The Gayton Kirk – Now and Then
Drop by the Kirk on a Sunday morning at 8:30 a.m. and find yourself engaged in a contemplative, in-depth discussion of the day’s scripture. If a Traditional Service is more to your taste – that’s at 11 a.m. Or perhaps you enjoy jazz. Then the 5 p.m. Jazz Vespers might be for you. Like a week night service? The Taize Service is a prayerful candle-light service on Wednesdays at 7 p.m.
During the week, you might find discussions of spirituality, scripture or church history. Another time you might join a Tai Chi Class, take a watercolor class, or even learn Bridge. The Kirk Community Center has many educational, health, and spiritual offerings during the week.
A congregation of the Presbyterian Church USA
Embracing the example of Jesus,
our welcome knows no boundaries and is extended to ALL people.
You are welcome here.
From its beginning in the late 1970s to today, the Kirk has become a vibrant, active place for people to connect with God. We are ever evolving to embrace the needs of the congregation.
The Hanover Presbytery purchased the land on which the church is situated in the late 1970s. First Presbyterian Church of Richmond was the sponsoring church.
In 1981, the Rev. Richard A. Brand came to Richmond as an associate of First Presbyterian with primary responsibility of organizing the Gayton Kirk. The name Kirk, the Scottish word for church, was chosen in honor of the historical origin of the Presbyterian church.
On the first Sunday of April 1982, the first service of the Gayton Kirk was held at the nearby Steward School with the Rev. Brand called as the first pastor. This coincided with the formation of the Presbytery of the James of the Presbyterian Church USA.
All were welcome at the newly formed Gayton Kirk — no matter their color or religious beliefs. It was made up of a melting pot of people.
On Aug. 28, 1984 the ground-breaking ceremony for the new church building was held. The building, which included a multipurpose room, kitchen, offices and classrooms, was dedicated on Sept. 8, 1985.
The Rev. Brand retired and became Pastor Emeritus in June 2005. The Rev. Mary Johns was called to be the interim pastor and served until September 2007. In September 2007 the Rev. Janet James became the Kirk’s second pastor.
Over the years, the 5.2 acres have been developed to become a place to share God’s creation. Church and community members enjoy the nature trail, labyrinth, outside sanctuary, and gardens. In addition, the memorial garden has been created as a final resting place for loved ones.
Today the nature of the Kirk is best expressed through our welcome statement:
Embracing the example of Jesus — Our welcome knows no boundaries and is extended to ALL People. You are welcome here.