Central Presbyterian Church (Hamilton, Ontario) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Central Presbyterian Church |
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Church spire
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 Central Presbyterian Church
Location in Ontario
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| 43°15′04″N 79°52′45″W / 43.25111°N 79.87917°W | |
| Location | 165 Charlton Avenue West Hamilton, Ontario L8P 2C8 |
| Country | Canada |
| Denomination | Presbyterian Church in Canada |
| History | |
| Founded | 1841 |
| Specifications | |
| Number of spires | 1 |
| Administration | |
| Presbytery | Hamilton |
| Synod | Southwestern Ontario |
Central Presbyterian Church is a church located in downtown Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. It is part of the Presbyterian Church in Canada. You can find it at the corner of Charlton Avenue West and Caroline Street South.
Contents
History of Central Presbyterian Church
How the Church Started
The church community began in 1841. At first, they met in an old schoolhouse in downtown Hamilton. In 1858, the church building was rebuilt. After a big church merger in 1875, it became known as Central Presbyterian Church.
The Fire and a New Building
On June 21, 1906, the church building from 1858 was completely destroyed in a huge fire. Plans were quickly made to build a new church in a new spot.
The new building was designed by John M. Lyle, who was the minister's son. The new church opened its doors on June 14, 1908. It also got a large pipe organ from Casavant Frères.
About the Architect, John M. Lyle
John M. Lyle designed many famous buildings. These include the Royal Alexandra Theatre and Union Station (Toronto) in Toronto. Central Presbyterian Church is special because it is the only church he ever designed.
Lyle's design for the church was inspired by other famous buildings. It has a flat roof, which is unusual for a church. This makes it look more like a public building. However, inside the church, you will see beautiful stained-glass windows. These windows show stories from the Bible.
The church's tall spire is a special landmark. It lights up at night. You can see it from many parts of the city and even from the top of the nearby Niagara Escarpment.
Staying Presbyterian
In 1925, the church community had an important vote. They voted to stay with the Presbyterian Church in Canada. The vote was very close. Some members and the minister at the time decided to leave and join the United Church of Canada.
Important People from the Church
Two members of Central Church became very important leaders. They were appointed as Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. A Lieutenant Governor is the King's representative in a Canadian province.
- Sir John Morison Gibson served from 1908 to 1914.
- Sir John Strathearn Hendrie served from 1914 to 1919.
You can find special plaques inside the church that remember these two important people. Even today, members of Central Church are involved in public life in Hamilton. They work in city government, the arts, and education. They also play roles within the Presbyterian Church in Canada.
Central Church Today
Central Presbyterian Church is still an active church in downtown Hamilton. It is known for its music programs. It also has a special connection with The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders of Canada, a military regiment. The church is also known for having ministers who stay for a long time. The current minister is the Reverend Dr. Gregory Davidson. He started his role in August 2015.
Images for kids
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Display sign in front of the church.
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South side of the church showing spire.
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Interior
