Our Zion United Church is a truly remarkable landmark building in Armstrong BC, with a truly remarkable congregation.

The building was constructed in 1901, and officially opened as Zion Presbyterian Church on January 2, 1902.  The Lounge area add-on was constructed before World War I, probably 1911, and the Church Hall was built in 1953.  At the time of Union between the Presbyterian and Methodist churches in 1925, the Armstrong congregations chose to retain the Zion Church building for the newly formed United Church.

To the present day, the Zion United Church building has been a majestic welcoming landmark to the historic area of the City of Armstrong. The Church has gothic style lancet arc windows with pastel coloured stained glass panes, a standard bell tower, and a high steep-pitched roof. The bell was imported from Belgium and has rung out clearly for many occasions in our town.

Our Zion United Church was awarded heritage designation status in 2008 by the City and is one of just over 1400 heritage designated buildings in the Province of British Columbia.

Our active Zion congregation has kept busy by serving in our many Church groups.  We are proud of all our groups and projects but will only mention a few. Special recognition goes to our Mackenzie Camp volunteers, our IPE food service crews, and our dedicated Property Committee who care for the church buildings.

Over the decades Zion United Church has been very fortunate in the choices of ministers.  From 1925 to the present there have been seventeen ministers, three of which have been women.  All have brought their own “stamp” to the position, and all have contributed in many different ways.  Through the years the congregation has brought many talents and strengths to Zion United and to the local community.  Many members of our congregation have taken leadership roles in Armstrong-Spallumcheen by serving in both Church and community projects, events, and activities.

Our Zion United Church is a wonderful combination of heritage structure and community-minded generous people.

Based on an article by Jessie Ann Gamble  2015

Adapted by Leona Harrison  2021