View News
St. Andrews Celebrates 20 Years
St. Andrews Abbeyfield in Sidney, the first Abbeyfield in North America, celebrated their 20th Anniversary on May 6, 2007 with a service at St. Andrews Church whose parishioners 20 years ago were instrumental in fundraising to get the project off the ground. Rebecca Vermeer, in particular, spent much time and effort in dealing with government officials which paid off in the arrangement with B.C. Housing who still provide funding for certain aspects of the operation of the House. Most of the past Board members and volunteers who still live in the Sidney or Victoria area were invited guests on this occasion along with former staff, Friends of Abbeyfield and sponsors of the present residents. Approximately 120 supporters attended the service and the lunch reception that followed. The lunch was delicious, prepared by members of St. Andrews and Holy Trinity Churches.
The service began with specially selected Bible readings and hymns significant to the occasion. A video of the opening ceremonies 20 years ago was shown to remind those present of the efforts that went into its formation, and to point out the characteristics unique to the Abbeyfield concept. Rev. David Fuller, who was the minister at St. Andrews 20 years ago when the House opened, was guest preacher and reminisced about some of the happenings around its beginnings.
An Abbeyfield ministry banner had been designed and made by Sister Mary Jo, our House Coordinator, and it was given a blessing by the present minister at St. Andrews, Rev. Rick Root. The banner was sewn by Sister Mary Jo but each member of the present Board and each present resident were required to put in a stitch to mark the occasion. The names of both groups are located on the back of the banner which hangs in the church proper.
Mary MacDonald Root sang a solo - Holy City - that was most uplifting.
We were surprised and delighted with the presence of Allan Snowie of Abbeyfield International who flew in for the occasion. He met many of the guests and Board members, past and present, and took photos as did our public relations member of the Board.
It was a lovely day despite the weather and in 5 years we expect to plan a gala celebration for our 25th anniversary, with many guests from across the country as well as from Vancouver Island. This was a successful lead up to that future event!
