The Door is Open, Come as You Are.
Welcome
At Altoona Christian Church, we believe in being the kind of church that reflects Christ’s love both inside and outside our walls. There’s a place for you here, just as you are. Our doors are open to anyone seeking a deeper connection—with God, with others, or simply with purpose. We are a multi-generational, community-minded church committed to spiritual growth, meaningful relationships, and living out our faith in practical ways. Each Sunday, you’ll find a welcoming environment with Christ-centered teaching, joyful worship, and a community that’s eager to grow together. Whether you’re a young family looking for connection, a long-time believer, or someone just beginning to explore their faith, we invite you to find your place here. Our hope is that through worship, service, and connection, you’ll discover the joy of walking in grace.
Our History
Before there was a town called Altoona—or even a railroad—neighbors gathered to worship on the prairie. In 1860, I. H. Woodrow hosted the first services at his farm on Mud Creek, with early meetings at the Mud Creek School. On July 13, 1867, twenty-six people of various denominations organized Altoona Christian Church, a date we celebrate as our founding.
As Altoona grew, so did ACC:
- 1872: White frame church at 402 Second St. SE (the building still stands as a residence).
- 1911: Brick church at 103 Third Street in Olde Town became home for much of the 20th century.
- 1980s: Relocation to our current location to serve a growing community.
Service has always marked our life together. During J. B. Vawter’s ministry (1875–1887), a meeting in his home helped spur the move of Oskaloosa College to Des Moines—today Drake University—where he served on the first board. In the 1980s, when Governor Robert Ray called Iowans to welcome Southeast Asian refugees, ACC hosted families. More recently, we’ve partnered monthly with Caring Hands Outreach and the Salvation Army, led personal-care drives, supported children of incarcerated parents with book-reading programs, adopted families at Christmas, welcomed Boy Scouts and TOPS, hosted U.S. Air Force guests during RAGBRAI, celebrated our 150th anniversary (2016–17), and helped launch National Night Out from our campus.
Life Together
Worship & Communion
On Sundays, we blend the richness of tradition with the relevance of today—Scripture, prayer, a children’s message, and a practical sermon. As Disciples of Christ, we celebrate communion every week, welcoming all to the Lord’s Table.
Baptism
We practice believer’s baptism—each person freely choosing to follow Christ.
Community
We value forgiveness, listening to understand, speaking the truth in love, and building one another up with grace.
Our Beliefs
We are part of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), a movement for wholeness in a fragmented world. We extend the same welcome God has given us—to every person. For our full faith statements, visit What We Believe.
You’re Invited
From pioneer gatherings on Mud Creek to a vibrant church family today, our story is rooted in Christ’s love and lived out in community. Come as you are—find connection, purpose, and a place to belong at Altoona Christian Church.