Built in 1927 as one of the first United churches constructed in Canada, Stettler United Church celebrated major renovations last Saturday afternoon.
The same building was declared a provincial “historic resource” last July.
“One of the greatest rewards of this project was that it created opportunities for people in the congregation to work with other people, and some they didn’t know, and it built relationships and fellowship,” said Larry Wilson, a member of the project committee.
Upgrades to the sanctuary with heating in the floor and a revised chancel, new roof, redesigned basement and Sunday school space and headquarters for Stettler and District Food Bank were major components of the project.
It involved many people from the church and community.
“We are currently serving the sixth generation,” Wilson said.
Among the senior generation was Audrey Zender, 95, part of the church since 1946 and wife of the late Dr. Bob Zender. The family provided a substantial financial donation for a wheelchair lift.
Wilson and board chair Betty Birch were thanked for their leadership and volunteering for their service in the Caring Together, Building Together project.
“For the good of all creation, for the community of Stettler, for the extension of God’s love throughout the world and for the healing that love brings, we dedicate this house,” the congregation expressed in a reading.
The church choir performed music, with solos from Evelyn Shursen and Dave Goodwin.