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January 2005 |
Fund assists Stockwell church realize its vision to the community
Stockwell is a small church in Tippecanoe County. Even though it dates back to 1864, the 165-member congregation has a big vision for the future.
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"It is our responsibility and a privilege and joy to be Jesus to the people of our community." - Mark Hill |
As a church, members wanted to reach out to their community, but the space was not there. The largest space available would only hold about 100 people. Even wedding receptions needed to be held elsewhere. Their children's Sunday school was held in a rather dark basement. The only other large building in town is the school. They knew something needed to be done.
A vision committee determined what they should be doing to reach out to people. The committee knew they wanted to impact the world, create disciples and do evangelism. It was decided they would need places to do this.
A planning committee was formed to determine what to build. At the committee's lead, the congregation built a 9,500-square-foot center which housed a basketball court, classrooms, kitchen, storage, restrooms, commons-reception area and included a canopied entrance. They also looked to the future. The town has no preschool, so they built a preschool to required specification and will be ready to minister in that way, too.
Pastor Mark Hill said, "As a pastor of this church and the only church in a five mile radius, we are responsible to make disciples in this town. If we do not, who will? It is our responsibility and a privilege and joy to be Jesus to the people of our community."
The Family Life Center was named in honor and memory of Pastor Jack and Lois Williams. Williams professed that if small churches were to grow, experienced pastors from large churches would need to take up the leadership. He was approached to take on two small churches in Indiana. Pastor Williams answered the call. He left a large congregation in Pennsylvania to serve God in Stockewell, where he remained for 24 years.
Through a capital campaign, the church was able to raise $600,000. They approached the Indiana United Methodist Loan Fund to help with the remainder needed. The Loan Fund is honored to be able to assist financially in the growth of this community outreach ministry and to aim for their vision of "Impacting the World with the Love and Truth of Jesus Christ."
The Indiana United Methodist Loan Fund helps churches reach out to their communities. Since the founding of the Loan Fund, it has assisted 38 churches. Stockwell is only one of many stories.
Last updated on 25 Apr 2008