Elevate Church

Amidst the vibrant tapestry of Auckland, rises Elevate Church, a beacon of hope and belonging. Elevate Church, not just a building, but a testament to a vision born in 1976. A young woman named Margie Willers, touched by cerebral palsy, shared a dream with a small group gathered in a family home on Auckland’s North Shore. Her vision was simple yet profound: to create a space where people with disabilities could thrive, embraced by faith and community. This small gathering marked the humble beginnings of what would eventually become the Elevate Christian Disability Trust. Elevate Church stands as a testament to this vision, its walls echoing with stories of lives transformed. Originally called “Christians with Disabilities,” the group quickly outgrew the confines of homes. By 1981, renamed the “Christian Fellowship for Disabled,” they numbered over 80 members, necessitating larger meeting spaces. Their journey led them to their first dedicated Drop-In Centre in Balmoral in 1989. A defining moment arrived in the mid-1990s. The Trust acquired its own premises on Mount Smart Road in Onehunga. This marked a significant milestone in their journey. It provided a permanent home, symbolizing stability and growth. In 2012, the Trust underwent a transformation, mirroring its own evolution. The name changed to Elevate Christian Disability Trust, a reflection of their expanding vision. The new name captured the essence of their mission: to uplift and empower individuals with disabilities, helping them reach their full potential in Christ. Today, Elevate Church isn’t merely a physical location. It’s a network of branches across New Zealand and even overseas. It’s a vibrant tapestry of ministries that cater to diverse needs, all united under the banner of Elevate Christian Disability Trust. The church’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond its walls. Their initiatives like Disability Awareness Sunday, held on the third Sunday of June, highlight the contributions of individuals with disabilities. Their training seminars equip caregivers and volunteers with practical skills and promote understanding. Elevate Church’s legacy is one of unwavering dedication to empowering individuals with disabilities. It’s a story of a small seed of faith that blossomed into a thriving community. A place where everyone belongs, where potential is celebrated, and where lives are elevated through the power of Christ.