History

Reach Church

A look at where we started, how we’ve grown, and where we are now.

Our Beginnings

Our church was planted in 1991 by Pastors Gary and Joyce Dench, who had been ordained into full-time ministry in 1975 in New Zealand and served as pastors there until God called them to Sydney. Originally known as New Life Church Parramatta, later Reach Church Parramatta, their vision was always to establish a church in the heart of Parramatta.

1991

The
Beginning

The church was founded as New Life Church Parramatta by Pastors Gary and Joyce Dench. God gathered a community of believers from many nations to worship together in a community hall in Wentworthville, Sydney. From the very start, the heart of the church was to make known the hope, joy, and purpose found through Jesus Christ.

2012

A Home in
North Parramatta

After years of faithful ministry, the church purchased a permanent home in North Parramatta. Two years later, in 2014, Pastors Gary and Joyce retired and transitioned the leadership to Pastors Graeme and Mandy Fitzgerald. Under their care, the church continued to grow in vision and strength.

2019

Planting

Riverstone

In obedience to the Great Commission, a team from Parramatta was sent to plant a new campus in Riverstone, North-West Sydney. Inspired by Luke 5:1–11, where Jesus calls other boats to help with the catch, this new congregation became Reach Church Riverstone.

2024

A New
Chapter

On 11 August 2024, following the passing of Pastor Graeme, leadership was entrusted to Pastors Fredy and Lindani Chiriya. Today, they serve as Senior Pastors of both Parramatta and Riverstone, continuing the legacy of faith, discipleship, and mission.

2025 & BEYOND

Our Heart
Today

Reach Church is a vibrant, multi-ethnic Pentecostal church passionate about bringing the life-transforming love of Jesus to our city and nation. Our mandate is to REACH every individual with the gospel: exalting Jesus, building a church that reflects His heart, and releasing disciples who will disciple others. In all we do, we seek to honor God by serving Jesus Christ in our homes, our church, our city, our nation, and beyond.

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