|
|
|
Locality and History
Uphall is situated approximately 12 miles west of Edinburgh on the A89 and can be accessed from the M8 motorway from either Junction 3, Livingston, (if travelling from the west) or Junction 2, Newbridge, (if travelling from the East). Uphall South Parish Church is situated on the south side of East Main Street, the main thoroughfare running west to east through the village.
Our Church
Our church celebrated its Centenary in 1998. This was a time of reflection for us, as we looked back upon our origins and history, of celebration and of optimism for a future which looked brighter than at many times in the past.
Our church building was completed in 1926 at a cost of £4,808.00 and was intended to provide accommodation for up to 400 members of the Uphall United Free Church. This building superseded The Mission Hall, built for the Uphall Free Church in 1894. Full congregational status was conferred upon the congregation of the Mission Hall on 2nd August 1898. When the new church building was opened 28 years later, The Mission Hall situated directly behind our present church building became the church hall to which purpose it is still used today.
In 1929, the United Free Church and the Church of Scotland united and our church became known as Uphall South Parish Church. In common with many other churches the size of our congregation dwindled over the years, but in the last decade we have undergone considerable change. During that period, we have seen two ministerial vacancies and during 1992 - 1994 we were without a minister. As a result of low congregational numbers and our aid receiving status at this time, there were fears that the church would be required to link up with another parish or be closed completely. That it did not, is a testament to the inspiration, enthusiasm and dedication of a number of people, both clergy and lay. By the time we celebrated our Centenary in 1998, a quite different, more vibrant and optimistic church had emerged.
We are confident that under the ministerial guidance of our minister, the Rev. Margaret Steele ordained on 10th May 2000, a healthy future is assured.
The website will guide you through a number of the groups and activities which our church now offers.
|
