For more than sixty years, Sunnyside United Church served the growing South Surrey community with faith, fellowship, and a deep commitment to its neighbours.
Its story is closely connected to the history of the Sunnyside area itself. Long before South Surrey became the vibrant suburban community it is today, the area was largely rural, shaped by farming, logging, and small family homesteads. As local families settled in the area, many sought a place to worship closer to home than the churches serving White Rock and other neighbouring communities.
In 1949, the first worship services of what would become Sunnyside United Church were held in the Sunnyside Hall. The congregation was made up largely of young families, and the church quickly became an important gathering place for the community.
As the population grew, so did the congregation. In 1951, a permanent church building was dedicated on the site where Peninsula United Church continues to serve today.
Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Sunnyside United became known for its thriving Sunday School, children's programs, choirs, and community events. The church provided not only a place of worship, but also a place where neighbours connected, families built friendships, and community life flourished.
As South Surrey evolved from a rural district into one of the fastest-growing communities in the Lower Mainland, Sunnyside United adapted alongside it. The congregation welcomed new residents, responded to changing community needs, and continually renewed its ministry while remaining rooted in faith and service.
Throughout its history, Sunnyside United Church demonstrated a strong commitment to serving others.
The congregation supported local outreach initiatives, community organizations, food security programs, and partnerships with other faith communities. The church property also became home to educational and childcare programs that served local families for many years.
Sunnyside United regularly opened its doors to community groups and other congregations, reflecting a longstanding belief that church buildings should be places of welcome, connection, and shared purpose.
Like many churches, Sunnyside United experienced significant changes over the decades. The congregation navigated shifts in demographics, culture, and community life while continually seeking new ways to live out its faith.
As South Surrey became increasingly diverse, the church embraced opportunities to build relationships across cultures and traditions. It welcomed newcomers, developed new partnerships, and explored fresh approaches to ministry in a changing neighbourhood.
This spirit of adaptability became one of the congregation's defining characteristics.
In 2017, Sunnyside United Church joined with Crescent United Church and First United Church to form Peninsula United Church.
The decision reflected a shared vision: to honour the legacy of three historic congregations while creating a stronger and more sustainable ministry for future generations.
Today, the values that shaped Sunnyside United continue to influence Peninsula United Church. Its commitment to community, hospitality, service, and faithful renewal remains an important part of who we are.
As we look toward the future, we give thanks for the generations of people who worshipped, served, learned, and built community through Sunnyside United Church. Their legacy continues to inspire and guide us today.