In the mid 1990’s, International Paper announced plans for its property west of Myrtle Beach-now known as Carolina Forest- and allocated several parcels of land for churches, schools, and public safety. New Harmony Presbytery purchased 11+ acres for new church development in 1998. A search team was formed that included members for local churches of the Grand Strand. The team worked tirelessly over the next 18 months-developing a plan for the new church and interviewing potential Pastor candidates. One of those serving-Jim Coulter-would become a charter member of Celebration Presbyterian Church.
Rev. Olin McBride began serving as organizing Pastor in March 2001 and met with various groups in the community about forming a new church. The first worship service was held July 8, 2001 in a rented space in Big Deal’s Flea Market on Rt. 501.
Construction began in June 2002 and Celebration Presbyterian Church was officially commissioned on September 26, 2002. New Harmony Presbytery continued to provide substantial guidance and support to CPC’s growing faith community over the coming years.
Rev. Thom Giuntoli served as interim pastor following Rev. McBride’s resignation in July of 2003. Rev. Gary Lowe served as the permanent pastor from February 2005 to July 2010. Celebration was then led by interim pastors David Mote, Don Stein, Lewis Johnson and Howard Hansen while church leadership worked to secure a permanent pastor.
Rev. Dr. Tom Dendy was called to be a Designated Pastor in November 2011 and was installed as our Permanent Pastor in March 2015. Rev. Dr. Dendy-’Pastor Tom’- faithfully served until his retirement in February 2026. Celebration is grateful for his many years of compassionate leadership and joyful ministry.
In February 2026, an Interim Pastor Nominating Committee (IPNC) was formed to begin the search process for an interim pastor. The Session approved an agreement for Reverend Tom Langston to serve as Bridge Pastor for a six month term beginning April 1, 2026. The committee continues its mission to find an Interim Pastor and then a Designated Pastor to serve our congregation.
