The Kirk 200th

Charlottetown’s St. James Presbyterian, known as The Kirk, marks its 200th anniversary this fall. The congregation formed in 1825 and completed its first building, a wooden structure, in 1831. The stone Kirk, which still stands at the corner of Pownal and Fitzroy Streets, was completed in 1878.

To celebrate this milestone and its rich heritage, the congregation has organized a series of lectures and special events. Admission is by free-will offering, and all are welcome.

The Kirk 200 Heritage Lecture Series begins on September 25 with “Who were these Presbyterians?” presented by Dr. Jack Whytock. He returns on October 2 with “The Built Worship Space of Presbyterians.” On November 2, Joan MacFarlane and Ian Scott present “Significant People and Events in Kirk History.” The series concludes on November 16 with “The Kirk Today,” presented by Rev. Amanda Bolton. All lectures begin at 7 pm.

In addition to the lectures, the church will present 1825: A Celebration on October 18 at 7 pm. This imagined variety concert from the year of the congregation’s founding will feature the Kirk Choir and Choral Scholars Stephen Bouey, Rowen Gallant, Jennifer Carson, Tara MacEachern, Sung Ha Shin-Bouey, Ian Soloman, and Gaige Waugh. A reception will follow.

The anniversary service will take place on October 19 at 10:30 am, featuring soloist Patricia Murray and a guest sermon by the Rev. Jeffrey Murray, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Canada.