For Michelle, Christ Journey Church has been woven into her life story long before she ever officially called it home.
Her first memories of the church go back to the mid-1990s, when her parents would bring the family to the annual UBC Christmas Pageant. Even though they were not members of the church at the time, attending the pageant became a treasured family tradition year after year.
In fact, one of those Christmas Pageants became one of her very first dates with her boyfriend, Ronald, who would later become her husband just five years later.
Years passed, life moved forward, and eventually Michelle and her family were invited to attend Christ Journey. At first, it was actually their children who kept asking to come back. The warmth and care they experienced through the children’s ministry made an immediate impact on the entire family.
Michelle remembers falling in love with the way the leaders and volunteers genuinely poured into their children, not only caring for them, but helping guide them toward a deeper relationship with Christ. As parents, she and Ronald felt supported and encouraged knowing they were raising their children in a church that partnered with them spiritually every step of the way.
But several years later, their lives changed forever.
Ronald was diagnosed with cancer, and not long after, Michelle faced the heartbreaking loss of her husband. It became one of the most painful and difficult seasons their family had ever endured.
And once again, the church showed up.
During the darkest days, Christ Journey Church surrounded Michelle and her children with love, support, and prayer. She found comfort and strength through Circle of Friends, where she was embraced by women who walked alongside her with compassion and encouragement.
Over time, Michelle and her older children began serving together in Kids Ministry, forming meaningful friendships with those they served beside. Through both grief and healing, the church became more than a place to attend. It became a lifeline.
Today, Michelle reflects on how deeply this church has shaped her family’s faith journey. It is a place where she feels the presence of God, not only through worship and teaching, but through the people who reflect His love, grace, and mercy in everyday ways.
As Christ Journey Church celebrates 100 years, Michelle’s story is a reminder of the lasting impact a church family can have across generations and through every season of life.
She knows without a doubt that she would not be where she is today without the love, support, and biblical foundation this church has provided for her and her family.
And with a grateful heart, she celebrates this milestone alongside the church she now calls home.
Happy 100th Birthday, Christ Journey Church.
