Associate Congregation

[andrew1707]

My GGG -grandfather (1805-1849) was a member of the Associate Congregation church in Perth, Scotland. I assume that the AC was a Church of Scotland breakaway. Does anyone have any info on them and what the church is called today; it may have re-merged with the COS?

[dundurn]

Andrew - the Associate Congregation churches were breakaways from the COS as you surmised and the history of the Erskine Church in Falkirk paralleled the changes in Perth. In most congregations there was a subsequent further upheaval when the Free Church was formed and in some cases even further schisms. The current situation is a bit confused. Some congregations moved en masse into one or other camp, others sub-divided, some retaining the name but not the building, others changing their name to make clear their allegiance. At one stage Perth had 6 'Free' churches. What the present state of your ancestor's church would be I couldn't say.

[andrew1707]

Lordy.....No wonder most people just say "Presbyterian" when asked their denomination. Imagine having to explain all that.

It reminds me of a joke: Why do Scottish people say "F**K the Pope?" It's easier than saying "F**K the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland!!"

Thanks for the help.

[frankiecat]

My mum and me live in Perth. How did you not ask us to help you with your question?

Your nephew

Frankie