Beaver Staff
Resplendent in its new siding, the Old Hay Bay Church will have to wait until next year to really showcase its updated exterior.
Although the sun shines brightly on the South Shore of Hay Bay, the outside of the historic church, which was built in 1792, bears a sign that reads ‘closed for the season due to COVID – 19’.
A summer that was planned to be busy with events and visitors seeing the new siding and renovations will be postponed until 2021.
The board’s decision to stay closed will protect the health and safety of visitors, custodians, and the board, as well as the preservation of artifacts and structures. The board says it is committed to continuing the preservation, restoration and improvements that can be done over the summer months adhering to all government mandated guidelines. Those interested can watch the progress on their Facebook page and at www.oldhaybaychurch.ca
The volunteer custodians and the church’s board of trustees will continue to promote the important role this church played in the history of the settlement of the area by many United Empire Loyalists. This church was instrumental in the rise of Methodism, which led to the creation of the United Church of Canada in 1925.
The board says they are grateful for the financial donations that continue to support the general and restoration work at the church, cottage and grounds. Donations can be made at Canadahelps.org or through the information on their website.
Fundraising for the restoration project, which is expected to cost $300,000, began in October 2017.