Our Church
Brief History
ARCHITECT’S PERSPECTIVE
GILLESPIE, KIDD & COIA: ARCHITECTS
James Gillespie entered into partnership with William Kidd as architects in 1913. In 1914, Jack Coia, age 16, joined them, but left for London in 1923. Kidd Died in 1928 and Coia inherited the practice - by then known as Gillespie, Kidd and Coia. They were joined by Isi Metzstein in 1945 and Andy MacMillan in 1954.
They designed many buildings including seventeen churches in Scotland. Sacred Heart Church is one of these. This has been greatly enhanced by the unique “Stations of the Cross” by artist Sadie McLellan.
Mark Bains wrote in 2004, “There can be little doubt that the architecture of Gillespie, Kidd & Coia can be considered to be of international standing. The thematic nature of their work targeted universal architectural themes whilst the imaginative, artistic rigour which underpins the buildings imbues them with distinctive and intellectually robust aesthetic.”
Note: A former apprentice to the company was Rev Fr G Nugent SJ who was to become Parish Priest of St Aloysius in Garnethill. Fr Nugent’s architectural experience was a great asset in the major improvement work undertaken there and in the much wider area of church renovations in the 1990’s.
SacredHeart Church Building– 2009 and onwards
In 1964, the church building, with adjacent Lady Chapel, Baptistry Alcove, Parish Hall and presbytery were erected to country-wide appreciation and acclaim.
Roughly 24 metres (80 ft) square in plan, with massive brick walls, 12 metres
(40 ft) high, the solidity and stability of the building promises the visitor safety and sanctuary.
Inside, the quiet atmosphere is spiritually moving; especially in daytime, with no lights on, when shafts of coloured lights from the stained glass windows are particularly uplifting.
These windows, depicting the stations of the cross were designed by Sadie McLellan and are world renowned.
The grand organ is easily accommodated physically and aesthetically in the immense open space of the main church, where 500 worshippers are easily seated. Presbytery, Lady Chapel, hall etc are positioned at the south side of the busy ‘Narthex’ (lobby) entrance. Generous garden and (most times) adequate car parking is provided.
Although clearly a building of significant architectural merit, the technical detailing and material specifications were flawed and vulnerable to Scottish weather. However, the timely intervention of extensive repairs to roof and walls, in 1994, ensured the survival of this important and influential building. These works, and some minor adjustments, for comfort, safety and security did not detract from the aesthetic and historic interest.
The long term life of the fabric of these church buildings, is now secured.
