On a cold, frosty evening on 16th January 2026 the fragrant aromas of coriander, cinnamon and other spices enticed approximately 50 food connoisseurs to a fundraising Curry Night at Killearnan Church Hall. The evening was a memorable success, raising £1115 in aid of The Kirk at Killearnan, the venture to save this historic church and its hall for the benefit of the local community.
Following a short speech of welcome by Catherine Zawalnycki, chair of Save Killearnan Church Working Group, the company avidly demolished a delicious selection of chicken, beef and vegetarian curries to suit all tastes, ably served by the indefatigable kitchen team. With naan bread on every plate and tables spread with other essential accompaniments, the craic and refreshments flowed merrily as “drouthy neighbours, neighbours met” (to misquote Burns).
The heat of the evening was cooled with the dispersal of tubs of Rizza’s vanilla and strawberry ice cream to the eager throng. As people covertly loosened their belts, pencils and Bingo or ‘Housey Housey’ cards were circulated. The fun grew “fast and furious” with friendly rivalry and much hilarity breaking out as the traditional Bingo numbers were called and valiant attempts were made to achieve one full line, let alone three!
Described as one of the most enjoyable evenings ever experienced in the Hall, one participant attributed this not merely to the guests’ own clinking bottles of cheer and the excellent food, but to the irreplaceable atmosphere of good fellowship and friendship that prevailed throughout the evening.
While Killearnan Parish Church may be classed as ‘out in the sticks’ it has been a gathering centre for dispersed populations for years immemorial. If the incredible buzz and hubbub of all our community events could be bottled and conveyed to the Presbytery this could be a substantial eye opener to an organisation determined to close this building because it is not within a ‘community hub’.
Grateful thanks to the organisers, cooks, waitresses, and all those who stayed behind to clear up afterwards, when “the silence surged softly backwards” after a most enjoyable evening. Thank you all for your continued support – long may Killearnan Kirk and Hall serve as a hub of warm friendship!
(Review based on comments from curry connoisseurs and Kirk supporters).