The parish itself, however, is over four times as old, the original St. Columba, a little log building, having been erected in 1806.
In the case of St. Columba it could be said that "Fifth Time Was a Charm", as this, the fifth St. Columba to be built in the area, follows churches from 1806, 1825, 1846 and 1920. Though there was quite a bit of dissention and controversy within the congregation as to where the 1920 church should be built, and even how many churches should be built, the original site was chosen, as it was for this church, and one church was built.
A low, single story building of contemporary styling, this church is mostly sanctuary, this large enough to seat a couple hundred or more. Large Glulam "Hockey Stick" beams support the gable roof, while down the side walls are beautiful square stained glass windows, each one dedicated to past parishioners. More stained glass adorns the end walls and the back of the altar.
Early settlers to East Point built their first Roman Catholic Church in 1806, a simple log cabin design. The second church was erected and completed nineteen years later in 1825, a wood frame building that was finished inside with a ceiling, fresh paint and gallery. The congregation of St. Columba grew over the next few years, so much so, that in 1846 a larger building was required. This included an attached vestry that proved to be too small for its needs; a larger one replaced it in 1885. At the same time as these renovations occurred, twenty two new pews were added for the still growing church community.
In the church in 1846, a beautiful piece of needle work hung above the altar; embroidered by French ladies of previous centuries. The Stations of the Cross that adorned the walls of the church were also an intricate and distinctive piece of artwork. As well, the bell that chimed at St. Columba could be heard for seven miles, a distinct and beautiful sound.
Early in the year of 1917 the newly renovated and remodelled church of 1846, was completely destroyed by fire. All of the beautiful pieces of art, vestments and statues were lost. However, soon after this fire a new parochial building was erected to house services until a new church could be built. The building of a new brick church began in 1918 and was dedicated in 1920.
It was an unfortunate decision that the church was built from brick, because five years after its completion it was in need of repairs. These repairs continued from 1925 until its abandonment in 1963; it was finally demolished in 1964. It was estimated that costs over this period of time exceeded $90 000. Construction of a new church was completed in 1965, until this time celebrations took place in the Parish Hall. The basement was finished with classrooms and a kitchen in 1973; as well the front entrance to the church has been modified many times since 1973. The installation of many stain glass windows has contributed largely to the beauty of the church.
From Island Narratives