The Story of Grace Chapel (So far)

Grace Chapel began in a simple and meaningful way.

In 2007, a small group of friends gathered regularly in homes and local restaurants—not to start a church, but simply to study God's Word, share meals, pray together, and encourage one another. As those gatherings continued, conversations naturally turned toward the possibility of planting a new church.

On January 15, 2008, an interest meeting was held at the Knightsville Community Center. Ninety-five people attended, and by a voice vote, the group decided to begin holding Sunday worship services the very next week.

Our first service took place on January 20, 2008. We rented the Knightsville Community Center for $79.50 each week, setting up and tearing down chairs and equipment every Sunday. That first morning, 133 people gathered for worship—and enjoyed five dozen donuts together.

From the very beginning, God was at work.

Burt and Rose Zuch faithfully served as our first deacons, Jim Deal became our first treasurer, and our first elders, Clark Ferguson and Steve Lamb, were appointed in December 2008. Grace Chapel also began supporting missions early in its history, with Daniel Miller becoming the church's first supported missionary as he trained leaders to serve in difficult places around the world.

On April 13, 2008, Grace Chapel celebrated its first baptisms at the Scuba Shop in downtown Brazil. Bobby Sparks, his son Logan, and Paul Carr publicly declared their faith in Christ through baptism—a beautiful reminder of what God was already doing in the life of our church.

Finding a Permanent Home

Almost from the beginning, our church family prayed for a permanent place to call home. We explored several possibilities, even holding a one-time worship service in a church building in East Glenn that was for sale. Although it wasn't where God was leading us, He faithfully guided us to what would become our permanent home.

God opened the door for Grace Chapel to purchase the former Brazil Dodge dealership on U.S. Highway 40 for significantly less than the original asking price. After months of cleaning, renovations, and preparation by many faithful volunteers, we held our first worship service in our new building on October 4, 2009.

We continue to praise God for His faithful provision and guidance every step of the way.

Growing Together

As God continued to bless the ministry, Grace Chapel expanded once again. In 2021, a dedicated children's ministry facility was constructed, along with significant renovations to the sanctuary and gathering spaces. These improvements created welcoming environments for worship, fellowship, and discipleship for generations to come.

One of the values that has remained constant throughout our history has been wise financial stewardship. Through God's provision and the faithful generosity of His people, every loan used to purchase or improve our facilities was paid off well ahead of schedule. Today, Grace Chapel is thankful to be completely debt free.

Faithful People

Grace Chapel has been shaped by countless faithful servants over the years.

Rose Sanders has faithfully preserved the history of Grace Chapel from the very beginning. As the church's historian, she has carefully documented every worship service, attendance record, baptism, child dedication, song, milestone, and significant decision. Fittingly, the very first fellowship gatherings that eventually became Grace Chapel were held in her home.

Throughout our history, God has also provided dedicated elders, ministry leaders, and volunteers who have faithfully served in children's ministry, worship, hospitality, media, finances, facilities, small groups, and countless other areas. Their willingness to serve has helped build a church where people can know Christ and grow together.

Looking Ahead

In 2016, Jeremy Noel and his wife, Sarah, became part of the Grace Chapel family. Jeremy initially served as a part-time associate pastor with preaching and teaching responsibilities before becoming Senior Pastor in 2025. God has used Jeremy and his family to faithfully lead Grace Chapel into its next chapter of ministry.

As we look back, we see God's faithfulness written across every season of our story. Through countless salvations, baptisms, child dedications, answered prayers, and lives transformed by the gospel, God has continued to build His church.

To Him alone belong all glory, honor, and praise.

— Tim Russell, Founding Pastor