For Love of City

For Love of City

NEIGHBORHOOD CHURCH’S LEGACY OF COMMUNITY AND SERVICE

Words by Lifestyle Staff | Photos by Mark Garcia

On the north end of Visalia, Neighborhood Church has long been a place where community is created, serving not only as a place of worship but also as a sanctuary for connection and support. The church’s welcoming atmosphere and dedication to service have made it a place for those seeking solace, guidance, and a sense of belonging.

Recently, Neighborhood Church embarked on an exciting new venture that further cements its role as a community cornerstone: the opening of The Commons, a charming coffee shop located on the church campus. This new addition is not just a place for church attendees to grab a cup of coffee; it is a space designed for Visalia’s residents to connect and create through conversations.

We are here to lift each other up, to share in each other’s joys and sorrows, and to make a positive impact in our community.

Love and service

Neighborhood Church’s mission has always been to serve its community with love and compassion. From weekly worship services to outreach programs, the church has consistently provided support to those in need. Its various ministries, including youth programs, food drives, and counseling services, have touched the lives of many and created a network of care that extends beyond the church’s walls.

Pastor Forrest Jenan, who has been on staff at Neighborhood Church for 17 years and has served as the lead pastor for the last 9, believes that the church’s strength lies in its people. “Our church is more than a building; it’s a family,” he says. “We are here to lift each other up, to share in each other’s joys and sorrows, and to make a positive impact in our community.”

A new hub for connection

Since its opening this spring, The Commons has quickly become a popular gathering spot for church attendees. It offers a variety of coffee drinks, teas, and delicious pastries, making it a favorite before and after church service destination for many. The idea for the coffee shop was born out of a desire to create a space where people from all walks of life could come together. The church leadership envisioned a place that would serve not only as a coffee shop but also as a community hub where relationships could flourish.

With this vision in mind, and in partnership with local design and build firm 4Creeks, underutilized space was transformed into The Commons. The cafe and patio were designed to be spacious, warm, and inviting, featuring cozy seating areas, local art, and a space to show hospitality to the city and nurture friendships. Ultimately, they desired to add value to the city through a gathering space.

Continuing the vision

Pastor Forrest Jenan sees The Commons as an extension of the church’s mission. “We wanted to create a place where people could come together, share their stories, and build meaningful relationships,” he explains. “The Commons is a natural extension of our church’s values of love, service, and community.” For now, The Commons is open for church attendees before and after services. However, they hope to be open to the public soon.

As Neighborhood Church continues to grow and evolve, their impact on Visalia is undeniable. They are not just serving coffee or holding services; they are building a stronger, more connected community. In a world that often feels divided, Neighborhood Church is demonstrating that when people come together with a common purpose, they can create something truly special.

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The Commons is open each Sunday during Neighborhood Church services at 8:30am, 10:00am, and 11:30am.