It was one year ago this week that our Abundant Life Church of Chico held its first service here in Chico, California. A year ago, our Sunday worship services were held in the homes of our members. Humble surroundings? Yes! But those early days made it easy to see the enthusiasm and joy that was swelling in our small congregation.
Much has changed as we've grown. We held Sunday worship at the Holiday Inn for a few months, and then other places as our needs changed. We've been blessed as our worship team has grown to add singers, and then a guitar. The depth and timbre has improved with a professional sound system, and more recently, a beautiful keyboard that can also provide pastel musical backgrounds to the sermons. But make no mistake: when we raise our voice to sing in worship, we can rock the house!
Much has stayed the same as we've grown. We're still small enough where everybody knows your name. We all still pray for the needs of the families in our congregation, and celebrate the blessings given us with our strength through God and Jesus Christ. We have shared in weekly Bible Study, and we've had a summer Baptism service. We've shared the fellowship of boating at Black Butte Lake. We've shared special reverence, joining together to sing 'Silent Night' at a very special Christmas service. And drawn together by the strength of our faith and the worship of our God, we go forward to share so much more.
This is our church: and it's thrilling to be a part of this initial period for growth and evolution. This is our church, and it's our chance to help shape and guide its growth. This is our church, to fill our needs, as we all grow and deepen our relationship with God.
At this early stage, now is a great time to join with us! If you're new to Chico, or are looking for a different kind of church, you are welcome. Bring your friends and family to worship with us. Be a part of our community. And help us grow to become a beacon of Christian light in Chico's community!
Our services are informal: wear clothes that are comfortable for you. We believe that God, and God's presence in our lives should be celebrated. We SING songs in both worship and praise, and we're not afraid to sing, clap and shout out our joy. We all have the NEED to celebrate the blessings that God brings to our lives, and our CHURCH is the place to do it.
Guided by pastors Peter and Gay Chapman, we are truly blessed by their inspiration and leadership in our church. Pivotal in the success of churches in their native Australia, they have now started ministries in the American Southwest, and have finally answered the calling to form our Abundant Life Church here in Chico, California. With their own children in middle- and high-school, pastors Peter and Gay easily relate to the unique needs of professional, middle-age families here in Chico.
Reach for God, and God will answer. The fact that you're reading this BLOG, right now, may be a part of the reach you need to make in your personal life.
Join us next Sunday. Or any Sunday: you will know when the time is right for you. This is indeed a New Day.
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