It's official. Granger Community Church-Elkhart has a new ministry outpost. Through the overwhelming generosity of the people of St. John's United Church of Christ, their building and property on east Bristol street was transferred to GCC this past week.
In late May St. John's initiated contact with me, asking about our interest in occupying their existing building, as they would soon cease to hold services there. They were very clear: they were seeking to give their property to GCC-Elkhart. After weeks of prayer, clarifying conversations, congregational and board meetings, the people of St. John's formalized their offer to transfer their property and building to us. An amazing act of God through a group of people who want to see ministry continue.
The legacy of St. John’s in this community is long and deep: more than 120 years of ministry in Elkhart with untold thousands of people changed or helped through difficult times of life. Their people should be proud. We are humbled by their generosity; we are grateful for the opportunity to revitalize this Kingdom outpost on the north side of Elkhart.
As many of you know, in 2008, God led our congregation to start a new ministry in Elkhart. Shortly thereafter, we began renting space at the RV Hall of Fame—and each weekend a crowd has gathered to hear the good news of Jesus. While the Hall has been an ideal meeting place, this new opportunity gives us a 24/7 presence in the community, allowing us to expand our reach with unique effectiveness.
We're praying for the people of St. John's as they conclude public worship services over the next couple weeks. They will continue to meet for services through Sunday, July 31st, after which we will begin an approximate three-month process to prepare the building for our use.We're celebrating their rich heritage, and we're accepting the responsibility to be light and hope on the corner of Bay and Bristol with life-changing impact through the greater Elkhart area.
Over the next few weeks watch this blogsite and GCCwired.com for updates and ways to be involved in what's coming for GCC-Elkhart. Get ready!
Amazed. Absolutely amazed.
