Did you know that Community Christian Church Lemont wasn’t always Community Christian? It began its life as Shale Harbor Church a nearly decade-old congregation nestled on Stephen Street. This unassuming building in downtown Lemont once served as a general store. Now it houses a vibrant community of faith.
Community Christian Church which boasts a dozen locations across the Chicago area decided to expand to Lemont. They saw the potential in Shale Harbor. They recognized that joining forces would help reach a wider audience. A partnership was formed. This wasn’t a takeover. Rather it was a collaboration born from a shared desire to help people find their way back to God.
Pastor Dave Richa a Schaumburg native who’d previously served at the Naperville location of Community Christian took the helm. He brought his family from Colorado to help launch this new campus. His wife and three daughters embraced this new chapter. They were excited to be a part of God’s work in Lemont. They joined forces with a launch team. This team included members from the original Shale Harbor congregation. Other members were from various Community Christian Church campuses throughout the area. Tina Caceres head of Kids’ City programming in Romeoville was instrumental in getting things up and running. She was excited about the opportunity to grow together. Even her family was fully supportive.
Despite already having many other churches in Lemont including Catholic Lutheran and Methodist congregations there’s no sense of competition. Pastor Richa noted that there is cooperation among the churches a real sense of community.
The church offers relevant and applicable messages. Expect upbeat music a children’s ministry and small groups. They’re known for a casual laid-back atmosphere. Yet they are passionate about following Jesus. Even those unfamiliar with the Bible will feel welcomed. Newcomers will not feel like they stand out.
The grand opening of Community Christian Church Lemont took place on Sunday March 20. Since then this new chapter has been filled with energy excitement and a deep commitment to serving the community. The church continues to build upon the legacy of Shale Harbor. They are reaching a wider audience. They continue to live out their mission of helping people find their way back to God.