Welcome to the Auld Kirk of Ayr Web Site.

For over 800 years the people of Ayr have worshipped God in the Town Kirk, to begin with in the Kirk of St John, which is now just a ruined tower and then for the past 350 years in the present building situated on the riverside. 2004 will be a year of celebration for our members as we give thanks to God for his faithfulness and blessings over eight centuries. It is quite a thought to realise that the people of Ayr attended Sunday worship in the Town Kirk before Bruce fought for and won independence for Scotland; before James the VI took over the English Throne and before the United Kingdom was formed. Throughout all those years the Church has faithfully served the people of Ayr.

If you find your way to the Auld Kirk one Sunday morning you will be assured of a warm, friendly welcome. Worship is varied with a rich mixture of the “old favourites” and new songs that already becoming “old favourites”. There is participation in the services with members reading lessons and leading prayers and our young folk are often to be seen assisting in the service. It has also been known for powerpoint and DVD’s to be used in worship. Whatever the service, you will find it challenging and encouraging.

Inside and outside the building you will discover many areas of interest including the stain glass windows that adorn the building and the gravestones around it, which tell many a tale about those who have gone before. Inside the Church there is the pew where William Burns, the father of Robert Burns, sat Sunday by Sunday and where in all probability the young Robert formed his first impressions of the Kirk. If you have the time, even a short walk around will offer many opportunities to learn more about the history of the Church.

Even if you can’t come in person, please take a few moments to navigate around our Web Site and see what else the Auld Kirk has to offer.

Mission Statement

The members of the Auld Kirk of Ayr promise- to offer a warm welcome to members and others- to encourage everyone to be more active in the life of the congregation- to develop and support individual personal faith and to promote the fellowship of the congregation- to provide care for those in need- to witness to the parish and to share God’s love with people of all ages- and to support the work of the Church of Scotland