GVCC Celebrates 39 Years

Grace Valley Christian Center members gathered to celebrate the church’s anniversary on May 18, 2013. The event marked thirty-nine years of faithful ministry from Pastor Mathew under which the church has thrived and grown from a few college students to a large vibrant community. Read more about the church’s history here.

The evening began with a worship service for all ages. Testimonies, worship, and Scripture readings drew the congregation to reflect on God’s abundant blessings. Pastor Mathew then enjoined the congregation to faithfully keep their covenants to God and each other, highlighting our particular duty to covenant community life in the church. He spoke from Deuteronomy 7:7-10 explaining that God structures covenants in three parts:

Historical Prologue: God recounts his past mercies to his people. Stipulations: God’s commands to his people.

Sanctions: Blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience.

Contrary to the erroneous views of many Christians today, the Bible teaches that true love for God results in obedience, Pastor Mathew explained. God desires to bless us as we obey – not legalistically but lovingly. True freedom is slavery to Christ because his yoke is easy and his burden is light.

Pastor Mathew concluded with the encouragement that God will never leave or forsake His people and is committed to take us to heaven. Rejoicing in these truths church members retired to the church quad, in all of its spring-time glory, to enjoy rich fellowship along with a delectable three-course meal.

This post was contributed by Sarah Trombly.