The Alliance of the Reformed Baptist Church of Canada

• Denomination

The Alliance of the Reformed Baptist Church of Canada (ARBCC) was established in 1888, emerging from the sanctification movement among several Baptist ministers in Canada. This movement emphasized personal holiness and a deeper spiritual experience, aligning with the broader Holiness movement that was gaining momentum in North America during that period.

In 1966, the ARBCC merged with The Wesleyan Methodist Church, a denomination rooted in the Holiness tradition. This merger was part of a broader trend during the 1960s where various Holiness denominations sought unity to strengthen their collective witness and mission. Notably, in 1968, the Wesleyan Methodist Church also merged with the Pilgrim Holiness Church to form The Wesleyan Church, consolidating their efforts in evangelism and social justice.

The ARBCC's integration into The Wesleyan Methodist Church brought several contributions to the larger denomination. The ARBCC had established a strong presence in Eastern Canada and Maine, along with mission fields in Africa. Additionally, the ARBCC operated a Canadian Bible college, Bethany Bible College, which later became Kingswood University, continuing its legacy of training leaders for ministry.

Today, the legacy of the ARBCC continues through The Wesleyan Church of Canada, which comprises the Atlantic and Central Canada districts. The Atlantic District traces its origins directly to the ARBCC, reflecting the enduring impact of the Reformed Baptist tradition within the Wesleyan denomination in Canada.

Canada; United States ; New Brunswick; Nova Scotia; Maine

• English