About Us

Affiliation & History

AFFILIATION

We believe that no body of believers should operate with an independent spirit, for God intends that all believers recognize their inter-dependence upon one another. "The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body." (1 Corinthians 12:12).

Furthermore, we believe that all believers and groups of believers must be in submission to Christ, the Head of the body, and to others in the body of Christ. "And He is the Head of the body, the church" (Colossians 1:18). "Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ" (Ephesians 5:21).

Therefore, we have formed lines of accountability for the leadership of Zion Fellowship. We are submitted to the oversight of Elim Fellowship in Lima, New York. A close relationship with these brethren is being maintained.

HISTORY

In 1977, the body of believers at the Bushnell’s Basin Community Church needed more space to accommodate their numbers. Under the leadership of the pastor, Phil Miess, some of the families in the Farmington and Manchester/Shortsville area grouped together to form a new church. They met in a home in Farmington until, again, growth necessitated a move. First the basement of a restaurant, then a large barn were the houses of worship. The barn, located in Canandaigua, had three levels and became known as “The Ark.” At that time, Bill Purves Jr. was the pastor.

In 1980, a large two-story office building in Canandaigua was purchased. At that time, “The Ark” became known as “Zion Fellowship.” Dana Rattray was serving as our pastor then.

In 1986, Bob Sorge became pastor. As God continued to bless the church, the growth in the congregation made it necessary to hold three weekend worship services. 1992 was a special year for Zion Fellowship. We planted a new work in Bloomfield, NY: New Hope Fellowship. Alan Schrader, our assistant pastor at that time, became the pastor of that church. That year the Lord also enabled Zion to purchase 21 acres of property for a new worship facility site.

In January 1999, Chris Wood became our senior pastor. In September of that year we also dedicated our present worship facility. On the day of the dedication, the church stood clear of debt and remains debt-free today.

In 2001, we planted a church in Naples, NY: Branch of the Lord Fellowship. Bert Hallancia is the pastor of that church.

God continues to bless the church as we remain faithful to exalt Jesus. We celebrate His goodness to us in our past as we keep our hands to the plow laboring in His vineyard to see His great Harvest. Come Lord Jesus, Come.

“He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the Day of Jesus Christ” Philippians 1:6