Rockland Extension Charge

Grace Presbyterian Church, the nearest Presbyterian congregation in the eastern end of the city limits of Ottawa, began to sense a call to reach out to its neighboring community of over 20,000 people. According to census material there were already 70 Presbyterians living there! Grace began to explore ministry there by prayer. Members walked every street in Rockland, praying blessings on the homes, families, and businesses of the community and asking the Lord to provide direction for the next steps.

Late in 2008, the opportunity to lease space in Rockland was presented and over the first six months of 2009 conversation was held with the landlord of the Royal Plaza, culminating with the signing of a five-year lease in July. At that time grants for planting a church were approved from both the Presbytery of Ottawa and Canada Ministries. This has been a clear answer to prayer, showing us that God went before us, leading us to reach the people of Rockland with the good news of Jesus Christ.

Beginning in July, a small group of people began to meet on-site to pray for Rockland. By September many hands helped totally transform a former Legion and dance
hall into a welcoming worship and ministry space. On October 17th, 2009, an open-house was held in conjunction with the 10th anniversary of the plaza. Children had their faces painted, and we gave away hotdogs and New Testaments.

On November 22nd, after advertising in the local papers and conducting a postcard drop in the newer developments, the first small group of ten people began to meet. These ten people, all from Grace and living in the community, are providing the core around whom the ministry will be based.

We are grateful to God for going before us and opening the door – through his provision from the Presbytery of Ottawa and Canada Ministries. Please pray for us as we seek to reach this large community.

— The Reverend Daniel MacKinnon