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Above the pulpit in the historic Old Stone Church, a white carved dove spreads its wings – a timeless symbol of peace that has greeted parishioners since the church’s earliest days. From its humble beginnings as a log structure built in 1790 along the South Lancaster shores of the St. Lawrence River to the beautiful stone sanctuary completed in 1855, St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church has remained a steadfast gathering place for generations.
Each October, the congregation pauses to celebrate another milestone – reflecting on the enduring legacy of faith, fellowship, and service that has long defined the church’s place in the Glengarry community. This year, St. Andrew’s commemorated 237 years of continuous worship and witness.
In keeping with tradition, a guest speaker is invited to lead the anniversary service. This year, the honour went to one of their own — Chairman of the Board of Managers and Elder, Scott Fourney. Fourney’s roots at St. Andrew’s run deep. During the children’s story, he held his great-great-grandfather’s Bible, a cherished family heirloom presented to his ancestor in the year of his birth and baptism in 1863. The moment served as a touching reminder of the church’s lasting presence in the faith and family life of its members.
During his sermon, Fourney reflected on some of his favourite messages delivered by visiting ministers over the years. He recalled retired minister Rev. Gary Stokes and his sermon, “Where Do You See God?” which reminded the congregation that God’s presence can be found everywhere, in all things and all people. He also reflected on a sermon from current interim minister Rev. Guy Laberge titled, “Are You Listening?” which called on listeners to pause, be still, and open their hearts to the ways God speaks through life’s everyday moments.
Fourney also shared memories of his uncles, Lloyd and Robert Fourney, both of whom grew up at St. Andrew’s and went on to become ministers. He recounted one of Roberts sermons, “Drill a New Well,” which drew parallels between life on the farm and the need for renewal, reminding listeners that sometimes we must leave old ways behind and begin again.
Concluding his reflections, Fourney highlighted two inspirational messages from St. Andrew’s longest-serving minister, Rev. Ian MacMillan, who led the congregation for 35 years. His sermons, “Take Another Step/Finish the Race” and “Who Do You Want to Be When You Grow Up?” encouraged perseverance, faith, and self-reflection.
As the dove above the pulpit continues to cast its wings of peace over the congregation, St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church stands as a living testament to faith that endures, a cornerstone of the South Lancaster community for more than two centuries.
On anniversary Sunday, the congregation reflected on those who have passed through the church’s doors, worshippers who found strength in faith through times of depression, world wars, pandemics, and personal hardship. Through it all, faith has remained the constant that binds the community together. Following the service, parishioners gathered for a time of fellowship and lunch.
St. Andrew’s continues to serve as a vibrant hub of community life throughout the year with book clubs, movie matinee’s and, each summer, its Vacation Bible School that welcomes 100 children from across the region for three days of fun and faith-filled activities.
Looking ahead, the congregation is preparing for its beloved Tartan Sunday Service, to be held November 16. The event will showcase the musical talents of local Glengarry performers, including Ashley McLeod, Bruce McCuaig, Katie Munro, The MacLeod Fiddlers, Bang on the Ear Trio, Lauren Fourney, and Eileen MacCuaig. Following the service, all are invited to the church hall for a traditional Scottish tea.
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