Posts
EASTER SUNDAY
The empty tomb stands as history's great reversal—death's defeat and new creation's dawn. Experience how resurrection transforms not just our eternal destiny but our daily reality.
ANTICIPATION SATURDAY
The forgotten day between crucifixion and resurrection teaches us the spiritual art of hopeful waiting. Discover purpose in the tension of "already but not yet."
GOOD FRIDAY
On Good Friday, we witness the culmination of divine love through ultimate sacrifice. Jesus's declaration "It is finished" transforms our understanding of salvation and freedom.
12 Years of Building Bridges
Some love stories begin with "once upon a time," but ours began with a December dream and a Valentine's Day blessing. Join us in celebrating 12 years of building bridges across denominational barriers, as we continue our mission of connecting hearts through prayer and showing the world we are His disciples by our love.
United in Purpose
On this Valentine's Day, discover how Christ's love unites us in purpose and marks us as His own. As we celebrate both romantic love and our organization's 12th anniversary, explore how God's love creates a symphony of unity that tells the world we belong to Him. Because when love marks us His, every day becomes a celebration of divine love.
Love's Outreach
Discover how God's love naturally flows outward, turning our hearts toward others in practical service. From simple acts of kindness to community transformation, explore how love in action changes both the giver and receiver. Because when divine love fills our hearts, it can't help but overflow into our world.
Building Peace
Discover the difference between keeping peace and making peace as we explore Jesus' call to be peacemakers. From kitchen tables to community gatherings, learn how active peace-making transforms conflict into connection. Because sometimes love's greatest work happens in the space between disagreement and understanding.
Hospitality is Love in Action
Experience how shared meals become sacred moments and open doors become divine appointments. From coffee conversations to dinner table discussions, discover how hospitality transforms strangers into family. Because sometimes the most profound ministry happens between please pass the salt and would you like more coffee?
Love Beyond Walls
Experience how God's love transforms the walls we build into windows of understanding. From denominational differences to cultural divisions, discover how Christ's love creates bridges where barriers once stood. Because in God's family, every wall becomes an opportunity for grace to flow.
Prayer: Heart to Heart
Experience how prayer weaves hearts together in ways social media never could. From quiet whispers to collective cries, discover how conversations with God create connections that transcend our earthly divisions. Because true unity begins when hearts learn to beat in rhythm with heaven's heartbeat.
The Foundation of Unity
Discover how God's love creates a foundation so strong it can unite hearts across every boundary - from church denominations to kitchen tables. Because true unity isn't about matching profiles; it's about hearts beating in harmony with heaven's love.
United in Love: Resource Access Guide
Ready to start your United in Love journey? Whether you're teaching a classroom of wiggling theologians or sharing God's love at home, we'll help you access the perfect resources for your role. Because sometimes sharing God's love requires a little paperwork (but we promise to make it as painless as possible)!
Bible Verse Alignment Guide
Transform complex Biblical concepts into preschool-friendly understanding without losing theological depth. Our alignment guide helps you bridge the gap between adult study insights and "Jesus loves me" simplicity. Perfect for teachers and parents who want to maintain Biblical accuracy while explaining why yes, God still loves us even when we color outside the lines!
Daily Questions: When Little Hearts Ask Big Things
Navigate those unexpected theological discussions that pop up between snack time and craft time! From "Why can't I see God hugging me?" to "Do I have to share ALL my toys?", this guide helps you turn those surprise spiritual moments into meaningful connections. Perfect for teachers and parents who want to be prepared for when coloring time becomes contemplation time!
United in Love: Preschool Connection Corner
Transform Valentine's season into a meaningful exploration of God's love with our preschool-friendly mini-lessons. Perfect for busy teachers and engaged parents, these 5-10 minute activities help our littlest believers understand they're part of God's big family of love.
Quick Reference: Answers at a Glance
Your spiritual first-aid kit for those moments when you need answers faster than a preschooler can say "But why?" From God questions to sharing solutions, keep this guide handy - right next to your emergency chocolate stash! Perfect for teachers and parents navigating those unexpected theological discussions that always seem to happen during snack time.
