KILMARNOCK TRY PRAYING INITIATIVE

New Laigh Kirk in Kilmarnock took over an empty store during Holy Week to encourage people to Try Praying.

The former BHS store in the town was transformed into an inviting reflective space, with seven interactive prayer stations themed around finding, happiness, peace, guidance, letting go/forgiving, remembering, and the Wailing Wall where many people left their prayers. 540 people came through the doors, many of whom had no previous contact with the church. Many stayed for a coffee and a chat, some shared their significant needs and struggles while church volunteers spent time listening, signposting, helping with practical needs and praying for people.

The week concluded with the Good Friday Vigil bringing together all of the churches in Kilmarnock.

Bethany McCaw, youth and community worker with New Laigh, said: “Feedback was overwhelmingly positive: several people came more than once during the week and many of our booklets and Bibles were taken. Lots of people with no or limited church connection came in and said they felt at peace and were pleased to see a town centre building being used for such a positive thing. People also expressed thanks that the church had chosen to serve the community in this way.”