Our Lady & St Andrew, Galashiels

Introduction

On August 8th, 1873, the church, built in Gothic Revival style, was opened with a Solemn High Mass with an orchestra and 34-strong choir from the Jesuit Church of the Sacred Heart in Edinburgh. The church was built in 1873, aided by the generosity of James Hope-Scott.

Architecture and furnishings

The conversion of the two side chapels into an Oratory for weekday Mass was completed. Restoration of the organ and church paintings, major roof repairs, and floodlighting installation were carried out. After the Great War, Mrs. Mary Monica Maxwell-Scott gifted a white marble statue of Saint Michael the Archangel in thanksgiving for her three sons' safe return; it stands on the High Altar near the Lady Chapel.

Parish life

The parish serves Our Lady and Joseph, Selkirk and Saint Cuthbert's, Melrose. Our Lady & St Andrew's is one of the three churches that form part of the parish of Our Lady & St Andrew.

Many elderly and housebound parishioners receive regular visits from clergy and lay ministers to bring them Holy Communion. During World War Two, units of Polish Forces were allowed to use the church and gifted a stained glass window of Our Lady of Czestochowa.

The Parish Pastoral Council supports the Parish Priest in spiritual leadership and community development. The parish has strong connections with its local Catholic school, bringing many young families into parish life.

Sacraments and pastoral care

Parents must inform the priest at least 2 months before the proposed baptism date to allow time for preparation. Baptism preparation consists of two meetings, one with the parents and one involving both parents and godparents whenever possible.

Adult Catholics who were baptised and received First Eucharist and are interested in Confirmation should contact the parish priest. The Church requires a minimum of 6 months notice for marriage preparation.

In danger of death, the priest will come out immediately and administer the 'Last Rites'. A short eulogy may be given by a family member, or a text can be given to the priest to read.

Visiting

James Hope-Scott died that April, and his daughter, Miss Mary Monica Hope-Scott, took her place in the congregation at the opening. The Archbishop's decision to combine the three parishes into one parish - Our Lady & St Andrew with churches in Galashiels, Selkirk and Melrose - was implemented. During the COVID pandemic, live-streaming of Masses was established.