“Ever wondered about a church that started in a school gym?” Reality Church Vancouver began its journey in February 2009. It wasn’t in a grand cathedral. No. It was in a school. The Charles Dickens School to be exact. This wasn’t just any church. It was a fresh expression of faith a community built on love and a desire to serve Vancouver.
Founded by the BC MB Conference Board of Church Extension and Westside Church this dynamic group was spearheaded by church planter Kristian Martens. They were part of the British Columbia and Canadian Conferences of Mennonite Brethren Churches. Imagine the energy the dedication it took to build a congregation from the ground up. In 2010 they had 26 members. Their attendance was about 100 people. By 2015 this had grown to 100 members and 200 in attendance. This small but mighty community was making a difference.
But Reality Church Vancouver wasn’t destined to stay in the school gym forever. In 2015 after much prayer and searching they found a new home. A charming little church building at 19th and Prince Albert in East Vancouver. This wasn’t just any building. It was a Lutheran church a beautiful stepped gable design a testament to Danish Lutheran architecture of the late 1930s. It had fantastic acoustics perfect for their growing choir. This move wasn’t just about bricks and mortar though. It was about becoming a part of the rich history of the community. It was a symbol of growth and stability.
But Reality Church Vancouver isn’t just about a building. It’s about the people the spirit of community that has brought them together. It is a church that actively works to support other churches in the area. They are a vibrant part of the East Vancouver tapestry. It’s a church that has grown from a small gathering in a school gym to a thriving community in a historic building. They are a testament to faith persistence and the power of community. So next time you are in East Vancouver take some time to visit Reality Church Vancouver. You might just find yourself feeling the warmth and welcoming spirit of this unique community.