Opened in 1932 Saint Aidan’s Presbyterian Church stands as a testament to faith and community. Let’s step inside and uncover its story.
Saint Aidan’s Presbyterian Church began as a Presbyterian Church in Northcote in 1888. The congregation first met in a wooden building on this very site. That was in 1889. As the community grew so did the need for a larger more permanent structure.
The current brick church was built later. It was then named Saint Aidan’s. The original wooden church transformed into a hall. It served the community in a new way. In the late 1970s the church underwent significant renovations. The interior layout was reversed. The fixed pews were replaced creating a more flexible space.
Extensions were added to the back of Saint Aidan’s in the 1970s and early 1990s. These additions provided much-needed lounge kitchen and office spaces. Saint Aidan’s Presbyterian Church also developed Iona Close. It is a small retirement village with nine independent living units on adjacent land.
Saint Aidan’s Presbyterian Church has a rich history. Gillian and Geoffrey Vine chronicled its first century in their book Bridge of Faith. The book covers the years 1888 to 1988. Annette Hay and Don Boyd contributed additional research. The Community of Saint Aidan’s evolved over time. It became known as a socially progressive church. It embraced diverse worship styles and theologies.
Leaders at Saint Aidan’s supported social activism. The congregation’s mission statement reflected this spirit. It stated We are an inclusive Christian community seeking to make a difference starting with ourselves.
The Saint Aidan’s logo held special meaning. It featured the rose window located at the front of the church. A solid circle in the center represented Saint Aidan’s itself. Radiating outward were arms symbolizing the community. The outer circle represented all who used or were served by the church.
In 2021 Saint Aidan’s Northcote joined with Saint Andrews Presbyterian Church in Birkenhead. Together they formed Onewa Christian Community. This merger followed a facilitated Circle of Trust process. Retreats allowed members to envision the future of their new church.
Growing community making new connections and good communication emerged as priorities. They also wanted a new expression of faith and wise use of resources. These priorities shaped the vision mission and values of Onewa Christian Community.
Saint Aidan’s Presbyterian Church has been more than just a building. It has been a beacon of faith a center of community and a catalyst for positive change. Its story continues to evolve inspiring those who pass through its doors.