St. Andrew’s 175th celebration
It was a celebration like no other, at least so far in the region. St Andrew's Presbyterian church, in what was once called Upper Melbourne, where a school, general store and post office once provided for the needs of the tiny village and surrounding countryside, welcomed VIPS, dignitaries and invited guests, 'piped' arrivals up the short stairway into this historic kirk where restoration and patient maintenance has kept the broad plank seats intact.
Few folks realize just how historical the story of this simple country church is. Completed in 1846 after four years of volunteer work and donated materials, this kirk, still offering Sunday service every Sunday, has had the honor of gracing the back of the Centennial $2.00 bill, has welcomed farmers and dignitaries for close to two centuries and even dared to bring in one of the first harmoniums in the district, providing the music considered by some as the devil's handiwork.
Last Sunday, a service of worship was the highlight of celebrations with Reverend Barbara Featheringham, Interim Moderator and guest speaker, Dr. Dale Woods, Principal of Presbyterian Collage in Montreal speaking on the merits and sometimes difficult challenge, 'Getting our Bearings'.
It was a gala occasion with Piper Matt Fowler and a special choir providing the background for much loved hymns and a delectable lunch interspersed with stories introduced by the emcee Ellis Clark transformed a Sunday afternoon into a trip into the history of a pioneering community and their historic efforts to keep the faith.