A Note From Dr. Jim Bradford

As we’ve continued to move beyond the days of pandemic lockdowns, I find myself thinking considerably more about my gratitude for—and the importance of—friendship with other believers. The isolation endured by so many throughout the pandemic was not natural, and for some could be emotionally crippling. A core function we serve as the Body of Christ is to support and encourage one another through times of prayer, worship, and community together.

I have been so encouraged and excited by the ways Central has accomplished that through some of our Core Values like Attentive Eyes, Linked Arms, and Open Hands. As a congregation you’ve shown such intentionality to welcome and integrate new people into the life of the church. I’ve heard on multiple occasions of people visiting Central and feeling noticed, welcomed, and loved. Though some come through our doors temporarily while passing through Springfield, others have found a permanent church home here. Our growth throughout the pandemic was difficult to judge, because the way we attended church together was so disrupted. However, as we see more joining us in-person, and a consistently engaged online campus, we are realizing that God continues to add to our numbers. We don’t celebrate simply for the sake of numbers. We celebrate lives being reached, people finding friendship, families being discipled, and individuals being continually equipped as custodians of their own spiritual walk with Jesus.

Our team at Central continues to place a high priority on building a culture of friendship, and one of the key ways we can accomplish that is by keeping you well-informed of what is happening in the life of the church. Our hope for the launch of this new online home is that you will find it easier to stay connected and informed when it comes to the ministries of our church… and if you haven’t found a church home, we invite you to encounter God’s purpose for your life… right here at Central.