Galashiels Free Church has officially moved into its new home at 48 High Street, formerly Trinity Church, marking a significant new chapter for the growing congregation. The church, which has been meeting at the Focus Centre in recent years, says it is deeply thankful for the support and hospitality it received there while establishing itself in the town.
Rev Craig Anderson said the move to a permanent home in the centre of Galashiels would provide new opportunities for worship, outreach, and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ across the Borders.
“We’ve been incredibly grateful for our years at the Focus Centre and for all the kindness shown to us there,” he said. “But we’re also very excited to now have a permanent home in the heart of the town. We hope this building will be a visible reminder that we are here for the people of Galashiels and the wider Borders, and a place where people can come to hear about Jesus and receive a warm welcome.”
The congregation has already begun using the building for Sunday worship, although restoration and improvement works are expected to continue over the coming months. Church leaders say they are keen to respect the building’s long history and importance within the local community. Trinity Church has been a familiar part of the High Street for generations, and many local residents have personal connections and memories linked to the building.
“We recognise this building has been deeply loved within the community,” Mr Anderson added. “We want to approach it carefully and respectfully. Our desire is to see it restored once again to its original purpose — the worship and glory of God and the proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ — while also making it fit for purpose for future generations.”
Galashiels Free Church says the building will continue to develop as works progress and hopes the prominent High Street location will help strengthen its presence and witness within the town. The church welcomes visitors to its Sunday services at 48 High Street.
Craig indicated that the move fits in with the church’s vision to be “Rooted in Jesus and reaching the Borders” and a “key next step as we seek by God’s grace and for his glory to plant a church that will go onto plant a presbytery”.