The Archbishop of York is to lead an outdoor service that will round off centenary celebrations at St Andrew’s Church, Huntington Road, York.

The celebrations, which began last November, will conclude on 22 June with a service of thanksgiving marking one hundred years of ministry to New Earswick and South Huntington. Members of the community are invited to bring folding chairs or picnic rugs, and to join regular worshippers on the grassy area behind the church ready to enjoy the sunshine! The Archbishop will also confirm six members of the church at the service.

The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu said, ‘I am looking forward to joining St Andrew’s Church centenary celebrations, come rain or shine! I know that family and friends will be gathering in prayer on behalf of those seeking confirmation, it’s a special time. It’s fantastic that they want to be part of God’s movement for change in our world. Come along and join me in praying for them.’

The Revd Ian Birkinshaw, Rector of All Saints’ and St Andrew’s, said, ‘We are planning a lively, family-friendly event with bunting, ice-cream, up-beat music, and personal stories. St Andrew’s was opened on 8 November 1913 by the then Archbishop of York, Cosmo Gordon Lang; and when the church was extended in 1938 Archbishop William Temple laid the foundation stone, so we are delighted that Archbishop Sentamu is able to join us to bring our centenary celebrations to a close.’

St Andrew’s Church began life as the project of Rev. Edwin Storrs-Fox, vicar of All Saints’ Church. His fund-raising campaign attracted contributions ranging from £100 from the Rowntree’s Village Trust to ten shillings from ‘a poor penitent sinner’. The original ‘mission room’ was built in what was once the industrial heart of the village, opposite Earswick railway station where The Flag and Whistle pub now stands. The York Herald reported at the time: ‘The church is small and plain but it will be comfortably fitted and fully equipped for its purpose.’ The original building now forms the narthex of the current church.

As part of the centenary celebrations, members of All Saints’ and St Andrew’s have been working hard to develop facilities at St Andrew’s. Mr Birkinshaw said, ‘St Andrew’s is used by church and community groups practically all year round, seven days a week. So far we have re-landscaped the grounds, provided ramped access to the building for wheelchair and buggy users, refurbished the hall, opened up the lobby area, and installed a new commercially-equipped kitchen. We are currently working to provide better toilets, with accessible facilities. Progress has been slow, partly because we can only go as fast as funds will allow, but mainly because St Andrew’s is such a busy place.’

The celebration service on 22 June will begin at 11.00 a.m. Members of the local community are welcome to attend.