Religion & Belief

When Highland landowners deny the Free Church somewhere to worship, entire congregations gather beside roads, upon beaches and even aboard a floating church. The argument that empties their churches in 1843 helps explain the faith, defiance and determination of the Highland people.

Two centuries ago, your neighbours watched your behaviour, church elders judged your character and a tiny piece of metal decided whether you reached the communion table.

No roads, few bridges and parishioners who did not want him: welcome to ministry on the eighteenth-century West Coast.