History

Vancouver First Church of God began as a Sunday School on 33rd Street and St. Johns Road in 1926 in the home of Ed Long. By 1930 there were 30+ in attendance. Between 1929 and 1970 there were several location and pastoral changes as the church grew. Reverend Minna Jarrett came from the Church of God Missionary Home in Portland to become the first full-time pastor. She pastored the church from 1937-1957 during which time there was significant growth. In 1970 Gerald Marvel took the pastorship and led the church in growth up until his retirement in 1999. The church moved to its current 13 acre site in 1977. The church building was expanded in 1984 and again in 1991 and a new Christian Wing was added in 1996, all under Marvel's leadership.

"What began as a childcare facility in 1971 expanded into King's Way Christian School & Learning Center (preschool through eighth grade) by 1978.  In 1996 the sanctuary was remodeled and the seating capacity slightly increased.  In the year 2000 Mitchell Burch answered the call and became the new pastor.  There are now 1,200 in regular attendance (with nearly 3,000 calling this church their home) and a second contemporary worship service was added in year 2000.  Pastor Burch recognized the mantle of Christian Education that had been placed on this church and the vision of expanding to the High School level was realized as we are adding the finishing touches to our new King's Way High School and Community Life Center building as well."