Epicenter Community Christian Reformed Church is much more than a tenant at Williams Elementary School in Parrish, Fla.
Church members, who worship in part of the school’s building, go out of their way to build relationships with staff and students. They staffed games at two school “fun days.” They sponsor the school’s newsletter. And at Christmastime, they gave gift baskets to school staff and wrapped Christmas presents as a service for teachers.
“It all goes with the church motto, ‘Impacting our neighbors with hearts and hands,’” said Rev. Don Ridder. “These are the people God has given us, so we’re going to get to know them and help them. When they have questions about God or spirituality, we are the only church they might know of.”
Epicenter CRC is sponsored by Bradenton (Fla.) CRC. About 75 people attend Sunday services.
Nancy Beal, principal of the 700-student school, appreciates Epicenter’s involvement. “We really do feel like it’s a true partnership. They support the students. I can’t say enough about them.”
