The history of this church dates back to the years 1917 to 1918 when the residents of the area gathered at homes to worship in the orthodox faith of their forefathers. As the area settled, a church was built with the efforts of the people of the area, both orthodox and other faiths. The building was shared for the purpose of worship.
In 1917, the small group purchased a 2- acre site from the C.P.R. for the purpose of a church and graveyard. The first executives were Nick Harrish (Hawrysh), Andrew Paholko (Pacholka), and Peter Shymansky (Shymunsky). In the summer of 1918, the land was cleared and construction began on the church that still stands there today. The building was built with materials and labor donated by all the members.
In the fall of 1919, the first Thanksgiving service was held, while the church not quite finished. Originally, it was the Buford area. In the 1930’s Buford moved to be closer to the rail line on Range Road 275. The Buford settlement name was then changed to Glen Park, its present site. Since Thorsby was already there in 1927, the address became Thorsby. Serving the Orthodox group in those days were Reverend Amphilogy and Reverend Archmandrite Arseny.
In the 1940’s the original siding was removed and replaced by new stucco. In the 1950’s singles and foundation were upgraded. A new Iconostasis was built by the skillful hands of Mr. Duruda. Materials were supplied by the other members of the church. In about 1943, a hall was built from the siding removed from the church. The hall is used during the summer for gatherings and annual picnics.
In 1960’s, the church interior took a new look with new wall paneling and new ceiling. Power was installed as well as propane heating. In 1987, the church was repainted on the outside The Iconostasis and interior were also redecorated.
After 105 years, the “Little Church on the Hill” as it is often referred to by local people still stands. It is fulfilling the needs of all the families who worship the Orthodox faith that their forefathers established for lifelong fulfillment.
The cemetery is in the same yard. All buried there are identified and marked with a headstone.
Play Memory Eternal Chants
GPS Co-ordinates: 53.191944, -113.998967
Cemetery Co-ordinates: 53.19197, -113.99959
Affiliation: Patriarchial Parishes of Russian Orthodox Church in Canada
Financial support generously provided by: 