The towering white cross that dominates the facade of the Love Life Christian Church has become a landmark in the Ellenwood, GA community. Built in 1997, the church was founded by Reverend Grace Cartwright Washington, a woman of deep faith and countless years of experience in the ministry. Her dream was to create a non-denominational church, welcoming to all and focused on loving God and loving others. The church’s mission? To build a community that impacts the world.
The church’s story begins with a leap of faith. After serving in a mainstream denominational church for 11 years, Reverend Washington felt called to step out on her own. Inspired by Philippians 4:13, a verse about doing all things through Christ, Reverend Washington organized an initial meeting at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Hall, Jr., in March 1997. She envisioned a place where people could come together to learn from the Word of God, grow in their faith, and serve the community. At this meeting, Reverend Washington introduced Love Life Christian Fellowship Church as a subsidiary of Love Life Center, Inc., an organization established on the values of faith, unity, and self-help.
Finding a place of worship wasn’t easy, but with the help of Rev. Ulysses Ponder, they were able to secure an agreement to lease and eventually purchase, the former Fork Creek Baptist Church. On April 6th, 1997, the first worship service was held. There was an escorted limousine motorcade provided by Mr. Donald Trimble, owner of Donald Trimble Mortuary, to take Reverend Washington and her entourage from South Dekalb Mall to the church – a grand start to a grand ministry.
Love Life Christian Church continues to thrive today, providing a space for spiritual growth and community engagement. It is a place where people can find hope, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. The legacy of Reverend Washington is one of dedication and compassion, and it continues to be a beacon of light for the Ellenwood community.