Our Church

Eight years ago our church was formed. In the earlier years, the location of the church moved several times which was difficult.

In April of 2006, Chris became the pastor. I think I should mention that Chris is one of Graham's best friends. They grew up together in Conway. In August of 2006, Graham came on as the Youth and Kids minister. At the time, this position was bi-vocational. Graham had just finished his Masters degree at Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary. Chris contacted Graham about the position and after a lot of prayer and visiting the church, we knew the Lord was leading us to Fort Smith. I didn't know what the Lord was doing. I mean, Graham had never really shown a strong interest in Youth and Kids ministry--his degree is in Missions and he thought he would be in an outreach, small groups, assimilation, and mobilization type role. God had other plans.

So, we moved to Fort Smith and started our life here. At the time, the church was meeting in a rented facility that was about 4,000 square feet. It was little bitty! In November of 2006, a church building across town went on the market and our church bought it. God really provided an awesome place for us--two buildings, a large parking lot, and a big open field. The front building consisted of an older sanctuary (where we had baptisms), office, and kids area. The back building contains our worship center with our kitchen, nursery, and some classroom space.

In January of 2008, Graham came on full-time at the church as the Discipleship Pastor. We were thrilled. His job description changed a bit to included small group ministry, mobilization, etc.

A few months ago, some pipes busted and completely flooded the office area of the front building. Graham, Chris, and the church secretary temporarily set up their offices in different areas of the building.

The offices were completely gutted, remodeled, and almost finished.

A few nights ago, were were informed that the front building caught on fire. We still don't know the cause of the fire.








It is devastating that all of Chris and Graham's books, seminary papers, computers,and guitars were lost in the fire--not to mention all of the other things that were lost.
This is the worship center--completely untouched by the fire! Praise God!
I've always admired this oak tree. It stands firm between the two buildings.

This fire has been a horrible event, but I know that God is in control and He has mapped out a plan for our church. In my little story, I didn't include all of the wonderful things that God has done for us throughout our four years here. With that said, I look forward in great anticipation of what He has planned next.