The Beginning

When the idea of beginning a new church was first introduced by a group of individuals during the summer of 2004, few probably thought that God would have blessed their effort so quickly and early in it’s development. There was a need for worship, a need for the word, a need for God.  The group continued to meet and discuss the idea for a new place of fellowship. During this time the group continued to grow and include others who expressed the same desire and reasons for creating a new church. On August 4th, 2004, approximately thirty-four people gathered for a time of sharing and fellowship. It was at this meeting that discussion of a name for the fellowship and direction of ministry first began. A steering committee was also named at this meeting.

“Let us go into the house of the Lord”

When we think of going to God’s house, most of us probably picture a nice church with a high ceiling, padded pews, and chandeliers. We picture a choir loft, an organ, piano, alter, and a cross on the wall. However, the first Sunday service of our fellowship consisted of none of these things. Our seating consisted of folding chairs and lawn chairs, a portable CD player and two guitars. The wall was not adorned in banners and crosses, but in tractor parts and pictures of lawn mowers. Now this might not seem like a conventional atmosphere for worship, but for those in attendance it was close to heaven. A couple attending our new fellowship had generously offered to let us meet in the showroom of their business, County Tractor and Equipment. On Sundays all the lawnmowers and tractors were moved out and the showroom was turned into a sanctuary.

And It Shall Be Called “His Place”

A name was needed for this new fellowship. Not long after the August 4th meeting, several names were put on a ballot, and the fellowship chose to be known as “His Place... Your Place for New Beginnings.”

A Leap of Faith

Plans began to look for a building that would become the home of His Place. On August 22nd, 2004, in a giant leap of faith, the congregation unanimously agreed to purchase land and a building that would eventually be transformed into His Place. It was a 1.5 acre piece of land along Highway 160, just east of Doniphan, Missouri. Over the years this building had served many purposes, but God had great plans for it’s future. Also, on this day, the first members for our Board of Directors were elected. The following men were chosen to lead us as we step out and seek God’s will: Elton Bates, Kevin Guthrie, Stephen Smith, Bill Rhames, and Tim Tesreau.

After this purchase, work immediately began to transform what had previously been an old nightclub, restaurant, and boat store into a place of worship. The work team was dedicated and all driven by a common vision, which made this building even more special.

If You Build It, They Will Come!

Sunday morning, December 19th of 2004, was thefirst service held in the new church building. Approximately one hundred people attended the first service, and guest speaker, Ben Jordan, delivered the message.

June 12th of 2005 marked the day of a long and anticipated event, our first Sunday with a full time pastor. We were very blessed to have Brother Ben and Earnestine Jordan come be a part of our church family.

While growing by leaps and bounds, it soon became evident that our current church building would not be able to hold us much longer. A land committee was then appointed to find a new location for our fellowship. After much searching and prayer, a location in Wright Park was agreed upon. Once again, our little fellowship was taking a huge leap of faith.

“Dream Venti”

Shortly after the purchase of the new land in Wright Park, the Board of Directors sat down and began discussing plans for the future. At one of their Monday night meetings they sketched out some of their dreams and visions for the new church. Ground was soon broken on our new facility and an architectural drawing was shown to the congregation. It was at this time that the His Place congregation was asked to “Dream Venti (Big)” as we were about to embark on a grand new journey.

The Time Has Come!

Easter of 2007 marked the first Sunday in His Place's new church building and services have been held there since.

Click the graphic to the right for a brief tour of His Place Fellowship's facilities.