In the late 1950s, The Rev. Charles R. Allen, then Rector of St. Mark’s, Gastonia, perceived a need for a new mission in east Gastonia. St. Mark’s formed a mission study committee and on April 19, 1960 referred the idea to the Diocese of Western North Carolina’s Department of Missions. The Rt. Rev. Matthew George Henry, Bishop of Western North Carolina, the Rev. James Y. Perry, and the Rev. Frank MacKenzie subsequently met to discuss the potential mission. On All Saints’ Day 1961, the Episcopal Church Women of the Diocese pledged their All Saints’ Day offering for the mission, a gift which would inspire the name of the eventual parish.

On December 5, 1961, Bishop Henry, Fr. Perry, and the Rev. Roland Whitemire called a meeting at the Grier School in Gastonia for all interested in constituting the mission. Fifteen people representing twelve families attended and the Bishop decided to move forward. In subsequent meetings, committees were appointed and property was chosen.

In January 1962, The Rev. Robert E. Johnson, who had been serving parishes in Sylva and Cullowhee, was invited to provide leadership for the mission. The first service was held in an old house on the property on February 11, 1962. The mission was officially organized March 4, 1962, when twenty-one persons signed the necessary petition and presented it to Bishop Henry.

An innovative mobile chapel was constructed and on May 20, 1962 it was dedicated by Bishop Henry at a service of Evening Prayer and Confirmation. In two years, the congregation outgrew the chapel and the first permanent worship space, seating 125 persons, was completed in 1964. A parish house was added in 1968.

In June 1986, The Rev. Robin Johnson retired after twenty-four years of faithful service. Rev. Johnson became quite well known in Gaston County and was responsible for the organization of AA groups, Hospice, and other outreach ministries.

From June 1987 to May 1990, The Rev. Stephen Stanley served as All Saints’ second Rector. Father Stanley served diligently and introduced new programs and worship styles. The Rev. Ingram Parmley, the Rev. Bill Pilcher, and the Rev. Rob Henley provided priestly leadership during the interim.

The Rev. J. Houston Matthews, III was called as the third Rector of All Saints’ in 1991. During Rev. Matthews’ tenure the sanctuary was expanded, the Johnson Family Life Center was built, and the parish continued to grow in numbers as well as involvement in the life of Gaston County, the Diocese, and the Cursillo movement. Fr. Matthews retired in January 2005 and The Rev. Charles W. Smithers served the parish during the interim.

In October 2006, The Rev. Ben G. Robertson, IV, was called to be the fourth Rector of All Saints’. The parish continues to thrive and looks forward to an exciting future filled with worship, fellowship, and good works.