Published: August 09, 2008 11:55 pm         

Church reaches out to ‘Next Gen’

Members of Grace Community Church, 20076 C.R. 36, Goshen, will dedicate a new 30,000-square-foot addition to their complex on C.R. 36 today and change from three services this morning to two services at 9 and 10:45 a.m.

The new area has been called “The Link” and it features a large multi-purpose room with an industrial, informal feel and seating for about 400 people. The large area includes a coffee shop and gaming areas for using X-box and Wii equipment. And it also features a stage, lighting and drop-down screen for simulcast programing in the church.

The simulcast will be the same programming that is shared with the church’s congregation now meeting at a movie theater in South Bend.

The opening of “The Link” corresponds with Grace beginning a ministry to reach the “next generation” of church-goers between the ages of 18 and 28.

Jeremy Byng has begun as “Next Gen” minister and worship leader this week to reach out to this group of young adults.

“The teens can’t wait to get in here,” Lead Pastor Jim Brown said. The new space will be used for three purposes and used throughout the week.

“We will use the room through the week to be good stewards of the space,” Rev. Brown explained.

The second story of The Link features a “state of the art children’s wing” with computer security features and colorful classrooms and hallways. There is also a loft with a fireplace and comfortable seating for members to meet in small groups and worship or pray on their own.

The public is invited to the dedication at the 9 a.m. service Sunday.

“We are giving Him the credit and thanking God in advance. It excites us,” said the Rev. Brown, as workers made finishing touches on the construction this week.