Local Parishes Embrace Unity with Shared Summer Worship

The Church of Scotland parishes of Fort William Kilmallie and Kilmonivaig have announced a joint initiative to bring their congregations together for shared worship throughout July and August. Instead of holding separate services in four different locations each Sunday, the parishes will gather as one congregation at a single location.

The move is being hailed as a positive opportunity to strengthen community bonds, foster a greater sense of unity, and encourage members to experience worship in the different church buildings that make up their wider parish families.

Rev. David Sim, minister for the parishes, sees this as a wonderful moment for fellowship. “This summer is a fantastic opportunity for our congregations to truly connect and worship as one body and to welcome back folk who haven’t been to church for a while,” he said. “By gathering under one roof each Sunday, we are not just sharing a service; we are building stronger relationships and celebrating the unity that is central to our faith. It is a simple, joyful way to remind ourselves that we are one church family.”

The combined services will rotate between the different buildings across the two parishes, giving regular attendees a chance to visit and appreciate a neighbouring church they may not be familiar with. The services will be at 10:30am, with the next being at Kilmonivaig Parish Church at Spean Bridge on 13th July. The full schedule is available on the web at: fortwilliamkilmalliecofs.org.uk/sunday-services/, on the church noticeboards, and on the churches’ Facebook and Instagram pages. Anyone needing a lift should contact fortwilliamkilmalliecofs@gmail.com.

“There is a special kind of energy and a real buzz when a church is full of people singing and sharing in fellowship,” Rev. Sim added. “We are very much looking forward to that shared experience, to raising our voices together in praise, and enjoying a cup of tea and a chat. We extend a very warm welcome to everyone in the community to come and join us.”

The church will also be praying for good weather as it joins with other local Christian churches and fellowships outside the Duncansburgh Church in Fort William. Lochaber Alive will welcome all on Sunday afternoons throughout July and into August.