Our story so far
Roots
Life Destiny Church traces its origins back to the early Christian Church, with its immediate roots in the vision of Barrie and Joan Stephenson. In 1977, Barrie, from the Assemblies of God, and Joan, from the Methodist Church, moved from Ripon to Harrogate and began what would become Harrogate Christian Fellowship. Their mission was to reach the 98% of Harrogate’s population who did not regularly attend church.
Growth
Working with other couples and the guidance of apostolic oversight from Dave Tomlinson, the church grew, attracting both new Christians and established believers. In 1987, Wynn James, a Religious Education teacher, joined the leadership team. After feeling called to full-time ministry, Wynn and the church leaders decided to plant a new church in Knaresborough. Knaresborough Community Church was founded in 1989 and grew over the next 15 years.
Fruit
In 2004, with both churches experiencing leadership changes, the two congregations merged to form Life Destiny Church, which held its first meeting in Harrogate’s Odeon Cinema. After 12 years, the church moved to its current location in Starbeck in 2016.
Life Destiny Church’s vision is to reach non-Christians, serve the local community, and fulfill the mission of Isaiah 61: to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and bring hope to the hurting.
Read our full history