The story of New Community Christian Church begins in the Fall of 2001 when a small group of people were meeting together in homes to fellowship and share their stories with one another. These people came from many religious backgrounds and they all had less-than-perfect experiences with church in the past. They were not sure what direction God was taking them, but God was definitely in control.
In October of 2001 this group invited Pastor Kevin & Cindy Yandell to join them in these meetings. Within a few weeks it was decided that the group would enjoy meeting for worship and the first “unofficial” meeting was held on November 4 in the home of one of the group members. That group grew in the following weeks to over 50 people (including children) and it was decided that we needed more space than a home would offer.
December 23, 2001 the New Community Christian Church was officially launched in the Saratoga School in Morris. There were 53 people in attendance that morning. Attendance has grown steadily through these past 7 plus years. In 2003 the church moved to White Oak Grade School, which offered more space for growth. In early 2008, NC3 purchased the church building at 705 E. Washington St in Morris as a temporary home. This site gives us a stronger presence in the Morris community and allows us to expand our ministry opportunities. Currently New Community averages 300 people on Sunday mornings in two identical gathering times (9:00 and 10:45 am). The church staff includes Pastors Kevin Yandell (Lead Pastor) and Jake Raymer (Youth Pastor), Children’s Director Patsy Phillips, Office Administrator Julie Lardi and receptionist Mindy Ripsch. The programs of the church have also grown over the years. We now offer a full children’s program for ages 0 – 5th grade. Junior High students have a class during the second gathering time at 10:45. High School students meet on Sunday afternoons following worship for food and study time. There are several home Community Groups that meet for adults.
In August of 2006 New Community purchased 15 acres of land north of Morris at the intersection of Route 47 and Minooka Road. We also have an option to purchase an additional 5 acres at this site. We believe that this location will be a strategic point in our ability to reach out to Grundy County and beyond. The land is being paid for through a capital fund campaign – “God’s Purpose…Our Journey”.
At NC3 we are learning how to meet people where they are and point them toward God. Our mission is “building bridges to connect people with Jesus.” New Community began as a dream and we believe that it is still God’s dream. God desires to have a personal relationship with every person and He chooses the church as the means to get the message out to the people. We are working to do just that.
