Gardner Church of the Nazarene was founded after much prayer by Rev. and Mrs. David Broward. As a student at Mid America Nazarene University, Rev. Broward and a small group of fellow students organized a rally on January 18, 1970, at 2:30 PM. The meeting took place upstairs in the Farmer’s Bank Building in Downtown Gardner. Despite the small attendance, the enthusiasm, zeal, and prayers were palpable. Regular services began to be held in the bank building.
In May, Mr. Robert Kramer, a renowned community leader who had been attending services, was guided by God to generously provide financial support to the expanding needs of Gardner Church of the Nazarene. Consequently, plans were initiated to find an appropriate structure that could accommodate the church’s growing requirements. A sixty-six-year-old church building, which had previously housed Zion Evangelical Church of Highland, Kansas, was purchased for $450. The pews and an old bell, valued at $1500, were relocated from Miami County to the land site generously donated by Mr. Kramer on Moonlight Road.
On June 7, 1970, the Gardner Church of the Nazarene was officially established with a charter membership of 12 individuals. A tent revival was held at the future building site from June 16 to 21, 1970. By September, the Kansas City District Board extended its support and financial assistance, along with the continued generous support of Mr. Kramer. In October 1970, the present structure (excluding the annex and remodeling project of 2004) was contracted for construction by Rose Construction Company. The project was completed in January 1971 for approximately $30,000. Since then, nine pastors have served this church and the Gardner community, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and lives of those they served.
Today, many in the Gardner/Edgerton/Spring Hill/Wellsville, Olathe and surrounding communities call Gardner Church of the Nazarene "home." We truly believe people matter to God, and that each person has special abilities that can make a difference in the lives of others. We are blessed to be part of this great community and pray that God continues to bring people through our doors, into hearts, and into His Kingdom.