Our Story
At Red Deer Lake United Church, we believe every story matters - including yours. Ours is a story of faith communities coming together over generations, learning and growing side by side, discovering what it means to live fully and faithfully through Jesus Christ.
We’re a unique blend of old and new, rural and urban, traditional and contemporary. Here, people from all walks of life explore Christian faith and spirituality in an open, welcoming environment where curiosity and connection are encouraged.
Our Beginnings
The story begins in the late 1800s, when Red Deer Lake Church—named for the nearby lake that once filled the area—was founded as a mission church. In those early days, people travelled by horseback to gather in homes for worship and fellowship.
By 1909, a modest chapel was built, quickly becoming the heart of the community and even serving as a schoolhouse.
When Highway 22X was developed decades later, the chapel was moved to its current site. Growth followed, and in 2004, we celebrated the opening of a beautiful new sanctuary — along with a bright, spacious lower hall that continues to host programs, events, and celebrations of all kinds.
A Shared Vision
In the 1980s, another faith community was taking shape. Midlands United Church, founded in 1980, began its journey in gymnasiums, community halls, schools, and even a Catholic church — always preparing for the next chapter.
That next chapter arrived in 1990, when a permanent church was built on the south ridge of Fish Creek Provincial Park. The building featured stunning stained glass windows designed by artist David Boone and soon became home to a lively, nurturing congregation.
But change was in the air once again — and a new partnership was forming.
Coming Together
After months of conversation and planning, Red Deer Lake Church and Midlands United Church came together on January 1, 2008, to form Red Deer Lake United Church within the Calgary Presbytery.
And the story didn’t stop there — it continues to grow and evolve, just as our community does.
Building Connections
Following the amalgamation, the Midlands congregation brought new energy and generosity, helping make possible the completion of the Midlands Link — a beautiful space connecting the old chapel and new sanctuary. From this gathering place, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the Memorial Gardens and the Rocky Mountains. It has become a hub for coffee time, fellowship, and community gatherings.
The Memorial Garden changes with the seasons, offering beauty and reflection for those whose names appear on the bronze plaques along the stairway wall. Volunteers also helped bring to life the Lower Hall, Youth Collective preschool classroom, Multipurpose Room, and a large, hand-painted Labyrinth — each space dedicated to community, growth, and renewal.
The stunning stained glass windows from Midlands United Church now adorn feature areas throughout the building.
Growing Together
As our story unfolded, we were joined by members of Wesley Congregational Church, who brought with them their treasured portrait of John Wesley — now displayed in the stairwell leading to the Upper room — and a beautiful organ that enriches our worship. Their generosity also made possible the creation of the Wesley Walk in the Memorial Gardens.
As Calgary expanded southward, new neighbours and families joined our community, bringing fresh ideas, creativity, and faith. Together, we continue to grow in spirit and purpose.
Who We Are Today
In 2016, Red Deer Lake United Church began its journey toward becoming an Affirming Church — a community that celebrates diversity and inclusion for all.
Rooted in tradition and open to what’s next, we’re a vibrant, caring community that honors our past while looking forward with hope. Here, people of all ages and backgrounds grow in faith, share life together, and find support, inspiration and friendship.
Our doors are open — and there’s a place here for everyone.