God’s Love on the Spectrum
The body of Christ is not only called to a personal, private faith, but also a public faith that invites others. This series seeks to reclaim the scary “E” word - evangelism - from the branches of Christianity that have twisted it with shame, fear, manipulation, and hate. Instead, we believe Christ-followers can (and should) be both inclusive AND evangelical. The Greek word where we get “evangelism” simply means sharing good news. We believe an inclusive, justice-seeking, Christ-centered church has good news to share for the people of Volusia County.
You may come from a faith background where being “evangelical” was harmful. You may be shy and unsure how to share your faith. Maybe you’re new to this whole “Jesus thing” and you don’t feel qualified to talk about church with other people. It’s easier to talk to someone we know and trust, but what about sharing God’s love with someone we don’t like? This series will equip and release you to be a witness to Christ’s unending grace and everlasting love, wherever you go - even to “the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). Christ is calling us to share our story. The Holy Spirit will do the rest. We just have be willing to say, “Here I am. Send me.”
Week 1: Wonderfully Made
August 30, 2026: Rev. Amy Armistead preaching
This Sunday, we’re beginning a new sermon series, God’s Love on the Spectrum: The Image of God in Different Abilities. We’ll explore what it means to truly believe that every person: every body, every mind, every ability—is created in the image of God. God doesn’t make mistakes.
Our starting place is Psalm 139:
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”
If you’ve ever struggled with your body, your mental health, chronic pain, aging, caregiving, or simply wondered whether you are enough, hear this: You are fearfully and wonderfully made.
Come as you are. Bring your whole, wonderfully made self.
Week 2: The Church needs Every Body
September 6, 2026: Rev. Amy Armistead preaching
Last week we talked about how ALL people are made in the image of God, fearfully and wonderfully made. This Sunday, we’ll be talking about how all members of the body of Christ have gifts to share.
In 1 Corinthians 12 Paul writes that though we are many members, we’re one body. Just like how every body part has a role to play, so do we. Every member is needed for the whole to function. This includes those with disabilities. Diversity is our strength.
In John Swinton’s Christianity Today article on disability theology he writes: “Diversity of form, function, and even capacity is not a deviation from divine intent but a constitutive feature of it.”
Our diversity in gifts, experiences, abilities, cultures, ages, gender identities, and incomes make us a healthier church. I thank God for a church that reflects the fullness of God’s Kingdom, and still the work is not done in making sure all people are represented at The Gathering Place!
Week 3: No Barriers to JEsus
September 13, 2026: Rev. Amy Armistead preaching
There’s a story in the Gospels about Jesus teaching to a large crowd. A paralyzed man was not able to access Jesus, so his friends busted open a roof, lowered him through the hole, and Jesus healed him. The large crowd served as a barrier between the paralyzed man and Jesus.
Sometimes, our churches are the crowd… a barrier between Jesus and people with disabilities. While writing this sermon series I learned that according to Access Forge, 80% of families affected by disability are unchurched. 1 in 3 families with a disabled child simply stay home. This reality forces us to examine what small changes we can implement to make our space just a little friendlier to those with disabilities.
Additionally, this week we are relaunching small groups for the Fall! There are a lot of options for Young Adults (18-30ish), Financial Peace, Men, Women, and a new 6-week study on the book of Philippians called A Joy Filled Life. Check out our Small Groups page to learn more about a group that fits your season of life.
Lights, Camera, Wow!
We spark instant delight with colorful clips that burst off the screen.