Our History
The History of Island ECC
Island ECC began in the Fall of 1999, when 180 people were sent from Evangelical Community Church (also known simply as ECC) in Kowloon to begin a new church. Crowded conditions made it clear that a new church needed to be started. Rob Penner, the pastor at ECC, shared his time between both of these churches, giving a healthy start to the new church.
In August 2001, Brett Hilliard came to serve as the first full-time pastor of Island ECC and Brett still serves as the Senior Pastor today. In October 2003, Tobin Miller arrived to serve as an additional pastor of the church.
In April 2007, the leadership from Island ECC and its mother church, ECC Kowloon, recognized the need for legal autonomy and independence in order for both churches to continue to grow effectively. As a result, it was agreed that both churches would bless each other and reach out to Hong Kong by focusing on the individual ministry needs of each congregation. This autonomy was established in August 2007.
Wandering on the Island
For the first 8 years of Island ECC’s history, it was a "nomad" church. Sunday services were held in a variety of venues including the Convention Centre, China Resource Centre, and different hotels, with offices in a variety of locations as well. This mobility did not stop the growth and excitement of people from coming to worship and serve.
In May 2008, by God's wonderful provision, Island ECC moved into the current facility at 633 King's Road. With a "permanent" venue, God keeps bringing in new people, and many ministries which were previously unthinkable became reality.
As the church has continued to grow, staff have been added and ministries have increased. The pastoral team now includes Brett Hilliard, Rick Bates, Tim LaTour, Albert Ng and Sherman Chau. At present there are more than 30 staff serving within Island ECC.
Reaching Hong Kong
In October 2010, Island ECC launched its first church plant and commissioned Pastor Tobin Miller to lead this new congregation, Watermark Community Church.
The next chapter of Island ECC’s history is waiting to be written. We hope you will be a part of forming an exciting future as we continually look to impact Hong Kong and beyond with the transforming news of Jesus Christ.