the bridge’s 50th Anniversary Celebration

Sunday, May 17 @ 9:15AM + 11:15AM

Come celebrate 50 years of <i>the bridge</i>!

Come celebrate 50 years of the bridge!

It’s been 50 years since the very first service of what was known back then as Markham Pentecostal Church. Come to the bridge at 5440 16th Avenue for service at 9:15am or 11:15am (or online!) on Sunday, May 17, for a special celebration. We will be taking a look back at all that God has done through the bridge over the last half century and look forward expectantly to all that He will continue to do.

Additionally, we will celebrate together as a church family for Pastor Sam’s official commissioning ceremony! There is so much to be thankful to God for and we hope that you will join us for this next chapter in bridge history.

Stay for light refreshments after both services in the Atrium.

Download the invitation

A History of the bridge

Fifty years ago, on May 16, 1976, a group of about 20 or so people met in the Masonic Temple on Joseph St. in Markham—and the church later known as the bridge was born. As the fledgling church grew and developed over the ensuing five decades, changing its location, its name, and its denominational affiliation, the faithfulness and vision of those 20 people bore fruit they couldn’t have imagined in 1976.

As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of this church, we honour those pioneers, and we give God all the glory and praise for His protection, His guidance, and His blessings.

Founding Members of Markham Pentecostal Church

Rev. Ken and Audrey Beesley

Carman and Angela Cariglia

John and Lena Cariglia

Don and Ev Clements

Ron and Bonnie McArthur

Cal and Gloria Perry

Al and Doreathy Pitts

Burn and Anna Preston

Paul and Phyllis Pynkoski

Ambrose and Irene Raymer

Nelson and Audrey Raymer

Mae Timbers

Bernie and Doris Yountz

John and Eunice Zielonko

50th Anniversary Offering

<b><i>Honouring Our Past, Building Our Future</i></b>

Honouring Our Past, Building Our Future

As we celebrate 50 years of God’s faithfulness at the bridge, we invite you to participate in our 50th Anniversary Offering. This special initiative will address important physical needs, including replacing seven aging HVAC units, improving our parking lot, and enhancing our facilities to better serve our growing community. 

It will also strengthen vital ministry efforts such as Seasonal Groups, our thriving English Language Café, the Global Leadership Summit (October 29), Discovery Classes, and the new Level Up Young Leaders' discipleship program. 

Together, these investments will create more welcoming spaces, deepen connection, and expand opportunities for growth and outreach. Your generosity will help ensure the bridge continues to be a place of transformation, belonging, and impact for generations to come.

Click to give

Join us in person on May 17!

the bridge is located at 5440 16th Avenue in Markham, Ontario, just east of McCowan Rd on 16th Avenue.