Can you imagine a church that started as a mission in 1969? Today, we are standing in front of Grace Evangelical Church. It celebrated 30 years as a church in November 1999. Grace Evangelical Church has a rich history. It continues to be a vibrant part of the Tampa community.
Grace Evangelical Church is more than just a building. It is a community of faith. It is a place where people come together to worship and serve. The church began as a mission. It has grown into a large congregation of about 1000 members.
Let’s talk about the services offered here. Regular Sunday services are held at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sunday school starts at 9:45 a.m. There are ministries for all ages. Junior and Senior Youth Ministries meet weekly. They study Biblical lessons in a shack. It has a TV and a Coke machine. Ladies meet twice a month to play bridge. Couples meet for bridge once a month too. Healing services are held the second Sunday of each month. There is a Ladies Bible group for older women. It meets the first Monday of each month. A Bible group for young married couples meets the third Tuesday of every month. A circle makes quilts for babies at St. Joseph’s Hospital. The Book Club and Bowling League meet once a month.
The Holy Spirit is very important here. According to the church, He is coequal with God. He makes people aware of their need for Jesus Christ. He lives in every Christian from salvation. The Holy Spirit empowers Christians. He provides understanding and guidance. He gives every believer a spiritual gift when they are saved. Christians here seek guidance from the Holy Spirit daily.
Grace Evangelical Church operates with a clear understanding of its financial responsibilities. The church has an EIN. It is a unique nine-digit number for tax purposes. As a church, it is not required to file Form 990.
Now, let’s talk about the leadership here. Senior Pastor John S. Hillmer took over a few months before 2000. He came from a parish in Dallas. He received a master’s degree in 1979 from a seminary in St. Louis. He had been married to his wife, Janice, for 18 years in 2000. They have three children Olivia, Ansel, and Lukas.
The recent sermon topic in 2000 was living with grace and gratitude. It focused on turning over a new leaf. Grace Evangelical Church is a place of welcome and spiritual growth. Its ministries and services meet diverse needs.
As we conclude our visit to Grace Evangelical Church reflect on its journey. From a small mission to a thriving church. Its commitment to faith, community, and service is clear. It truly embodies its name offering grace to all who enter its doors.