For over 100 years our neighbours have watched us grow.

In 1907, families who shared a commitment to God and one another, established the church now know as “Westminster Bible Chapel.” In the early days our church meetings took place in rented space in Cunningham Hall in downtown New Westminster.

Ten years later we purchased a building which was known as the “East Burnaby Gospel Hall” (‘gospel’ means ‘good news’). This building was used for 33 years, until in 1950 a new building was constructed on the current site at 6th Street and Graham Avenue. This building was expanded in 1960 and significantly renovated in 2004.

The roots of Westminster Bible Chapel are found in an evangelical renewal movement of the early 1800s commonly known as the Brethren Movement. Historically, this movement was in the forefront of rediscovering and reclaiming many of the practices of the church now commonly enjoyed among Christians throughout the world – practices such as the participation of all Christians in worship and service.

Meet some of our servant leaders

In the community of faith called Westminster Bible Chapel, the Elders are the primary pastoral servants and leaders. At this time our elders are (left to right) Gert Kriel, Frank Piechnik, Jon Soon, Willfrid Janzen, Wayne Fung, Larry Reimer and Chungmo Chung.

 

 

 

 

Our teaching ministries (including Sunday congregational teaching, discipleship, care groups and related matters) are largely overseen by John MacDonald.  John practised law for over 25 years and is a graduate of Regent College (U.B.C.).  He and his wife, Sharon, have four grown children.  John is currently engaged in doctoral studies.

 

 

 

 

Dan Mathew and his team are engaged with College & Career-aged men and women. This ministry is called the CREW and is a dynamic and inviting context for developing friendships, exploring relevant life-issues and doing things together. Dan is a school teacher and avid athlete.

 

The important service to our youth (high-school ages) is the primary responsibility of a team led by Tim MacDonald. Tim served for a year in the Republic of Ireland with Operation Mobilization and is a graduate of Life Teams, a co-operative program of Youth for Christ and Columbia Bible College. Currently, Tim is also preparing to become a high school teacher.  

 

 

 

Shannon has been working with youth since 2003. Her ministry passion is introducing teens to Jesus Christ and encouraging them in their relationship with Him. Shannon also works as a legal assistant in a major Vancouver law firm.

 

 

 

 

The team of Wayne and Betty Fung have been engaged in faithful and enthusiastic service to children for many years. Wayne and Betty have 3 children.

 

 

 

 

Our music ministry is led by Jim Woodyard, a professional musician, producer and composer. Jim encourages people of all ages to participate in the richness of Christian music and hymnology -- both traditional and modern. Jim and his wife, Ann, have three children.