In commemoration of the 200 years of its existence, the St Andrew’s Kirk, located opposite the Georgetown Magistrates Courts, on Friday launched its bicentennial celebrations to reflect on the significance of the church and what has been achieved during those years.
Members of the church have scheduled activities throughout 2018 in celebration of this important milestone. Present at this gathering was Telecommunications Minister Catherine Hughes, along with Reverend Maureen Massiah and members of the congregation.
After an opening prayer and remarks from the chairperson, the gathering was
Minister Cathy Hughes giving her remarks on Friday
entertained by a musical rendition, followed by a brief historical overview of the church. This was done by Wadecia Donald, who explained that the building is one of the oldest churches in Guyana, with rich historical and architectural significance. It is a Presbyterian church that was made of bulletwood and stained-glass windows. The church gets its name from Andrew, a fisherman and one of the first disciples of Jesus after he was baptized by John.
In 1811, the first sill was laid by H.E.H.W Bentick Esq; and in 1818, the building was finally opened to public worship under the leadership of Rev Archibald Brown.
At first the original structure was constructed along the lines of the Romanesque Revival architectural style, but with a few changes, it is now considered to be Gothic Revival architecture. Presently, the building is 15 percent larger following these changes, which includes the introduction of the north and south entrances.
The St Andrew’s Kirk
Minister Hughes, who is also a member of the church, stated how important and special this event is to her. “It is my pleasure, my joy, to be here this morning at this very special launch of our 200th anniversary celebrations. I stand with pride to say that my mom was baptised in this church, so was I (and) my siblings. I even got married in this church, so St Andrew’s is very close to my heart. I want to say that this church has made a valiant contribution to the development of Guyanese society,” she said.
Meanwhile, the present and first female reverend of the St Andrew’s Kirk, Rev Maureen Massiah, reminded that although it is the reflection of the church’s rich history, emphasis must also be placed on the true purpose of the building.
“We tend to make much of it, (but we should never forget) that we don’t honour the church building, but we honour God in this building. It is very important, because sometimes we forget,” she stated.
When asked about the proceedings on Friday, an elder member of the church responded, “Proud. We feel rededicated to continue the work we’re doing, and to encourage other members to come out and support the church and keep us going, because it’s important that we serve the Lord. We’re off to a good start. I think today was very good, and they did a very good job in bringing the history up to date; so it was good.”
Several activities have been planned to occur throughout the year. The celebrations will continue with a tea party on March 31.