The "But Why?" Guide: Answering Life's Big Questions
Navigate those delightfully deep preschool questions with confidence! From "Why can't I see God?" to "Do angels take naps?", this guide helps you turn those unexpected theological moments into meaningful connections. Perfect for teachers and parents who want to be prepared for when snack time suddenly becomes philosophy time!
United in Love: Classroom Supply Guide
Get your classroom Valentine-ready with our comprehensive supply guide! From heart templates to backup glue sticks (because someone always squeezes too hard!), we've got your preparation needs covered. Perfect for teachers and room parents planning ahead.
Dear Overwhelmed and Dedicated
From counting Valentine's cards to counting God's blessings - transform your preschooler's Valentine's Week with age-appropriate activities that fit naturally into your day. Whether you're a teacher making the most of circle time or a parent turning bedtime into blessing time, our simple 5-10 minute activities help little ones discover how God's love makes us all family.
United in Love
Transform Valentine's Day from just another Hallmark holiday into a meaningful exploration of Christ's unifying love. Join us for a 7-day journey that fits your real life while deepening your family's understanding of how God's love brings us all together.
Advent 2024
Welcome to your Advent journey! Your email is on the way to you now with the link to download your devotional packet. To enrich your family's experience, we've created additional resources, discussion guides, and video content available in our online communities.
Christmas Day
Join us in celebrating the moment where all our Advent paths converge - Christmas Day! From those who welcomed Jesus by candlelight to those who greeted Him with sunrise, we're united in joy as heaven's greatest gift arrives. As carols echo and wonder fills homes worldwide, we pause to share gratitude for our journey together. Whether your celebration started at midnight or dawn, you're part of a beautiful tapestry of faith stretching from that first holy night to today.
The Night Between Promise and Fulfillment
As Christmas Eve's gentle darkness falls, discover how to transform your home into sacred space. From lighting candles to sharing ancient stories, this guide helps your family create a meaningful celebration in evening's peaceful embrace. Learn how to weave traditional carols, Scripture readings, and family prayers into a beautiful tapestry of worship that echoes that first holy night in Bethlehem.
Dawn of Redeeming Grace
Greet Christmas morning with joy that can't wait for coffee! This guide helps your family create a meaningful dawn celebration, from sunrise Scripture readings to breakfast-friendly worship. Whether you're corralling excited kids at 5 AM or gathering for a more leisurely morning devotion, discover how to blend traditional elements with fresh morning energy for a celebration that honors both the sacred and the celebratory.
Holy Night or Morning Light
Standing at the threshold between Advent and Christmas, families face a beautiful choice: evening's gentle hush or morning's jubilant dawn? Like different instruments in God's grand symphony, some celebrate in candlelight's glow while others greet the Christmas sunrise. Explore how both paths lead to the same magnificent celebration, and discover which timing perfectly suits your family's way of welcoming Jesus.
Christmas Eve: Holy Anticipation
Join us on Christmas Eve as we discover how every Christian heart becomes Bethlehem. From GPS-guided travels to star-lit paths, from matching pajamas to choir robes, families worldwide prepare to welcome Jesus in beautifully different ways. Learn how ancient traditions and modern celebrations unite in one magnificent purpose: making room for Christ. Whether you're racing to finish wrapping or seeking silent contemplation, there's a perfect path for your family's holy welcome.
Love's Final Countdown
As the final Sunday of Advent dawns, we stand at the threshold of wonder – where countdown clocks give way to holy anticipation. While the world rushes through its last shopping days, we pause to recognize a greater fulfillment: Love itself choosing to be born among us. Join us as we explore how divine love transforms everything it touches, from wishlists to wonder, as Mary's journey nears its end and creation's long wait for reconciliation approaches its climax.
Redeem Your 2024 Advent Coloring Book Code
Click on the image or the title of this post to read more.
