In the 1950s, things were very different for Christian pastors and their ministries. Rev. Ronald Gilliam and his wife, Eleanor, knew this well. In 1957, their tent services in the City of Ingersoll grew into the People’s Revival Centre. Their sister church in Sarnia, Evangel Temple, was founded shortly thereafter by Ronald James Gillam.
But despite thriving congregations, these pastors could not hold the right to marry under Canadian Law until their organization was 25 years old. They recognized the importance of obtaining full legal rights, and began their search for credentials.
Enter the Anchor Bay Evangelistic Association in New Baltimore, Michigan. Having harmony with their tenet of faith and a growing fellowship with their leaders, the organization was introduced in Canada. With their financial support, Anchor Bay Evangelistic Association of Canada was incorporated in 1970, and members gained access to full legal rights as clergy.
The founding Board members – Ronald James Gillam, Heath Gillam, and Laura McKeegan – provided coverage to a handful of ministers operating mainly in southwestern Ontario. However, the organization quickly grew to include ministers across the province.
A new leadership team, including Ken Miles, Fred Morris and John Williamson, came on board in 1992. The focus of the organization was shifting from just credentialing to include an emphasis on fellowship. In 1993, Anchor Bay Evangelistic Association of Canada became Anchor Ministerial Fellowship.
Even now after 50 years of operation, Anchor continues to serve a growing body of diverse ministers who are passionate about fulfilling the call of God in their lives.