Saturday and Sunday, August 17 and 18
by Melanie Jongsma
LANSING, Ill. (July 31, 2019) – “For three quarters of a century, First Baptist Church has been leading the lost to Christ, baptizing them into a new life, building them up in God’s family, and equipping them to go in the power of the Holy Spirit for Him to do in others what has been done in them,” reads a letter from Pastor Michael Eberly of the church that is now known as Cornerstone. The letter was sent in July to members and friends of one of Lansing’s oldest churches, a church that just last year renewed their vision and updated their name.
The re-visioning process that began in 2016 has involved more than a name change. The church has also been intentionally upgrading its facilities in order to accommodate an intentional focus on outreach and community ministry. The new fellowship hall, for example, is called “The Gathering Place,” and members contributed more than $300,000 to construct and remodel a space that is fully ADA accessible and can be used for weeknight concerts and Sunday morning coffee as well as children’s events and family parties. One result of the updates and intentionality is a 30% spike in attendance.
The 75th Anniversary Committee is using this milestone anniversary as an occasion to remember the past in a way that builds momentum in the present that represents an investment in the future. The celebration weekend will give former church members and curious community members an opportunity to see the changes, hear the vision casting, and support it to the degree that they believe in it. The committee lists the two current mission priorities that need funding: the building’s sanctuary technology and the children’s ministry spaces.
An Open House reception is planned for Saturday, August 17, from 3:00–5:00pm, with a brief program at 4:00pm. Refreshments will be served.
And the worship service on Sunday, August 18, begins at 10:30am, and will be followed by a Celebration Luncheon at noon. The luncheon is a catered event, so RSVPs are requested.
First Baptist/Cornerstone Church is located at 3440 178th Street in Lansing. The church office can answer questions about the upcoming events—708-474-5400.
