Russel Sawchuk: Pioneer Churches Photo Exhibition

Russell Sawchuk’s Pioneer Churches On the Prairies project is dedicated to preserving the memories and images of these pioneer churches. To date 118 places of worship have been documented. The upcoming exhibition Pioneer Churches at ACUA will give viewers a close and personal look at this project on a grand scale, presented by Russell himself. An important priority for the pioneers was worship to support their spiritual and religious needs. As a result, thousands of parishes and small churches, of all denominations, were built across the prairies. Money and resources were scarce, but with great determination, sacrifice, and effort, beautiful churches and their associated halls were constructed. Parish life was an integral part of early pioneer days. The church services provided them with spiritual strength to deal with the many challenges and hardships.