Humboldt Parish

Founded in 1907 St. Andrew's has lived through many ups and downs in its 117 years of existence. While never a large congregation, its family-style size is both a strength and a weakness in a region historically characterized by German Roman Catholic settlers with a Benedictine monastery at 10 km distance whose monks staffed the numerous RC parishes. The Anglican congregation nevertheless managed to become part of the Christian tapestry, along with St. Peter's Mancroft country church to the west and Watson's St. Bride's parish at 40 km east (closed in 2022). Today's average Sunday attendance is between 20-27, with about 35 households on the parish records. Our membership is diminishing due to age, health challenges and moving. The few young families seldom attend, overwhelmed with work and the pressures of raising children in today's society.

The Covid years were hard; any small gains in new members attained before Covid vanished in the wake of the pandemic. The small core of seasoned parishioners are steadfast and highly committed to their church. We host a weekly Social Drop-in for vulnerable adults who live alone or struggle with life challenges. Our music ministry hosts two concerts each year which are well attended by the locals. This year we are resuming the Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper as well as hosting the Lenten Lunches. Given our central and accessible location in Humboldt has become a coveted rental venue. A Philipino church group rents our hall weekly for worship services. Along with the rental income from the rectory, this source of revenue is a welcome supplement to parishioners' contributions, enough to afford a half-time incumbent. We look to a fragile future with bated breath, while cultivating gratitude for today's grace in belonging to God's family at St. Andrew's.