Opening of new rectory in Annalong
Saturday 11 November will be a notable day in the history of Kilhorne Parish Church Annalong as the church opens its new Rectory. An open day is planned from 10.30 am –4.30 pm when visitors will be able to view the house, and the church extends a warm invitation to all.
The old Kilhorne rectory had stood on its site on the Kilkeel Road at the edge of the village for generations, but a diocesan architect’s report on the old building in 2014 revealed a number of major structural issues which would be very expensive to repair.
The decision to demolish the old building and build a new Rectory was not an easy one as the old building had been part of the fabric of Annalong for so long. However, the cost of necessary repairs led the Select Vestry to conclude that this was the most cost effective approach.
The tender process led to the awarding of the contract to Mel Campbell Contracts, Annalong , and building work commenced in October 2016. As the impressive new building took shape, the old Rectory was demolished using voluntary help from within the Parish. Work has progressed steadily and all will be completed in time for the official opening on Saturday 11 November.
The building has attracted much attention in the area, and the open day will offer all those interested the opportunity to have a look around it. Visitors are welcome at any time between 10.30 am and 4.30 pm, with the opening ceremony taking place at 2.30 pm. The official opening will be performed by Mrs Pamela Smyth, wife of Revd Robert Smyth, our diocesan curate.
The building of this beautiful new Rectory has been made possible by the generous giving of parishioners and the support of the wider Mourne community in fund raising events. It is a wonderful testimony to God’s faithfulness in providing for His work in Annalong.