starting to bloom as a community.” Her words resonate deeply with many who see the burgeoning Taymouth Castle estate transformation as a sign of brighter days ahead for Kenmore, promising an influx of new residents and families who could reinvigorate the church’s congregation.
Locals argue that the decision-making process lacked transparency and adequate consultation. Joan Denton-Thompson recalled previous assurances, highlighting how the community was led to believe Kenmore Church, classified as ‘Category A,’ would be safeguarded, while Fortingall Church, a ‘Category B’ site, was deemed less secure. “We knew there was to be a five-year consultation on the future of the churches in our group,” she explained. “But it was announced in church that Kenmore would be safe, since it was a Category A church, while Fortingall was Category B. Now we learn it’s Fortingall that’s staying open. But there was never any announcement that the position has changed.”
This abrupt reversal has left many feeling unheeded and confused. Denton-Thompson further implored, “We just want the Church of Scotland to pause what it’s doing here. The consultation should have another three years to run. Why is this being rushed through?” The community believes a re-evaluation is crucial, considering the changing demographics and potential for growth in the Perthshire village. The Future of Kenmore Church
Despite the strong local opposition, the Church of Scotland maintains its course. A spokesperson confirmed that the Kirk Session decided on September 19th that Fortingall Church would serve as the primary place of worship for the Loch Tay and Glenlyon area from December. Kenmore Church, while no longer primary, “will continue to be used occasionally,” according to the official statement.
The Church of Scotland also conveyed its preference for a community-led future for the building. “The Kirk Session remains keen that ownership of Kenmore Church transfers to a local community group, on the basis that the building continues to be used for occasional worship services and church activities such as weddings, funerals, harvest services and Christmas Carol events,” the spokesperson added. This sentiment aligns with the community council’s vision, but the timing and perceived lack of flexibility remain a sticking point.
A recent survey conducted by the Kenmore and District Community Council underscores the widespread desire for local ownership. Out of 219 respondents, an overwhelming 83% expressed support for the community acquiring the church to operate as a versatile community space. Colin Morton, spokesperson for the community group, emphasized their commitment to religious continuity should their bid succeed. He stated that it is “very much part of our vision that the church would remain available for religious ceremonies for all denominations.”
The sale process coincides with the induction of a new minister, Reverend Joanne Foster, who is set to begin her role with the Churches of Loch Tay with Glenlyon and Rannoch on October 7th. This transition period adds another layer of complexity to an already emotionally charged situation, as the community hopes for a resolution that honours both the church’s spiritual heritage and its integral role in the fabric of Kenmore life.
As the December 31st deadline looms, the fate of Kenmore Church hangs in the balance. The community remains steadfast in its resolve, hoping that their unified voice and significant fundraising efforts will persuade Kirk officials to reconsider and safeguard a beloved institution for generations to come, allowing it to flourish alongside a revitalized Kenmore. The discussions surrounding this cherished Perthshire landmark will undoubtedly continue to captivate local attention.