Ninety years. That’s a long time to keep a secret. Summerlea United Church has such a secret. It involves a reunion, a family reunion of sorts. Summerlea United Church stands here as a testament to faith, community, and a fascinating historical connection. In December 1914, St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, recognizing the need to expand westward in Lachine, commissioned a new church. This new church was named Summerlea Presbyterian Church. It was their way of spreading their faith and serving the growing community.
Summerlea United Church, now located at 225 50th Avenue in Lachine, has seen a lot of changes since those early days. The current building was constructed in 1952. It was designed to accommodate a booming congregation and a bustling Sunday School. The 1970s brought another change when the congregation of Grace Methodist Church joined Summerlea. More recently, in 2005, a remarkable event took place. The congregation of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church rejoined Summerlea. This was the same church that originally commissioned Summerlea back in 1914. It was like a child returning home after a long journey.
Summerlea United Church continues its mission of serving the community. It offers Sunday services at 10:30 am. The church welcomes everyone, regardless of background. Summerlea United Church’s mission statement reflects this commitment to inclusivity and community outreach. Their faith inspires a keen sense of community, and they strive to care for each other and reach out to those in need. They support various causes like food security, poverty alleviation, education, social justice, and care for refugees and new immigrants.
Interestingly, Summerlea United Church even shares its “green church” home with other local organizations, further demonstrating their dedication to serving the community. They are committed to welcoming all people, regardless of age, race, ability, language, sexual orientation, gender identity, or economic background. So, as you stand before Summerlea United Church, remember this story of connection and community. It’s a testament to the enduring power of faith and the cyclical nature of history.