MOOSE JAW — The Moose Jaw Church of God is celebrating its 80th anniversary this month with a legacy banquet on Oct. 19.
The ministry started in a small building on Fairford Street West in 1944. Growth over the next 40 years led to a relocation to Hochelaga Street East where services are held today. The congregation also uses the Church of God Campus on South Hill and hosts a pod group in Caronport. The South Hill campus is also home to Iglesia de Dios Casa de Gloria.
The property move in 1984 provided a local ministry opportunity for the Church of God. A youth ministry called Joe’s Place was reaching out to the young people in the city and Joe Dueck, founder of Joe’s Place, says the Church of God sold its property to the youth ministry for a reduced price.
Youth ministries are important to the local fellowship. Many resources are invested in young people. This past summer several block parties and day camps were conducted throughout the city. Youth group programs run throughout the year.
When it comes to children, Pastor Becky Adams says efforts have been made to reach those with special needs. The church has two sensory rooms to help children with limited communication skills using special lighting, music and objects.
COG Moose Jaw has an active seniors’ ministry. These folk gather for Bible studies and social times and volunteer with various organizations and groups in the community.
The church also supports many ministries in the city from feeding the less fortunate to helping the Christian Counselling Centre. The local church is also home to Pastor Marvin Garcia and Casa de Gloria. The church has a pod ministry in Caronport and supports Pastor Kim in Prince Albert. It reaches into the world by supporting ministries in India, Honduras and the Philippines.
Over the years some 23 individuals have pastored the congregation, and many lay people have contributed to the legacy of ministry which is being celebrated.
Larry Hasmatali started pastoring the local congregation almost 30 years ago and says he believes the best years are still ahead. The congregation numbers around 800 people.
The mission of the Church of God Moose Jaw is to be a place of HOPE: hospitality where everyone is welcome; openness where everyone feels safe; potential where everyone has a bright future; and empathy where everyone is heard.
Eighty years of Christian service needs to be celebrated. COG Moose Jaw continues to be an instrument in God’s hands to introduce others to Jesus Christ.
Information on Legacy Banquet: https://www.discovermoosejaw.com/events/165799.
