In 1969 a small group of Christians decided to form a new Mennonite Brethren church in Fresno. The first public service was held on September 28, 1969 at the Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary. Elmo Warkentin, an energetic and evangelistically passionate person, was the first pastor. Within a month the group moved to north Fresno in a rented chapel at the San Joaquin Gardens retirement center. In January 1970 forty-one individuals signed the charter signaling their commitment to the ministry of this fledgling congregation.

Although the “walk” of the new congregation was at times a bit unsteady and even risky, it was none-the-less visionary, ambitious and courageous. Less than a year after its first public worship service, the congregation purchased the current church property and the ten year old church facility was dedicated on September 27, 1970. The congregation grew rapidly and in 1975-76 it took another step of faith and commitment when the Family Center was constructed. This facility was dedicated on November 23, 1976. In 1995, the congregation approved the construction of a two-phase building project, an educational facility and a Sanctuary building. The educational building was dedicated in June 1996. Construction on the Sanctuary began in September 2001 and will be dedicated in June 2002.

Initially a pastor plus many dedicated volunteers carried out the ministries of North Fresno Church. Over time additional staff have been hired to provide leadership in adult, youth, children and music ministries. During the past thirty years the following have served as Senior Pastor of the church:

   1969-1974: Elmo Warkentin
   1974-1979: Ray Wiebe
   1980-1991: Marvin Hein
   1991-1992: Al Kroeker (Interim)
   1993-2004: Larry Martens
   2006-Present: James Bergen

History always gives us clarity about where we have been and what has motivated us in our ministry. North Fresno's goal from the very beginning was to reach out into the community with the good news of the gospel. Early bulletin covers included the Scripture from Mark 3:13-14 to indicate the mission of NFC: "He called them to be with Him so He might send them to proclaim the gospel." The gospel has been and continues to be proclaimed, and, as a result, the church has grown. Beginning with 41 charter members, today's membership numbers over 350 with a worshiping congregation of over 500 people. Numbers, however, tell only part of the story. The real story is found in the conversions, changed lives, commitments and sacrifice of people. Indeed, God has blessed, and continues to bless, North Fresno Church!