“Be With, Become Like and Live Like Jesus.” That is the motto of Christ Chapel of the Rockies. This orthodox, evangelical, liturgical church welcomes everyone. It seeks to transform lives, communities and the world.
Christ Chapel of the Rockies has a rich history. It started as Saint John’s Mission in 1952. The first service was at Kent School. This was on South University Blvd. and East Hampden Avenue. Dean Paul Roberts from Saint John’s Cathedral officiated. He was assisted by Reverend Gerrit S. Barnes.
Construction began at 2460 East Bates Avenue in July 1953. The first service in the new building was January 17, 1954. Bishop Harold L. Bowen dedicated the structure on February 7, 1954.
Saint John’s Mission became Christ Chapel in 1955. Bishop Joseph S. Minnis named it. In 1956, the congregation became Christ Church. This happened at the Diocese of Colorado’s 70th Annual Convention.
Reverend Gerrit S. Barnes became the first Rector in 1956. He had served the congregation since its start. Bishop Joseph S. Minnis instituted him. Father Barnes retired in 1974. Reverend H. David Wilson then became the second Rector of Christ Church.
The groundbreaking for a new building was in 1960. Remodeling of the original building started in 1961. The first service in the new Sanctuary and Nave took place in October 1961. Bishop Joseph S. Minnis dedicated the new building.
In 1977, construction began on an administrative wing. This wing included a Chapel and Conference Room. It connected the north and south wings. The wing was completed in 1978. Bishop William C. Frey dedicated the new wing. The Chapel was consecrated and named after St. Julian of Norwich.
In 1990, Christ Chapel of the Rockies dedicated a larger worship space. It also added a music or meeting room. Other additions included a commons area, classrooms, and a youth room. Father McGugan became the 6th Rector of Christ Church in 2013.
Christ Chapel of the Rockies is an Episcopal church. It values community. Families and singles are all welcome. The church aims to restore people to unity with God and each other. This happens through Christ.
The vision is to form deeply committed disciples. They learn to “Be With, Become Like and Live Like Jesus.” This is achieved through the Baptismal Covenants. These covenants focus on worship, fellowship, and prayer. They also emphasize resisting evil and proclaiming the Good News. The church encourages service to others. It promotes justice and peace.
Christ Chapel of the Rockies affirms its faith through creeds. The Apostles’ Creed is used at baptism. The Nicene Creed is used at communion. These creeds connect the church to Christians throughout history. They affirm belief in the one God. He created, redeemed, and sanctifies all.
The staff at Christ Chapel of the Rockies includes many dedicated individuals. The Rev. Terry McGugan serves as Rector. Other staff members include Rev. Chuck Whitmore, Emily Ruff, and Heidi Farr. The Rev. Todd Blackham, Fran Berry, and DeeDee Atwood also serve. Alice Bagley, The Rev. Joseph Wolyniak, and Dan Dufford are part of the team. Brady TenBarge, Mindy Tipton, The Rev. John Wengrovius, Tammie Sawicki, and Lynda Hellman contribute too. They all work together to serve the community.
Christ Chapel of the Rockies continues to be a beacon of faith. It offers dynamic worship and a strong Christian community. All are welcome to join in exploring faith. The goal is to live like Jesus.