Denomination: United Church of Canada
Keswick Ridge United Church history dates back to 1826 when a Congregationalist congregation was formed. A building was erected that year directly across the road from its present location. The early years were relatively prosperous. Ministers were able to get together to discuss issues and, as a result, the Union of Congregational Churches in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia was formed in 1846 and in 1925 the Congregationalist churches became part of the United Church of Canada. Many surrounding communities formed part of this Pastoral Charge which made the task of ministering in the “horse and buggy days” quite difficult.
Nevertheless the system remained unchanged for many years. In 1875 the church building was considered inadequate and a new building was erected on the lot where it stands today. This building along with Christie Memorial Hall provided adequate space until 1979. Then a major construction project was undertaken and a new foundation along with Sunday School, Christian Education and meeting rooms were constructed.
In 1991 the Keswick Ridge United Church celebrated its 165th Anniversary. To commemorate this event, a history of the congregation was written by two women of the church. A copy of this history is available upon request. It is interesting to see that many of the families in this area today, and many members of our congregation, can trace their roots back to the early 1800's when this area was first settled. As well as an accurate history, you will read of treasured memories including, how in 1911, the minister was presented with a sleigh and a buffalo robe.
For many years the Pastoral charge included Upper Keswick, Kingsclear, Bear Island, Queensbury and Scotch Settlement, but since September 1st, 1989, Keswick Ridge Pastoral Charge has been a one-point Charge.
In 1997, the original church manse was sold and moved to an adjacent property. In its place a new split entry home was constructed. Due to changing times and a one year vacancy, the manse was sold in 2012.
In 2002 with a vision of a church accessible to all, construction began again with exterior wheel chair ramps, an enlarged entrance, elevator, prayer room and accessible washrooms. During this time the stain glass windows were created by a member of the congregation as well as wooden hymn boards, coat racks and a beautiful United Church crest designed and built by another member. On September 21st, 2004 all were dedicated in a service of praise and thanksgiving.
A response from a young lady on our recent JNAC Congregational Survey states “I really enjoy the open, welcoming atmosphere of this church. How easily we felt accepted and loved without feeling judged or pressured so a minister that would encourage that sort of feeling would be ideal!”
Our congregation has been blessed that in the past 30 years three ministers served us faithfully for approximately ten years each. Our congregation remains faithful and dedicated and are quick to respond when needs arise. This is as true today as it was in 1826.
Nevertheless the system remained unchanged for many years. In 1875 the church building was considered inadequate and a new building was erected on the lot where it stands today. This building along with Christie Memorial Hall provided adequate space until 1979. Then a major construction project was undertaken and a new foundation along with Sunday School, Christian Education and meeting rooms were constructed.
In 1991 the Keswick Ridge United Church celebrated its 165th Anniversary. To commemorate this event, a history of the congregation was written by two women of the church. A copy of this history is available upon request. It is interesting to see that many of the families in this area today, and many members of our congregation, can trace their roots back to the early 1800's when this area was first settled. As well as an accurate history, you will read of treasured memories including, how in 1911, the minister was presented with a sleigh and a buffalo robe.
For many years the Pastoral charge included Upper Keswick, Kingsclear, Bear Island, Queensbury and Scotch Settlement, but since September 1st, 1989, Keswick Ridge Pastoral Charge has been a one-point Charge.
In 1997, the original church manse was sold and moved to an adjacent property. In its place a new split entry home was constructed. Due to changing times and a one year vacancy, the manse was sold in 2012.
In 2002 with a vision of a church accessible to all, construction began again with exterior wheel chair ramps, an enlarged entrance, elevator, prayer room and accessible washrooms. During this time the stain glass windows were created by a member of the congregation as well as wooden hymn boards, coat racks and a beautiful United Church crest designed and built by another member. On September 21st, 2004 all were dedicated in a service of praise and thanksgiving.
A response from a young lady on our recent JNAC Congregational Survey states “I really enjoy the open, welcoming atmosphere of this church. How easily we felt accepted and loved without feeling judged or pressured so a minister that would encourage that sort of feeling would be ideal!”
Our congregation has been blessed that in the past 30 years three ministers served us faithfully for approximately ten years each. Our congregation remains faithful and dedicated and are quick to respond when needs arise. This is as true today as it was in 1826.
