St. Stephen's Anglican Church and Cemetery
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St. Stephen's Anglican Church and Cemetery

4.8
·24 reviews·Saanichton, Canada

Canada's longest continuously running church since 1862, offering historical depth and a peaceful, welcoming spiritual haven.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall days

Beautiful autumn colors

CrowdLow
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St. Stephen's Anglican Church and Cemetery

St. Stephen's Anglican Church and Cemetery

Best Time

Fall days

Beautiful autumn colors

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Canada's longest continuously running church since 1862, offering historical depth and a peaceful, welcoming spiritual haven.

4.8
(24 reviews)

"A beautiful, historic spot with inspirational sermons and a loving, inviting congregation."

Vertical photo
TIP

Attend a Service

Experience the warm, inviting congregation and inspirational sermons firsthand. :pray:

Explore the Cemetery

Take time to wander the peaceful cemetery grounds for quiet reflection. :evergreen_tree:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Church Building

Historic Church Building

A beautiful, historic Anglican church, a testament to enduring faith and community.

Serene Cemetery Grounds

Serene Cemetery Grounds

Wander through the peaceful cemetery, a place of quiet contemplation and historical reflection.

Inspirational Sermons

Inspirational Sermons

Experience uplifting and inspirational sermons from the dedicated clergy.

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A Glimpse into History

St. Stephen's Anglican Church boasts a rich past, serving as a continuous place of worship since 1862. Explore its historic grounds and soak in the serene atmosphere.

Community and Contemplation

Experience the warm, inviting congregation and inspirational sermons. The peaceful pastoral setting is ideal for quiet reflection and spiritual connection.

Best Times

When
Fall days
Why
Beautiful autumn colors
Crowd
Low
When
Sunday mornings
Why
Experience a service
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

AYF family, it’s time to kick off the year in style. 📅 Opening Service : 21 January 2025 ⏰ 17:30 📍 St Stephen’s Anglican Church ,New Brighton Theme: “Showing God’s Love in a Broken Society” Get your uniforms ready as we represent with pride! New members are warmly welcome to join us as we start this exciting journey together. Let’s come prepared to worship, fellowship, and grow in faith. See you...
@st.stephens.ayf4
1.9K likes • 21.4K views

Attend a Service

Experience the warm, inviting congregation and inspirational sermons firsthand. :pray:

Explore the Cemetery

Take time to wander the peaceful cemetery grounds for quiet reflection. :evergreen_tree:

St Stephen's School was an Anglican Māori boys' boarding school. It was initially established in 1844 as a girls' school, but in 1860 it changed to a boys' school. While it was originally located in Parnell, Auckland, in 1931 it was relocated to Bombay Hills. #restoring #History #tangatawhenua #fyp #maori #you #tiktokviral
@267ers
1.5K likes • 30.4K views
#anglicanchurchofsouthernafrica #anglicanyouthguild #anglicanyouthfellowship @St Stephens Anglican Church635
@lonwabomtsegwala
1K likes • 14.1K views

Check for Events

Inquire about any special events or youth activities happening on the grounds. :party_popper:

✨The Countdown Week Begins!✨ Sr Mkrola @St stephens AYF reads the Gospel according to Luke 15:1, reminding us of God’s heart for the lost and His joy when we return to Him. 💜 As we prepare for the conference, may we draw closer to His love and welcome His call with open hearts. 🙏 #fyp #anglicanyouthfellowship #youth
@diocese.of.pe.ayf
774 likes • 11K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Attend a Service

Experience the warm, inviting congregation and inspirational sermons firsthand. :pray:

Explore the Cemetery

Take time to wander the peaceful cemetery grounds for quiet reflection. :evergreen_tree:

Check for Events

Inquire about any special events or youth activities happening on the grounds. :party_popper:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(24 reviews)

Reviews Summary

St. Stephen's Anglican Church is cherished for its deep historical significance as one of Canada's longest-running churches and its beautiful, peaceful pastoral setting. Visitors praise the inspirational sermons and the warm, inviting nature of the congregation, making it a place of both spiritual reflection and community connection. While the church building may occasionally have limited access, the grounds and cemetery remain a serene spot for contemplation.

"So beautiful. The longest continually running church in Canada (except for Covid). Open since 1862."

KC Vidal

"The actual church has been closed because of COVID, but it is a beautiful place to spend a little time on a smokey Fall day."

Jay Currie

"Historic church and cemetery. It would be interesting to go to a church service there."

