Our History.
Our Beginings
Originally called The United Pentecostal Church of Wenatchee, this church was birthed in the home of Reverend Garrett and Pat Jester in 1969. Having moved to Wenatchee for the sole purpose of planting an apostolic Pentecostal church, Pastor Jester faithfully shepherded the new congregation from home-church services to several rented spaces in the greater Wenatchee Valley for ten years, until they were able to purchase the land, with the help of the United Pentecostal Church International (UPCI), on which the current Life Church building stands. In 1979, the Lord moved the Jesters and their growing family to Omak, WA. Little did they know, this change was only to be for a season.
1980 – 2008
The 1980s saw growth under the leadership of a few different pastors. Construction progressed on the recently purchased property, though not without hardship. A windstorm tore through the valley in 1981, blowing down all of the newly-built trusses. The men of the church had to reconstruct each truss and put them all back into place. Their persistence paid off, and the church opened its doors at 400 Rock Island Road under a new name, Apostolic Faith Tabernacle, in 1982. Additionally, the Apostolic Christian Academy was established in 1985 and continued for eleven years, blessing children with a faith-based education.
In 1990, the Jesters returned to Wenatchee, assuming pastoral responsibilities, which brought a sense of stability to the church following a period of multiple short-term pastors. For the subsequent eighteen years, they faithfully shepherded the congregation under the banner of Christian Life Center until declining health compelled their retirement from active ministry. Their unwavering dedication, diligent efforts, and strong commitment to their faith played a pivotal role in the church’s continued progress.
During this era, there was a heartfelt emphasis on financial contributions directed toward various UPCI ministries. This spirit of generosity not only contributed to the global dissemination of the Gospel but also served as a catalyst for increased financial blessings upon the church. This financial stability ultimately facilitated the complete payment of the church’s property and facilities.
With the changing of leadership in 2008, the Christian Life Center was well-positioned for growth, with financial stability and a modular building that stood ready for renovation to accommodate Sunday school classes.
2008 – 2023
In November 2008, Bishop Timothy and Kirsten King, and the three of their five children still at home followed God’s call to Wenatchee, bringing over twenty years of experience in pastoring, teaching, and counseling, as well as a heartfelt desire to see people’s lives changed through the power of God. The next fourteen years were a time of growth and preparation for the church, both physically and spiritually.
Adopting the name Life Church, the vision to help people believe, belong, and become was realized in the lives of individuals, families, and the church body as they found salvation and grew in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. Led by the Kings, the church initiated a multitude of impactful ministries, including “Saved and Sober,” a spirit-led Christian recovery program that has offered hope and healing to those in need. Additionally, the legacy of Sunday School and Children’s Church, carried forward from previous leadership, cultivated an atmosphere of anticipation, personal growth, and communal development. This nurturing environment has since produced dedicated individuals who are actively involved in diverse ministries, all of whom continue to fortify and uplift the church community to this day.
The church campus also experienced growth: the main building was remodeled for structural support, the interior was renovated with a pine ceiling and extensive trim work, and a new foyer and lighted cupola enhanced the exterior. The modular building was assembled and remodeled, providing much needed space for Sunday school classes and storage. The signage was updated with rock work and the Life Church name, and new landscaping added beauty to the property. Throughout these years, the building and the body were prepared, together, for the coming work of the Lord.
Having exemplified true Christianity in their leadership, devotion to God, hard work, and life-changing ministry, the Kings retired in early 2023, making way for the new season God is bringing to Life Church.
The Present
Reverend Derek and Tonya Sargent, along with their two daughters, moved to the Wenatchee Valley to pastor Life Church in February 2023. With twenty years of ministerial experience, the Sargents are committed to serving the congregants of this great church, and the communities of north central Washington, as God adds to the body and brings great revival of souls for His kingdom.
Pastor Sargent, and all of Life Church, continue to bring the work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ that have fueled our mission from 1969 to the present day. This church exists for the sole purpose of glorifying God in bringing the gospel of Christ to the people of our great valley.