London, Ont.’s second-oldest church marks 175 years this weekend

CTV’s Sean Irvine with the historic Kilworth United Church celebrating its 175th anniversary this weekend.

An anniversary is taking place this weekend for the Forest City’s second-oldest church.

The small fieldstone parish is in the London portion of Kilworth, Ont.

On Friday morning, longtime parishioner Chip Martin sounded the bell atop Kilworth United Church.

This structure, a fixture of old, in the middle of an area undergoing new development, was dedicated as a Methodist church 175 years ago.

Within city limits, only St. Paul’s Cathedral is older.

“It was carved out of the bush, and it was built with the stones you see on the church that are in fact all from the area,” explained Martin.

“The building went up in 1850. It was the second church for the community known as Kilworth,” said the congregation’s history researcher, Beth Moyer.

At that time, the church was part of a vibrant community. History confirms Kilworth’s founders had big plans for growth. Two hotels were built near the church.

“It was a thriving village here; there were numerous mills, and people really thought that with the railroad coming, we will be the centre of it all. They believed we would surpass London!” said Moyer.

That didn’t happen, however, as the railroad bypassed Kilworth in 1853.

“And this community withered and died virtually almost immediately,” said Martin. “And this church and the stone house across the street are among the very few reminders of what Kilworth itself used to be.”

Despite the downturn, the congregation at Kilworth United Church remained stable for the next 172 years.

While only 60 people make up the congregation today, most attend each week.

Together, they will share in a weekend of celebrations planned to mark the anniversary.

Saturday features the dedication of two stained glass windows from the former Delaware United Church. The windows now serve as the focal point of the parish hall.

On Sunday, anniversary festivities include a special service, featuring Rev. Susan Eagle, a former London city councillor who served as the longtime church pastor. The door will also be open at points during each day.

“We’re not just about this beautiful building, we’re about being in the community, seeing what the needs are in the community and seeing how we can help,” said Minister Laurie Ladd.

“We’re proud of the little church we have here. And I don’t know if it lasts for another 175 years, but, so far, so good,” added Martin.