REV. DR. ARTHUR W. CANADA, PASTOR

On Sunday, February 23, 1958, under the authority of the former all Black Catawba Presbytery, the former Caldwell Presbyterian Church (on Lake Norman) and Miranda Presbyterian Church (in the Long Creek Township) merged to form Catawba Presbyterian Church, USA. Both the Caldwell and Miranda Churches were organized in the late 1800's and were independently viable congregations. The Reverend Robert A. Meachem who had completed his studies at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta by this time, served both Miranda and Caldwell congregations and encouraged the merger. In the early 1960's, the newly formed Catawba Presbyterian acquired a 22-acre tract of land on McCoy Road in the Long Creek community of Huntersville and eventually began construction on the sanctuary we currently utilized. With the merger of Miranda and Caldwell Churches, the newly formed Catawba Church congregation called the Rev. A. Meachem as the full-time pastor. Rev. Meachem graciously accepted the call and was installed. Under the leadership Rev. Meachem the church flourished in many areas. The Christian Education Dept. organized a very strong Sunday School program that spanned over twenty years. One of the key components of the successful Sunday School program was transportation. Catawba purchased a bus, and one of the oldest trustees, Mr. James Gabriel, was the bus drivers for many years. The bus route covered transportation for members in Huntersville, Cornelius, Davidson and Charlotte.  One of my favorite childhood memories is riddling the church bus to and from the church on Sunday. Rev. Meachem was interested in the youth the church implemented a program that included Sunday afternoon Vesper-a time for the youth to gather for Bible Study and for other fun activities like picnics, hayrides', movies, etc., Rev. Meachem served Catawba for over 20 years. He went on to serve as supply pastor and moderate at serval area churches.  Several pastors have since led our congregation, including Dr.  Calvin Young, Dr. Calvin Hood, Dr. Raymond Worsley, Rev. Thomas Jenkins, Dr. Larry Hill, Rev. Coleman Gilchrist, Rev. Joseph Talley, Rev. Shelia Council and Rev. Dennis Funderburk. In 2012 God, in his infinite wisdom placed the Rev. Dr. Arthur William Canada, Sr, at Catawba. God knew what kind of shepherd Catawba needed at this critical moment in time when the congregation was weary, bruised and longing to be restored to wholeness. Dr. Canada continues today to lead this family of faith known as the Catawba Presbyterian Church USA with understanding, patience, compassion, kindness, and love.  

A brief history and walk down memory lane by 

 Debbie Wade, Elder - 2025