Our story
The story of The City Church has been “a parade of miracles” every step of the way, from our first small gatherings at the Bellevue Courtyard Marriott to what we are today, a multi-site church with thousands in attendance each weekend.
The City Church began in 1992 under the leadership of Pastors Wendell and Gini Smith. Wendell and Gini had served for 20 years under Dick Iverson at Bible Temple in Portland, Oregon before being sent to plant The City Church in Bellevue. Their gifts of faith, generosity, and belief in a good God laid the foundation for the church to serve the Seattle region and beyond in many practical and spiritual ways.
In 2009, Pastors Wendell and Gini transitioned out of the lead pastor role and set in their son and daughter-in-law, Judah and Chelsea Smith, as the lead pastors. At the end of 2010, after a courageous six-year battle with cancer, Pastor Wendell passed peacefully into heaven. Pastor Gini continues to be actively involved as an elder in The City Church as well as ministering nationally and globally.
Judah and Chelsea share the same values and vision as Wendell and Gini and are passionately leading the church into a new era.
Great days are ahead!
Lead Pastors
Judah & Chelsea Smith
Founding Pastors
Wendell & Gini Smith