Beneath the unassuming facade of the United Brethren in Christ Church lies a story of faith, unity and a desire to offer new hope. New Hope Community Church began its journey in 1913. Bishop Lloyd Eby recognized a need for a church in Toronto. The church started with a Sunday School. It was held in a store just north of Eversfield on the west side of Dufferin Street.
In 1916, they moved to their current location. Construction was completed in 1919. For many years, the church was known as Bloem Ave United Brethren Church. In 1977, the church merged with the Silverthorn congregation. It became Toronto United Brethren Church. Then in 2001, it was renamed New Hope Community Church. The new name reflected a desire to offer new hope in Christ to the community.
The United Brethren Church in Canada has an interesting history. It is part of the worldwide Church of the United Brethren in Christ. The church is the first denomination in North America. It was not transplanted from Europe. The church originated in Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia. This was due to the evangelistic preaching of two men.
Philip William Otterbein was one of these leaders. He was born in Dillenberg, Germany. Otterbein was originally a minister of the German Reformed Church. He came to America in 1752. He found formal religious practices common among church people. His training and heart change led him. He wanted to present a dynamic spiritual experience. This experience was based on a faith relationship. It permitted God to release His power. This power came through the indwelling Holy Spirit. It led to a continuing transformation of the believer’s life.
Martin Boehm was the other associate. He came from the Mennonite faith. He had been chosen to be a preacher among his people. He felt he had no message. He needed a personal experience of God’s saving grace through faith. Then he became a flaming evangelist. He proclaimed the salvation experience wherever he could.
These two men preached extensively in interdenominational gatherings. They met for the first time on Pentecost Sunday in 1767. A great meeting was held in Isaac Long’s barn near Lancaster, Pennsylvania. These meetings were usually held over weekends. They took place in groves or barns. Any large congregation could assemble there. The congregation included preachers and laymen. They came from various denominations. These included German Reformed, Lutheran, Moravian, Mennonite, Amish and Dunker groups.
Martin Boehm preached for the afternoon service. At the close of the sermon, there was spiritual peace and power. Otterbein threw his arms around Boehm. He exclaimed, “We are brethren.” He used the German language. From that greeting came the church’s name. It was named “United Brethren.” Later, “in Christ” was added.
These two leaders were joined by George A. Geeting from Maryland. Other God-called leaders also joined. They attempted to evangelize the German-speaking churches. These churches were located in the Pennsylvania, Virginia and Maryland colonies. There was no thought of organizing a separate fellowship. No effort was made to do so until forced by circumstances. They cooperated in appointing great meetings. One or more of them would preach. Counseling and guidance were given to other preachers and laymen. They joined the interdenominational venture. Itinerant preachers were selected to conduct services where possible.
Today, the United Brethren in Christ Church values a passion for God. They value transformation for all. Love for neighbours is key. God’s Word gives direction. Unity in diversity is also essential. The United Brethren in Christ Church continues to offer new hope. It extends to the community and beyond. It stands as a testament to faith and unity.