St. Andrew's River Heights United Church

St. Andrew's River Heights United Church is a Canadian nonprofit religious organization and place of worship located in Winnipeg, Manitoba. It is affiliated with the United Church of Canada and serves as a community hub for spiritual growth, hospitality, education, mission, and compassion.

History

The church's origins trace back to 1881 when it was organized as a Presbyterian congregation near downtown Winnipeg at the corner of Elgin Avenue and Ellen Street. In 1915, it expanded as a branch of the St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church in downtown Winnipeg, establishing a new building at the corner of Oak Street and Kingsway. The first building, designed by architect David Wynyard Bellhouse, was constructed late in 1915 but was destroyed by fire only two months after its dedication service.

A second building was erected in 1916 by contractor Aaron Grey and opened in June of that year. The congregation separated from its downtown counterpart in 1926, becoming an independent church community. Over the years, the church underwent several expansions including the addition of a basement auditorium in 1929-1930, a new sanctuary built atop the basement in 1950, and a Christian Education Building added in 1955.

Mission and Community

St. Andrew's River Heights United Church emphasizes a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, dedicated to nurturing its members' spiritual journeys. It is known for its worship services, community hospitality, compassion initiatives, educational programs, and mission work. The church promotes acceptance and provides a space where individuals can find inspiration and care.

Music and Worship

Music holds a significant role in the church's worship practices. The church choir and its music director have contributed original compositions and performances that enrich the spiritual experience of the congregation. The church maintains a recording of its Sunday services, making them accessible to the wider community.

Governance and Affiliation

The church operates as a registered nonprofit organization under the Business Registration Number 108005745RR0001. It is a member of the Prairie to Pine Regional Council within the United Church of Canada governance structure.

Clergy

Notable clergy in the church's history include John Lewis McInnis (1889–1978), who served from 1931 to 1957, and C. Earle Gordon (1911–1971), serving from 1957 to 1971.

This article summarizes the history, mission, and community role of St. Andrew's River Heights United Church based on documented sources and the church’s own records as of 2025.[1][3][4][5]