St. Andrew’s, Stillwater Deconscration Service

On January 28 at 6:30 PM, Bishop Poulson will hold a Deconsecration Service for the current building of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Stillwater. While this moment marks the closing of a chapter, it also opens the door to new beginnings. The Episcopal presence in Stillwater is not ending; rather, a renewed vision is taking shape.

The existing building has faced significant physical challenges in recent years, including issues with air-conditioning, roofing, and infrastructure. As a result, the congregation, in partnership with the Diocese, has made the decision to close the current building and move forward with plans for redevelopment. 

Given its proximity to Oklahoma State University, St. Andrew’s and the property at 3rd and Knoblock in Stillwater has tremendous capacity for missional engagement and growth. While we are just at the beginning of the process to imagine what a revitalized Episcopal presence in Stillwater might look like, the people of St. Andrew’s are walking faithfully into the future, trusting in God and God’s mission to guide the path. The Visioning Committee for the revitalization project, made up of Diocesan staff, representatives from St. Andrew’s and OSU Canterbury, along with professional consultants, have begun their prayerful work to re-envision the property in ways that support the future of St. Andrew’s, OSU Canterbury, and the wider Stillwater community. The goal of this process is to develop a plan that increases missional capacity, addresses emerging needs, and ensures long-term financial sustainability. This work is designed to move intentionally over the next three months.

Bishop Poulson shared his reflections on this transition, saying:

“Saint Andrew’s decision to relocate temporarily and enter into a major redevelopment in partnership with the Diocese was courageous and faithful. The vision of this effort is not just a building project, but a platform for sharing the gospel in new ways at the university, in Stillwater, and beyond.”

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church has a long and rich history in Stillwater dating back to 1893. In 1919, lots were purchased at 3rd and Knoblock, just one block from the southeast corner of the Oklahoma State University campus. A few years later, the original 24-by-40-foot church building was moved to that site. In 1963, the original structure was razed, and the current modern building was constructed. It was designed by communicants and architects Phil Wilber and Mr. and Mrs. Cuthbert Salmon. The building is known widely in Stillwater for its unique stained glass windows, and its wonderful acoustics and organ.

During this season of transition, St. Andrew’s will temporarily relocate for rest and sabbath to Salem Lutheran Church (ELCA) in Stillwater, where the congregation will worship through Pentecost. Beginning in February, the Bishop’s Committee of St. Andrew’s will be entering discernment regarding next steps for on-going worship, formation, and fellowship following Pentecost throughout the rest of the rebuilding process. 

Brad Rickelman, Senior Warden of St. Andrew’s shared his reflections, 

“While we grieve for the loss of our current church facility and all the memories gathered within, we are encouraged to envision a facility more in alignment with the needs and goals for the future. We have an opportunity few congregations are given – the chance to redevelop, rebuild, and recreate our congregations’ home.”

We ask that you join us in prayer for this process by praying with the people of St. Andrew’s and the mission of the Episcopal Church in Stillwater.