Founded in 1966 the Bible Way Pentecostal Church stands as a testament to faith. It’s a landmark institution in Montreal’s Black community. This wasn’t always the case. Early services were held at the Westmount YMCA. Many Caribbean immigrants particularly women working under the Caribbean Domestic Workers Scheme attended. They sought a welcoming place of worship.
The initial congregation was small. About 17 children and 20 adults from various Caribbean islands formed this close-knit group. Sunday services were initially a full-day affair. Most brought lunch creating an all-day event. Eventually an evening service was added to meet the growing demand.
As the church grew it moved to Amherst in Montreal’s east end. Its continued expansion led to its current location in Little Burgundy. The Bible Way Pentecostal Church’s growth mirrored that of Montreal’s Black community. As Caribbean women gained citizenship and built their families the church expanded too.
A significant factor was the church’s daycare center. It provided care for about 90 children. It was the first such institution in the Black community. The Bible Way Pentecostal Church also established the Brossard Evangelistic Center. This accommodated the growing congregation requiring bussing from the South Shore. This center too is a fully Black community-built institution.
The Bible Way Pentecostal Church’s influence extends far beyond its walls. It’s considered the origin point for at least five other churches in and around Montreal. Reverend St Clair Knights a Trinidadian immigrant who arrived in 1965 led this impressive growth. He was a legendary spiritual leader. He not only built the church but also established Foyer Nouvelle Vie a facility for seniors on St Jacques Street. He passed away on May 31 2001 at the age of 74 leaving a lasting legacy.
Today the Bible Way Pentecostal Church remains a vital part of Montreal’s religious and cultural landscape. It stands as a reminder of the strength and resilience of the Black community. It’s a place of worship and community support. The church continues to serve as a beacon of faith. It welcomes all who seek solace in its spiritual embrace. Its 50th-anniversary celebration in 2016 showcased its deep roots and enduring spirit. The church invites all to celebrate this remarkable institution.