All Saints Church Challoch

All Saints Church in Challoch is a beautiful wee church, just north of Newton Stewart. We had passed the church a few times when travelling to and from Glen Trool, but I couldn't drive past it one more time without having a little nose about.

All Saints Church is a Grade A listed Victorian church built as a private chapel for Edward James Stopford-Blair of Penninghame House in 1871 and was consecrated in November 1872.

He bequeathed both the Rectory and Church to the Diocese of Glasgow and Galloway on his death in 1885.

The building was designed by W.G. Habershon & Pite of London with ten stained glass windows, numerous beautiful memorial plaques, pine altar and wrought-iron and brass rood screen. It also houses a Harston two-tracker organ from 1881 which was restored 1993. Unfortunately at the time of our visit the church was closed, so we missed seeing these items, which is a real shame.

Although the church was not open, there was access to the foyer.

All Saints Challoch is an Episcopal Church. In the 16th century, the Scottish Reformation led to the a break away from the Catholic Church leading to the formation of Protestant Churches. Both Episcopal and Presbyterian are Protestant religions, the main difference being Presbyterians adopt a democratic system (electing elders) and Episcopalians following a hierarchical model led by the Canons and Bishops.

Presbyterians and Episcopalians agree on doctrines like the Trinity, the inspiration of Scripture, and the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Regarding Catholicism, neither recognizes the papacy (the authority of the Pope). Presbyterianism is truly Protestant, while the Episcopalian Church is considered a middle ground between Catholic and Protestant and is an Anglican church.

Religious lessons aside, this church is picture perfect and has a lovely peaceful aura. If you are passing, it is worth just taking a few minutes to wander around.

The views of the Galloway Hills and rolling countryside are stunning.

Parking can be found in a layby opposite the church.