Early History

Our roots go deep. The first service was held outdoors by the Fraser River on April 3,1859. A Wesleyan minister, Rev. Edward White, officiated. In 1860 the first church was built as part of the Central Methodist denomination and then a larger one replaced it in 1873. Tragically, in 1898, the great fire of New Westminster destroyed it. In 1899 a new church was built at the present site (the corner of Queens Avenue and 6th Street) and renamed Queens Avenue Methodist Church. In 1925 the Presbyterians, Congregationalists, and Methodists united and the church was renamed Queens Avenue United Church. In 1959 this church was replaced by the beautiful building we have today.

The design of our Sanctuary was inspired by Coventry Cathedral, and the architect was Will Wilding. The Sanctuary can seat approximately 600 persons and includes a balcony, two transepts and a choir loft. There is also a small multi-use Chapel, and entry is from inside the main church. Both the Chapel and the Church Sanctuary have recently been refurbished.

Some of our last lead ministers were:

• 1953 - 1962 Rev. W. Evan Fullerton
• 1962 - 1969 Rev. Dr. G.B. Switzer
• 1969 - 1973 Rev. Art Anderson
• 1973 - 1982 Rev. John Cashore
• 1975 - 1982 Rev. C.G. Raymont
• 1980 - 1986 Rev. Max Warne
• 1982 - 1994 Rev. George Morrison
• 1995 - 2004 Rev. David Ewart
• 2004 - 2005 Rev. Gabrielle Suedfeld
• 2005 - 2006 Rev. Doug Alexander
• 2006 - 2007 Rev. Robert Schoenhals

Grace Hall

Grace Hall is a separate building from Queens Avenue United Church, and is located at 7th Avenue and 1st Street in New Westminster. It was used in the 1950s and 1960s for the Sunday School and youth programs. With the help of a dedicated group of volunteers, Grace Hall was recently refurbished and is now rented to several community groups.

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