The first Presbyterian Church Services in Akaroa were held towards the end of 1857, in the home of Mrs E Brown. Before the first service was held, Mrs Brown took down the dividing wall between the kitchen and sitting room, in order that that the worshippers might be comfortably seated. The Rev Charles Fraser of St Andrews Christchurch, conducted the service, preaching in English in the morning and in French in the evening.

On the 23rd January 1860 on the present church site, a small church built by M Eteveneaux, was opened by Rev Fraser.” Bon Accord ”was its name. Services were held there and in the school room at Pigeon Bay, being conducted mainly by laymen.

Initiated mainly by Presbyterians in Pigeon Bay, a move was made to obtain a minister from Scotland. So the Rev George Grant came to Akaroa … Read More »