Pink Candles and Persistent Joy
On this Third Sunday of Advent, a pink candle breaks through the purple of preparation, announcing joy's arrival ahead of schedule. While the world chases happiness in shopping carts and shipping notifications, we're invited to discover a joy that doesn't depend on delivery dates. Join us as we explore how true joy persists long after the presents are unwrapped and decorations are packed away – because it's not found under the tree but in the very reason we celebrate: Christ's eternal presence.
When Silent Night Meets Rush Hour
As holiday chaos reaches fever pitch, the Second Sunday of Advent invites us to experience true peace. While the world offers temporary timeouts through meditation apps and digital detoxes, we're called to discover a deeper tranquility - one that doesn't just silence the noise but transforms it into holy harmony.
From Chaos to Contemplation
This post unwraps the gift of Advent, from its 5th-century origins (before "viral" meant anything but illness!) to today's celebrations. You'll discover how Christians worldwide unite around four powerful themes, explore the symbolism of the Advent wreath (spoiler: it's more than just a pretty centerpiece), and find practical ways to make the season meaningful for families. We've even included a "Harmony of Faith" feature highlighting how traditional and contemporary songs express the same timeless truths. Whether you're an Advent expert or just starting this journey, you'll find wisdom for the waiting and joy for the journey.
When Flash Mobs Meet Serenity
Join us as we explore how true hope flickers to life in the midst of holiday chaos. We'll discover how this first purple candle lights the way from doorbusters to divine promises, from flash-mob shopping to faithful anticipation, and from cyber deals to eternal hopes. Plus, we'll see how this same hope has inspired generations of believers to raise their voices in song – from quiet medieval gardens to mountaintop proclamations!
Advent 2024
Start a meaningful Christmas tradition with your family this Advent season! "A Journey Through Advent" is a free devotional guide designed specifically for families with young children, making the Christmas story engaging and accessible through daily readings, activities, and coloring sheets. Each day takes just 10-15 minutes, but creates lasting memories as your family discovers the joy, wonder, and meaning of Christmas together. Perfect for ages 3-12, with activities that grow with your children.
Celebrating Easter
Explore how Easter and the Resurrection highlight unity within the Church, fostering a sense of community and togetherness among believers worldwide.
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Advent Season
The Advent Season is a four-week period leading up to Christmas, observed by Christians worldwide. During this time, people engage in various practices, such as lighting Advent candles, donating to charity, volunteering, and reflecting and praying. Advent is a time of waiting and preparation, with each week represented by a different candle, symbolizing hope, peace, joy, and love. The Advent Season serves as a reminder to focus on the true meaning of Christmas and prepares our hearts and minds for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
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Hudson Taylor on Missions
The Great Commission is a command given by Jesus Christ to his disciples to spread the Gospel and make disciples of all nations. It is a crucial part of the Christian faith, and through evangelism and discipleship, people come to know and accept Jesus Christ. By obeying the Great Commission, Christians can bring hope, joy, and salvation to those who are lost and searching for meaning in their lives. It is a powerful and transformative mission that can have a profound impact on both the individual believer and the world as a whole.
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Watchman Nee
Watchman Nee was a prominent Christian leader and author in China during the 20th century whose ministry emphasized spiritual growth, the centrality of the cross, and the need for believers to live in the power of the Holy Spirit. Despite facing challenges and imprisonment, his legacy continues to inspire and challenge Christians today to place their trust in Jesus Christ, the "Object" of our faith.
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Happy Mother's Day
Mother's Day is a special occasion celebrated around the world to honor and appreciate mothers. It is a time to reflect on the sacrifices and hard work that mothers do for their families. While it is a joyful occasion for many, it can also be a difficult day for those who have lost their mothers or those who have difficulty becoming mothers. It is important to be sensitive and respectful of all experiences and emotions on this day. Happy Mother's Day!
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Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a time to celebrate and recognize the contributions of these communities to the US and the Christian Church. The month is an opportunity to reflect on the challenges and prejudices they have faced, both within their own cultures and within the Church. The Christian Chain will spotlight four individuals who have made lasting contributions to the Church by spreading the word of Christ and being a shining example within their cultures. It's important to acknowledge the diversity within the community and appreciate their contributions to the Church's history and culture.
