There’s always a back story to a movement of God. The launch of a new campus is no different.
For Suncrest it started about 2 years ago when Greg, myself and the elders begin having conversations about the approach of some churches called multi-site. The reason to even consider it was obvious: there were people who lived far enough from Suncrest’s building that they would never come. People who desperately needed Jesus.
Some of these people live near me. I live in Merrillville and I have neighbors who won’t drive 16 minutes to Suncrest’s campus because it is too far. That is just unacceptable to me. I could get mad at them and consider them too lazy or whatever but Jesus’ approach to ministry really isn’t build a build a building and expect everyone to come to him. His approach is to GO where ever His message needs to be heard.
Through many more discussions other campuses seemed to be something God was leading Suncrest towards.
Meanwhile…
A group of dedicated Christ followers in Hobart were meeting as a part of Community Christian Church. There numbers had dwindled and they wondered if this was really honoring God. As they looked for help, they thought of the CDEA (Chicago District Evangelism Association, a church planting organization). In their conversations they felt compelled that the CDEA was an organization with a vision for new life through new churches. After talking through various possibilities the best solution was to give their assets to the CDEA to plant a new church in the Hobart area. Life would come from death.
Through some quite peculiar (think God) circumstances Greg learned of this and conversations were started about the possibility of partnering with the CDEA on this project. Through lots of prayer and talk the deal was sealed and we will launch a brand new campus of Suncrest in the Hobart area that will reach hundreds if not thousands for Christ. All because of the vision of a handful of Christ followers.
douggamble
worshiprising
9 responses so far ↓
Lynn Barbee // January 28, 2008 at 11:22 pm
I’m thankful for Christians who saw beyond themselves and saw the big picture. Sometimes people are hesitant to give up what is “theirs,” but the people from CCC obviously have the heart of God in mind, and know that the church is where God’s people are. I pray for God’s blessings on their faith walk and look forward to meeting them.
Natalie Keller // February 11, 2008 at 5:46 pm
I’m glad Noelle let me know how to log on to Suncrest’s website. As a member of CCC, I’m thrilled at what’s happening. Praise God!!! N
Dan // February 21, 2008 at 5:33 am
Hi. Where might this location be? I live in Merrillville and my wife and I have considered going to a church if it is close by us, welcoming, and not boring.
douggamble // February 21, 2008 at 1:23 pm
We are still trying to find a facility to rent. Love to have you come check us out. You are also welcome to come to our 1st campus in Saint John to get a feel for what we are like.
Dan // February 21, 2008 at 3:26 pm
We actually checked it out once. Without getting into much detail, we didn’t have a very positive experience. We liked the format and pastor and all that, but we didn’t feel welcome.
douggamble // February 21, 2008 at 3:28 pm
So sorry to here that because we strive to make everyone feel welcome. We do definitely miss that sometimes. I hope you will try us out again or at least give the new campus a try.
Dan // February 21, 2008 at 3:35 pm
It would be pretty selfish and childish not to give you a second shot, I jack a lot of things up on my first try — we are human, after all. I’d love to chat with you some about God and life and all that, if you have the time. I believe my email address is supplied since I fill it out for this comment. If not, here it is in a format so spam-bots don’t get a hold of it (letters only plus @ sign, the rest is to throw off metacrawlers): p . r . a . y . e . r . a . m . e . d . i . c . @ . y . a . h . o . o .. c . o . m .
douggamble // February 21, 2008 at 3:36 pm
Sounds good. Love to chat as well.
Dan // February 21, 2008 at 3:44 pm
It might be easier if I email you, I just thought about that. Saw your email on Suncrest site.
Leave a Comment