St. Clement’s Church

Elevated on Institute Road, St. Clement’s Church has witnessed the ebb and flow of Lynn Valley life since 1909. Before this grand structure graced this spot, imagine the scene. Anglicans in Lynn Valley faced a trek to St. John the Evangelist Church. Long dresses, button-up shoes, and a challenging path of plank road, skid-road, and forest trail made the journey arduous. The desire for a local place of worship, a “Chapel-at-ease”, grew stronger. On May 6, 1908, Reverend J.H. Hooper of St. John’s Parish met with Lynn Valley residents. The very next day, the first service was held in the old schoolhouse, then known as “Institute Hall”. St. Clement’s story began. Land was purchased for $150, and a small church was built on Church Street. On Easter Sunday, 1909, one hundred souls filled the new church for its official opening. St. Clement’s continued to evolve. In 1927, the church building was moved to its current location on Institute Road. It became known as “Saint Clement-by-the-brook”. The church expanded in the 1940s and 50s. Additions created offices, an upper room, and St. Mary’s Room. The original church’s rear section transformed into the present chapel. A pivotal moment arrived in 1959. A new Panabode church was constructed for $35,000. Parishioners’ devotion and labor fueled the project. Over the years, St. Clement’s Church continued to grow. A bell tower was added in 1970, the basement was finished in 1975, and accessibility ramps were built in 1984 and 1995. A memorial garden was created in 1985. Even the pews have a story. Unbolted for new flooring, they now provide flexible space for various events. St. Clement’s connection to the sea is beautifully symbolized by a recovered anchor, donated in 1977. It serves as a reminder of St. Clement, the Bishop of Rome, martyred for his faith. He was tied to an anchor and cast into the Black Sea. Each November 23rd, St. Clement’s parish honors his memory with an annual dinner. From humble beginnings in a schoolhouse to the present day, St. Clement’s Church remains a vibrant part of the Lynn Valley community. It continues its mission of service and fellowship, embracing a rich history while looking towards the future.