Congregation bids farewell to Govanhill Trinity Church

As reported in The Extra, the B-listed building — known locally as the Daisy St Church — has joined forces with nearby Queen’s Park.

Some 87 guests attended the church’s farewell dinner, tucking into a two course meal and enjoying entertainment by organist Richard Scholfield.

The event was paid for by the Grace & Flavour Cafe — which has run for six years and raised £20,000 in church funds — and Mrs Celia Wright, the oldest member of the congregation, and Mrs Cathleen Porter, whose husband was minister for 28 years, cut the cake.

Linda Hunter, acting session clerk, told The Extra: “It was wonderful to see so many people who had been involved in some way over the year celebrating.

“Despite a past strong congregation, Govanhill is a changing community and we have a declining congregation, and it’s therefore not viable to remain open for worship.

“But Reverend Elijah Smith has advised that Glasgow Presbytery are carrying out a feasibility study, and the results will be known in March — it is hoped that the building will be used by various groups. The cafe will also remain open until March.”

Linda added: “Although it was a sad occasion, we hoped it would be a very happy evening with lots of talk and laughs between friends who haven’t seen each other in years.

“Each person had many happy memories of their lives here — and some old photos gave many a laugh, trying to figure out who was who.”

The congregation thanked parish assistant Stuart Bruce for his hard work, particularly during the last five years when, left without a minister, Mr Bruce took over duties. Stuart was presented with an ornament, engraved with the church, as a token of appreciation.

Worship will now commence at Queen’s Park Govanhill Church on Sunday, January 3.