Christ Church, a United Methodist community near Lauderdale-by-the Sea and Coral Ridge, began with a dream of reaching new people for Christ in the late 1950’s. Here are a few highlights of the history of Christ Church:

April 13, 1958 First worship service of Christ Church Rev. Lee Van Sickle was the first pastor

February 21, 1960 Present sanctuary opened (Cost: $150,000)

1970 Two-story education building opened that became home to the newly organized Christ Church School

1991 Rev. Dick Wills, senior pastor, cast a new vision after a fire in the educational building and personal spiritual renewal in South Africa. Rev. Wills wanted to ensure the church would always be fully invested in redeeming God’s Creation. Life-giving small groups and new outreach ministries to ease the pain of the poor and those without homes were launched.

Early 2020’s Anti-Racism Task Force formed. Christ Church becomes a Reconciling congregation and joins the Methodist Federation for Social Action.

2021 Christ Church merged with Parkway United Methodist. Love in Action and the Blessings Pantry continue to serve the community.

Today Christ Church, a diverse, inclusive congregation, welcomes all. We are committed to sharing the love, hope and joy of Jesus with each other and our community.