As you look along the nave you see rather plain, utilitarian pinewood pews. However, the clergy and choir stalls are completely different. They are more elaborate, made of oak and carved in an 'Edwardian gothic style'.
Beyond the stalls, in the Apse, there is a carved altar. The dossal screen is particularly elaborate. The table itself is carved but one only sees it during Lent when all the altar cloths are removed. We know who carved the altar, but it is not sure whether the same person carved the stalls but there is some stylistic similarity, particularly with the altar table.

During the early 20th century much of Christ Church was renovated and this was completed in 1916. The altar is believed to date from this time. In January 1919 it was decided to build the memorial aisle which was completed in 1925.

The name of the person who carved and decorated the altar was Major General Thomas Rennie Stevenson C.B. of Sunnyside, Lanark. He died in his 83rd year, a fortnight after a disastrous fire at Sunnyside (1923). Sunnyside had been full of his carvings.

At his memorial service, the Rector of Lanark, Dean in Thurm, said, "Half a lifetime of quiet, happy work ruthlessly destroyed in one night. We are happy here in this little church that we have with us some precious specimens of that loving workmanship, which we shall treasure. Half a lifetime's work destroyed in a night and a home quelled by fire."

Major General Stevenson was born at Braidwood House near Lanark. He joined the 67th Regiment in 1861 and was attached to the 87th Royal Irish Fusilliers in 1863 and commanded the regiment in 1899.

So Major General Stevenson has left his memorial in the carved altar and probably in the choir stalls. He was interred in St Kentigern's Cemetry at the top of the town.

Researched by David Jenkins Dec. 2006