History
A Short History of St. Timothy’s Church
In 1955, twelve families dedicated themselves to the idea of a new church. They had no money, no church, no rector, no congregation—only a dream of the future, a faith in God, a dogged determination, and the foresight to choose the Rev. Albert C. Baker to guide them. From that dream has grown the St. Timothy’s that we know today.
The first service was held on October 30, 1955, in a borrowed funeral chapel. For nearly two years Sunday services were held there, and weekday services and activities were held in a tiny rectory on 40th Avenue. From its first Sunday, the church has been self-supporting and has supported a worldwide missionary program, as well as contributing to the support of the District, now the Diocese of Spokane. The first building unit of St. Timothy’s church was constructed in 1956 and 1957. The first service in the framed and enclosed skeleton of the future church was on Christmas Eve, 1956. The Parish continued to grow until 1959 when it became obvious that additional space was needed. The educational unit, office, and upstairs were built around a garden court. It was completed and dedicated in October, 1960. Improvements have been added from time to time over the years—a new organ, a set of carillon bells (updated in 2000), altar appointments, pews, carpeting, stained glass windows, parking lot, plantings, sound system, and in 2000 a new roof, parking lot expansion, new outdoor lighting, and restroom updates. In 2001, new pew cushions were donated by the women of the church and The Plaid Door. Also in 2001, one of two new signs was erected. In 2004 the courtyard area was rebuilt and expanded to include an outdoor worship area, three separate age-appropriate play areas for children, and a columbarium. By now the church has an investment in its properties of over $1.5 million. In 2005 St. Timothy’s celebrated its 50th Anniversary as a parish. In 2006 the time capsule was removed from behind the cornerstone and replaced for those who will open it when they celebrate 100 years of ministry. Our first Rector, the Rev. Albert Baker, served us from 1955 to 1963. He was followed by the Rev. John P. Gorsuch (1963-1968), the Rev. Webster G. Barnett (1968-1981), the Rev. James L. Vevea (1982-1998) the Rev. Lou Thomas who served as Deacon (1984-1999), and the Rev. Duane Crosier who served as Deacon (2002-2005). Our current Rector, the Rev. Rick Ward, came to us on July 1, 1999. St. Timothy’s is also served by a priest associate, the Rev. Kathy Prehm, whose primary ministry is to our Spanish-speaking congregation.