Digging the old wells...

In 1857 it became clear to many that there was the need to have regular church services in English (as opposed to the exclusive use of Gaelic) in order that the many fisher folk from the East coast would be able to worship. Given the approval of the General Assembly this was approved and the Kirk Session of the ‘Free English Preaching Station’ met for the first time on 23 June 1875.
The early history of the Church was marked by the vision, innovative skills and active involvement in the life of the local community of its congregation. The wide range of activities in which these early members and adherents participated was remarkable and a great tribute to their commitment to practical Christian service. Mr Donald Martin himself proved to be a great visionary. He was determined to not just make provision for worship, but to improve the life experience of individuals. In response to the growing demands of the people Rev Donald John Martin bought over a public bar and found a coffee house for the East Coast fisher girls, and a Temperance Restaurant containing rooms for reading, writing and parlour games. Clearly a man with a visionary heart who in some ways was ahead of his time!
By the end of 1911 sufficient funds had been raised and church, manse and spire were completed. In 1929 the name of the church became Martin’s Memorial Church in memory of its first minister Rev DJ Martin.
City of refuge… fast forward to August 2006 when Rev Tommy MacNeil was inducted. God has been faithful and prayers have and are being answered. Tommy’s vision of our church family being a “city of refuge...”, coupled with passion for God and His Kingdom has resulted in growth and development in every area. A mushrooming membership (embracing a great number of young people) from all walks of life, an ever growing prayer meeting, along with existing and new initiatives to bless and encourage every man, woman and child.