Keeping God's Commandments
Keeping God’s commandments is a demonstration of love for Him, reflecting our willingness to submit to His will and follow His teachings. It requires a steadfast commitment to putting God first and trusting His guidance, even when it conflicts with our own desires or the expectations of others. Ultimately, it is an act of faith and trust in Him, strengthened by His grace and empowered by His Spirit to live a life that honors Him.
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Holy Week 2023 - Easter Sunday
Easter is a Christian holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a central tenet of the faith. It is celebrated worldwide in many different ways, including attending religious services, participating in parades and festivals, and giving Easter eggs, a symbol of new life. The resurrection is a symbol of hope, new life, and redemption, a time of reflection, celebration, and coming together with family and friends to commemorate the sacrifice of Jesus and the hope and new life represented by His resurrection.
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Holy Week 2023 - Anticipation Saturday
Today we remember and anticipate the second coming of Jesus. This day is an opportunity for reflection on our own faith and whether we live with anticipation for Christ's return or in uncertainty as the disciples lived before Jesus rose from the grave.
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Holy Week 2023 - Good Friday
Good Friday is a religious holiday commemorating the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ, observed by Christians worldwide. The day is significant as it opens the door to salvation and eternal life, and is a reminder of God's love for humanity. Ultimately, it is a day of solemn reflection and gratitude for the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus Christ.
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Holy Week 2023 - The Example
Jesus' life and teachings provide an example for us to follow. The passages of the Last Supper offer guidance, comfort, and an example for us to commemorate. Jesus modeled servant leadership and setup a reminder for us by establishing "Lord's Supper" or "communion," urging us to follow His example. The Gospel of John provides valuable wisdom for Christ's disciples, describing Jesus as the Way, the Truth, and the Life, the True Vine, and a reflection of God the Father. Jesus also promised to send the Holy Spirit as a source of comfort to His followers. During the Last Supper, Jesus reflected on His teachings and reminded His disciples of His example, which remains crucial for His Church today.
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Holy Week 2023 - The Betrayed
The betrayal of Jesus is a significant event in Christian history. Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve apostles, betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver by identifying Him to the authorities with a kiss. This led to Jesus' arrest, trial, and eventual crucifixion. The betrayal is often seen as a symbol of the human capacity for deceit and betrayal, as well as the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus for humanity's sins. The story of the betrayal can be found in the New Testament of the Bible, in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke.
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Holy Week 2023 - The Teacher
Jesus' final week of ministry included teachings on the end times, being prepared for His return, and using gifts wisely. He predicted His death, warned against false prophets and persecution, and emphasized the need to be prepared. Jesus also spoke on the importance of being good stewards of God's blessings and investing in kingdom work. These teachings remind us to honor God and share His love. We should live our lives to the fullest and be prepared for His return, as the timing is unknown.
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Holy Week 2023 - The Judge
Jesus is portrayed as the judge within Scripture, with dominion and authority over nature. His teachings and miracles were seen as a threat by religious leaders. Jesus will return at the end of time to judge the living and the dead. In the Final Judgement, Jesus will preside as judge, alongside the redeemed, non-believers, and angels. The outcome of the Final Judgement should encourage us to forgive others, live righteously, and share the gospel with others. Jesus has the authority to grant eternal life to those who believe in Him. Our actions have consequences, and we should strive to live in a way that pleases God.
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Holy Week 2023 - Palm Sunday
Palm Sunday is a significant Church holiday that commemorates Jesus Christ's triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The event is described in the Gospels, where Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey while people laid down their cloaks and palm branches in His path. Palm Sunday is celebrated worldwide in various ways, including carrying palm branches in processions, making palm crosses, and reading the Passion narrative. The day is marked by music and hymns, including the iconic hymn "All Glory, Laud, and Honor." Despite challenges faced today, Palm Sunday remains an essential day for Christians to reflect on the teachings of Jesus and remember His sacrifice.
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Holy Week 2023
Holy Week is a significant period for the Church, marking the final week of Lent and leading up to Easter Sunday. Christians engage in various religious practices and traditions, including Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday. This is a time for reflection on the sacrifice of Jesus and the hope of new life brought by His resurrection. Follow us as we look at how each day represents a different attribute of Jesus, culminating in the celebration of the Savior on Easter Sunday.
