Sunny Brae Mission Hall. The Brotherhood of Saint Andrew played an integral role in the establishment of the mission. This group of Scottish men endeavored to emulate Saint Andrew by going out and bringing people to church. Although situated in the north-east of the city of Moncton, the congregation comes from many parts of the city and across "the river" in Riverview. Aptly described as the "little country church in the city," it was opened on September 12, 1906. The first service was conducted by the Rev. Canon W.B. Sisam, Rector of St. George's Anglican Church, with the dedication being conducted by the Rt. Rev. John A. Richardson, Bishop of the diocese of Fredericton.
St. Andrew's is experiencing tremendous growth and renewal over the past few years, and one can certainly understand the reasons why. The feeling of "family" and the informality of the people as one enters, exudes friendliness and love for everyone. Although quite small by today's standards, recent renovations have allowed for more people to worship together. The renovations consisted of cutting out three beautiful arches in the wall which separated the hall from the nave of the church.
On September 1st, 1999 the Rev. Brent Ham, B.A., M.Div., was inducted as the first rector of the parish, by The Ven. Malcolm Berry, Archdeacon in the deanery of Shediac. Prior to Fr. Ham's induction, St. Andrew's was ministered to by the rector of St. George's Anglican Church (Parish of Moncton), and various priests within the diocese. When the decision was made to organize the Parish of Sunny Brae, the parish was amalgamated with St. Mary's Anglican Church in Hillsborough and St. Alban's Anglican Church in Riverside-Albert.
The year 2000 was one of bittersweet experiences for St. Andrew's Anglican Church. Because of such quick growth, and so many younger families coming to worship with us, it was obvious that we would require a "nursery" for the many young children. What started as an idea, soon blossomed into reality. On September 9th, 2000, our NEW nursery was officially opened.
In July of 2003 our rector accepted a position outside the diocese. Our current rector, The Rev. Robert Salloum joined us in December 2003. Rev. Rob, as he prefers people to address him, is committed in both spiritual and physical growth of all peoples. He is further committed in having a strong lay ministry in our parish. Having implemented a monthly healing service which has been well received by the parish community.
Recently, the parish has spread its wings somewhat by implementing a joyous contemporary service once per month, very appropriately called "Prime Time Live", with contemporary praise music, drama interpreting 'the word', fellowship and snacks. The first "Prime Time Alive" service was held Sunday February 19th 2007, at 9:30 a.m., and was received with enthusiasm. The Holy Spirit was definitely in our midst. We have had a monthly Contemporary service since then, and we continue to add to our repertoire of Praise Music, all for the Love of the Lord. Nobody in the worship team is a professional musician, and we welcome anyone wishing to join with us in singing praises to the Lord. Prime Time Alive services are normally at 9:30 a.m. the third Sunday of each month!
