Investing in Oak Ridge

We’re continuing to step into Oak Ridge with open hands, paying attention to where God is already at work. Relationships are forming, trust is growing, and we’re seeing real momentum.

School Friends
Our local schools have been one of the clearest ways to connect. At Willow Brook Elementary, simple things like providing breakfast for teachers have opened the door to meaningful relationships. Serve Saturdays have become a steady rhythm too, with our largest teams yet serving at Willow Brook and Robertsville Middle through projects like landscaping and painting.

These moments matter because we’re not just improving spaces, we’re building trust with principals, teachers, and staff.

Local Outreach
We’re also building relationships with organizations across Oak Ridge.

Our partnership with TORCH is growing as we look for ways to serve now and in the future. We’ve also been connecting with the Family Resource Center to better understand needs in the community, especially during the summer months when many families lose school-based support.

At the same time, relationships with other churches are strengthening. A recent worship night with Ridge Church was a reminder that we’re better when we move together.

Good Things Ahead
From a facility standpoint, we are starting to see some progress! Firstly, we have received our first round of permits to start the exterior renovations to the building! Additionally, approval to utilize additional parking at Willow Brook, along with plans to install access gates, removes a major barrier for future gatherings. Also, in efforts to prepare the building for renovation, we have found local churches in need of the teaching podium and communion tables as well as a new church plant who needed the pews! It has been so exciting to see these items take on a new life of ministry in new locations.

This summer, we’re focusing on two key opportunities:

• Neighborhood Outreach: Meeting neighbors and building trust through simple, intentional connection
• Student Gatherings: Creating space for middle and high school students to connect and grow

At the center of it all is a simple goal. We want to be present to what Jesus is doing and invite others to come and see.

We’re grateful for what God is already doing in Oak Ridge, and we’re expectant for what’s ahead.

‍