Ever wondered where Kuala Lumpur’s international community finds solace? St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church offers just that. It stands on Jalan Raja Chulan. This church is not just a building. It is a beacon for many.
St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church has a rich history. Presbyterian services began here in 1902. Ministers came from Penang and Singapore. They held services in various locations.
In 1915, Rev A D Harcus became the first Presbyterian minister. He had been a minister in London. He was officially appointed in 1916 at the YMCA. Members of the Presbytery of London North conducted the ceremony.
Rev Harcus led the fundraising and building of St Andrew’s Church. The foundation stone was laid on October 3, 1917. The British administration provided the land on Weld Road. Swan and Maclaren were the architects.
The opening ceremony took place on April 17, 1918. Sir Anthony Young attended. He was the High Commissioner of the Malay States. About 250 people were present. In 1921, a Manse was built on the church grounds. A memorial tablet was installed in 1922. It honored Selangor residents who died in World War I. The early congregation was mostly British, including many Scots.
Over the years, St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church has seen changes. A pipe organ replaced the original reed organ in 1939. During the Japanese Occupation, the church became a storehouse. Metal objects were stolen. These included organ pipes and memorial tablets.
In 2017, the church celebrated its 100th anniversary. A time capsule was found under the foundation stone. It contained a Bible, hymn book, and a copy of the Malay Mail. Coins of local currency were also inside.
The architecture of St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church is neo-Gothic. It features pointed arch windows and doorways. The exterior has pebble dash and cast concrete facings. The nave can hold 150 worshippers. Chengal hardwood rafters support the roof. These are part of the original construction. Stained glass windows were donated in 1956. Sir John Hay dedicated them to those who died in the Malayan Emergency.
Today, St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church thrives. It serves as the International Church of Kuala Lumpur. It welcomes believers from all denominations and nations. The church has a diverse congregation. This includes expatriates and local members.
St Andrew’s is a member of the World Communion of Reformed Churches. It is also part of the United Reform Church. The Gereja Presbyterian Malaysia is also among its affiliations.
The church’s mission is clear. It aims to make, nurture, and equip disciples of Jesus Christ. This is for the international English-speaking people in Kuala Lumpur. Their vision is to be a Christ-centered community. They want to use their gifts to build up the Church. This is both in Kuala Lumpur and throughout the world.
So, as you stand here, remember the story of St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church. It is a place of worship, community and history. It is an international church in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.