Rebecca Carpenter
Rebecca Carpenter
Rebecca Carpenter
Monroe Church Celebrates 25 Years of Miracles, Ministry
The Monroe, N.C., Church commemorated its 25th anniversary with a heartfelt celebration featuring Rick Russell, Carolina Conference vice president of finance, as the guest speaker on September 12, 2024. This milestone was an opportunity to reflect on the church’s remarkable journey from humble beginnings to a thriving community of faith.
The story began in 1999 when the “Total Employment” initiative, a General Conference program, inspired leaders to establish a new church in Monroe. A small group of Adventists in Union County embraced the challenge, holding their first Sabbath service on September 18, 1999. This group of 28 members relied on prayer, dedication, and a shared mission: “Helping our friends become fully devoted followers of Christ.”
God’s providence was evident from the start. A $40,000 donation set aside for Monroe’s evangelistic efforts provided the foundation for growth. Early challenges — like storing equipment weekly and managing multiple responsibilities within the small congregation — were met with creativity and unity. Despite the hurdles, the church grew by 28% in its first year.
The church’s mission extended beyond its walls. Members participated in outreach initiatives such as Bible studies and evangelistic campaigns, and even won a prize for their float in the Monroe Christmas parade, where they distributed 1,000 copies of Steps to Christ. Public evangelistic campaigns in 2001 brought 16 new members through baptism, exemplifying the church’s commitment to sharing the Gospel.
By 2004, Monroe’s church family had grown to 80 members and secured a permanent location. Over the years, the church has emphasized evangelism, Vacation Bible Schools, health events, and community service, reflecting their dedication to Jesus’ call to “bear much fruit.”
The celebration also served as a reminder of the church’s mission to embody Christ’s character. From its founding, members have prioritized love, unity, and service, aiming to make God’s presence tangible in Union County. As one early story shared during the event illustrated, “If God is so big that He can’t fit in the world, but He also lives inside me — shouldn’t people see Him coming out of me?”
With a membership now exceeding 120, Monroe Church continues to grow in faith and service. As Nathan Schaeffer, pastor, once said, the “measure of success is not in what we gain, but in what we give and the lives we touch.” Inspired by 25 years of God’s leading, the church looks forward to an even brighter future, sharing the three angels’ messages and preparing for Jesus’ soon return.
Carolina | April 2025
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