Community Church celebrates 100th anniversary with focus on future
KEYSTONE HEIGHTS – Community Church of Keystone Heights is celebrating 100 years of being strong.
On Dec. 19, 1923, a group interested in forming a church met at the Keystone School House and …
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Community Church celebrates 100th anniversary with focus on future
KEYSTONE HEIGHTS – Community Church of Keystone Heights is celebrating 100 years of being strong.
On Dec. 19, 1923, a group interested in forming a church met at the Keystone School House and formed a Board of Trustees with the city’s founder J.J. Lawrence as the Chairman.
Construction for the original building began in 1924 and served the community for 41 years. In 1966, a new sanctuary was dedicated and is currently being used today. In the late 1980s, the church adopted a contemporary style of worship and focused more on the spiritual relationship with God.
“The mission of Community Church is knowing Jesus and making Him known,” Pastor Ray said. “We are a non-denominational Jesus church. It’s all about Jesus and Gospel-centered. We’re all about proclaiming Jesus and the message of grace.”
After 100 years, Community Church continues its mission of making Jesus known. Samaritan’s Purse’s Operation Christmas, Hope Grows International, and In His Wakes are just a few worldwide ministries the church supports. In addition, Community Church is heavenly involved in the community.
Since 1980, the church has provided affordable, necessary items such as clothes, shoes, and kitchen appliances to individuals through their Rummage Ministries. In 2010, the church started participating in Back to School, which provides families with clothes, shoes, coats, and school supplies.
The church has been involved with the local food bank, Lake Area Ministries, for more than 45 years providing the organization with volunteers and financial support. “We represent the community. People from all walks of life, whether it be rich, poor, multi-generational, or multi-ethnic, all are welcomed,” Ray said. “This is a no-judgment zone. You just come in just like you are, and the Bible, the Word of God, does the changing.”
As of now, the church plans to participate in the Annual Fourth of July Parade and the Christmas Parade to celebrate its 100th anniversary. Also, the church is making plans to host an all-day Centennial Super Sunday on Sept. 10.
“We want people to know that the future is brighter than the past. 100 years strong,” Ray said.
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