5th Century

Various saints from Ireland visited the Scottish west coast islands. Settlements were found in various locations around the island. The first church was built at Kirkton and was dedicated to St Maura.

 

1318

Records state that the church was under the jurisdiction of monks from Paisley Abbey. The church remained on the Kirkton site but was re-dedicated  to St Columba.

 

1612

A new stone building was erected within the old churchyard – a six acre site probably gifted by the Marquess of Bute.

 

1802

The church was again rebuilt (bigger) incorporating an outside stair to a gallery area.

 

1837

More peaceful times and the village moves nearer to the sea front. The church was again demolished and much of the original structure was brought to the Bute Terrace site. The original outside door is now the ‘Hebrew Arch’  between the current church sanctuary and the passage to the church hall. The church was built with seating for 650.

 

1852

The clock was installed in the church tower at a cost of £52 which was raised by public subscription.

 

1895

The chancel was built and what had been a central pulpit moved to the side. The main ceiling was lowered by 8ft.

 

1843

The minister and elders and many of the congregation leave to form the Free Protesting Church.

 

1864

The United Presbyterian Church was built – resulting in three different forms of Presbyterianism on the island. All three churches were built to seat between 650 and 700 people.

 

1931

United Presbyterian Church (which in 1900 became United Free Church) joins with the Parish Church.

 

1971

Free Church also joins the Parish Church.

 

1972

East and West Church unite to form the current congregation of Cumbrae Parish Church.

 

2017

Permisson granted to build a new church on Bute Terrace.

 

2019

New Cumbrae Parish Church opens its doors for the first time.

 

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