David Zip

What People Like

Historic significance
Peaceful setting
Inspirational sermons

What People Dislike

Occasional building closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St. Stephen's Anglican Church is located in a pastoral, country setting. Driving is the most common way to access the church and cemetery. Check local maps for the most direct route from your starting point. Reddit

Yes, ample parking is typically available on the church grounds, especially for services and events. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general admission to visit the church grounds and cemetery is free. However, donations are always appreciated to support the church's upkeep. Reddit

The church building itself may have specific hours, especially if it's closed due to circumstances like COVID-19. The cemetery grounds are generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to check with the church directly for current access information. Reddit

Absolutely! St. Stephen's has a loving, inviting, and enthusiastic congregation. Attending a service is a great way to experience the community and hear inspirational sermons. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors can admire the historic church building, explore the serene cemetery, and experience the peaceful pastoral environment. The church is known for its inspirational sermons and welcoming community. Reddit

Yes, the church is situated in a most pacific, peaceful, pastoral environment, making it perfect for quiet contemplation and spiritual reflection. Reddit

St. Stephen's has a dedicated youth program and a large field area for youth activities. The youth leader is highly regarded. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted on the church grounds and in the cemetery for personal use. Please be respectful of ongoing services or private ceremonies. Reddit

The historic church architecture and the scenic cemetery offer beautiful photographic opportunities. The surrounding pastoral landscape also provides lovely backdrops. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St. Stephen's offers a peaceful environment that can be appreciated by families. While the church itself is historic, the surrounding grounds and cemetery provide space for children to explore respectfully. The church also has a strong youth program with a dedicated leader and activities, making it a place where younger generations are actively involved and welcomed. TikTokReddit

🙏 Spiritual Seekers

For those seeking spiritual connection and inspiration, St. Stephen's is an ideal destination. The church is known for its inspirational sermons and a loving, inviting congregation. The serene pastoral setting of the church and its cemetery provides a perfect backdrop for quiet contemplation and prayer. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

St. Stephen's Anglican Church is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. As one of Canada's longest continuously running churches since 1862, it offers a direct link to the region's past. Exploring the historic building and the adjacent cemetery allows for a deep dive into local heritage and the evolution of the community. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Legacy of Worship: The Church's Enduring Presence

St. Stephen's Anglican Church holds the distinction of being one of Canada's longest continuously running churches, with its doors open since 1862. This remarkable longevity speaks to its deep roots within the community and its unwavering commitment to providing a spiritual home for generations. The church building itself is a beautiful piece of history, offering a tangible connection to the past. Reddit

While the church has faced challenges, such as temporary closures due to COVID-19, its spirit and mission have persevered. The dedication of its clergy and congregation ensures that St. Stephen's remains a vibrant center for worship and community engagement. Visitors often remark on the beauty of the church, even when viewed from the outside during periods of closure. Reddit

For those interested in the history of Anglican churches in Canada or seeking a place of historical significance, St. Stephen's offers a compelling visit. Its continuous operation for over a century makes it a unique landmark worthy of exploration and appreciation. Reddit

The Peaceful Sanctuary: Cemetery and Contemplation

Adjacent to the historic church lies the serene cemetery of St. Stephen's. This hallowed ground offers a tranquil space for reflection and remembrance, dotted with the final resting places of many who have been part of the church's long history. Wandering through the cemetery provides a quiet opportunity to connect with the past and appreciate the enduring legacy of the community. Reddit

The pastoral setting surrounding St. Stephen's further enhances the sense of peace and contemplation. Described as a 'most pacific, peaceful, pastoral environment,' the location is ideal for those seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you are visiting to pay respects, explore local history, or simply find a moment of quiet, the cemetery and its surroundings offer a deeply calming experience. Reddit

Many visitors find the cemetery to be a beautiful and moving place. The combination of historical significance and natural beauty makes it a noteworthy part of any visit to St. Stephen's. Reddit

A Welcoming Community: Sermons and Youth Engagement

St. Stephen's Anglican Church is renowned not only for its history but also for its vibrant and welcoming community. The clergy, particularly Priest Rob Szo, is frequently praised for delivering excellent and inspirational sermons that resonate with the congregation. This focus on meaningful spiritual guidance creates an uplifting atmosphere for attendees. Reddit

The congregation itself is described as loving, inviting, warm, and enthusiastic, making newcomers feel instantly at home. Beyond the regular services, St. Stephen's actively engages its younger members. There is a dedicated youth leader, Chris, who is highly regarded, and a large field area is utilized for youth activities. TikTokReddit

Events like the Anglican Youth Fellowship (AYF) gatherings highlight the church's commitment to fostering faith and fellowship among young people. These initiatives, often themed around spiritual growth and community service, demonstrate a forward-looking approach to ministry. TikTok+3

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