It’s hosted generations of weddings, funerals and christenings, and been the backdrop for countless visitors’ snapshots.
But now historic Kenmore Church is facing an uncertain future.
The number of people attending its fortnightly services has dropped to single figures.
And Church of Scotland bosses say they can’t afford to keep it open any more.
Villagers have been given first option to buy the Loch Tay landmark so they can turn it into a community venue.
But Kenmore Community Council, which is spearheading the bid, is in a race against time to make it happen.
Community council spokesman Colin Morton says volunteers have been given six months to come up with a plan.
“There’s clearly a will to try to keep the church open,” he said.
“But it’s a big commitment for a small community.
“If we’re going to do it, we need to do it with our eyes wide open.”
Kenmore Church a victim of changing times
The current Kenmore Church building was constructed in 1760, although the village square site has had a place of worship since 1579.
Like many others, it has become a victim of dwindling congregations and shifting populations.
It’s understood it’s had more than £500,000 spent on maintenance and repairs in recent years.
When Kenmore Community Council learned the church was slated for closure, it approached the Kirk Session and asked if it could buy it.
It has now been offered the sale of the property on an exclusive basis.
A small working group is preparing a feasibility report, with help from McKenzie Strickland Architects.
Members are also looking into potential funding sources and learning from other communities.
The fact-finding included a recent visit to Comrie’s White Church, which is now a bustling community centre at the heart of village life.
The plan is to consult with Kenmore residents and businesses in the coming weeks and find out if there’s an appetite for moving forward with the purchase plan.
Church bosses ‘hopeful’ for community transfer
There’s a lot to be done and a short time to do it.
But one thing that’s not in short supply in Kenmore is community spirit.
In December, locals won national recognition for their efforts to regenerate the village after years of decline.
In particular they were praised for their collaboration with the American owners of Taymouth Castle, which is undergoing a multimillion-pound transformation to turn it into an exclusive members-only resort.
Colin says Kenmore Church is as much a symbol of the village as the castle, and this could be an exciting opportunity for the community.
“It’s not going to be easy,” he said.
“We have a six-month window, which is really tight.
“But Kenmore Church is iconic.
“It has a very special place in the hearts of everyone here.”
Kenmore is part of a united group of churches, known as The Churches of Loch Tay and Glenlyon with Rannoch.
A Church of Scotland spokesperson told The Courier: “Talks between the local church and a community group are ongoing and the hope is a community transfer will take place and the building will continue to be part of the community of Kenmore.”
Conversation