History
Consecrated in 1242, Pencaitland Parish Church is an outstanding example of an early Scottish Parish Kirk.
Architecture
The main body of the church is a long buttressed box of the 16th or early 17th century, standing on medieval foundations. Added to the basic structure are the West tower, the North aisle and the North chapel. The West tower is square for most of its height, but at the top it turns octagonal and serves as a combined belfry and dovecot. It is topped by a pointed, slated spire.
Brief Early History
The Grade A listed Parish Church is central to the village and is believed to incorporate part of the 12th century Church consecrated by David de Bernham, Bishop of St Andrews, in 1242. Later additions created the present building which is laid out in a modified T plan with its distinctive Winton and Saltoun aisles. It has an estimated capacity of 400 and in recent years greater space has been created in front of the ancient pulpit by the removal of the Connacher pipe organ (c1885) now replaced by a modern digital organ.
Through the centuries, the Church has stood as a symbol of faith and hope
Through the centuries, Pencaitland Parish Church has stood as a symbol of faith and hope, serving families, groups and individuals in the local community, whether or not they are members of the congregation. Our church is a place where all are welcome.