History
There has been a centre of Christian worship in New Abbey since 13th Century with our current church building dating from 1877. It is a “C” listed building of simple design with a beautiful stained-glass window designed by Edward Bourne-Jones and the William Morris company.
The Parishes of Lochend and New Abbey were linked in 1952 retaining 2 centres of worship. The minister travelled each Sunday between the two villages. The two parishes were united in 2006 to become Lochend and New Abbey church. Lochend church was eventually closed due to structural issues and was sold. Services continued weekly for a time in the Village Hall in Beeswing. To facilitate Presbytery planning, weekly services in Beeswing were discontinued in 2009.
Worship
Worship is held every Sunday in New Abbey church with occasional services in Beeswing Village Hall in the Lochend part of the parish. On those Sundays there is no service in New Abbey. There is a small worship team who regularly contribute prayers to services and a list of members who take turns to read the scripture lessons.
We have two formal celebrations of Communion each year and an informal supper and Communion on Maundy Thursday.
Activities
Ours is a rural parish and the church has close links to the local community. Members and elders serve on local committees and are involved in community life.
There is a small Guild who meet once a month from September until March.
There is a small group who organise events and catering when required.
The church has close connections with New Abbey primary school. Rev. Johannes visits once a month and end of term services are held in the church. Children’s activities are organised at the church on a Saturday once or twice a year, usually around Easter and Christmas time.
For many years Lochend and New Abbey church has had a relationship with St Mary’s Roman Catholic church in New Abbey and when opportunities present, for example during Advent and at times of special services, we work with each other if possible.
We aim to provide a warm, friendly place of worship for anyone who comes into the church and to be a central part of our local community.
Find us
New Abbey Parish Church, New Abbey, Dumfries DG2 8EH. Location map.