Old High St Stephen's Church of Scotland
Located in the heart of Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands, Old High St Stephen's Church represents a profound intersection of ancient spirituality and community evolution. As a parish church of the Church of Scotland, it serves a diverse area encompassing the city centre, the Crown area, and southern suburbs such as Lochardil and Drummond.
The Union of Two Congregations
The current congregation was established on October 30, 2003, through the union of two distinct bodies: Inverness Old High and Inverness St Stephen's. In a rare move for Church of Scotland unions, the parish initially retained both buildings for active worship.
However, regular worship at the Old High site concluded in January 2022. Currently, the community gathers for Sunday services at St Stephen's Church at 10:30 am.
The Historic Old High Church
The Old High Church stands as the oldest congregation in Inverness. While the current structure primarily dates from the eighteenth century, the site overlooking the River Ness has been used for worship since Celtic times. Because of this ancient lineage, the congregation traces its foundations back to St Columba, the Irish monk credited with bringing Christianity to Inverness.
Architecturally and historically significant, the Old High Church is a Category A listed building. One of its most prized features is a Father Willis organ, which underwent restoration in 2010.
Preservation and Transition
Following the end of regular services, the Old High Church was placed on the market with offers sought over £150,000. In August 2025, the building was sold to a charity known as "Save Old High Inverness" to ensure its continued preservation.
St Stephen's Church
Founded in 1897 as a "daughter church" of the Old High, St Stephen's was designed by architect WL Carruthers. The building is constructed from Morayshire freestone in the Gothic style and is recognized as a Category B listed building.
Key Facts
- Denomination: Church of Scotland (Presbyterian).
- Founding Influence: Traced back to St Columba.
- Union Date: October 30, 2003.
- Old High Status: Category A listed building.
- St Stephen's Status: Category B listed building.
- Current Service Location: St Stephen's Church, Sundays at 10:30 am.
- Recent Ownership: Sold to "Save Old High Inverness" in August 2025.
Church Overview
| Feature | Old High Church | St Stephen's Church |
|---|---|---|
| Listing Status | Category A | Category B |
| Architecture | 18th Century / Celtic Site | Gothic (Morayshire freestone) |
| Founded | Ancient (St Columba) | 1897 |
| Current Use | Charity-owned / Preserved | Active Worship |
Leadership and Ministry
The first minister of the united charge was the Reverend Peter W Nimmo, who was inducted in August 2004 after previously serving at High Carntyne in Glasgow. Currently, the united charge is served by Rev James Bissett, an Ordained Local Minister acting as locum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are Sunday services currently held?
Sunday services take place at St Stephen's Church at 10:30 am.
Who founded the original congregation in Inverness?
The congregation claims to have been founded by St Columba, the Irish monk who brought Christianity to the region.
What happened to the Old High Church building?
After regular worship ended in January 2022, the building was eventually sold in August 2025 to the charity "Save Old High Inverness".
What is the architectural style of St Stephen's Church?
St Stephen's is a Gothic building constructed from Morayshire freestone and was designed by WL Carruthers.
What is the significance of the Father Willis organ?
The Father Willis organ is a notable feature of the Old High Church and was restored in 2010.