A sense of reverence and joy filled the air as the All Saints Cannington Church commemorated its 140th anniversary.
Established in 1884, the settlers began to construct a small church. The building material came from over 22 kilometres away, when roads were not established.
The church’s gothic revival architecture, with its striking steeple and stained-glass windows, stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication of its founders. The church has stood to call those who came to worship God in this place.
Over the years, the church began to see some wear and needed some restoration. In 2010, renovations began to bring the little old church back to health.
At the time, the church was also leaning, and they tried to straighten it out, but since the church was not level when built, it was straightened the best they could in order to not cause structural damage.
The anniversary celebration was held in June with Reverend Michelle Moore officiating. Moore grew up in the church, became an ordained minister in 2000 and has since been the minister at the church. Moore reflected on the church's humble beginnings and its growth alongside the Cannington community.
During the special service, the right Rev. Helen Kennedy was pleased to speak to the members of the church. She said it was sustained by the same faith that built it. The church was filled with members and those who were interested in the church's history.
After the service, the festivities continued with a picnic reception, in which guests could socialize, ask questions and wander the grounds.
Services are held throughout the summer once a month, and a service was also held last December, something Moore has always wanted to do.
The church is not insulated, but since the month had been mild, they decided to hold a Christmas Eve Service that packed the little building.
Many of the people were just from the community, and they had heard there was going to be a service. They thought this was going to be something special.
The celebration marks a milestone they have looked forward to for many years to have fellowship and services.
The 140th anniversary of All Saints Cannington Church was not just a celebration of the past but a reaffirmation of the church’s commitment to the congregation and the community.
