Did you know that Wheatridge Presbyterian Church wasn’t always here? In 1952 the Central Presbyterian Church of Denver saw a need. Denver’s western suburbs were booming. Existing churches couldn’t keep up. Wheatridge Presbyterian Church was the answer. An organizational meeting happened in March. By April 1953 they bought land at 9180 West 38th Avenue. The Denver Presbytery donated $6000. The Wheat Ridge group raised the remaining $13500.
Sunday school started at Wheat Ridge High School. This was while the church building was still being built. In October 1953 54 people signed a petition. They asked the Denver Presbytery to officially form Wheatridge Presbyterian Church. They wanted a permanent pastor after a year. They offered a salary of $3000.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the church building happened May 22 1955. The first service in the new building was November 20 1955. Sixty-four charter members attended. The church expanded. They bought more land. A new sanctuary was built in 1960.
The years following saw many improvements. New mission projects and outreach programs blossomed. Children’s women’s and men’s programs were established. The church supported major community projects. These included Highland West a senior citizen apartment home. Another project was Highland South now Highland West Community. Long term support for Habitat for Humanity was also provided. A Summer Festival and Charity Challenge in 1985 brought attention to the church. Denver’s notable personalities participated.
Wheatridge Presbyterian Church’s motto is “Where People Care”. This reflects the members’ relationships with each other and the world. The church continues to be a vibrant part of Wheat Ridge today. This is a testament to the foresight of those who saw a need and the dedication of those who answered that call. The story of Wheatridge Presbyterian Church is a story of growth service and community. It’s a story still being written.