Ganges Church
Burgoyne Church
Our Pastoral Charge consists of two churches: one on Hereford Avenue in Ganges, half a block from the harbour, where the majority of our programs take place, and the other in Burgoyne Bay, at the south end of Salt Spring, which is used for special events and services only.
Our Sunday Service is at 10:00 am, followed by coffee and a social time to greet visitors and newcomers.
Our Church Office, located on the lower level east side, is open from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm from Tuesday to Friday. The secretary and the minister will normally be in the office at those times. Personal meetings with the minister may be arranged by calling the church: 537-5812. During the afternoons or evenings, messages may be left on the answering machine. Your call will be returned as soon as possible.
Discussion videos, bible study, seminars and groups are held at various times throughout the year. We also work in co-operation with community groups such as the Salt Spring Seniors and the Community Society, and try to respond to special needs within the Salt Spring community. Many groups share our space for their activities in our upper or lower halls.
We hope you will consider participating in one of more of our programs, as well as in our worship. If you would like more information or a visit from the minister, please call the office.
Ten stained glass windows are a major feature of the sanctuary, having been donated in memory of family or congregation members. The large “Good Shepherd” window was dedicated in 1911 in the Central church, and has undergone two moves to its present location. All the other windows, except for the “Teacher” window by Dennis Marshall, have been designed and crafted by Jack Clements, a member of the congregation. The beauty and serenity of the sanctuary is enhanced by a carving of Christ on the cross, and carving on the pulpit and communion table.
Good Shepherd Window
Window by Jack Clements
Our
History
Salt Spring Island United Church began in 1861 as a preaching point for
Methodist circuit missionaries from Vancouver Island. One determined
minister canoed from Nanaimo to Vesuvius. The first Methodist church was
built in 1887 in the Burgoyne Valley, and still hosts several services and
weddings each year. A second church was built in 1905 in the Central area,
and moved to Ganges in 1926. The present church was built and dedicated in
1952, with additional renovations in 1983.