Grace Church History
Grace Reformed Episcopal Church’s rich history demonstrates an unwavering commitment to the Gospel and the community. What started in 1878 as a group of devoted believers organizing a church has grown into a vibrant and impactful congregation. Today, its story is not just a testament to the faithful pioneers like Mr. Walter Frost, Mrs. Alice Frost, and others, but also a reflection of how faith can adapt and thrive in changing times.
From its humble beginnings in the early 20th century with the construction of the first church building, to the resilience shown in the face of Hurricane Hugo’s destruction, Grace Reformed Episcopal Church has always been a beacon of hope. This church, deeply rooted in its history, is a living example of how a community of believers can evolve and serve God’s Kingdom through decades of change.
As we look to today, Grace stands as a reminder of God’s faithfulness to us, both in times of abundance and trial. Much like the early founders who had a vision for the church to impact their community, today’s congregation is called to be just as engaged, not only in their spiritual growth but also in impacting the local area. The growth of Grace Church under the leadership of Rev. Tory J. Liferidge, who has brought a vision of integration into the life of the community, is a powerful example of how history is still alive and active today. The church’s spirit of welcoming all, investing in youth, and being a source of light in the world resonates with the early passion of those who founded it.
In a modern context, Grace Reformed Episcopal Church’s history serves as an invitation for today’s members to reflect on their mission to be a living church for future generations. The work doesn’t stop with remembering the past, but rather builds upon it to continue the vision of being a community of hope, faith, and love in a world that needs it more than ever.
In short, the story of Grace is not just history; it’s ongoing. The same faith that built this church continues to guide it today. Just as past leaders were deeply committed to spreading the Gospel and meeting community needs, today’s church is tasked with building upon that legacy. We are called to bring hope and light to a world in need, embodying the same love and passion for ministry that the founders demonstrated over 140 years ago. Grace Reformed Episcopal Church remains a testament to God’s faithfulness, and its mission to serve God and others remains as vital today as it was when the church first began.
From its humble beginnings in the early 20th century with the construction of the first church building, to the resilience shown in the face of Hurricane Hugo’s destruction, Grace Reformed Episcopal Church has always been a beacon of hope. This church, deeply rooted in its history, is a living example of how a community of believers can evolve and serve God’s Kingdom through decades of change.
As we look to today, Grace stands as a reminder of God’s faithfulness to us, both in times of abundance and trial. Much like the early founders who had a vision for the church to impact their community, today’s congregation is called to be just as engaged, not only in their spiritual growth but also in impacting the local area. The growth of Grace Church under the leadership of Rev. Tory J. Liferidge, who has brought a vision of integration into the life of the community, is a powerful example of how history is still alive and active today. The church’s spirit of welcoming all, investing in youth, and being a source of light in the world resonates with the early passion of those who founded it.
In a modern context, Grace Reformed Episcopal Church’s history serves as an invitation for today’s members to reflect on their mission to be a living church for future generations. The work doesn’t stop with remembering the past, but rather builds upon it to continue the vision of being a community of hope, faith, and love in a world that needs it more than ever.
In short, the story of Grace is not just history; it’s ongoing. The same faith that built this church continues to guide it today. Just as past leaders were deeply committed to spreading the Gospel and meeting community needs, today’s church is tasked with building upon that legacy. We are called to bring hope and light to a world in need, embodying the same love and passion for ministry that the founders demonstrated over 140 years ago. Grace Reformed Episcopal Church remains a testament to God’s faithfulness, and its mission to serve God and others remains as vital today as it was when the church first began.
Expanding the vision...
Grace Reformed Episcopal Church continues to thrive in its mission of service and community impact, staying true to its historical roots while meeting the evolving needs of today’s world. Recently, the church has expanded its outreach with the completion of the Community’s Hope Impact Center in partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Berkeley County, Lowe’s, and the Wall Street Neighborhood Coalition. This center is a beacon of hope, providing a space for the community to gather, receive support, and access resources that improve their lives.
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In addition to the Impact Center, Grace Church has also established a food pantry and resource building, set to open in late 2019, made possible through a partnership with the Berkeley County School District. This building will serve as a central hub for meeting the practical needs of families, ensuring that no one in the community is overlooked.
Moreover, Grace has expanded its vision by funding the creation of the Grace Impact Development Center (GIDC), a Community Development Corporation (CDC) focused on affordable housing and sustainable community development. GIDC was recently gifted an acre of land to develop affordable housing, which will bring hope and stability to families in need. This marks a significant step in Grace’s ongoing commitment to creating lasting change and empowering the community.
Through these initiatives, God’s blessings continue to pour out upon the church and its community, as Grace Reformed Episcopal Church remains dedicated to living out its mission in meaningful, tangible ways.
Grace is steadfast in its commitment to connecting to ALL Creation with Love, cultivating ALL Connections with Grace, and confronting ALL Circumstances with Hope. The church’s faithfulness to this call ensures that it will continue to be a light in the world, meeting the needs of the present while building a strong foundation for the future.
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In addition to the Impact Center, Grace Church has also established a food pantry and resource building, set to open in late 2019, made possible through a partnership with the Berkeley County School District. This building will serve as a central hub for meeting the practical needs of families, ensuring that no one in the community is overlooked.
Moreover, Grace has expanded its vision by funding the creation of the Grace Impact Development Center (GIDC), a Community Development Corporation (CDC) focused on affordable housing and sustainable community development. GIDC was recently gifted an acre of land to develop affordable housing, which will bring hope and stability to families in need. This marks a significant step in Grace’s ongoing commitment to creating lasting change and empowering the community.
Through these initiatives, God’s blessings continue to pour out upon the church and its community, as Grace Reformed Episcopal Church remains dedicated to living out its mission in meaningful, tangible ways.
Grace is steadfast in its commitment to connecting to ALL Creation with Love, cultivating ALL Connections with Grace, and confronting ALL Circumstances with Hope. The church’s faithfulness to this call ensures that it will continue to be a light in the world, meeting the needs of the present while building a strong foundation for the future.