Killymurris Presbyterian Church

Killymurris Presbyterian Church was founded in 1796 and is located in the heart of the townland of Glarryford, a rural area 13km north of Ballymena, Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland. A prominent feature in the predominately flat surrounding agricultural landscape, the church is clearly visible from both the Belfast - Derry/Londonderry railway line running 150m to the northeast of the church building, and the Ballymena – Coleraine A26 dual carriageway.

Encircled by the adjoining church graveyard, it is constructed of natural materials, yet uniquely for a Presbyterian church has a small bell tower, plus a distinctive copper ventilation cupola located centrally on the slate roof.

The architectural and historical interest and importance of the Grade B listed building stems from its simplicity and originality. It is one of the few remaining examples in Northern Ireland of a ‘barn style’ church, whose period features remain fully intact, including stained glass windows topped by Gothic stone hoods, together with pitch pine pews, staircases, ceilings, U-shaped Gallery frontal, and a large 3m tall pulpit, which provides a focal point at the front of the Sanctuary, reflecting the importance of preaching God’s Word.

An imposing marble and limestone memorial, hand crafted by Gemmell Stonemasons of Belfast, completely fills the entirety of the rear left wall of the Sanctuary, and was erected by the congregation in memory of the Rev John Wilson, minister of the church when the present building was constructed in 1860.

Three additional distinguished marble memorials are erected on the right rear wall of the Sanctuary. The smaller central memorial was erected in memory of Reserve Constable John McFadden of the Royal Ulster Constabulary, who gave his life in the execution of his duty. It is flanked on either side by two larger memorials bearing the engraved names of congregation members who served and died in World War I and II, many of whose descendants still attend the church today.