Third Avenue United Church finds new flock after sale to Saskatoon congregation

A historic church in Saskatoon without a congregation for years has found a new flock.

St. Vincent of Lerins Orthodox Church finalized the purchase in early July of Third Avenue United Church and is undertaking a major renovation to restore the downtown landmark to its former glory.

“We needed more space. We were on the lookout for opportunities to find a new venue and this came up rather unexpectedly,” parish priest Fr. Herman Fields said on the Brent Loucks Show on Friday.

“We are working on how to transform the sanctuary into something that works for us, but obviously very respectful of the heritage items that we are stewarding. It was made easier because of the really majestic stained glass windows and the beauty that’s already built into the space.”

St. Vincent of Lerins Orthodox Church has been housed in a smaller building at 821 Ave. E N.

Third Avenue United Church was designated a heritage property by city council in 2017. One year later, the last church service was held after the congregation had dwindled to about 25 to 30 people.

Trustee Kenneth Holmes said it’s a relief to finally have the church sold.

“It became … something hanging around our necks and that was a huge stress,” he said.

“The relief is unbelievable because we now know that it is going to a congregation that is going to use it as a church. They are going to take care of it and honour the heritage portion of the agreement with the city.”

Repairing the church’s leaking roof is the most urgent need, and that’s estimated to cost around $105,000. Fields said the renovations inside and outside the building will take several years to complete.