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Mother Teresa
Mother Teresa was a Catholic nun who dedicated her life to serving the poor and needy. She founded the Missionaries of Charity, an order focused on serving the poorest of the poor. Mother Teresa won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979 for her humanitarian work. Her legacy continues to inspire people around the world today, reminding us that we are responsible for caring for one another, especially those most vulnerable.
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Galatians 6:9-10
Practicing kindness and generosity, even in small ways, can significantly impact our relationships and overall well-being by creating a positive environment and fostering a sense of community. Within our faith community, we can strengthen our bonds by volunteering, offering support, participating in prayer or meditation groups, sharing our talents, and providing assistance to those in need. By taking every opportunity to do good, we can create a more positive and compassionate world.
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Sojourner Truth
Sojourner Truth was a remarkable woman who lived during the 19th century in America, born into slavery as Isabella Baumfree in 1797. After gaining freedom in 1827, she changed her name to Sojourner Truth and began speaking out against slavery and for women's rights. Truth's faith played a significant role in her life and work as an advocate for freedom and equality. She believed that her faith called her to fight against injustices, often using biblical references in her speeches. Truth's legacy continues to inspire people today as an icon of the women's rights and civil rights movements who advocated for justice and equality.
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Saint Patrick
Saint Patrick, celebrated globally, is known for spreading Christianity to the Irish and uniting tribes and kingdoms under a common identity. He helped preserve Irish culture and tradition, established monasteries as centers of learning, and provided refuge during war. Saint Patrick's Day is celebrated on March 17th, and while originally a religious holiday, has become associated with parades and festivities. Saint Patrick's life and work continue to impact Ireland and its people today.
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Corrie ten Boom
Corrie ten Boom was a Dutch resistance member during WWII, who survived concentration camps and dedicated her life to sharing her story of faith, hope, and forgiveness. Her unwavering faith sustained her through the darkest moments of her life and gave her the strength to forgive those who had wronged her. Corrie's legacy continues to inspire people around the world with her message of faith, forgiveness, and love in the face of even the most difficult circumstances.
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Kateri Tekakwitha
Kateri Tekakwitha, also known as Lily of the Mohawks, was a Native American woman who converted to Catholicism at the age of 19 and lived a life of deep faith and devotion. Despite opposition and persecution, she remained steadfast in her faith, caring for the sick and elderly and even taking on the role of a catechist. Her piety and devotion inspired Jesuit missionaries who admired her as a model of Christian virtue. She was beatified by the Catholic Church in 1980 and canonized as a saint in 2012, becoming the first Native American woman to be recognized as a saint. Her legacy teaches us the power of faith and devotion to bring people together and the importance of living a life of love and compassion.
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Women's History Month
Women's History Month celebrates the contributions of women throughout history, including the women's suffrage movement. Women have made significant contributions to every field of study, but have historically been under-recognized and under-appreciated. To honor Women's History Month, The Christian Chain highlights the work of four women within the Church: Kateri Tekakwitha, Sojourner Truth, Corrie ten Boom, and Mother Teresa. Women's History Month is also about recognizing the ongoing fight for gender equality, which is also needed within the Church. As allies, we can support and advocate for policies that promote gender equality.
Season of Lent - Ash Wednesday
Whether you observe Ash Wednesday or not, it is important to remember that God always forgives us, no matter if we observe one practice or not. God always forgives us, no matter how good we are nor how sinful we have been. God's love for us goes beyond what we can do and goes directly to what He has done for us. May this Season of Lent be a time that we reflect on that truth.
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Season of Lent
The season of Lent is not normally observed by the Christian Church as a whole; but, its meaning and observation can be a great way for us to show solidarity as the Body of Christ. Traditionally, a believer would choose something they enjoy or that they do/eat often and abstain during the season of Lent. When this is done it causes the mind to have a constant reminder to think or reflect on a topic; IE to remember the sacrifice Jesus made for our sins. What will you choose to give up during this season as you prepare your heart and mind for the coming Easter season?
