About Us
An inclusive church
Our vision is to offer a sacred space for all who desire to explore and share their spiritual journey together in community.
Who we are
We are an inclusive and progressive Christian church in Smithers, BC, where we worship and practice an open-hearted, open-minded faith that takes Scripture and the message of Jesus seriously, but not literally.
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An Affirming Ministry since 2019, we strive to be a loving, friendly community that worships God and serves others through inviting, engaging, and encouraging one another on a life-changing Christian journey.
our people
our history
The United Church of Canada has been active in Smithers, BC for decades.
At the national level, the United Church was founded in 1952 through the union of the Methodist, Presbyterian, and Congregational churches. Over time, the Smithers congregation became an important spiritual community presence, hosting worship services, community events and - historically - local commemorations such as Remembrance Day gatherings.
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However, the United Church also bears a painful legacy. Between 1925 and 1969 it operated 15 schools within the Indian Residential School system as a part of the federal government's policy of assimilating Indigenous Peoples. Many suffered physical, cultural, emotional, and spiritual abuse in these schools.
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Today, Smithers' United Church is part of a denomination working toward reconciliation and supporting Indigenous justice as Smithers continues to grapple with the intergenerational impacts of the residential school legacy.