The Okanagan Falls United Church began its life as a Presbyterian Church in the mining community of Fairview. When the town’s fortunes declined, the church was not being used. The Okanagan Falls congregation and their minister decided in 1929 to dismantle the church and bring it to their community. It is the “dismantling” part of the church lore that is shared as a great story, and that named a winery.
The practice in those days was to board over the windows and seal the doors of a building in which a stick of dynamite was suspended. The resulting force loosened all the nails so that removal of the boards was accomplished more easily and with less damage to the wood. The material was then brought to Okanagan Falls, reassembled, and the church was reopened with a dedication service on January 19, 1930, with Reverend Feir officiating.
It was an interdenominational church for several years. Many of the furnishings and stained glass windows are dedicated from and to the pioneers of the area. The pews (see picture) were originally made circa 1902 for use in Elliott’s Hall in Fairview, and were in place for the visit of the poet Pauline Johnson. They were sawed by hand, the bench from one solid piece of lumber, and the backs of two pieces. When Elliott’s Hall closed, the pews were given to the church in Fairview, and subsequently came to Okanagan Falls. They are still in use.
This lovely old country church at the corner of Willow Street and 11th Avenue has served its communities well in the past, and continues to do so today. Please come and participate with the congregation in the continuing adventure and evolution of the “blasted church.”
Worship services have begun again in the church building at 9 AM on Sunday morning. As we have lots of room in the sanctuary we recommend that we practice social distancing. The offering plate will once again be passed, and singing is allowed. Fellowship will continue following the church service. There will be no coffee …
Okanagan Falls United Church has cancelled the January 2, 9 and 16 worship service at the recommendation of the United Church of Canada Pacific Mountain Region. The worship services are cancelled in an abundance of caution for our congregants. The following Zoom services are available to you Oasis Sunday Worship Sunday 10:00 AM Pacific Time …
Please join us for our Christmas Eve Service at 5 PM on December 24. The service will be a Carols and Scripture Readings. Hark the Herald Angels Sing Away in a Manger While Shepherds watch their Flocks Silent Night A reminder that to enter the church you must be able to prove you have been …