Last Sunday I handed out a half sheet of paper to my friends in our little church plant (the pic above is about half of us) and asked “How has Mantua Creek impacted your life?” I gave everyone ten minutes and below are some of the responses I got. As you read through them, I hope you’re as encouraged as I was, especially if you’ve prayed for or invested in what we’ve been doing to date. Thanks and enjoy!

“MC has given us space to consider what is really important/vital to church. MC has given my kids a safe space to learn and develop their faith.”

“We have always felt connected even when we couldn’t always attend. We felt carried through pregnancy/delivery with kindness, prayer, and happy anticipation.”

“When we first started coming, I was questioning whether there was still a place for me in the evangelical church. I was discouraged by the rise of Christian nationalism, and a narrow and wrong application of a Christian worldview in light of current events. It was a huge encouragement to find like-minded Christians, restoring a sense of hope in me. I’m also very grateful for the relationships we have built.”

“It allowed me to feel more accepting of my beliefs. I’m more excited/less dreadful about church. I feel connected unlike I have for a while.”

“I have experienced a small community that has grown in care for each other. I have been more intentional in getting to know and care for my neighbors. I have been able to help with the deconversion trend, which has helped me from deconverting myself. MC has also helped me want to go to church on a weekly basis.”

“I feel like I have gotten closer to God at this church and after being baptized.”

“When I moved to NJ a little over a year ago, I left most of my friends and previous church family behind. Although family was close by, there was a huge vacuum leaving my PA church where I had been very active. Mantua Creek Church has helped to create a sense of community with other believers and a place to worship and contribute. It has been a joy making new friends in Christ.”

“It has given me a stable and comfortable church environment… more engaging and not simply listening to a long sermon/lecture. It helps me think about the Bible and my own views.”

“Mantua Creek has created a true church family. I feel connected to more people than I have felt in other churches. I also appreciate the interactive teaching style that allows for and seeks input.”

“It made my life look better seeing everyone almost every week.”

“It has helped me not dread church every week because there are almost no judgmental comments or looks and the services are easier for younger people to understand. It really has helped shape my faith, especially in the last year. It has given me a place where my anxiety is accepted, and I can share my struggles without judgment.”