St. Andrew's, Brampton, Ont., is the oldest church in the city and is already a designated heritage building. Thanks to a generous endowment from a long-time member, and the faithful giving of the congregation, the church that was built in 1885 has been lovingly restored, renewed and renovated. The changes were officially designated on April 24 at a special service. "When you receive a large gift, take it and make it even larger," said Rev. Wes Denyer, quoting one of his favourite stewardship teachers, Kennon Callahan. "And that is indeed what we have done. We're looking forward to the future. There are a lot of good things going on here."
The renovations encompassed four main areas: the exterior walls and foundation, the kitchen, a new church sign and the vestry, which exposed original brickwork that had previously been covered by drywall. Extensive work was done to closely match the original Credit Valley stone of the building. In total, the project cost about $280,000.
Speaking at the service was John Hutton, a Brampton city councillor and a member of the Brampton Heritage Board. He praised the work that was done, calling the building "a jewel" and said the church's beauty and the preservation of that beauty has made the city and the heritage board proud. Elaine Moore, regional councillor and speaking on Mayor Susan Fennell's behalf, reminded the congregation of the legacy they are continuing by taking care of the historical site. "You have kept faith with your ancestors and the founders of this church that was their pride and joy, and a tangible tool of their faith," she said. "St. Andrew's is a priceless part of our heritage in this city."
Moderator Rick Fee could not attend but sent along his best wishes and congratulations. The national church sent along another representative in Annemarie Klassen, associate secretary of stewardship and education for mission. She said the refurbished building speaks to the congregation's sense of ministry to the community and beyond. She called St. Andrew's "a shining light" of the national church, and saw the renovation as a profound statement of faith. "You understand the need to be actively involved in the community," she said, referring in part to the church's food cupboard that hands out 7,000 food packages every year and serves 125 to 150 people each week.
"This beautiful building will support your life as a congregation, so you will be able to continue St. Andrew's heritage to be faithful to God's call."
Elizabeth Giesbrecht, a member and the dedication coordinator, called the project "a heritage building success story." — AM
