Community Matters???

You would think that being in the same location for 165 years would ensure that a church has become relevant in their community. However, Lonesome Dove somehow allowed one of the fastest growing and most affluent communities in the nation to grow up around the church and to literally leave them decades behind.

Three years ago we found ourselves asking the question, "How can we become relevant to the community around us?" "How can we show them God loves them and become relevant in their lives?" .... The church has had a long standing tradition of celebrating its history and large homecoming celebrations, but at that time had seen its attendance drop to an average of 30 on Sunday morning. Mega churches exploding all around and new families moving in to the community by the dozens, should have made for the perfect formula to create community in the community.

The opportunity presented itself to allow God to truly do a makeover on this little country church that finds itself placed in the middle of the big city. What does that mean? What does that look like? Can a church remake its reputation in the community? Will anyone notice or care?

The answer to all of these questions is simple. God knows and has direction. We just need to follow and get out of His way. That is just what happened. God led a young pastor to take this challenge and lead this flock. Over the last two years we have seen God bless and families start to share. We now have over 100 in regular attendance in Sunday morning worship, and we are leading mission projects and community outreach projects to try and become a relevant part of our community.

The question still lingers .... DOES COMMUNITY MATTER? We do not have the latest and greatest in facilities, but our buildings are paid for. We have 12 acres that look like you are driving by Mayberry RFD and stepping back in time. Immediately across the street 500K plus homes and more are springing up all at the time. Still huge potential for growth and ministry, but how do we become relevant?

Do we need to rebuild bigger and better? Do we need to relocate? Do we? Do we? Do we?

The answer is always the same. Listen to God's direction and allow Him to "draw all men (and women) unto Him".......not an easy task.