Lenten Pilgrimage - 34

Today we are visiting the church of St John the Baptist at Rothiemurchus, Inverdruie.



St John’s began its life in what was known locally as the ‘Tin Tabernacle’ on a site near the present church. The new church was founded by John Peter Grant, 11th Laird of Rothiemurchus (1860-1927), and designed by Sir Ninian Comper, whose work can be seen elsewhere in the Diocese (in St Michael and All Angels, Inverness, in particular).

The foundation stone was laid in 1913 but building was delayed due to the Great War (1914-18). After the war funds were insufficient to complete the church to its original design and Sir Ninian modified his plans to produce the beautiful little church we see today.

Sir Ninian insisted that there should be no stained glass windows ‘lest they should interfere with the glory of the surrounding trees’, The building was completed in 1930.

The narrow wooden pews were gifts from members of the congregation and friends from far and wide. The Church organ, installed in 1982, is dedicated to the memory of Lady Mary Grant, wife of the founder of St John’s, and of Canon F G Barrett-Ayres, Priest-in-Charge, 1937-45, and his wife, Agnes. The Baldachino (the canopy above the altar) and Altar Frontal were renewed in the same year.

Refrain:
Lift high the cross,
the love of Christ proclaim
till all the world adore
his sacred Name.

Come, brethren, follow where our Captain trod,
our King victorious, Christ the Son of God. Refrain

Led on their way by this triumphant sign,
the hosts of God in conquering ranks combine. Refrain

Each newborn soldier of the Crucified
bears on the brow the seal of him who died. Refrain

This is the sign which Satan's legions fear
and angels veil their faces to revere. Refrain

Saved by this Cross whereon their Lord was slain,
the sons of Adam their lost home regain. Refrain

From north and south, from east and west they raise
in growing unison their songs of praise. Refrain

O Lord, once lifted on the glorious tree,
as thou hast promised, draw the world to thee. Refrain

Let every race and every language tell
of him who saves our souls from death and hell. Refrain

From farthest regions let their homage bring,
and on his Cross adore their Saviour King. Refrain

Set up thy throne, that earth's despair may cease
beneath the shadow of its healing peace. Refrain

For thy blest Cross which doth for all atone
creation's praises rise before thy throne. Refrain