Our Church History: 65+ Years of Faithfulness
From a small prayer group in 1960 to a vibrant church family today,
Faith Assembly stands as a testament to God’s provision, His people, and generations of ministry.
1960 — A Humble Beginning
Our story begins in 1960, when Pastor David Pillow felt called to gather a small group of believers in the Evansdale area. The early congregation met at a Y.M.C.A. outpost while praying for a permanent home.
That same year, God opened the door for the purchase of the old Elk Run School, a weathered white structure sitting at the intersection of Gilbertville Road and Lafayette Road — the same corner where Faith Assembly stands today.
The building had endured fire and age, but through prayer, determination, and countless volunteer hours, that old schoolhouse became the church’s first sanctuary. It wasn’t fancy, but it was filled with faith, hope, and expectation for what God would do.
1960s–Early 1970s — Growing as a Church Family
As the congregation grew, so did the need for a more functional worship space. By the mid-1960s, the old school building had been transformed into a more structured church facility, complete with a new front entrance and modest sanctuary space.
During this season, leadership transitioned to Pastor H.E. “Harry” Turner, who, with his family, lived in the small upstairs quarters of the church. Ministry expanded through youth programs, evangelistic services, and midweek gatherings, laying a solid foundation of discipleship and community.
1974–1976 — A God-Given Vision for Expansion
In 1974, under Pastor Lloyd Graetz, God gave a powerful vision: the church needed to expand to reach more people. That vision sparked one of the most remarkable chapters in Faith Assembly’s history.
With a congregation of about fifty people, the church began a major building project. Nearly all the labor came from volunteers within the church family — carpenters, bricklayers, electricians, and everyday people willing to roll up their sleeves. Materials were salvaged from the soon-to-be-demolished Grace Baptist Church, lowering costs dramatically.
What should have been a $100,000 project was completed for around $30,000 — with only $100 paid in labor. It was a miracle of unity, sacrifice, and God’s provision.
Late 1970s–1990s — A New Era of Ministry
By 1976, the newly expanded brick sanctuary stood proudly on the hill — welcoming more worshippers, expanding ministries, and making room for future generations. This building would serve as the center of church life for decades, a reminder of God’s faithfulness and the hard work of His people.
Over the years, faithful pastors stepped into leadership, each contributing to the spiritual and structural growth of the church.
Pastors such as Randy Duggan, Guy Fisher, and Jeff Rasanen shepherded the congregation through seasons of growth, loss, renewal, and rebuilding. Associate pastors and youth leaders played a vital role in sustaining the ministry and investing in the next generation.
2000s–2016 — Restoring the Vision
In the mid-2000s, Faith Assembly experienced both challenges and blessings — including seasons of pastoral transition and personal loss within the church family. Yet through it all, God continued to sustain His church.
From 2014 to 2016, another major expansion and renovation occurred, once again making room for more people to worship, serve, and belong. Just like the earlier project, this season was marked by unity, volunteer labor, and a shared desire to reach the community with the Gospel.
2020–Present — A New Chapter
In 2020, leadership transitioned again, eventually leading to the selection of Pastor Joe Smith in August 2024. Pastor Joe, his wife Marcella, their sons Sam and Paul, and Marcella’s mother Vicki moved from Platte City, Missouri to Elk Run Heights to join the Faith Assembly family.
Today, the same corner that once held an old, fire-damaged schoolhouse is home to a thriving church committed to worship, discipleship, outreach, and community impact. The story continues — and we believe the best is yet to come.
A Legacy Built by Many Hands
Throughout our history, Faith Assembly has been shaped by hardworking, faithful people:
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Builders, electricians, carpenters, and volunteers
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Musicians and worship leaders
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Youth pastors, teachers, and prayer warriors
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Generations of families who sowed into this church
Potlucks, mission trips, baptisms, baby dedications, community outreach — all of it has woven together a story of God’s goodness and His people’s faithfulness.
Looking Ahead with Expectation
This history cannot capture every name or every moment, but it highlights the legacy of a church built on prayer, service, and love. As we look forward, we do so with gratitude — and with anticipation for all God will continue to do in and through Faith Assembly.
We invite you to join us as we write the next chapter together.