In the era of mega and multi-site churches, webcasts, and digital downloads, it is tempting to overlook the faithfulness and perseverance of churches in our own community. The counter to our hearts in that temptation is the celebration of the local church.
This past Sunday, one local church did just that. Hope of Christ, PCA in Stafford County celebrated their five year anniversary with a service of thanksgiving and testimony.
Meeting at Colonial Forge High School, Hope of Christ was led in a service of music and testimonial by their pastor, Rev. Leonard Bailey. Interwoven were stories of perseverance and support that were stark, honest, and grateful. Specifically touching was one family’s testimony of Rev. Bailey’s and the congregation’s support through a painful adoption in which they had to return their child to the birth mother.
The family’s thankfulness was expressed when they said, “We went to care group every night, not because we didn’t have one, but because we needed the support. All of you gave us that support.”
Tears of joy were commonplace from the pastor to the elders and even to some visitors. The day was capped off with an evening meal that resulted in full stomachs and full hearts. As Pastor Bailey stated, “What a privilege it is to minister the Gospel.”
What’s next for this young church? Well, Hope of Christ isn’t planning on sitting still. As Hope was originally planted from New Life in Christ Church of Fredericksburg, presently, both churches are planting Evident Grace Fellowship in the Spotsylvania/Massaponax area.
All three look forward to many more celebratory meals in the future.
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