ST. ANDREW'S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Église presbytérienne St. Andrew

St. Andrew’s Church is the oldest congregation of Scottish origin in Canada.  It was founded in 1759 upon the arrival of the 78th Fraser Highlanders Regiment who served under General Wolfe.  For several years following their arrival in Québec City, the Scottish community used several different premises for their celebrations but mainly and for many years, worshipped in a room set apart as a Chapel in the Jesuit College, where the City Hall now stands.  However, the congregation wanted a permanent Church ot their own.

The community presented a petition to this effect, signed by 148 people. Finally, in 1810, the Presbyterian community was given land granted by King George III. On it, the congregation erected the present building.  This church, consecrated to St. Andrew, stands on the triangular piece of land bordered by the Chaussée des Écossais, Ste-Anne and Cook, within the fortifications of Old Québec.

Its interior layout, though carried out according to a then common European style, is rarely seen in other Canadian churches and therefore distinguishes this church from other places of worship. Its originality lies in a long front wall, in a raised pulpit that stands at the centre of the building, as well as in the pews that are placed to form a semi-circle.  Two flags are on display,  reproductions of the 78th Fraser Highlanders' regimental colours and of the King's colours (a regimental emblem representing the Crown). 

At the back of the church is the organ and choir loft, formerly the Governor's Gallery.  The organ was donated in 1900 by Mr John Breakey and placed in the former Governer's gallery, facing the pulpit. Since the installation, the organ had two important restorations : in 1934 by Casavant Brothers and in 1971 by the British organ building firm of Hill, Norman and Beard.  It is currently undergoing renovations and repairs.

Stained glass windows that were donated by Québec families of Scottish roots also decorate the church.   Several plaques, commemorating certain important figures of the community, such as former pastors that marked the city’s history and the young men who sacrificed their lives on far-off battlefields, are hung on the church walls. 

By visiting the exposition room adjoining the church, you can discover for yourself the history of the Scottish in Québec City, as well as the Presbyterian community and the affection that this community manifests towards God and religious practices.

Points of Interest :

• Historical Plaques
• The Exposition Room

Church Hours

Church regular services every Sunday at 10:30 am, with coffee meeting and greeting immediately after.

June 23 to September 4
Monday to Sunday: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Upon reservation at all other times.