THE Duke of Edinburgh will tomorrow visit a church in the capital following its radical transformation into a multi-purpose venue for the community.
On Thursday (25 February), His Royal Highness will visit Broughton St Mary’s Parish Church, on Bellevue Crescent, where he will tour the new facilities and meet with local groups and schoolchildren.
HRH is the Royal Patron of the congregation’s Inside Out project, which has been taking the church’s work and identity out into the parish following the £1.2 million refurbishment works in the lower part of the building.
Minister, Reverend Joanne Hood, said members were buoyed by the royal visit: “To have someone like the Duke of Edinburgh endorse what we’re doing is hugely encouraging for the whole congregation.
“When we started this project we wanted to become a catalyst in the community, and this will help us gather momentum as we look towards refitting the sanctuary.
“Since the official opening last month, we have had lots of enquiries about available space, and it could soon be likely that all of our rooms are being used to capacity.”
A group for adults with learning disabilities has already set up home in the lower halls, and the church also accommodates youth organisations, music groups and conferences.
It is hoped it could become an official venue for the Edinburgh Festival and will be an even more attractive performance space after the sanctuary is rewired and refitted.
Ends.
Notes to news and picture desks:
For more information about the Duke of Edinburgh’s visit please contact Gordon Bell, media relations officer, on 0131 240 2204 or email gbell@cofscotland.org.uk
Not for publishing:
The Duke of Edinburgh will arrive at the church at 9.30am and depart 10.15am.
MEDIA RELEASE posted by the Church of Scotland. You too can post media releases (aka press releases) on allmediascotland.com. For more information, email here.
Contact: Gordon Bell
Phone: 0131 240 2204
Email: gbell@cofscotland.org.uk
Website: http://www.churchofscotland.org.uk
