Uplifting People from All Walks of Life

The experience of working with gangs and teens with drug addictions as a pastor in Los Angeles was, Joe Stephens admits, quite different from shepherding a community church in Jarrell today. Fortunately, many of the resources and means he used to help families get back on their feet, both spiritually and relationally, are universal. “Coming to Jarrell was a big shift, but I feel we’re able to have a massive impact in a smaller community. There’s a huge number of people moving into the community, and they are looking for a church, new friends, and the opportunity to establish a new life. It’s a great environment to build a community-based family church.”

Joe has been doing exactly that for the last three years at Living Word Church, and this month, he stepped up those efforts to embrace kids, youth, and seniors in a much bigger way.

The Next Generation

With so many kids facing learning deficiencies since COVID, Pastor Joe created a faith-based child development program to prepare 3- and 4-year-olds for kindergarten. The church’s Pre-K program is open to 3- and 4-year-olds in Jarrell and surrounding areas.

As well, a new after-school youth program welcomes elementary through high school students who attend Living Word. One of the church's goals is to support single moms and dads so they are providing a safe place, especially for kids from broken homes.

On Fridays, from dismissal until 6:30pm, kids can hang out at the church, get homework help, and play basketball.

Living Word is an independent, Bible preaching church.

“We simply believe God’s Word—as written and inspired by the Holy Spirit—is the same Word that has the power to change lives today,” Pastor Joe says.

SENIOR FELLOWSHIP

Another demographic on Pastor Joe’s heart is seniors, particularly after he made a trip to a senior home to pray for a church member’s great-grandmother. “It took me close to two hours to get to her room. I walked through a day room and every person was sitting alone. You realize all they want is conversation, for someone to sit next to them and hold their hands.”

He wondered how many other seniors in Jarrell might be in need of community and decided to create a space where they could enjoy Bible studies, snacks, and fellowship. The group meets at the church at 2pm every second and fourth Tuesday of the month.

GET INVOLVED

All activities are in the development phase and will continue to evolve based on the needs of the community. Visit LittleSteps. Church to enroll in the Pre-K program and jarrell.church to learn how to get involved in the youth and senior programs.

301 W. AVENUE H · JARRELL • SERVICES • 11AM & 7PM, SUNDAY 7PM WEDNESDAY