The 100th anniversary celebration of Trinity Anglican Church in Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, Quebec, began with a documentary highlighting the church’s significance to its members and its community involvement.
During the screening, Reverend Benjamin Stuchbery’s two young sons sat with their mother, Erica, and baby sister, Josephine, at a small table, engrossed in drawing while sunlight streamed through the stained glass windows.
As Erica stood up with her violin to lead a pre-lunch song, baby Josephine seized the opportunity to crawl towards the audiovisual setup, enticed by the colorful wires on the floor.
Despite Josephine’s escapade, Stuchbery managed to intervene, and his middle son, Robin, swiftly took over, returning Josephine to her seat before she made another attempt to escape.
Stuchbery humorously referred to this incident as “embracing the chaos,” resonating with other families present who understood the challenges of balancing family life with church celebrations.
This lighthearted moment underscored the enduring community focus of Trinity Church, even as some individuals have drifted away from regular Sunday services.
Reverend Stuchbery emphasized the church’s ongoing commitment to community engagement, acknowledging the evolving role of the church in a changing society.
Originally a primary gathering place for English speakers in the town nearly a century ago, Trinity Church has transformed into a welcoming space that embraces diverse languages and faiths.
Inclusivity as a Cornerstone
John Richard, serving as the people’s warden for more than ten years, highlighted the church’s adaptability as its congregation aged and diminished in size.
Various organizations, including 4Korners and Alcoholics Anonymous, utilize the church premises for meetings, reflecting the church’s mission of inclusivity and community support.
Richard emphasized the church’s broader mission of serving not only regular attendees but also reaching out to the wider community, irrespective of their religious background or linguistic preferences.
For the centennial celebration, Eleanor Maxwell curated a display featuring historical photos and articles, showcasing the church’s evolution over time and its unwavering dedication to community service.
A long-standing member of the congregation, Maxwell emphasized the church’s resilience in adapting to change and its continued commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for all.
Reflecting on the church’s transformation from a gathering space for English speakers to a hub for diverse communities, Maxwell highlighted the church’s enduring presence as a symbol of unity and stability.
“Like an anchor, the church grounds us together, and we remain steadfast in our efforts to carry on,” Maxwell remarked.
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