Gibsons United Church

A Short History

Submitted by Betty Paterson 

Gibsons United Church originated around 1900 as a Methodist congregation, and for many years was located at the head of the Government Wharf overlooking Gibsons Harbour. The tiny church was very active with worship services, Sunday school, choir concerts, congregational suppers, and men’s and women’s groups. Gibsons United was the mother church for the Davis Bay, Roberts Creek, and Port Mellon Communities.

 

In 1956, a small core group of church members decided it was time to build a larger church to support the expanding community.  They purchased the present site and with financial assistance were able to undertake the building of the shells of both the Sanctuary and the Christian Education center.  The first service in the unfinished Sanctuary was held on 6th July 1961.  The church became self-supporting in 1975 and was debt free by 1978.

 

During this time, Gibsons was also continuing its support to the people in Davis Bay and Sechelt who had established their own church, Saint John’s United in Davis Bay.  Gibsons continued with this commitment until Saint John’s became self-sufficient in 1987.  In 1998, both Gibsons and Saint John’s (until then known as the West Howe Sound Pastoral Charge) became self-supporting, each with its own minister.

 

Gibsons United implemented a Church Council in 1993 to manage the duties of the church.  This successful endeavor involves some twenty-five members and adherents and we are honoured to have some of the original core group still active in our church.  Our Council has proven itself to be very supportive of our ministers and the congregation.  We have become active in many ways including improving communications within the church and with our neighbours, enriching the life of the church, increasing community outreach and maintaining the church facilities.

 

The Gibsons congregation includes individuals and family groups of all ages, types, and incomes.  Most of our members live within a couple of miles to the church, but some come from as far away as Sechelt. Together, we work inclusively to share our resources and skills to bring a Christian spirit of love and support to each other and our community, as a growing and changing church family.