South Surrey church marks diamond anniversary
Published 10:00 am Saturday, September 19, 2026
A South Surrey church with decades of history on the Semiahmoo Peninsula will be the site of “a lot of fun” on Sept. 26, as members and officials host a neighbourhood barbecue to celebrate the diamond anniversary of its current location in Ocean Park.
Rev. David Taylor said the event at the Parish of St. Mark is simply about coming together and enjoying a free meal.
“We’d love people to come out,” he said. “The goal is just to smile, to eat and to talk.”
The church has existed at 12953 20 Ave. since 1966, but its organized beginnings date back some 60-plus years earlier in Crescent Beach, as the Church of the Ascension.
“About 60 years ago, we purchased this property we are on now and built the hall, which functioned as the church until the new building was built,” said Taylor, who is marking his third anniversary with the church this month.
The new building opened in February 1990, complete with colourful pieces of its history. The stained glass window that graces its narthex is the same that graced the chancel of the little church in Crescent Beach, according to historical information on the church’s website. Other heirlooms preserved within include a restored Chickering Concert Grand built in Boston in 1895, and a second stained-glass window located in its chancel that “reflects the light and mystery of the Holy Trinity through its rich symbolism.”
The parish is part of the Diocese of New Westminster, and one of 66 congregations, and three “emerging faith communities,” extending east from Squamish to Hope, the site continues.
Taylor said while the congregation has been shrinking, “particularly since the pandemic,” new faces arrive every Sunday.
“There’s always the wandering group of people looking for a spiritual home,” he said. “We are so happy when people drop by and then feel that it’s a good place for their heart.”
Taylor said the congregation is an active one, particularly when it comes to outreach, adding that some of those involved have been active for more than 60 years.
Asked what people should know about the church, Taylor said two things come to mind: that it’s a group of people dedicated to helping people in the neighbourhood, and is a good place to go for those who simply need a quiet place to be.
In addition, it’s “always had a special place for youth,” he said, noting he is also the youth pastor.
Anniversary festivities launch at the church on Sunday (Sept. 20), with cake and a celebration after the 10 a.m. service.
During the Sept. 26 barbecue, the parish will be “wide open” for those who want to explore the space, with tables inside and out.
The event is set for 5-7 p.m., with local Scouting groups cooking up the fare. Taylor noted any donations received will benefit those groups.