Ayr Free Church

The Free Church of Scotland was formed in 1843 as a result of the Disruption when about one-third of the ministers and members left the Church of Scotland. They did so on principle, believing that the Church of Scotland of that time was allowing the state to interfere improperly in its internal government.

Shortly after the Disruption Ayr had two lively Free Churches – in the Sandgate and in Newton-on-Ayr. By the end of the 19th century the number of Free Churches in the town had risen to five. However, the growing liberal influence within the Free Church of Scotland at this time threatened many of the principles of the Disruption. The Westminster Confession of Faith, for example, was being challenged as was purity of worship. Tensions came to the fore when the Free Church linked in 1900 with another Presbyterian denomination, the United Presbyterian Church. A minority in the Free Church would not enter this union on the ground that it violated certain key church principles.

At first this minority was not represented in Ayr. Effectively, a distinctive Free Church witness was not to be found in the town for 4 years. It had to be resuscitated with a combination of outside help and local supporters. It was not easy for the Free Church in Ayr in the first part of the 20th century. It had to wait until 1920 before it received its first minister, Rev Andrew Orr. Since that time a further seven ministers have served Ayr Free Church, including the present minister, Rev Nigel Anderson. Interestingly, Mr Anderson is the latest in a line of former teachers who have ministered to Ayr, the previous two ministers also having been teachers.

Early in the 20th century the Free Church in Ayr had a decidedly Highland character, but in the last 30 years the Church has attracted people from a much broader background and remains committed to Christian witness in Ayrshire.

We use a modern translation of the Bible and enthusiastically sing the new version of the Psalter, which the denomination produced early in the new millennium. The worship and witness of the Church is in the language of the people.

An annual Bible Convention is held during the first week of September. This Convention has now reached its 25th year. Speakers have come from within and outwith the Free Church of Scotland.