All Nations Christian Reformed Church, Halifax

The All Nations Christian Reformed Church in Halifax traces its origins to 1953 when a small group of Christian Reformed believers began gathering in homes and at the YMCA. Their informal meetings gradually took shape under the leadership of missionary Ralph Bos, who arrived in 1957. A year later, in 1958, the Halifax Christian Reformed Church was formally established, with Bos serving as its first pastor.

In its early years, the congregation worshiped in the YMCA chapel before seeking a permanent home. After failed attempts to construct a church in Rockingham, they acquired a Victorian house at 5651 Inglis Street in 1965. The renovated house served as their place of worship from 1966 onward, providing a foundation for their expanding ministries, which included university outreach and community engagement.

By the late 1970s, facing the challenges of dwindling membership, the church transformed. Under the leadership of James LaGrand, the congregation rebranded in 1977 as All Nations Christian Reformed Church, embracing a more multicultural identity and engaging in social justice efforts, such as opposing apartheid in South Africa and advocating for urban housing solutions.

In the 1980s, the congregation sought a larger worship space. In 1989, under Pastor David Kromminga, All Nations entered a space-sharing agreement with J. Wesley Smith United Church at Charles and Robie Streets. When the United Church congregation disbanded in 1993, All Nations could not return to their Inglis Street location due to growing membership. Instead, in 1994, they purchased the J. Wesley Smith building, launching an extensive renovation process. By 1996, they had sold the Inglis Street property and secured a new manse.

Today, the All Nations Christian Reformed Church remains a vibrant and inclusive congregation, blending Gothic and Classical architectural elements in its building. It continues to host diverse events, celebrations, and community initiatives, reflecting its long-standing commitment to faith, justice, and cultural inclusivity.