It's been a little over a year since tragedy struck with the deliberate destruction of the 142-year old McDougall Memorial Church and yet its society remains vibrant and determined to carry on with its vision.

Starting at 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 10, the McDougall Stoney Mission Society will be holding their annual spring service at the site where the charred remains of the church are a grim reminder of the May 22, 2017 fire determined to be arson. In an event they've labelled "Forward Together," they invite the public to come to join them as they sing songs, share stories and talk about the future of the historic site.

Their mission remains to preserve, maintain and interpret the historic McDougall Stoney Mission church, site and landmarks for the benefit of all visitors worldwide, for generations to come. They marvel at the opportunity to tell of the pioneer heritage of Western Canada that is uniquely reflected in the story of the Morleyville Settlement.

The society continues to work with the Alberta government to explore the options for rebuilding the church but it also invites people to continue to utilize its interpretive walk, enjoy the vista and partake in their programs. 

The McDougall Church built in 1875 by Reverend George McDougall was the heart of Southern Alberta's first pioneer settlement, It was restored in 1952 and named a historic site by both the United Church of Canada and the Alberta Government in 1979.