Dunfermline Abbey

HELP SHAPE THE FUTURE OF DUNFERMLINE’S ICONIC KIRK 

The Abbey Church of Dunfermline is asking the people of Dunfermline to help shape the future of its building.  An exhibition and consultation will take place from 22 March to 5 April.

Despite having a robust maintenance schedule in place, the Kirk Session is facing a repairs bill of around £4 million to keep it wind and water-tight and proposing a development plan to secure its future through the 21st century, costing a further £4 million.

“These are eye-watering sums of money,” said the Rev Dr MaryAnn Rennie, minister of the Abbey Church of Dunfermline.  “We have a congregation of 425 and up until now, the burden has fallen on them to fund repairs and improvements helped with small grants from funding bodies like The Carnegie (Dunfermline) Trust.

“However, this is an unsustainable funding model.  Congregations of buildings of national historic interest should not be solely responsible for the bulk of repair, maintenance and sustainability . That’s why we are opening a conversation with the local community and key organisations about how we go forward with the building.” 

For more than two centuries, the Abbey Kirk has been a towering presence in Dunfermline, with its iconic tower dedicated to King Robert the Bruce. It’s a place where people have come together to mark life events, celebrate music, and engage in community activities. As this beloved landmark continues to evolve, The Abbey Church of Dunfermline is inviting local people to be a part of its future through a unique consultation exhibition.
The exhibition in The Community Gallery at Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries offers a fascinating look at the church’s rich history and how that is reflected in its activity within the community today. Visitors will be able to explore:

• Historical Records: Documents from Dunfermline Carnegie Library’s reference collection, illustrating the Abbey Kirk’s influence on town life, from lighting and sanitation to education.
• Royal Connections: The Abbey’s long-standing ties with royalty, including its role in life events like baptisms and weddings.
• Community Engagement: The many ways the Abbey Kirk serves the local community, such as supporting people with dementia, reducing social isolation, and offering free activities for children and young people.
• Events and Activities: The diverse events hosted here—from concerts to community initiatives like Lego© workshops and pumpkin trails in the park—highlight the Abbey Kirk’s commitment to bringing people together.

Now, as the church looks to the future, they want to hear from you. After exploring the exhibition, visitors can share their thoughts and ideas about what they’d like to see next for this cherished space. How can the church continue to serve its community, and what new opportunities should it embrace?
“The Abbey Kirk has a long and varied history,” continued MaryAnn “and it is through the voices of those who engage with us today that the future of this building will be shaped. I invite your readers to make their mark on the next chapter of this iconic building’s legacy and come along to our exhibition and consultation event.”

The “Dunfermline Abbey – More than a Building” exhibition opens on Saturday 22 March and runs until Saturday 5 April.  Consultation day is Saturday 5 April – to register for this event, go the Abbey website and follow the link.

For further information contact Cameron Brooks, Church of Scotland Senior Communications Officer on 07929 409 827