About Us
A Place of Welcome and Faith
St. Peter’s Anglican Church is a warm and inclusive space where people are encouraged to explore faith, ask meaningful questions, and grow in their relationship with God. Part of the Diocese of Europe, the church fosters a diverse community from many national backgrounds.
History and BeginningsNestled in the Swiss Alps, St. Peter’s Church has served English-speaking visitors and residents of Château d’Oex since 1899. Built during a period when British tourists fell in love with the region, the church quickly became a central place of worship and fellowship.
The Berthod brothers, local hoteliers, donated land for the church in 1898, and construction began soon after. The foundation stone was laid on July 1, 1899, with a time capsule placed beneath it. Despite limited time and resources, the church opened for services by September of the same year.
As the congregation grew, an additional aisle was added in 1905 to increase seating. By the 1930s, multiple Sunday services were held regularly, and attendance reached over 8,600 people in 1932.
During World War I, the village of Château d’Oex hosted hundreds of wounded British soldiers. St. Peter’s offered spiritual care and further strengthened the connection between the local community and the UK.
Caring for the ChurchSt. Peter’s has been well maintained throughout its history. Electric heating was installed in 1931, and the roof was replaced in 1964. A major restoration in 2017 brought modern updates, including new wiring, under-pew heating, triple glazing, and the restoration of stained-glass windows. Additional window repairs followed in 2018, and the church’s exterior was repainted in 2025.
Today, St. Peter’s remains a vibrant and active part of the community, honoring its rich heritage while continuing to serve the needs of worshippers in the present day.