Organized in 1925 with Rev. David Lister as the congregation’s first minister, the Kerrisdale Presbyterian Church in Vancouver is a historic sanctuary, whose current structure was built in 1956 to accommodate the growing demand. The church features a striking Casavant Frères pipe organ from 1964, known for its ability to produce harmonically complex and powerful sounds. Seating around 560 people, the church holds weekly Sunday sermons and church events for its members and neighbours, as well as classical concerts that pay tribute to some of the most successful artists in the world.
A little bit of history on the Kerrisdale Presbyterian Church
The roots of the church can be traced back to the 1600s, when the Scottish and Irish settlers brought Presbyterianism to the colony of British Columbia. Following the work of Scottish and French Reformers, namely John Knox—the founder of the Presbyterian Church of Scotland, and John Calvin—widely considered the father of Presbyterianism, the church emphasizes shared responsibilities among all members. The church shares its facilities with the Vancouver Taiwanese Presbyterian Church and Tenth Church West Side, reflecting the diversity of the Presbyterian Church in Canada.
What can you do at Kerrisdale Presbyterian Church?
Aside the weekly sermons, the Kerrisdale Presbyterian Church hosts a series of events for community members to engage in. Whether it’s book discussions, barbeques, choir practice, or the Jannet Thompson Group, the church’s calendar is always full. Additionally, the historic space is a popular Candlelight venue. Each season, it welcomes tributes to timeless composers and contemporary artists in the likes of Vivaldi, Queen and Taylor Swift.
The church’s simple architecture shines bright under the enchanting glow of thousands of candles, with its geometric shapes, stained glass windows and exposed organ pipes. The concerts have an intimate ambience, an ideal accompaniment to the music.
FAQs
When does the worship service start?
Sunday worship services start at 10 a.m., whereas the times for special services, such as Christmas service, are usually advertised on the church’s website.
Is there balcony seating?
You can also sit at the balcony during the church’s events. If you wish to sit there during a Candlelight concert, you need to specify the seating zone at the checkout stage of the ticket purchase.
How to get to the Kerrisdale Presbyterian Church?
Situated at 2733 West 41st Avenue on the west side of Vancouver, between Trafalgar Street and MacDonald Street, the church is easily accessible by public transport. Just hop on the 41 or 2 bus and get off at Eastbound W 41 Ave at MacDonald St. Furthermore, if you’re getting there by car, it’s only a 15-minute drive from Downtown Vancouver. There are 43 parking spots available behind the church with two spots reserved for handicapped parking. There is also free street parking.
Nearby Venues
Only an 11-minute walk from Knox United Church and a 6-minute drive from VanDusen Botanical Garden, the church is a beloved meeting spot for community members. It provides the perfect setting for talented musicians to recreate the works of some of the greatest artists in the world.
Candlelight seeks out the most unique venues around Vancouver and the world to shine a new light on classic compositions and contemporary classics. The concerts have been met by countless 5-star reviews, and guests have called it “a creative, enchanting, and new concert experience.”