Saint Valentine
Saint Valentine was a Christian martyr who showed great compassion and love for others, even in the face of persecution. He is remembered, and his life is honored because he performed marriage ceremonies for Christian couples during a time when the law prohibited it. He is also known for his kindness to prisoners and for healing the sick. Today, he is celebrated as a symbol of love, and his legacy has inspired the popular holiday of Valentine's Day.
Candlemas
Candlemas, also known as the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus Christ, the Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, or the Feast of the Holy Encounter, is a Christian holiday commemorating the presentation of Jesus at the Temple. It is based upon the account of the presentation of Jesus in Luke 2:22–40.
Web Service Interruptions
We are experiencing service interruptions with some of our websites. Affected sites are the global login through Heis Soma as well as Prayer Nook site and mobile app and Unity Accord.
Letter from the Director - January 2023
It has been a while since I have posted a letter on our blog. Due to that, and the fact that it is the beginning of a new year, I wish to look back over the past 2 years.
Who is The Christian Chain and what do they do?
The Christian Chain has the vision to see Christian churches working across denominational barriers, maintaining the Unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. To that end, our mission is threefold: to connect people to people, churches to churches and the world to Jesus Christ. Below I have a short synopsis on our three primary ministries and how they help support those mission goals.
2022 Recap - State of TCC and its Ministry Projects
2022 has seen a lot of growth with Prayer Nook, and foundational work laid to prepare for 10-year anniversary year coming 2023!
Giving Thanks
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
Letter from the CEO - November
The Christian Chain is about to launch our Giving Campaign in December, and as we look to give back through our own service projects, we also are asking for your support.
A Divine Dream
God creates dreams, wraps our bodies around them, and sends them to earth to achieve unique and significant assignments.
All Saints Day
On this All Saints Day, will you join with us today as we remember not only the saints but also the missionaries, ministers, elders, and all others who have given of their lives for the furthering of the Gospel message.
Spooks, Saints, and Souls: The Connection Between Halloween and All Saint's Day
Pumpkin Carving and costumes, too, have their roots in the middle ages – superstition held that supernatural activity was particularly high in the days leading up to Allhallowtide, and carved gourds and costumes were thought to confuse any malevolent forces who might visit your house intending to cause trouble.
Love on a Tightrope
In a profession that relies heavily on in-person contact, the COVID-19 pandemic has thrown into sharp relief the burdens that pastors are required to shoulder.
52 Days
It has been exciting to watch God use the talents and skills of an incredible team unified for the purpose of building such a strong foundation for TCC and we are ready for the growth to come.
Praying for Yourself
Do you have trouble praying for yourself? Or are you one that tends to pray for yourself all the time, and not so much for others? If you are in either of those categories, or even anywhere in between, I am fairly sure that at some point you have wondered if it is alright to pray for yourself, or if that is selfish. ... Read More
30 Days of Prayer
This month I challenge you to 30 days of prayer. How you do it, for how long, and in what manner, is all up to you. READ MORE
Fort Wayne UNITED
"If you feel strongly, let's do God's work together. It sends a message to onlookers that this isn't about country or politics anymore – it's about God. He ultimately is the one who fixes this."
Blessed Assurance
We at The Christian Chain wish to acknowledge our Jewish brothers and sisters on this day of Day of Atonement. May this time be an easy fast and a fruitful time where you will see reconciliation in your life.
Giving Campaign - Invest in the Eternal
The Bible has a great deal to say about money, and more broadly, about generosity. Money’s priority in our lives, as the Bible tells us, is a heart issue. Where and how you spend it reveals what you value most.
Welcome Home! Your Faith Journey Just Got More Exciting
Thank you for joining our growing family of believers! We're thrilled to have you here and can't wait to share weekly devotionals, practical faith resources, and a dash of joy straight to your inbox. Your first welcome email is already on its way, packed with everything you need to get started. While you wait, why not explore our community spaces? We promise they're as warm and welcoming as freshly baked communion bread! 🍞✨