In 1925, Rev. Hans Hansen of Kelso, Washington came to Salem to conduct special meetings in which many people came to Christ. The church began meeting in the old YMCA building and later purchased property on 13th and Ferry Streets for a building to be constructed. On January 10, 1927, we were incorporated as the Salem Evangelistic Full Gospel Tabernacle. The first building was dedicated on March 27, 1927.

Later, under the leadership of Rev. Charles G. Weston, we became affiliated with the Northwest District of the Assemblies of God. During Rev. Walter Frederick's pastorate, our name was changed to Evangelistic Temple. Property was purchased at 2808 Market Street; a new building was erected and dedicated on September 18, 1949. The church later became known as First Assembly of God when Rev. Austin Barton was pastor.

In 1970, during Rev. Robert L. Cornwall's tenure, our name was changed to Christian Center of Salem. KCCS Radio began on December 14, 1971. On August 4, 1981, the new building at 4303 Market Street was dedicated. Christian Center Academy also began under Rev. Cornwall's leadership.

During Rev. Dale Edwards' time of ministry, negotiations began with Blanchet Catholic School to sell our facility at 4303 Market Street. Negotiations continued after the arrival of Rev. Larry Murrell and on October 31, 1996, the building was sold. In 1997, we purchased nearly 14 acres of land at 1850 45th Ave NE. On July 5, 1998, we broke ground on our current facility and held our first service on May 30, 1999. Our current facility was dedicated to the glory of the Lord on August 1, 1999.

KCCS Radio was sold in December, 2003. It continues as a local Christian radio station and leases our land for its tower and transmitter. Christian Center Academy merged with Salem Academy in April, 2004. Salem Academy leases classroom space in our facility as its East Elementary School campus.

On January 1, 2006, a local Spanish church, "Nuevo Amanecer" (New Dawn), merged with Christian Center and continues to reach out to the growing Hispanic population as a ministry of Christian Center. In August, 2007, the members voted unanimously to donate a half-acre parcel of our property to Catholic Community Services for the construction and operation of a Community Home for Children. This home will provide a "forever home" for children in foster care who are unlikely to be adopted or return to their family of origin.

Lead Pastors of Christian Center: