The History of St. Andrew’s United Church

Where did we begin? Was it when the Scottish settlers arrived in Nova Scotia? Do we count our years from when our forefathers and foremothers worshiped at First Presbyterian Church in Truro? Or do we celebrate the building of the first St. Andrew's Church here in our community? It was closed in 1979 but the new building, open for use in April of 1980, continues to use the St. Andrew's name. It still has some furnishings and stained glass windows to remind us of that part of our history. These are in the Chapel, a link with the past and a lovely atmosphere for quiet reflection and worship or an intimate wedding.

One of the most important parts of our history is our continuous outreach into the community. Our multipurpose hall is both a sanctuary and the scene of church socials, suppers and teas, bake sales and silent auctions as well as many cultural events. The Parlour and Kitchen are in constant use for meetings of many church and community organizations and is the location for monthly Community Dinners as well as for the Community Kitchen Project. Fullerton Hall and the James Muir Room are used for Sunday School and Scout and Guide programs, another example of St. Andrew's outreach to those around us.  

Over the years several candidates for ministry from St. Andrew's were ordained, including John Henderson, Wilena Brown, Catherine MacLean and Joseph Wynn. In 2002 Carolyn Wilson Wynn was commissioned as a Diaconal Minister.

Our current minister, the Rev. Jay W. Ettinger, comes as the latest in a long line of dedicated spiritual leaders who found a home and a vocation serving the people of our Christian community.  His ministry here is a direct result of thosewho came before him:  Rev. L.E.G. Davis (1925-1926); Rev, Angus N. Gillis (1926-1927); Rev. George A. Logan (1928-1928); Rev. J.D. Macleod (1928-1936); Rev. Dr. M.C. MacDonald (1936-1940); Rev. A.A. Rogers (1940-1942); Rev. Harold J. Rowley (1942-1947); Rev. Ward MacLean (1947-1952); Rev. Dr. T.E. McLennan (1952-1963); Rev. J. Heber Kean (1963-1967); Rev. Ronald W. Dempsey (1967-1973); Rev. George H. MacLean (1973-1987); Rev. Boyd Vincent (1987-1993) and Rev. Margaret Sagar (1994-2005).

However, more than the leadership that St. Andrew’s has experienced over the past many years, it is the people who have made it such a special place to be.  It is their dedication to creating healthy and welcoming community that has allowed St. Andrew’s United Church to always be recognized as a place where you can belong.  Our church - filled with children, music, laughter and joy - indicates a congregation with a living history and a future to get excited about.

Welcome!