By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Lennoxville marked its 160th anniversary Oct. 27, celebrating a history deeply rooted in faith, resilience, and adaptation to changing times. Established in 1864 by Scottish and Irish immigrants working in Sherbrooke, the congregation has evolved with the community while maintaining its mission of support and outreach. The anniversary service was led by guest preacher Rev. J. Ross H. Davidson, a familiar figure to the congregation, having served as interim moderator on several occasions. Following the service, attendees enjoyed a potluck lunch, a chance for fellowship and reflection on the church’s legacy.
Reflecting on the history of St. Andrew’s, Rev. Nigel Parker shared insights on the scene into the congregation’s journey and the challenges faced by English-speaking communities in the region. “Back in the 19th century, Sherbrooke was almost bilingual, but now it’s overwhelmingly francophone,” Parker noted. “Our little borough of Lennoxville is the only one officially bilingual, even though only about a third to 40 per cent of the population speaks English.” Despite these changes, the church has remained a steadfast presence in the area, adapting to meet the needs of its community.
Originally, the congregation met in a theater-turned-church on Frontenac Street. In 1888, they built a new structure there, which stood until a storm in 1999 severely damaged the building. Rather than restoring a space that had grown impractical, the congregation opted to relocate, establishing their current home on Queen Street in Lennoxville in 2004. The new building has served them well, providing a modern and accessible space for worship and community gatherings.
