Belief, faith, religion, and spirituality in Larne, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, is the heart of this portion of our web guide.
The religious landscape of Larne has been shaped by centuries of cultural and political changes, profoundly influencing the community's identity and cohesion.
Historically, Larne has been predominantly Protestant, with the Church of Ireland and Presbyterianism playing significant roles. Its religious roots can be traced back to the early Christian period, with the establishment of monastic settlements. Over time, the Reformation brought about significant changes, leading to the dominance of Protestant denominations.
The Troubles, a period of conflict from the late 1960s to 1998, profoundly affected Larne, as it did many parts of Northern Ireland. This era was marked by sectarian violence, political strife, and deep divisions between the Protestant and Catholic communities. In Larne, The Troubles exacerbated existing tensions, leading to periods of unrest and violence that didn't end entirely in 1998.
During this time, places of worship were not just spiritual havens but also symbols of identity and resistance. Churches often became targets of attacks, and religious leaders played crucial roles in mediating peace and supporting their congregations. The Troubles left a lasting impact on the community, influencing interfaith relations.
Today, Larne is home to diverse religious and spiritual communities. While Protestantism remains predominant, the town has seen increased religious diversity.
St. Cedma's Church is one of the oldest places of worship in continuous use in East Antrim. It stands on an ancient ecclesiastical site that dates back about 1,500 years. The historic landmark continues to serve its Anglican community.
First Larne Presbyterian Church has been a distinct congregation for over 300 years, and its history extends to four centuries. The precise origins of Gardenmore Presbyterian Church are obscure, but the earliest record of the congregation is dated 1769. However, it was known as Second Larne Presbyterian Church until 1885.
St. MacNissi's Church serves the Catholic community in Larne. Despite historical tensions, the church plays a vital role in promoting reconciliation.
Larne Methodist Church is a traditional building on the corner of Curran Road and Glenarm Road. Its history goes back to 1758 when John Wesley first visited the town, although its first building wasn't erected until 1804.
Other churches include Larne Elim Pentecostal Church, Larne Gospel Hall, and Larne Seventh-day Adventist Church. While individuals in Larne represent the Bahá'í Faith, Buddhism, and various New Age spiritualities, I am unaware of established communities of these faiths within the town.
There may be others not listed here. Places of worship, regardless of the particular religion, denomination, or sect, are appropriate for this category.
Recommended Resources
First Larne Presbyterian Church
In service to the Larne, Northern Ireland, Presbyterian community for four centuries, the history of its first 250 years, as written by a former minister, the Rev. Eric Stewart, is provided, along with a calendar of events, and information about its programmes and groups, service times, audio and video recordings of past services, staff introductions, and an overview on what to expect when attending for the first time. The church address, a map, telephone number, and inquiry form are included.
https://www.firstlarne.org.uk/
Gardenmore Presbyterian Church
The Presbyterian congregation has served the Larne, Northern Ireland, community for about 250 years. The history and a profile of the church are provided, along with schedules and a description of its Sunday services, pastoral care resources and projects, community outreach programmes, announcements, and links to its sermon archives on Facebook. The minister's email address is provided and an online contact form is available for questions or requests. The church address is provided.
http://www.gardenmorechurch.org/
Larne and Inver with Glynn and Raloo Parishes
Representing a group of three historic churches that are part of the Connor Diocese of the Church of Ireland and the Anglican Communion, the Parish office is located in Larne, County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The churches are St. Cedma's in Larne, St. John's in Glynn, and St. Columba's in Gleno. Several photographs of St. Cedma's are featured, along with worship schedules, brief profiles of each of the churches, a history of the parish, and the latest edition of the Parish magazine.
https://www.lgrparishes.co.uk/
Located on Victoria Road in Larne, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, the Larne Elim Church is affiliated with the Elim Foursquare Gospel Alliance. Statements of belief and vision are featured on the website, and its leadership team is introduced. Other resources include a calendar of upcoming events, an overview of its kids ministry, its cafe, worship team, multi-media team, and other ministries. Contacts for its pastors and an online contact form are included.
https://www.larneelimchurch.com/
Situated in Larne, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, the Gospel Hall is a Bible-based Christian church serving the Larne community for more than a century. Centrally located just a few minutes from the train station, the bus station, and the high street, the church offers various services and activities, including Sunday School at 10:00 am, breaking of bread service at 11:30 am, and Gospel Service at 6:00 pm, as well as prayer and Bible study on Wednesdays at 7:30 pm.
https://larnegospelhall.co.uk/
The Trail is a journey through some of the oldest churches and graveyards in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, some of which date back to the Early Christian period and medieval era. Included are St. John's of Ransevyn (origins in the late 13th century), St. John's of Ballyharry (late 1500s), Templecorran (Early Christian period), and Glynn Old Church and Churchyard, which is said to have links to Saint Patrick himself. The churches are highlighted, and a map shows their locations.
https://larnehistoricchurchtrail.co.uk/
The LMC is a group of Methodist churches in Larne and Carnlough, each maintained by a shared ministry team that consists of full-time staff working alongside local leaders and volunteers. The circuit has three churches: Larne Methodist Church, Craighyhill Methodist Church, and Carnlough Methodist Church. Besides regular church activities, the circuit's team frequently creates new activities and groups for local communities to connect with. Age-specific programmes are highlighted.
https://larnemethodistcircuit.org/
The Catholic community of Larne, Northern Ireland, is served by two churches, St. MacNissi's in the town centre of Larne, and St. Anthony's in Craigyhill, both of which are within the Catholic Diocese of Down and Connor. Its locations, weekly schedules, information on live streaming of services, parish information, and details of its several parish groups and activities, the sacraments, and prayers. Contact information is provided, along with an informational blog.
https://www.larneparish.co.uk/
Larne Seventh-day Adventist Church
The Seventh-day Adventist Church is a Christian denomination known for teaching that Saturday, rather than Sunday, is the Sabbath. The Larne, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, congregation meets on Saturdays at 10:15 for small group Bible studies and at 11:30 for worship services. They also hold regular prayer meetings during the week, generally on a Wednesday evening at someone's house. An introduction to the denomination is provided, along with a photo gallery, announcements, and contacts.
https://larne.adventistchurch.org.uk/
