Over 180 Years of Faith
Honouring our rural heritage along the Rideau corridor.
Our Heritage
The Story of Two Communities
Bishop's Mills
Founded around 1840 by brothers Chauncey and Ira Bishop, the hamlet of Bishop's Mills grew into a self-sufficient rural hub with its own mills, stores, and vibrant community life. By 1865, a Presbyterian congregation had formed, eventually building a beautiful stone sanctuary. A Methodist congregation also flourished in the village.
With the historic Church Union of 1925, these separate congregations bravely decided to unite as St. Andrew's United Church, gathering in the stone Presbyterian building. This spirit of cooperation set a vital precedent for our faith community's future.
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Oxford Mills
Situated directly on the water, Oxford Mills developed rapidly as an important milling center in Oxford-on-Rideau Township. As the village expanded, so did the spiritual needs of its residents. Churches, alongside the historic Township Hall, became the focus of public life, hosting suppers, services, and community meetings.
The United Church presence in Oxford Mills has long stood as a testament to working families coming together to support one another through the changing seasons of farming and local industry.
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Forming the Pastoral Charge
Recognizing that rural parishes are stronger together, the congregations of Bishop's Mills and Oxford Mills eventually united to form the Bishop Oxford Pastoral Charge. This cooperative model allows us to share ministry personnel, pool resources, and ensure that the vital presence of The United Church of Canada remains strong, active, and deeply rooted in both hamlets.
Timeline of Faith
Settlement & Milling
The Bishop brothers establish mills, laying the foundation for Bishop's Mills. Oxford Mills also grows as an important local industrial and social hub.
Early Congregations
The Presbyterian congregation begins worshipping in Bishop's Mills, gathering in an early frame structure.
Stone Sanctuary Built
The solid, recognizable stone church building is constructed in Bishop's Mills to replace earlier wooden structures, serving as a lasting testament of faith.
The Church Union
The United Church of Canada is formed. Local Methodist and Presbyterian congregations unite under one roof, establishing St. Andrew's United Church.
A Shared Future
The formalization of the Bishop Oxford Pastoral Charge ensures that ministry and community care thrive cooperatively in modern rural Eastern Ontario.
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Honoring our past while faithfully walking into the future God has prepared.