Our History
Davison Missionary Church is a full member of the Missionary Church,
Inc. This denomination was organized in its present form as a result
of the 1969 merger of the missionary Church Association and the
United Missionary Church. Both of these groups had their origins
in revival movements that swept across north America in the late
nineteenth century.
Many of the earlier members were Mennonites. At the time, this
Christian sect had become caught up in a religion of empty form
and declining tradition. The flames of revival sparked a renewed
dynamic of Holy Spirit vitality that was not welcomed by leaders
of their former churches. A passion to reach those who are without
Christ seemed to be missing from the teaching of the day which
simply was to draw away from the world. And so, for their testimony,
a number were excommunicated. Under God's direction, there came
a resulting series of mergers that make up the denomination of
the Missionary Church today.
The Davison Missionary Church began in April of 1957 under the
leadership of Pastor John E. Tuckey, the Home Mission Superintendent
of the Michigan District of the Missionary Church. The mission
congregation was known as Davison Gospel Center and met in the
Davison Township Fire Hall. Children sometimes called it the "Fire
Engine Sunday School."
The church was organized as a congregation of the Missionary Church
in April of 1959. The first church building was constructed on
three acres of ground at the present site in 1961. This original
unit has been expanded by additions in 1970 and 1975. Additional
property and a child care center have been purchased to minister
to the needs of the community. Late in 1989, the Milsom Furniture
Store was purchased and has been remodeled into our Family Center.
These buildings are simply tools that God has given us to do His
work in this community. We are currently in a building project
to add a sanctuary and supporting classrooms.
Why We Exist
Convinced that Jesus Christ created us, forgave us, called us
and will enable us, the people who are Davison Missionary Church
exist to communicate the reality of His presence, power, and eternal
purpose for every man, woman, and child.
Aware of our own individual needs, we gather together that His
Word, the Bible, and His Holy Spirit may be allowed to accomplish
change in our lives.
Influenced by the unconditional love of Jesus, we've bonded together,
creating the spirit of family. Differing backgrounds and cultures
are insignificant compared to the countless demonstrations of support
in times of sorrow or joy. Life is easier in this environment where
the reflection of Christ's love is experienced.
What We Believe
The Bible
We believe that the Holy Scriptures are the divinely inspired Word of God and
are authoritative in all matters of Christian faith and practice.
God
We believe that there is one God, eternally existent in three persons: Father,
Son, and Holy Spirit - who is Creator and Sustainer of all things.
Jesus Christ
We believe in the deity of our Lord Jesus Christ, His virgin birth, His sinless
life, his atoning death on the cross, His bodily resurrection, and His ascension
to the right hand of the Father.
Salvation
We believe that Jesus Christ is the only Savior of mankind. Anyone can be forgiven
through genuine repentance and personal faith in Him.
Holy Spirit
We believe in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit to convict, teach, guide,
and enable Christians to live a godly life.
The Church
We believe that the church is composed of believers in Jesus Christ. He is
the Head, the source of its life. The Church, Christ's body, exists to bring
glory to Jesus Christ and to accomplish His purpose.
The Return of Christ
We believe in the personal return of Jesus Christ. To be with Jesus Christ
is the hope of the Church and its encouragement for ministry.
The Resurrection
We believe in the bodily resurrection of the dead in Christ and believers everlasting
peace and joy with the Lord, while the unbeliever will encounter judgment
and everlasting conscious punishment.
Communion
We believe in open communion. All who know Christ as Savior may
participate in communion. It is not dependent on membership.
We partake in this ordinance four times a year.
Where We Are Going
Our number one priority is "changing lives."
Change, though sometimes intimidating and difficult, is important
to us as individuals and as a congregation. For without it, we
would harden and lose the vibrancy that God intended life to have.
It's not our desire for this church to simply exist for our benefit,
but also for helping others around us. This is possible through
an atmosphere of love and acceptance.
"Christ at the heart of it all," our ministry theme,
means: all of our activities, whether athletic, education, parties,
or worship, are intended to create hope and direction, and share
God's love with you.
The following purpose statement is our focus: "Davison Missionary
Church, proclaiming Jesus by ministering to
the needs of our communities and beyond, resulting in changed lives.
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