Published: August 09, 2008 11:57 pm         

Pastor will minister to young people

Jeremy Byng has joined the staff of Grace Community Church, Goshen, and will serve as the “Next Gen” pastor, as the church begins a new ministry to reach out to residents ages 18 to 28.

“We want to reach out and get connected” to this group that has not been reached by the traditional church, Byng said during his first week on the staff.

Florida native

Byng is a native of Sebring, Fla., and completed his studies at Grace College Seminary. He and his wife, Ginger, and their 5-year-old daughter Lilli plan to move here soon.

Byng will serve as worship leader in “The Link,” a new 30,000 square-foot addition to Grace Church on C.R. 36 at C.R. 21. “The Link” is set for dedication on today.

The new sanctuary in The Link has an industrial look, with chain link fencing and metal decorations, but includes a coffee shop, electronic gaming areas, stage and professional-style lighting.

Service simulcast

A screen may be used to simulcast the Sunday message from Lead Pastor Jim Brown, who will preach in the nearby sanctuary, or sometimes switch places and the simulcast will be in the main sanctuary.

The second story of The Link is a youth area, with several classrooms for youngsters and early teens.

Byng said he enjoys music, plays the guitar and “anything with strings.” He also enjoys outdoor sports, soccer and has been told his ideal activity would be skateboarding while hunting. He has yet to visit Goshen’s skateboard park at Rogers Park, but says “I’m sure I’ll be there.

“I love kids and look forward to working with this generation that needs Christ, needs his love and grace,” Byng said. “This church loves people because they love God.”