Church History

A Look back…

1935-1969

Rev. Samuel Wilson began a pioneer work conducting worship services in a tent on Talbot Street, Blenheim. Rev. Gordon Mills was instrumental in moving the church to a hall at 58 Talbot St. W. and in 1937, the first Glad Tidings Tabernacle was built on Ellen Street. The following men also pastored the church while it was on Ellen Street.

Rev. Victor Brown (1941 – 1943)

Rev. Bruce Stalwood (1943 – 1947)

Rev. Bill Churchill (1947 – 1950)

Rev. Don Norcross (1950 – 1952)

Rev. George Eizenga (1952 – 1954)

Rev. Douglas Rudd (1954 – 1958)

Rev. Willard Chapman (1958 – 1961)

Rev. Edward Oakey (1961 – 1964)

Rev. Ron Crossman (1964 – 1967)

Rev. Wesley Janzen (1967 – 1969)

1969-1982

In 1969 Rev. John Shepherd became the senior pastor with a dream for a new expanded work in Blenheim. In May of 1972, a new church was dedicated on Catherine St. Rev. Shepherd was succeeded by Rev. Bill Lavender (1974 – 1978), Rev. Clayton Cook pastored during 1978 but died suddenly and was succeeded by Rev. Rick Hiebert (1978 – 1982)

1982-1996

In 1982 Rev. Ron Matheson became the senior pastor and was instrumental in fulfilling his vision for yet a larger facility. In June 1988 the congregation took a huge step of faith by implementing a building program to raise funds for a new church. For 2 years services were held at the high school while the new building was being constructed. In February 1992, the church moved into the new facilities on #3 Hwy. This new church was renamed Glad Tidings Community Church.

1996-2004

In March 1996, Rev. Douglas Rowley became the senior pastor of the church. During his 8 year pastorate, he introduced the “Mustard Seed” program to reduce the indebtedness of the church. This has been accomplished as God has blessed and continues to bless the congregation and the debt continues to come down.

2004- Present

In May 2004 Rev. Ken Powell accepted the invitation to become the new senior pastor of Glad Tidings Community Church.

Church History

Glad Tidings “Tabernacle”

established in 1935!

Glad Tidings Community Church