Andrew Church (Jerusalem)

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Andrew's Church in Jerusalem

The Presbyterian St. Andrew's Church is located 500 m southwest of Jerusalem's old town on the northern part of the so-called Bible Hill . It was built as a memorial to the many fallen Scottish soldiers of the First World War against the Ottoman Empire and belongs to the Church of Scotland .

history

In order to erect a memorial to the many fallen Scots during the First World War against Turkey, who played an essential part in the liberation of Palestine, the construction of a church was initiated based on an idea by the Edinburgh shipowner and church elder Ninian Hill . Field Marshal Lord Allenby laid the foundation stone on May 7, 1927, the inauguration took place in 1930, the first pastor was Ninian Hill. The British mandate in Palestine lasted until 1948, during which time the number of Scots stationed in the administration and as soldiers rose. After the term of office, their number decreased drastically. After 1948 the church was in the front line several times, around the church some heavy fights raged, which did not leave the church without a trace and can still be seen today. Rev. William Clark Kerr stayed in church during these battles, rang the bells and celebrated the service. With the division of Jerusalem, the church remained cut off from the Christian Quarter of the old city for a long time.

meaning

The Church of Saint Andrew is part of the Church of Scotland. Due to the increasing number of Christian pilgrims and visitors and the good location on the skyline of Jerusalem, a guest house was set up according to requirements. The Scottish Church not only looks after the pilgrims, it faces the current problems of the region and supports the coexistence of the different population groups.

gallery

  • The interior of the Andreas Church

  • Andrew's Church in Jerusalem

  • The memorial plaque for the laying of the foundation stone

Web links

Commons : Andreaskirche  - Collection of pictures, videos and audio files

Coordinates: 31 ° 46 '8 "  N , 35 ° 13' 31.1"  E