Marking 200 years of The Kirk’s inception

The first stone, laid by Rev Dr John Allan in simple ceremony two centuries ago on the north-west side of the foundations below the steeple, had a brass plate with an inscription in English and Latin, with several coins of the British and Madras currency placed below it. A parchment with the inscription in Tamil and Telugu, sealed in a bottle along with more coins from that period, were also placed with the first stone. 

Highlighting the importance of the occasion, Rev Isaac Johnson, pastor of St Andrews Church said, “The faith, belief and passion of the Scottish community at the time inspired them to envision, plan and build a place of worship of this scale and beauty, when the area around it was a flat, open plain. Today, St Andrews is a living church with a vibrant congregation of over 500 families, three worship services on Sundays and many ministries for the welfare and support of the community.” 

At 7 pm on Friday, a thanksgiving service will be held and a special commemorative booklet with an account of the event, the construction of church, architecture and other details.