First Presbyterian Church (Edmonton) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids First Presbyterian Church |
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| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Presbyterian Church in Canada |
| Ecclesiastical or organizational status | Church |
| Location | |
| Location | 10025 105 Street NW Edmonton, Alberta T5J 1C8 |
| Architecture | |
| Architect(s) | Wilson and Herrald |
| Architectural style | Late Victorian Gothic Revival |
| Completed | 1912 |
| Specifications | |
| Capacity | >300 |
| Materials | Red brick, Sandstone |
The First Presbyterian Church is a very old and important church building in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. It's part of the Presbyterian Church in Canada. This church is famous for its beautiful Gothic Revival style. Imagine a castle or a grand old building – that's the kind of look it has! The church community celebrated being 125 years old in 2006.
Contents
The Church's Story: A Timeline
The First Presbyterian Church has a long and interesting history. It started with a meeting on November 3, 1881. This meeting was held to officially create the church community.
Early Buildings
- The very first church building opened its doors just one year later, in 1882. It was located at 104 Street and 99 Avenue in Edmonton.
- A second, larger building was finished in July 1902. This one was at 103 Street and Jasper Avenue.
- The church building you see today was completed in November 1912. It's the third and current home for the congregation.
Becoming a Historic Place
In September 1978, the First Presbyterian Church building was given a special title. It was named a "Provincial Historic Resource." This means it's an important part of Alberta's history. It is protected so future generations can enjoy it.
Important Leaders of the Church
Many dedicated people have led the First Presbyterian Church. Two ministers, in particular, helped shape its history.
Reverend David George McQueen
One very important leader was Reverend David George McQueen. He served the church for a long time, 43 years! He started in 1887 after finishing his studies. Reverend McQueen helped start many other church communities in the area. He was also a top leader for the entire Presbyterian Church in Canada. This role is called "Moderator of the General Assembly." He held this position in 1912.
Reverend Andrew Browning Baird
Before Reverend McQueen, the church's first minister was Reverend Andrew Browning Baird. He arrived in Edmonton even before the railway reached the city! Reverend Baird later became a professor at a college. He also served as the Moderator for the Presbyterian Church in Canada in 1916.
A Big Decision: Church Union in 1925
In 1925, there was a big discussion among churches in Canada. Many Presbyterian churches decided to join with other churches to form a new group. This new group was called the United Church of Canada. Reverend McQueen was strongly against this change. The First Presbyterian Church in Edmonton became a key place for those who wanted to keep the Presbyterian Church separate. About one-third of the Presbyterian churches decided to remain independent. They did not join the new United Church of Canada.
