Crossfield’s earliest church consisted of a circuit preacher who led worship in both the McCool store and in people’s homes. In 1905, a Methodist church was built on Nanton Ave with a cornerstone that was quarried north of Crossfield. Crossfield decided to operate as a “union” church in 1916, with both Methodist and Presbyterian congregants. In 1925, Crossfield officially became part of the newly amalgamated denomination of the United Church of Canada.
In the following years the church building received a variety of renovations and additions. In 1939 the back parlour was added. In 1957, the Inverlea school was attached for use as a Sunday school. Improvements included a balcony, front entrance and, in 1970, the Memorial Carillon.
For several years, the church congregation tried to replace the old building but were unable to move ahead. In November 1998, Crossfield United was destroyed by fire. Thanks to swift action by the janitor, Rob Estes, who was in the building when the electrical fire started, some artifacts were saved. Members of the fire department were able to recover a tapestry of the Lord’s Prayer, 1950 silver goblet, a vintage bible and three stained glass windows. When the fire was extinguished, the main chancel cross made by Walter A. Hurt in 1958, was also recovered. It was a sad period in Crossfield United Church’s history but it provided an opportunity for the dream of a new building to be fulfilled.
Construction commenced on the new church on Ross Street and on December 5, 1999 the first service was held in the home we occupy today. Crossfield United was officially dedicated on March 5, 2000. Our beautiful, historical windows were restored and are presently in our main entrance. The chancel cross is also displayed in our building.
The Madden United Church closed in 2001 and the congregation amalgamated with Crossfield.
Today, Crossfield United Church shares their building with the Town of Crossfield Administration Office.
In 2003, the Town of Crossfield, the Crossfield Legion and Crossfield United Church initiated a tree planting program to honour loved ones at Veterans Peace Park on the north side of Crossfield. Over one hundred and thirty trees were planted in this Memorial Tree Park. The congregation of Crossfield United is proud of their participation in this community project; however, the current site is full and there are no plans to continue the program. Thank you, Crossfield and area, for your support.
