‘We had to continue and make them proud’: Grassmere Church celebrates 150th anniversary

A Manitoba church celebrated a significant milestone over the weekend with a day of food and festivities. CTV’s Dan Timmerman was there.

A historic Manitoba church marked a major milestone Saturday with a community celebration honouring 150 years of faith and local heritage.

Located in the Rural Municipality of Rockwood, Grassmere Church was established in 1875 and is part of the Historic Sites of Manitoba collection, named by the Manitoba Historical Society. For generations, the church has stood as a symbol of community spirit in the region.

To mark the occasion, residents gathered at the site for a day of festivities, food, and memories — reconnecting with the past while celebrating the future.

Gordon Appleyard, who was baptized at the church in 1940, recalled fond memories of the church’s summer picnics.

“I remember taking part in all the races, activities, fishpond, and chanting,” he said. “The picnic was a big deal because there weren’t many parties in the district or anything to go to. It was a big part of the summer — you looked forward to it.”

Patti Matheson, one of the event organizers, said the turnout showed how deeply rooted the church is in the community.

“There was so much interest from people across generations,” she said. “This event showed the connection the community has to this space — and it was very exciting.”

For congregation member Gayleen Nixon, the day was about more than just a celebration — it was about carrying on a legacy.

“They all worked their little souls out to make this community work, and we had to continue and make them proud,” she said. “It’s very special because all our parents and grandparents are in the cemetery. We’ll never not be a part of this community, with our families behind us there.”