A Journey of Faith and Community
Welcome to New Life Church! We’re thrilled you’re here and excited to share our rich history, rooted in faith, community, and the love of Christ.
In August 1945, Rev. and Mrs. A. J. Morrison embarked on a mission to bring the light of God to Polson, Montana, by founding Polson Assembly of God,
now known as New Life Church. Their first gatherings took place right in the heart of downtown Polson, on the streets, and later moved to
the Odd Fellows Hall. By 1946, a lot was secured, and the construction of our downtown building began.
Although the Morrisons moved on that same year, the foundation they laid was built upon by many dedicated leaders.
Rev. and Mrs. Ernest Haveman followed the Morrisons, succeeded by Rev. Raymond Bache and his family in 1947. During their time,
the church building saw significant progress, including stuccoing and interior finishes. By 1950, Rev. and Mrs. Fred Dalton joined us,
adding the final touches to the church and its surroundings.
In 1953, Melvin Veland took the helm, completing the basement. A few years later, Rev. and Mrs. John Weaver arrived,
bringing new energy and improvements, including repainting and enhancing the interior. The Weavers’ leadership saw the
addition of a new parsonage balcony and expanded Sunday School facilities.
In August 1945, Rev. and Mrs. A. J. Morrison embarked on a mission to bring the light of God to Polson, Montana, by founding Polson Assembly of God,
now known as New Life Church. Their first gatherings took place right in the heart of downtown Polson, on the streets, and later moved to
the Odd Fellows Hall. By 1946, a lot was secured, and the construction of our downtown building began.
Although the Morrisons moved on that same year, the foundation they laid was built upon by many dedicated leaders.
Rev. and Mrs. Ernest Haveman followed the Morrisons, succeeded by Rev. Raymond Bache and his family in 1947. During their time,
the church building saw significant progress, including stuccoing and interior finishes. By 1950, Rev. and Mrs. Fred Dalton joined us,
adding the final touches to the church and its surroundings.
In 1953, Melvin Veland took the helm, completing the basement. A few years later, Rev. and Mrs. John Weaver arrived,
bringing new energy and improvements, including repainting and enhancing the interior. The Weavers’ leadership saw the
addition of a new parsonage balcony and expanded Sunday School facilities.
Expanding the vision...
Rev. Miles and Karen Finch joined us in June 1966, marking significant growth. Under their guidance, the church purchased over 4 acres of land near the then-new High School, and our congregation blossomed, necessitating extra seating almost every Sunday.
In 1978, we embraced a new identity as New Life Christian Center. The Finches faithfully led us for 37 years,
nurturing our community and expanding our reach.
In 1978, we embraced a new identity as New Life Christian Center. The Finches faithfully led us for 37 years,
nurturing our community and expanding our reach.
In 2003, Pastor Shawn and Christina Madsen became our Lead Pastors. Their tenure saw tremendous growth and the formation of Catalyst Youth Ministries. When the Madsens returned to Whitefish in 2014, Pastor Ed and Janet Vainio stepped in as interim pastors, guiding our congregation with love and dedication.
Where we are headed...
In May 2015, we welcomed Pastor Chriss and Kristi Sopke as our new Lead Pastor. Under Pastor Chriss’ passionate leadership, our church continues to thrive. His love for the Lord, compassion for the lost and hurting, and dedication to helping people become all that God desires for them are the guiding principles as we look toward our bright future.
Reflecting on over 75 years of history, we are deeply grateful for God’s providence and guidance. Though our name, leadership, and location have evolved, our mission remains steadfast: to Love God, Live Like Jesus, Learn from the Holy Spirit, and Lead Others to New Life.
We honor our past while eagerly anticipating the future. We invite you to join us on this incredible journey ahead. Welcome to New Life Church, where we are united in faith and committed to serving our community with love and compassion.
To learn more about Pastor Chriss and Kristi Sopke, click here.
Reflecting on over 75 years of history, we are deeply grateful for God’s providence and guidance. Though our name, leadership, and location have evolved, our mission remains steadfast: to Love God, Live Like Jesus, Learn from the Holy Spirit, and Lead Others to New Life.
We honor our past while eagerly anticipating the future. We invite you to join us on this incredible journey ahead. Welcome to New Life Church, where we are united in faith and committed to serving our community with love and compassion.
To learn more about Pastor Chriss and Kristi Sopke, click here.
