Finding Community
As a newlywed couple, my wife, Jamie, and I were looking for a deeper and more meaningful way to connect with other people inside our neighborhood, but we were unsure about where to get started. Throughout our childhoods, we’d gone to church a few times and decided it was time to find a church we could find home. We knew we were looking for a church that was passionate about giving back to those in need and serving the surrounding community, but there were so many churches to choose from, and we quickly became overwhelmed with options. Yet, we were determined to find somewhere we could get plugged in and start giving back.
One day while we were working out at the gym, we met the pastor of 121 Community Church. It just so happened we were talking about which church we should try next when he overheard our conversation and decided to introduce himself to us. During our conversation, he extended an invitation to us to come check out the church. Already impressed with the warm invitation and friendliness of the pastor, we were eager to give 121 a try, and we made plans to attend the following Sunday.
Our first experience at 121 Community Church was immediately different than any other church we had previously been to. For example, as soon as we walked in, we were warmly greeted in a meaningful and personal way by other members who were eager to show us around and answer any questions we had! Before the service had even started, we knew our search for a church was finally over. We were home!
It’s hard to believe that invite was over six years ago! Since joining the church, our family has grown. And we’ve welcomed two wonderful children to our family. It’s been great to instill strong values, such as serving others and being plugged into a community, into them. Plus, they love going to church on Sundays and learning about Jesus. There’s nothing more beautiful than listening to our children retell us stories or sing us songs they learned during their small groups.
Additionally, we became part of a small group which has allowed us to plug in with other families in similar life stages in our community. Going through life together with our friends who have become like family has been wonderful — especially during the hard times in our careers, marriage and parenting.
But by far, the most rewarding experience has been giving back by serving others. Throughout my membership at 121 Community Church, I met and developed a personal friendship with the student youth pastor, Jermaine. It was this friendship that provided me with my first opportunity to volunteer at the church!
A couple of years ago, I was asked to help out with the middle school team, which I am still a part of to this day. This experience has been absolutely incredible. Even after long days at the office, I look forward to serving at the church on Wednesday nights. I love being able to invest in young students during such a challenging season in their lives. Whether I’m hosting on stage during worship services, serving food or simply having hallway conversations with students as they walk by, I know I’m making a positive difference in their lives by being a role model – and that feels good.
In fact, I love serving so much, my wife and I decided to join the welcome team on Sunday mornings. We meet and greet church members and new guests as they arrive. One of our favorite parts is helping new guests feel welcomed by answering any questions they have, introducing ourselves and showing them around the building. We want each new guest to feel as welcome as we did all those years ago.
We are so grateful for that invite from Ross to 121 Community Church all those years ago! At the time, we had no idea his invite to church would be the perfect fit for our desire to make a difference in the community. Plus, we are beyond thrilled to raise our small children in such a warm place that gives back by serving others.
This fall, we’d like to warmly extend the same invite to you and your family. Come check us out in person, or visit us online at 121cc.com.