Knox United Church is a Canadian nonprofit religious organization (Business Registration Number: 889548442RR0001) associated with the United Church of Canada. Located in Fernie, British Columbia, the church traces its origins to Knox Presbyterian Church (established 1898) and Fernie Methodist Church (founded 1899), which merged locally in 1919 before the nationwide formation of the United Church of Canada in 1925[5].

History

The current Knox United Church building was constructed in 1909 following a devastating fire that destroyed much of Fernie[2][5]. After the 1925 church union, Knox became part of the Fernie Pastoral Charge, later reorganizing into the Elk Valley Pastoral Charge in 1990 alongside congregations in Sparwood and Grasmere[5]. By 2014, the charge split again into separate Fernie and Grasmere pastoral units[5].

Community Involvement

Historically, Knox United Church supported community organizations such as the Canadian Girls in Training (C.G.I.T.), a tradition shared with other United Church congregations in Canada[1]. The church has hosted multiple ministers over its history, with recent efforts emphasizing volunteer-driven outreach programs[5].

Building Preservation

In 2022, the Knox United Church building underwent a transition to secular community use while retaining its architectural heritage[2]. The structure remains a landmark in Fernie, reflecting early 20th-century ecclesiastical design.

Governance

As a registered nonprofit, the church operates under the governance of elected committees, adhering to United Church of Canada policies[5]. Its activities focus on worship services, community outreach, and maintaining historical ties to the Elk Valley region.