A century of hymns echoes here. This is Saint Heliers Presbyterian Church and Community Centre. More than just a place of worship it’s a vibrant community hub. Its story begins in 1915 with a simple request. A newly married couple Mr and Mrs Dickey longed for Presbyterian services closer than West Tamaki. Their plea reached Reverend Morgan Richards. He answered the call.
Imagine a congregation of 25 people. Their first service wasn’t in a grand building. It was held in an old furniture factory. Despite their humble beginnings they sang hymns with passion. Miss Pilkington’s organ led the way. This love of music continues to this day at Saint Heliers. The growing congregation needed a proper church. The first one was built in just one day a testament to community spirit. It stood where the St Heliers Public Library stands now.
The church wasn’t always in its current location. In 1924 it embarked on a journey up the hill. A steam traction engine carefully moved the entire building. This relocation made way for a new post office. The Great Depression tested the church’s resilience. Attendance dropped. Financial struggles threatened closure. But the community rallied again. The ladies’ Social Club made sacrifices ensuring the church doors stayed open.
In 1939 Johnston Hall was added. This became part of a larger community centre complex. In 1942 Saint Heliers Presbyterian Church became its own parish. By then average attendance exceeded 100 people. The Sunday School boasted 103 children. A new church building was constructed in 1956. Architect Robert Spiers generously donated his time. The old wooden church wasn’t discarded. It was moved to Glendowie where it still stands.
A remarkable woman Sister Daisy Dempsey served as deaconess from 1968 to 1973. She was loved and respected. She welcomed newcomers children and the elderly. A porch was named in her honor the Daisy Dempsey Chapel. It’s a space for prayer study and for children. In 1989 the manse was relocated. Extensive renovations followed. Today the church and community centre thrive. It offers programs and activities for all ages. Many of the visionaries who worked hard to create this space continue to serve. This community centre is a legacy of faith perseverance and community spirit. It’s a living testament to the enduring power of hope.