Stratford CRC Celebrates 75 Years

Stratford (Ont.) Christian Reformed Church is marking a significant milestone this November as it celebrates 75 years of service, faith, and community impact.

Founded Nov. 25, 1951, the church began with a gathering of 77 members meeting at the YMCA building on the corner of Waterloo and Coburg Streets in Stratford, now the site of the Nancy Campbell Academy.

Over the decades the congregation has grown, worshiping at locations on Church Street, Easson Street, Ontario Street, and (currently) Athlone Crescent. 

Today the church serves a vibrant community of about 500 members. To commemorate this anniversary, the congregation will host a special weekend of events open to the community:

• On Saturday, Nov. 21, the church will host a public open house 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., featuring building tours and refreshments. A private dinner for current and former members will take place later that evening.
• On Sunday, Nov. 22, the congregation will celebrate with a special anniversary worship service followed by coffee and cake and a soup lunch. All are welcome to attend.

Stratford CRC has a long-standing commitment to both spiritual growth and community care. Rooted in the Reformed tradition, the church offers programs such as Friendship, GriefShare, and Alpha; supports children and youth through ministries including GEMS, Cadets, youth

group, and vacation Bible school; hosts community meals throughout the winter months; and opens its doors for One Care exercise programs multiple days each week. 

The congregation actively supports local initiatives as well, including food drives for the House of Blessing Food Bank in Stratford and participation in Ride for Refuge, a cycling and walking fundraiser.

The anniversary celebration is centered on the theme “God Is Faithful,” inspired by Deuteronomy 7:9 and the text of Psalm 100:5: “His faithfulness continues through all generations.”

Reflecting on the milestone anniversary, Betty DeWeerd, Anniversary Committee chair, said: “I wonder if the original congregation in Stratford realized what they were building. I wonder if they realized how great their legacy of faith would be for us. With God’s help we are celebrating 75 years. And now, as we take a look back, we also look forward to what the Lord has in store for Stratford CRC beyond 2026.”

Community members are invited to join in celebrating this historic occasion and to learn more about the church’s ongoing role in Stratford.

Is your church nearing a significant milestone? Let us know at [email protected]. We’d love to celebrate your story.