Church History

As the story goes, the first Governor of British Columbia, Sir James Douglas, had a hunting lodge in Metchosin and was very fond of the area. One day in late 1870 or early 1871, John Witty and Sir James were chatting beneath one of the Garry Oak trees opposite what is now the site of Metchosin School.

Sir James was said to have suggested that if he provided property and Witty provided some money, they might get a church and school built for Metchosin. Witty, not knowing how much money might be involved, quickly turned the proposal around: why not have him provide the land and Sir James provide the money? The two agreed to Witty’s proposal.

The story captures something important about the beginnings of St. Mary the Virgin: it grew from the generosity and vision of people who cared deeply about Metchosin. The land and funds were given for the establishment of an Anglican church, and, within the governance of the Anglican Church, the property became part of the Diocese. Generations of local people then contributed their time, labour, resources and care to the life of the church and its grounds.

The church was consecrated on October 22, 1873, and since then it has been a place of worship, celebration, remembrance and education for many Metchosin families. Each spring, the explosion of lilies on the church grounds draws visitors and offers a yearly reminder of renewal and rebirth.

In September 1991, the congregation moved its weekly worship to the new St. Mary of the Incarnation Church, built across Metchosin Road from the golf course. As with the original church, the new building was made possible through generous donations and a great deal of volunteer labour.

St. Mary the Virgin has continued to have a special place in the life of Metchosin. Although regular Sunday worship moved to the new church, the historic building has remained in use for weddings, funerals, special services, and community occasions, while volunteers have continued to care for the church and cemetery.

For more than 150 years, the original church and grounds have been cared for as part of the Anglican tradition and have remained an important part of the story of Metchosin. The St. Mary’s Historical Society is now beginning a new chapter in that story, taking on the stewardship of this significant place, and working in partnership with the wider community to preserve its buildings, cemetery, grounds, and history for generations to come.

For more on the history of the St Mary’s churches in Metchosin click here.