Speaking during a debate on the impact of churches and religious buildings on communities, Chamberlain said: “Active churches in communities can have such an impact, but there are religious buildings that are no longer being used for religious purposes. For example, in Scotland, the Church of Scotland is divesting itself of a number of churches, including in the East Neuk in my constituency.
“What we need to do, even if they’re not being used for religious purposes, is ensure that they continue to be community hubs and that governments support that.”
She later added: “Churches are important as historic buildings, as centres of the community and homes of local support services, and of course for religion.
“However, unfortunately due to funding constraints, several Category A Historic churches in North East Fife are due to close.
“It is all credit to the local residents who have formed groups like the Friends of Pittenweem Kirk, St Monans Auld Kirke Enterprise and Elie Kirk community Enterprise that we are seeing plans to give the churches new multipurpose use, I hope that the Scottish and UK governments will support their efforts.”