St Mark’s 1826 – 2026: Towards 200 Years
Fabric repairs are required for this unique historic building in Portobello and to make fit for purpose for the 21st century so that it provides space for community and congregational life. Like all Scottish Episcopal Churches, St Mark’s is self-supporting and the trustees are solely responsible for maintaining this historic gem in Portobello and for building its future.
However this project is far more than a Refurbishment Project. We are also seeking to use this time to grow spiritually and serve our communities – in our families and friends, in Portobello and the other communities which we live in. We are using the time to reflect on our ministry and mission.
The renewal of the building opens up the possibility of change and renewal as a community of faith.
Our Priorities for the Building
Our priorities were discerned from a number of Congregational Mission and Study Days, Open Days for the local area, conversations with neighbours and with those who currently rent our building.
Fabric Repairs are needed but we also need to future-proof church for the next 200 years. The current situation is that:
The ceiling needs fixed- The floor is uneven
- Lighting neither original, nor safe to maintain/change bulbs
- Decoration – in sad state
- Poor access for those with mobility issues
- Currently only one proper bathroom, and a small toilet
- Kitchen not up to current community standards
- Access to downstairs rooms are only through church
- No accessible ramps in keeping with the building (we have had complaints from Historic Scotland)
We want to be …
A welcoming church … a really lovely space to be in for a wide range of activities- An accessible church, where people of all mobilities can come in and fully participate in all that goes on
- A church which speaks of God’s love for all
- A flexible space – which can be used in many different ways – from small groups to large groups, informal worship to full ritual services, from concerts and rehearsals to spaces for counselling, from children’s dance lessons to fitness classes for the elderly.
Our total fundraising target is £640,000. But the first phase is to do fabric repairs, and renovate ground floor and balcony: £280,000. Come into the church when it’s open to see ideas from the Feasibility Study (not yet official architect plans).
Please click here to see our leaflet for more details and also ways in which you may be able to help. If you are able to support our fundraising in any way, please contact us.
You can donate online here via give.net