This old St Stephen’s website is the new home for the history of St Stephen’s Church since its first service on June 3rd, 1862 and up to its recent merger with St Mary’s Church to form The Parish of Central Saanich.

Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards. ~  Kierkegaard

For the link to the new Parish of Central Saanich website which has all the current information about St Stephen’s and St Mary’s please click here.

On February 11, 1862 William Thomson deeded five acres of his land to the Right Reverend George Hills, Bishop of British Columbia, for the purpose of building a church and a school. On June 3rd of the same year, the church held its dedication and first service.

In 1984 the church was designated a Heritage Building by the District of Central Saanich.

Following is a photo and a paragraph excerpt from The History of the Pike Family which is located at http://www.surreyhistory.ca/pikefamily.html

(click photo to enlarge)

This is the historic St. Stephens Church in Saanichton.

The Lidgate and Thompson families were well known in the Saanichton area as they also played a part in the creation of the St. Stephen Church which is said to be the oldest church in B.C. and where most of Duncan Lidgate’s family is buried with the exception of his daughter Elizabeth.

Sandy O. at St. Stephen’s Church in Saanichton, off Mt. Newton X Road has been opening and closing the Church every day for over 25 years.

Apparently there was some trouble with young people going into the church and using it to party.

Vestry wished to close the Church during the week, but Sandy felt very strongly that Churches should be kept open during the week for prayer if needed.

The Rector at the time said that if Sandy felt so strongly that he should open and close it himself.

The Rector thought that Sandy’s view would weaken after a week, but over two and half decades later, Sandy is still going down to the Church each morning and every evening, to unlock and lock the church.

And, when you visit, Sandy is able to give you an amazing historical and colourful account of not only the church but the cemetery as well which is one of the most beautiful and peaceful cemeteries around.

Thank you Sandy!! Your dedication & devotion are greatly appreciated!!!

The Diocesan Post, April, 2008