In the 1940's Rapid City's population was growing very fast. The pastor of the First United Methodist Church suggested another Methodist Church. It was officially named Canyon Lake United Methodist Church by the South Dakota Annual Conference in June 1949.

Ralph W Hepler was the first pastor. His wife Effie was the church's first choir director. Her sister Nellie Allison was the pianist.

An available abandoned church was found and then moved to the location of Hillsview Dr. It was small with only one room and had a seating capacity of 129. Alterations had to be made before the building was moved, such as digging a basement. Once it was in place water and sewer lines were dug and pews were made.

The first official board consisted of trusties: E.C. Dawkins, Gene Thompson, Lawrence Robbins. Stewards: W.J. Pipal, A.L. Scott, Leland Robbins, E.H. Jibben, Robert Moore, Mrs. Robert Moore, Mrs. W.J. Pipal, Ms and Mrs. Lawrence Robbins. Robert Moore was treasurer, and Mrs. Robert Moore was secretary. Mrs. W.j. Pipal was Sunday School Superintendent and Mrs. Lawrence Robbins became communion steward.

The congregation began holding services regardless of no electricity. January 1, 1950 at 11am was their first service and Sunday School was at 9:45. The church is still referred to by the older members as "The Little White Church." The first communion was on January 8, 1950. At that time there were 42 members. They had to purchase 50 hymnals but had enough left over to purchase lumber, oil, brooms and other equipment. The members of the church set their first budget at $1,500.