The Story of St. Andrew Presbyterian Church
The story of St. Andrew Presbyterian Church is one of faith, vision, and a deep commitment to sharing the Gospel in the Augusta community.
In 1970, the leadership and congregation of Greene Street Presbyterian Church in Augusta began exploring ways to expand their ministry beyond the downtown area. Their vision was to create a satellite suburban ministry location that could serve the growing population outside the city center. The long-term hope was to establish a mission center that might one day become its own congregation.
As this vision took shape, land was acquired in 1973, and volunteers from the congregation began preparing the property for a future church home.
Building a Church Through Faith and Service
A major step forward came in 1976 when a barracks-style building from the military surplus at Fort Gordon Army Hospital was purchased, divided into two sections, and relocated to the current Wheeler Road property. With the help of a $50,000 grant from the Presbyterian Church in the United States (now the Presbyterian Church USA) and generous donations from church members, the congregation was able to purchase five acres of land debt-free.
Over the next three years, dedicated volunteers worked evenings and weekends transforming the surplus barracks into a functioning church building. Professionals completed the brickwork, flooring, HVAC installation, and the distinctive front window, while much of the carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, drywall, insulation, windows, and painting was done by members of the congregation themselves.
Their work and dedication created the sanctuary, foyer, and offices that would serve as the church’s first home.
The Beginning of a New Congregation
The Service of Dedication for the new Greene Street satellite church was held on January 14, 1979, coinciding with Greene Street Presbyterian Church’s centennial year.
During the early years, Pastor Robert Hunt led Sunday services at both locations. As the congregation continued to grow, the ministry at the suburban campus developed its own identity and mission.
In 1990, the two congregations formally separated, and Greene Street West Presbyterian Church became St. Andrew Presbyterian Church. Reverend Robert Hunt served as the church’s pastor during this important transition.
Growth and Continued Ministry
Over the following years, St. Andrew continued to grow as a congregation devoted to worship, fellowship, and service. In 2005, the Hunt Fellowship Hall was constructed, providing additional space for gatherings, ministry programs, and church events. Other improvements and updates were also made to the original buildings over time.
In June 2007, Reverend Ed Rees was ordained and installed as pastor of St. Andrew Presbyterian Church. Pastor Rees faithfully served the congregation for 17 years, helping guide the church through seasons of spiritual growth, mission work, and community engagement.
Continuing the Journey
Today, St. Andrew Presbyterian Church continues the mission first envisioned decades ago—to share the Gospel, nurture faith, and serve the community in Christ’s name. What began as a small suburban outreach has grown into a welcoming congregation where worship, fellowship, prayer, and service remain at the heart of church life.
As we look to the future, we remain grateful for the faithful members, pastors, and leaders who helped build this church and for the generations who will continue its ministry in the years ahead.
