St Donnan began in 1943 when regular services began at Achnashellach.
In 1947 monthly celebrations in Kyle began. The little Church at Nostie was built in 1963 by its architect, Eric Stevenson - with his own hands, and the help of his family and the congregation. The interior of the church is simple, reflecting its Celtic roots, the main feature being stones, on the east wall of the church, behind the altar, set in patterns representing the Celtic Saints.
The 10.30 Sunday service is followed by coffee. The congregation of this little faithful church without hot water looks forward to the day when they need to bring along 2 thermos flasks of hot water because of visitor numbers!
Today of course we celebrate the Feast of St Patrick (transferred). I have happy memories of the 11 years spent living on the Emerald Isle - and there is only one possible hymn for us all to sing today!
Hail, glorious Saint Patrick, dear saint of our Isle,
On us thy poor children bestow a sweet smile;
And now thou art high in the mansions above,
On Erin's green valleys look down in thy love.
On Erin's green valleys, on Erin's green valleys,
On Erin's green valleys look down in thy love.
Hail, glorious Saint Patrick, thy words were once strong
Against Satan's wiles and an infidel throng;
Not less is thy might where in heaven thou art;
O, come to our aid, in our battle take part.
On Erin's green valleys, on Erin's green valleys,
On Erin's green valleys look down in thy love.
In the war against sin, in the fight for the faith,
Dear saint, may thy children resist unto death;
May their strength be in meekness, in penance, their prayer,
Their banner the cross which they glory to bear.
On Erin's green valleys, on Erin's green valleys,
On Erin's green valleys look down in thy love.
Thy people, now exiles on many a shore,
Shall love and revere thee till time be no more;
And the fire thou hast kindled shall ever burn bright,
Its warmth undiminished, undying its light.
On Erin's green valleys, on Erin's green valleys,
On Erin's green valleys look down in thy love.
Ever bless and defend the sweet land of our birth,
Where the shamrock still blooms as when thou wert on earth,
And our hearts shall yet burn, wherever we roam,
For God and Saint Patrick, and our native home.
On Erin's green valleys, on Erin's green valleys,
On Erin's green valleys look down in thy love.
Happy Feast!
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