Lombardy United Church
Updated: March 1, 2004
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By the 1880's, Lombardy was established as a growing and prosperous community situated approximately mid-way between the cities of Kingston and Ottawa, the nearest town being Smiths Falls. For some years, worship services had been held in the community hall and in homes. In 1886, the Methodist Church was built at the north end of the village. The membership at the time of the building was thirty one and the number of families was approximately twenty two. Over the years the membership increased and in 1900 the membership was more than sixty. The minister of this church lived in the parsonage across the road from the church. A four point preaching appointment was formed with the Vandusen church on the Merrickville Road, a little stone church on the road to Perth and Shane's school.
In 1927, Lombardy Methodist church became Lombardy United Church and an appointment of the Elmsley Lombardy Pastoral Charge, with Bethel Rideau Ferry and St. Andrew's Port Elmsley, both having been Presbyterian churches. Since this time the minister has been residing at Rideau Ferry. A Sunday School hall was built on the rear of the church in 1983. Throughout the years, attendance has varied greatly. Now, at the beginning of a new century, although few in number, Lombardy United Church congregation is comprised of a faithful, friendly group of people, the majority of whom attend worship service on a regular basis.
Unique to Lombardy church is its location adjacent to two other Christian churches, providing an excellent opportunity for increased ecumenical interaction. A small start in this direction has been made, demonstrated by the use of our hall and washroom facilities by Blessed Sacrament Church, the Roman Catholic Church next door, in exchange for their assistance with our grass mowing and snow plowing arrangements. For the past two years, the three churches in Lombardy village - Anglican, Roman Catholic and United - have hosted a community pancake supper on Shrove Tuesday, with proceeds going to the food bank in 2001 and to the Dialysis Unit of the Perth and Smiths Falls Hospital in 2002. Everyone is welcome to worship at Lombardy United Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 o'clock.