Welcome to Markham Baptist Church
At Markham Baptist, we believe in the divine inspiration and authority of the Bible, the triune Godhead, and the deity and humanity of Jesus. Salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus, and believers are regenerated and sanctified by the Holy Spirit. We uphold the unity of believers, the imminent return of Christ, and the resurrection of the dead, with eternal life for the saved and eternal punishment for the lost. The ordinances of believer’s baptism and the Lord’s Supper, along with active church participation, are essential. We emphasize the moral integrity of followers, mutual accountability, and personal spiritual growth.
Church Mission
Through the Holy Spirit we seek to worship God, become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ, and invite others to join us in this life-changing experience.
Our Story
In November 2015 we celebrated our 60 wonderful years as a church family in Markham. Our first Pastor Don James was our guest speaker. He and his wife cut our anniversary cake.
Our 60th anniversary celebration was a smashing success, with gala dinner on the Friday, and cake and fellowship after the Sunday worship service.
Below is a brief history of our church in honour of our 60th anniversary.
A History of Markham Baptist Church
Markham Baptist Church started in the early 1950s as an outreach to the village of Markham, which was beginning its transformation from an agriculture community to a commuter destination.
In 1953 a young woman, Miss Pauline Vincent, came to Markham to start a Baptist work. She arranged to stay at a local hotel. But in the early hours of the morning she was awakened by rowdy celebrations. Fearing for her safety, she knocked on the door of a nearby home. The owner, an Anglican, referred her to a lawyer colleague who was also a Baptist; he and his wife took her in.
Shortly after that, Baptist services were started in the old Orange Hall at the end of Church street. (It was already called Church street then, we can’t lay claim to that!) Don James, a student pastor at McMaster University, came each week and stayed with families to lead services starting in October. Miss Elvira Pepper (later Mrs. Binks) was a driving force behind new work.
The congregation was formally organized as a church on Nov 13, 1955 with 16 or 17 members and one year later gained official recognition by the Baptist Convention of Ontario and Quebec. They began planning to build a church on the present site which was bought by the Baptist Convention.
In 1957, Paul Burns, another McMaster University student pastor took over leadership of the church, and two years later, the sod was turned in April by Mr. Walter Percy and the cornerstone was laid in November by Mr. Gordon Ratcliff.
The congregation grew steadily, and in 1988 the membership voted unanimously to expand church to meet increasing demands.
In June 1990 the sod was turned by Mr. Dean Percy and excavation was started in August. Village Baptist Church joined our church family.
The new addition was opened in February and dedicated in April, 1991. The cornerstone is laid in April by Mr. George Long. Rev. Dr. Bill Norman was called as pastor and served in that position until 2000 when Rev. Dr. Tom Cullen replaced him.
In recent years, the church has evolved to embrace its culturally diverse community and has developed a strategy focused on addressing the Christian message to the youth of Markham.
Tom Cullen served at Markham Baptist until 2009, when Rev. Murray Stovell stepped in as interim senior pastor while the church searched prayerfully for a new leader. In April 2011, Rev. Craig Rumble accepted our call and moved his family from Sarnia, ON to become our current senior pastor.
Our Charter Members
Hilda and Bill Webb, Alvira Pepper, Otha & Don Sim, Joyce & George Long, Wilf Bundy, Hattie Percy, Miss E. Percy, Arlene Rowarth, Sadie & Gordon Ratcliffe & Diane, Mrs. Matthews, Don & Elsie James.
Our Pastors
| Lead Pastors | Youth Pastors |
|---|---|
| Don James (student) | Ron Hurlburt (1994 – 2004) |
| Paul Burns (student) | Jamie Eitel (2005 – 2007) |
| Alf Milligan (first full-time pastor) | Dexter Hinkson (2008 – 2009) |
| Fred Crossman | |
| Terry Dunlop | |
| Fred Kahler | |
| Doug Sherwood | |
| Steve Black | |
| Bill Norman (1991 – 2000) | |
| Tom Cullen (2000 – 2009) | |
| Murray Stovell (2009 – 2011) | |
| Craig Rumble (2011 – present) |
BELIEFS THAT UNITE US
Welcome message from our Pastor
I’m glad you found us! Thanks for checking us out, whether you’re just dropping by for a look, or interested in seeing if MBC is the church for you. Go ahead, browse around, get to know us better. Markham Baptist Church is excited about where we are and why we are here. We’re located on the eastern edge of Markham village with its rich history. We’re also on the western side of the fast growing Cornell community. Our doors truly open to the world – new Canadians learning the language and establishing connections in a new place, and longtime residents continuing to expand and deepen their relationships. We are here for people who want to know Christ and make him known. We believe that faith is a dynamic part of all our lives. It adds depth and joy to our experiences and relationships every day. One of our hopes as a community of faith is that we will become living proof of God’s love for all people. We’re not perfect, but we’re hope-filled, spirit-led and Christ-centered. We love the fact that our building is active with community groups – ESL, Markham District High School events, youth activities, adult luncheons and so much more. I invite you to join us for worship at 10:30 a.m. some Sunday, or drop by to meet some of the great people who make us who we are – a people filled with courageous love, radically devoted to Christ who are eager to share our faith and live honestly with one another. Peace, Rev Craig Rumble
Common Questions
Learn more about our values and our story as a church by visiting the about us page.
What time are your services?
Our services are held every Sunday at 10:30 AM. We also offer a prayer meetings on Wednesdays at 7:00 PM via ZOOM.
Where is the church located?
We are located at 110 Church Street, Markham, Ontario L3P 2M4. Directions and a map are available on our Contact Us page.
Is the church equipped for individuals with hearing impairments?
Yes, our church is equipped with hearing assistance devices to ensure that everyone can participate fully in our services. Please visit the Welcome Desk upon arrival, and our team will provide you with the necessary equipment. If you have any specific needs or questions, feel free to contact us before your visit.
Is the church accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, our facilities are accessible, including elevator, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces.
How can I become a member?
To become a member, you can attend our membership class, which provides an overview of our beliefs, mission, and how you can be a part of our church family. Contact the church office for the next class schedule.
How can I support the church financially?
You can give online through our Giving page, during the service, or by mailing a check to the church office. We appreciate your generosity!
What to expect
At Markham Baptist, you'll find a loving and welcoming community where everyone is treated like family. Expect uplifting worship services, inspiring sermons, and opportunities for meaningful fellowship. We offer engaging programs for all ages, from children to seniors, ensuring that everyone feels connected and valued. Join us for a cup of coffee, heartfelt worship, and a message of hope that will inspire your week. Whether you're exploring faith or looking for a church home, we invite you to experience the warmth and love of our congregation.