As posted by EMC News, December 7, 2012.
EMC Events - A French soldier, Francis Lombard, settled in the area in the 1820s, or so the story goes, opened an Inn, and then, many things happened! A series of mills were located in Lombardy, drawing power from Otter Creek, shops, including the tradesmen's shops were established, hotels and taverns, eventually a cheese factory and a post office all of which served travelers passing through the region. The village of Lombardy also served as the seat of government for South Elmsley. Although Lombardy declined as a commercial centre in the 20th century, with its three churches it continues to serve as a social centre for the ward: United Church, the Roman Catholic Church and the Anglican Church.
Holy Trinity Anglican Church, formerly known as “The Church of the Trinity”, was established in 1862 amidst the hustle and bustle of this thriving community. Over the past 150 years, regardless of its name, Holy Trinity Anglican Church has helped one another, their neighbour, the community, those outside the community and thousands around the world.
It is because of this the current congregation celebrates the work of God in their midst. Being witness to God’s loving providence, the congregation will hold a Eucharistic service on Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, at 10 a.m. We are hopeful that former parishioners will be able to attend this special occasion so that previous acquaintances will be rekindled, stories shared, laughs and good times recalled.
As the congregation prepares for this celebration, we ask readers if they have stories of the church’s history to share them with us. All would be welcomed and can be sent to Holy Trinity Anglican Church P.O. Box 69 Portland ON K0G 1V0 or to Rev. Valerie Kelly at vkelly@ontario.anglican.ca.
Perhaps you were/are involved in outreach programs such as the Tri-Church Pancake Dinner, or the monthly Good Food Box program. Many have taken part in the Relay for Life walk, perhaps the Primate’s World Relief & Development Fund walk-a-thon held annually for the past 27 years. Maybe you donate to “Undie Sunday” where all donations go to the Brockville shelter and the Women’s Shelter of Ottawa. Whether you have been walking, handling food, buying undies, financially supporting a child through the Sleeping Children Around the World or the “Shoebox” program your efforts do not go unnoticed. The congregation of Holy Trinity would be delighted to know of your involvement.
I hear often, I have contributed in the past but I just can’t do it anymore. I don’t have the energy, I must be getting old! One thing I remind these parishioners is they can still pray for others in need and the ministry and outreach of the church. So whether your contribution to the life and ministry of the church was “in front” of or “behind” the scenes, it has all and continues to matter.
God has been very generous to the parishioners of Holy Trinity Anglican Church and they in turn have shown God’s love in their community. And for that on Sunday, Dec. 9, we give thanks to God.
Submitted by Rev. Valerie Kelly, Incumbent, Parish of the Rideau
