Bikers participating in the Sea-to-Sea bike tour across Canada held an impromptu hymn sing at the clapboard church that was home to the first Christian Reformed Church in Canada. Accompanied by a pump organ, the cyclists harmonized with the aid of the 1934 red Psalter Hymnals in the church’s pews. “We began by singing hymns and then switched to psalms, using only whole notes. It sounded wonderful and unifying,” said Julia Tuininga, a member of Terrace, British Columbia, Christian Reformed Church. The Sea to Sea tour, which ended on Sept. 4, celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Christian Reformed Church in Canada.
The clapboard building was home to Monarch CRC (later known as Nobleford CRC), and the building has been restored and is situated at the Prairie and Tractor Museum in Picture Butte, Alberta.
About the Author
Jenny deGroot is a freelance media review and news writer for The Banner. She lives on Swallowfield Farm near Fort Langley B.C. with her husband, Dennis. Before retirement she worked as a teacher librarian and assistant principal.
