History

Robertson-Wesley United Church was formed in 1971 through the union of two storied congregations: Wesley Methodist and Robertson Presbyterian. Together, they brought a rich legacy of faith, service, and community to the heart of Edmonton.

Wesley Methodist Church

Wesley began in 1907 with tent gatherings before building a wood-frame church on 114 Street. In 1913, a new brick sanctuary opened on 117 Street. For nearly 60 years, Wesley served the Oliver community. When the congregation joined Robertson in 1971, proceeds from the building’s sale were used to create the Wesley Trust Fund, supporting local community initiatives to this day.

Robertson Presbyterian Church

Founded in 1909 and named after Presbyterian missionary James Robertson, the church built its current Gothic Revival sanctuary in 1913 at 123 Street and 102 Avenue. The design—curved oak pews, balconies, and a once-prominent 30-metre steeple—was based on blueprints from First Baptist Church in Calgary. The Memorial Chapel and Hall, added in the 1950s, expanded the church’s community spaces.

Art & Architecture

Our sanctuary is home to a remarkable collection of stained glass windows by five makers and a 36-stop Gabriel Kney tracker organ installed in 1979. The church was named an Edmonton Heritage Building in 1989 and a Historic Site in 2004—one of the few remaining pre-WWI architectural gems in the city.

Celebrating Over a Century of Community

In 2014, Robertson-Wesley United Church celebrated 100 years since its first worship service in our historic sanctuary. Construction of the building began in the spring of 1913, and the first service was held on January 25, 1914. To mark the centennial, The Right Rev. Gary Paterson, then-Moderator of the United Church of Canada, joined us as guest preacher.

In 2024, we honoured our 110th anniversary with a special worship service and fellowship celebration, gathering in gratitude for the past and hope for the future.
👉 Watch the 110th anniversary service

For over a century, our building has stood as a landmark at the edge of downtown Edmonton—a place of worship, outreach, music, and community connection. Its towering spire, warm brick façade, and beautiful stained glass continue to inspire all who pass through its doors.