St Stephen's and the Free North Church are two Churches located on the banks or the River Ness, Inverness. SCO 7106
Inverness Riverside Churches Old St Stephen's Parish Church is the custodian for the Old High Church. The nine riverside churches are linked to form their own individual website. Kirking of the Council The Kirking of the Council is a significant tradition that dates back more than 400 years. It is an important partnership between the Old High Kirk and the Council that enables the Kirk to publicly ask God's blessing on the work of the elected Members and their Officials and for the Council to recognise the Christian community's contribution to the City of Inverness. This, the second Sunday in September is now an important date in the calendar of events for the City of Inverness - one that is highly valued by the Council and the Kirk. OLD HIGH CHURCH The Old High Church is the historic town church of Inverness. It is part of the Church of Scotland (Presbyterian) congregation of Old High St Stephen's congregation (St Stephen's is in Southside Road). The church sits on 'St Michael's mount', where St Columba of Iona said to have preached- certainly there has been a church- dedicated to St Mary- on the site since Celtic times. The current building is mostly 18th century, with 19th century additions, but parts of the tower date back to the 14th century. During its eventful history, the Old High has been a Celtic, Roman Catholic, Episcopalian and Presbyterian church. The building was even used as prison after Battle of Culloden of 1746- Jacobite prisoners are said to have been executed in the graveyard. The curfew bell is still rung from the clock tower at 8pm every night. As the town church it is the venue of annual 'Kirking of the Council' when Provost and councillors process from Town House for worship. The fine interior includes a chancel of Iona marble, and monuments to Inverness worthies. There is a 'Father Willis' organ which is due for a major restoration.
Size: 5616px × 3737px
Location: River Ness, Inverness City, Highland Region, Scotland. UK
Photo credit: © David Gowans / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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