We Are Diamond Valley United
Followers on the Way
Giving Thanks for the Land
We give thanks for the land on which we are blessed to gather. We acknowledge that the land is not ours, but is on loan to us from future generations. We give thanks for the resources the land offers to feed, house and clothe; for the air we breathe–spiritus of the universe; and for plentiful fresh clean water, source of our living. We give thanks to the Indigenous peoples who have lived in relationship with this land since time immemorial, and who welcomed settlers into relationship with it through the signing of Treaty 7. In the spirit of respect, reciprocity and reconciliation, we acknowledge this as the traditional territory of the Blackfoot Confederacy, including the Siksika, Kainai and Piikani; the Stoney-Nakoda First Nations, including the Bearspaw, Chiniki and Goodstoney; the Dene First Nation of Tsuut’ina; and the Métis People of Alberta. We pledge to live with respect and in peace and friendship with all our relations.
Who We Are
Diamond Valley United was established at our current location as Lewis Memorial United Church in 1929. The new church building was constructed in 1990. During its construction, congregants joined those worshiping at Black Diamond United Church, and a lasting friendship was formed. In 1994, the Black Diamond and Turner Valley churches combined to form one board of directors operating in two church locations and the church’s larger service area was renamed Diamond Valley Pastoral Charge. In 2003, the Black Diamond United building was sold and the two congregations combined, merging important traditions and making new friendships.
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After being known in this location as the United Church in the Valley for many years, we updated our name to Diamond Valley United, recognizing the friendship and common mission shared by two towns that amalgamated as Diamond Valley in 2023.
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As Diamond Valley United, we welcome all to join us as we walk together in the Way of Jesus through shared values of uplifting worship, community care, joyful outreach and exceptional generosity. Wherever you are on your journey, we invite you to join us as we walk a path of faith together. Because we are not alone. We live in God’s world. All are welcome.
Volunteers Make the Difference
Diamond Valley United is supported by an amazing group of committed volunteers who participate in our board of directors and various committees, including Worship, Pastoral Care, Ministry & Personnel and Trustees. Volunteers and staff work together in living out the vision and mission of Diamond Valley United. We thank each one of you for all the ways you contribute!
Meet Our Minister
Rev. Robin Galey
Robin seeks to bring the book of nature into worship alongside the book of scripture as she ministers to the community of Diamond Valley United. She answered the call to ministry while supporting spiritual formation at Hillhurst United Church in Calgary, and following a career in communications. She now holds masters degrees in theology and divinity, and her ministry integrates teachings in Buddhism, yoga, contemplative dialogue and permaculture design. The mother of 4 adult children, Robin also guides Wild Church gatherings and facilitates Water as Life workshops.
History
Our story began at the turn of the century, when people met in homes to worship with Methodist student missionary Mr. A.G. Lytle, who traveled around on a saddle horse. A church was constructed in 1904 on the township line road on the Sam Parson farm, southeast of Turner Valley. It was called the Lineham Church, after the pioneer rancher Jack Lineham.
Later, in 1928, Rev. W.A. Lewis, a retired Methodist minister, came to Turner Valley to organize a United Church congregation. The first United Church was soon built and dedicated on October 20, 1929 to serve the valley community. Learn more of our history by accessing the Diamond Valley Pastoral Charge History, our Living Faith Story, and our current Annual Report.
Where Generosity Flows, Gratitude Grows
Our church doors stay open through the generous offerings of time, talent and treasure provided by the many volunteers and participants who come together to make up our congregation. Recalling the words of Deepak Chopra that “Anything that is of value in life only multiplies when it is given,” We thank each person who contributes to our community of faith and, through us, wider community initiatives. We warmly invite you to join us on the Way.
