Bainsford Parish Church future unclear despite Falkirk Presbytery meeting

In September, Falkirk Presbytery announced its intention to close the doors of Bainsford Parish Church for good.

The move was part of a wider proposal to create ‘hubs’ in which clusters of churches would work together in geographical areas.

The move was drawn up in response to a declining number of ministers in the kirk and financial restraints exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic.

The Church of Scotland indicated the matter would be resolved last week, however, parishioners are still none the wiser about the plan.

A Church of Scotland spokesman said: “The Presbytery of Falkirk met last week and the only decision affecting the future of any buildings that was made was to pass responsibility to the relevant areas within the Presbytery, who are expected to report back on the status of all buildings by April 2021.”

Falkirk Presbytery voted in large numbers to adopt a Radical Action Plan across the whole of Presbytery, including Central Falkirk.

It means five congregations – St Andrew’s West, Bainsford, Camelon, Grahamston and Trinity – will be in a deferred union, with a ministry allocation of two ministers.

Bainsford Parish Church remains open for now – Covid-19 safety measures are in place within the building – and campaigners, who reacted furiously to the idea of its closure when the news first broke, will hope things stay the way they are.

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A change.org petition titled ‘Prevent the closure of Bainsford Parish Church’ has gathered more than 700 signatures.

The online campaign highlights the church’s position as a focal point, as well as the support it offers to various community groups, charities and schools.

Home to two of the largest youth groups in the district in 8th Falkirk Company Boys’ Brigade and 8th Falkirk Girls’ Brigade, Bainsford Parish Church also supports one of the largest sheltered housing complexes in Falkirk district.

The petition, created by Paul Mitchell, also points to the significant contributions the church makes to charities such as Falkirk Foodbank and Christian Aid.

As well as its charitable work, it has ties with Bainsford Primary School, Langlees Primary School, Harley Court sheltered housing and Newcarron Care Home.

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