A Brief History
Lacombe Evangelical Free Church: A Legacy of Worship and Christian Community Since 1939
When Ken (a jeweller) and Verna Jardine moved to Lacombe in 1939, they desired to begin a local evangelical gospel witness. They and others started to meet for evening services and Bible studies in the former Oddfellows Hall (upstairs above what is now H&R Block on 50 Street). Mr. Jardine, along with guest speakers, led the work.
Gospel Outreach 1939 to 1942
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Notes taken from an early Bulletin:
First Church Service
As the fellowship grew, they moved to a building where Leto’s Restaurant is now located. Reverend Bob Simpson from Ontario was called to be the Pastor. The first official church service was held during a terrible blizzard on November 15, 1942. There were only 8 people present.
The growing congregation soon felt the need for its own building. Ken Jardine purchased a building currently housing ‘The Friendship Company—a Seventh-Day Adventist church’ for $200. Enthusiastic volunteers transformed this old chop mill into Calvary Tabernacle church, which later became affiliated with the Fellowship of Gospel Churches.
1944 – 1964
Outreach into the area
Over the years, our church group extended its reach by establishing branch Sunday Schools in various districts—places like Iowalta, Meadowbrook, Dakota, Pleasant Hills, Satinwood, and Wolfville. But it wasn’t just about buildings and classrooms; it was about hearts opening wide. Our dedicated volunteers didn’t just teach—they also picked up children, their laughter echoing through car rides to Sunday School. It’s these small acts of love that weave the fabric of our community.
A new association and a new building for a growing church family
In 1956, the Fellowship of Gospel Churches affiliated with the Evangelical Free Church of America. The Lacombe congregation voted to join, and its name was changed to “Calvary Evangelical Free Church”. After several renovations and additions, Pastor John Martens and the congregation decided a larger building was necessary. This is the present building, erected in 1964, on C&E Trail.
In 1982, a new front addition was added containing additional offices, a nursery, a larger foyer and meeting rooms.
Sanctuary Pre-Renovation
1982-2015
Recent Updates
In 2014, a wind, rain and hail storm significantly damaged the west side of the church. After some fundraising, we hired contractors to repair the damage and update the windows and the look of our building.
A short time later, a lighted cross was added to the west side of the building.
We recently transformed our sanctuary through extensive renovations. Out went the outdated projector TVs, and in their place now stands a sleek ceiling mounted projector, ready to illuminate our worship space.
Amidst the challenges of COVID-19, church leaders made an innovative move: installing a camera that now allows our services to be experienced remotely. No matter where you are, you can join us virtually!
Back in 2023, our dedicated volunteers rolled up their sleeves and embarked on a day-long mission: they meticulously repaired the roof and eaves of our storage garage, completely replacing the shingles. Their teamwork and determination made it possible!e!
Mother Goose Playschool now operates in our facility. They renovated our downstairs space and installed a new sidewalk. Mother Goose Playschool has served Lacombe for decades. We are delighted to have this organization with us, as it helps young people have fun while learning.
What does God have in store for us next? Join us and help us find out!
Lacombe Evangelical Free Church – under construction
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