Doves of Love! St Columba’s celebrates 100 years

The church, on the corner of Dean Road and Columbus Ravine, was completed in 1926 after the congregation of the time raised the full cost of £22,000.

Vicar, Rev Elspeth Cansdale, said: “The corner plot, previously a rubbish dump, had been purchased in 1906 and a temporary structure known as the Tin Tabernacle erected to house the growing congregation.

“This was later converted into the church hall and is now used by Hayley's Little Munchkins Preschool.”

St Columba’s was the last church to be designed by renowned church architect Temple Moore who died soon after, and its construction was overseen by his son Leslie.

Columba means dove of peace and Temple Moore took this as his inspiration to design the church in the shape of a dove, cleverly utilising every bit of space on the corner plot.

Rev Elspeth said: “If you haven’t been inside the church do come and visit.

“Its external appearance belies a soaring interior that will take your breath away.

“For the children there are Robert Thompson’s wooden carved mice to hunt for, and for art lovers the stained glass windows and rich colours of the Triptych over the altar.”

St Columba’s has provided a beautiful spiritual home for its changing congregations over the last 100 years.

Alongside the worship services, the church now offers space for community groups including St John’s Ambulance and a recent art installation by the Street of Life Dean Road Social History Group.

Rev Elspeth said: “Sadly, in 2022, investigations found part of our floor had deteriorated.

“Along with the need for new heating and installation of hot water and kitchen facilities, the building project is going to cost up to £300,000 so once again the congregation is fundraising.

“So, please do join us for our centenary celebrations - come and see the flowers, enjoy some food and music and make a donation so that future generations to come can continue to enjoy the glories of St Columba’s Church.”

The celebrations will include the Centenary Flower Festival from June 26-28, a Cheese and Wine night at 7pm on Friday June 26, Saturday Cafe from 10am-3pm on June 27 followed by a special performance from Scarborough Concert Band in the church at 7.30pm on the same day. A special service will be led by the Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell on Sunday June 28. The weekend will draw to a close with a Songs of Praise style celebration on Sunday June 28 at 3pm, which will be followed by refreshments.

For more information visit the Facebook page ‘St Columba Scarborough’.