Tailrace Community Church is part of the A2A network of churches.
It was planted in 1994 when Tim and Sharon O’Neill felt led to proclaim the goodness of Christ. Their social world was crumbling, as a large number of people had lost their lives to suicide within a short period of time. Moved by the reality of a world so lacking in hope, they planted New Directions Community Church – now known as Tailrace Community Church.
At the time of planting, they believed that a “real pastor” would come along and take over the church. After a few years of toil, it dawned on them that they were the pastors God was calling.
The church met at Riverside High School for many years until the land at its current site was acquired in 2005. A building project followed, and the Tailrace Centre was completed in 2007. It has been home to the church ever since.
The church has a rich history of wrestling with how to live out the call to love God and neighbour, and to fulfil the mission of making disciples – the Great Commandment and the Great Commission. Its cultural values have been shaped most profoundly by the early church described in Acts 2:42–47.
Over the lifespan of the church, several other churches have been planted, dozens of outward-focused ministries launched, and scores of leaders released into ministry elsewhere. Many of these churches, ministries, and leaders continue to thrive beyond Tailrace today.
In April 2024, Tim and Sharon passed senior leadership to one of their three children, Jono, though they remain deeply involved in the life of the church.
The church remains steadfast in its mission and love for God.