In 1960, a group from the Pontiac Free Methodist Church planted a new ministry in the Clarkston area with meetings in local homes. In 1961, a building was erected and the Drayton Heights Free Methodist Church was launched.
The assembly is now Clarkston Free Methodist Church, and they are celebrating 40 years of growth with the same core mission.
‘During that time, the church has developed a rich heritage of building up people and families,? Senior Pastor Dave Coleman said. ‘Our goal is to share the good news that Jesus Christ is alive.?
To focus all church ministries toward that goal, the church sanctuary now features six decorative pillars, each with one of the ‘Six Pillars of a Great Church.? They include principles of exalting Christ, holding to biblical integrity, being an authentic Christian community, impacting the community and the world for Christ, experiencing the joy of the Lord and being motivated by love.
To carry out their mission, the church has a wide variety of ministries and activities, including regular Bible classes and women’s and men’s ministries. The church tithes their yearly budget to Free Methodist World Missions and engage in their own outreach activities.
This year, church members will go to Brazil and Tanzania, for example. The church sponsors 147 children in Nyasaka, Tanzania, providing the children with schooling, books, medical care and food.
The church offers athletic programs such as softball, basketball and golf, and teen groups are active with separate activities for junior and senior high youth. Each participates in some kind of service project each month, ranging from raking leaves for the elderly to serving a meal at a rescue mission.
Those who like music will love the church praise team, with soloists, vocalists and instrumentalists participating in worship services.
A special dramatic musical, ‘Peacemaker,? is scheduled this spring, presenting the story of the resurrection from the perspective of Mary, John and Mary Magdalene.
According to Associate Pastor Kyle Gerrild, the message of the musical is, ‘Jesus can bring you peace in the midst of the chaos going on around you.?
The effectiveness of the church ministry has produced some challenges, including a crowded parking lot. (‘Come early for a good spot,? Pastor Gerrild said.)
To better accomplish their mission, the church is currently looking for a part-time children’s director and a full-time worship leader.
The future, according to Pastor Coleman, ‘is to see families changed and made whole and strong.?
As the church continues to grow, the future may also hold a new building program, as the church owns 38 acres in the vicinity of Sashabaw and Stickney roads.
Clarkston Free Methodist
Church currently meets at 5482 Winnell Street (off of Maybee Road). Sunday morning worship, children programs and adult Bible fellowships all meet at 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 11:45 a.m. Teen Sunday School meets at 9 a.m. (small group discussion) and 10:30 a.m. (traditional class-style). A full listing of meeting times and ministry information is listed at www.clarkstonfmc.org. Telephone is 248-623-1224.