Presbyterianism in Summerside 1853—2003

sulting freezing and expansion of the trapped mois- ture caused the exterior brick facing on the north wall to crack and weaken the structure. In December 1970 the congregation was advised to vacate the church as much of the exterior brick work had to be replaced. Sunday services were held in the auditorium of Athena Regional High School, commencing on Dec. 20th., while repair and replacement construction continued. The church was reopened for worship on Thanksgiving Sun- day, 1971.

Within three years of the dedication of the new church the final vestiges of the former church complex on North Market Street disappeared. In 1969 the Bowness property adjacent to the old church was sold. In 1972 the demolition of the church took place and the church hall and land were sold to the Kinsmen Club of Summerside. The former church hall was subse- quently known as as “The Kin Centre” for many years. It was a nostalgic time for the congregation, especially the more senior members. Although it symbolized a new beginning with different challenges, the construc— tion of the new Summerside Presbyterian Church merely continued the Presbyterian tradition which re- mained vibrant and strong since 1865.

DAWN OF A NEW MILLENNIUM 1973-2003

e last quarter of the twentieth century was a busy period in the life of Summerside Presbyte— rian Church. The spacious new facility provided

49