Who We Are
Our Story
To know God, love one another, and serve our neighbours.
Grace Community Church started in 1987 as a home Bible study with 12 people gathered around Robert and Mary Kim’s kitchen table. Nearly four decades later, we’re a diverse, multigenerational community of over 350 families — but the heartbeat hasn’t changed: real relationships, honest faith, and tangible love for our neighbours in Kitchener-Waterloo.
We believe the church is at its best when it’s woven into the fabric of its city — not just holding services, but partnering with the House of Friendship food bank, mentoring young people, and sitting with families in hard seasons.
Last year, your generosity funded 12,000 meals through the food bank, supported 3 mission partners, and helped launch our youth mentorship program.
Whatever brought you here, you’re welcome.
350+
Families
39 yrs
In the Community
14
Small Groups
What We Believe
Our Values
Everyone Belongs
We’re an open door for people of every background and story. You don’t have to believe the right things or have it all together to walk in.
Real Over Perfect
We value authenticity over appearances. Questions are welcome here, and doubt isn’t the opposite of faith — pretending is.
Grow Together
Faith is a journey we take in community, not isolation. That’s why small groups and shared meals matter as much as Sunday mornings.
Serve Generously
We show up for our neighbours, no strings attached. From food bank shifts to hospital visits, love is something you do.
Rooted in Scripture
The Bible guides everything we do. We take it seriously, study it honestly, and trust it to shape who we’re becoming.
A Word From Our Pastor
David Chen
Lead Pastor
“When Mary and Robert Kim started this church in their living room in 1987, they had one dream: a place where anyone could belong before they believed. That’s still who we are. We’re not a perfect church, and we’re not trying to be. We’re a community of real people figuring out faith together — people who laugh too loud at potlucks, who ask hard questions in Bible study, and who show up for each other when life gets heavy. If you’ve been hurt by church, if you’re skeptical, if you’re just curious — come as you are. There’s a seat at the table with your name on it.”
Our Journey
Church History
A Living Room and a Dream
Pastor Robert and Mary Kim started a home Bible study with 12 friends in the Centreville neighbourhood. Word spread quickly.
A Permanent Home
The growing congregation moved into the Frederick Street building — a former community hall with creaky floors and great bones.
Serving Our Neighbours
Launched a community food bank partnership with House of Friendship, beginning a legacy of local outreach that continues today.
New Leadership
Pastor David Chen was called as Lead Pastor, bringing fresh energy and a vision for intergenerational ministry.
Building for the Future
Completed a major renovation — new youth wing, accessible entrance, and updated worship space. Same church, better home.
The Team
Meet Our Staff
Our team is made up of ordinary people who are passionate about community, faith, and serving the city.
David Chen
Lead Pastor
Pastor David has been leading Grace Community for 12 years. He holds an MDiv from Tyndale Seminary and is passionate about making theology accessible to everyday life. When he’s not preaching, you’ll find him coaching his son’s soccer team.
Sarah Thompson
Worship Director
Sarah leads our worship team with a heart for creating spaces where people can encounter God through music. She studied music at Wilfrid Laurier and has been with Grace since 2019.
Marcus Williams
Youth Pastor
Marcus joined Grace in 2022 after spending three years in campus ministry at the University of Waterloo. He’s passionate about helping young people navigate faith and identity.
Linda Park
Church Administrator
Linda keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes. She manages scheduling, communications, and is usually the first person to welcome you when you call or visit.