Imagine German immigrants arriving in Canada after World War II. They yearned for a place to worship together. This is the story of Immanuel Baptist Church in Vancouver.
In December 1955 Pastor Gerhard Gebauer declared he felt called to start a new church. He served Bethany Baptist Church at the time. In January 1956 a core group of believers met at Bethany. They chose the name Immanuel meaning “God with us”. This marked the humble beginnings of Immanuel Baptist Church.
God quickly provided for the new church. In March three houses side-by-side went up for sale. The price was $13800 a significant amount then. The church members chose not to demolish the homes. Instead they carefully disassembled them piece by piece. They sold what they could and saved the rest. These resourceful men were recycling before it was popular.
Many skilled workers joined Immanuel Baptist Church. They volunteered their time and talents. They worked during the day and built in the evenings. The building project was a large financial challenge. These were new immigrants trying to establish themselves. Yet they gave sacrificially and joyfully. God blessed their efforts and their passion.
Originally Immanuel Baptist Church served German immigrants. Today it serves people from all nations. It is Anglo Korean Chinese and Filipino. It is also Hispanic and Slavic. God has gathered people from around the world. They are unified in Christ. Immanuel Baptist Church empowers them to point others to Him.
Community groups are central to Immanuel’s mission. These small groups of 4-12 people connect with each other. They grow in their faith together. They study God’s Word and care for one another. They pray and work together for Immanuel Church.
These groups meet in homes throughout Vancouver. Trained leaders guide the groups. They receive support from the pastoral staff. Groups meet weekly. Many participate in community service projects. These projects help the church and the wider community. Within these groups people can ask questions. They can build relationships. They can apply the gospel to their lives.
Immanuel Baptist Church extends an invitation to everyone. They hope everyone at Immanuel will join a community group. Lead Pastor Lyle Anderson guides Immanuel Baptist Church today. The church is located at 109 East 40th Avenue in Vancouver. You can reach them at 604-327-4010.
So remember Immanuel Baptist Church. It began with a small group of German immigrants. It has grown into a diverse community. It welcomes people from all nations. Immanuel Baptist Church continues to serve Vancouver. It points people to God.