Iconic local church celebrates 90 years

(CNS): The Elmslie Memorial United Church celebrates 90 years since the construction of the distincitive white concrete block structure in 1922 next month. One of the oldest buildings in Cayman that is still in use, the church will be marking its nonagenarian year with a number of events leading into the holiday season. Situated on the waterfront in George Town this site has seen three churches built and destroyed before the construction of the current church. The building means a lot to many Caymanians particularly the family of the late Capt. Rayal Bodden who in 1920 had to travel to Jamaica and learn how to make concrete blocks for the construction of the church.

The church took two years to build as Capt Rayal Bodden taught labourers how to make concrete blocks and embarked on his first attempt at building a church rather than his usual widely respected skill of shipbuilding. Plagued with hurricanes and devastation experienced by past church structures, the congregation pooled their resources to “build a church that would be expressive of their reverence for God, their loyalty to Christ and the progress which the gospel had made among them.”  T

he plans were for Elmslie to be in the shape of a cross, with a tower and belfry capable of accommodating 550 people. This was quite a task to build in 1920 nevertheless the upturned ship hull ceiling design showcased Capt Rayal Bodden taste in building ships.

The church is named in honour of Rev. James Elmslie who served as Pastor from 1846 -1863. Elmslie started six churches with up to 1000 members out of the 2000 inhabitants at the time. His work is seen throughout the Cayman Islands today with the nine United Churches.

On December 1st a Banquet dinner will be hosted at Cayman Prep School offering a time for celebration, fellowship and reflection. In true Christmas spirit the celebrations continue with an old time Celebration Bazaar at the church on December 6th beginning at 4:30pm. Lastly, on December 9th the Elmslie Church congregation invite you to the Anniversary Service at 10:30am and to the evening Sunday School Musical Performance at 6:45pm on the same day.

Officials from the church has extended an invitation to the  community to participate and join in the activities planned for early December. Please call 949-7923 for more information.