In 1971, a group of Apostolic worshippers of God began meeting in Reverend Douglas C. Hammond's house and at other locations. Then, in 1972, a church was formed called the Watkinsville Church of the Lord Jesus Christ with thirteen charter members. The founding Pastor was Reverend Douglas C. Hammond and the Assistant Pastor was the Reverend Obie C. Hammond until his death in 1980. The first services were held in a converted garage building on property purchased from the Raymond Moon, Sr. estate, near Butler's Crossing, which in now the present location. Later in 1972, a new 40 foot by 80 foot auditorium with a basement as a Sunday School Department was constructed. As attendance increased, the need for space increased.
T-Ball games were hosted each year at the ball park. The 90's brought forth many improvements to New Life. A new modular building, which is now our Teen Center, was an added blessing. During this time the original sanctuary was refurbished and given a fresh look. Home Bible Studies, a Music Department, Drama Team, and Bus Ministry was organized to enhance and promote the Kingdom of God. We celebrated our 25th church anniversary in March, 1997.
At the beginning of the new millennium, we began to see a continuous growth as new members, were added to our congregation. After many years of prayer, fasting, and outreach, we began to reap the benefits. The spirit of revival and anointed power of God was made evident through the preached Word of God, praise and worship. It was a tremendous success and we made numerous new friends and contacts through this form of outreach. AS the church continued to grow, there began an urgent need for a larger seating capacity for our services. The gymnasium was totally remodeled and became the new sanctuary which holds 350 in capacity. The dining hall was converted into a large foyer consisting of a fireplace, information booth, and rest area. The entire Sunday School Department was renovated and has provided more classrooms, offices, baptismal and prayer rooms. The kitchen was changed into a beautiful nursery and provides child care for all services. The old sanctuary is used for a fellowship hall, Kid's J.A.M. ministry on Sunday morning, and for our DASH student ministries on wednesday night. We are excited to share that we have been able to expand our multi-media department, video and sound technology. It is apparent that God is providing New Life Apostolic Church with continuous opportunities to present the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
As the church continued to grow consistently, Pastor Douglas Hammond felt it was time to appoint his Assistant, Reverend Timothy Hammond, as Pastor. On April 6, 2002, a special ceremony was held for the "Changing of the Guard." It was a night filled with memories and blessings as Pastor Douglas Hammond became Bishop and Reverend Timothy Hammond became Pastor. The church celebrated their 30th year anniversary with special guests speakers, Rev. R.B. Bingham and Rev. Mike Bingham. We enjoyed several nights filled with anointed preaching, singing and a multi-media presentation. Also, a beautiful reception was held in honor of our Pastor's and their families. It was memorable time of spiritual uplifting, reminiscing of past events and vision casting for the New Life Apostolic for days to come.
"To whom much is given, much is required." Our goal is to be a 21st century Apostolic Church in principle, practice, and power.
Posts
As the church continued to grow consistently, Pastor Douglas Hammond felt it was time to appoint his Assistant, Reverend Timothy Hammond, as Pastor. On April 6, 2002, a special ceremony was held for the "Changing of the Guard." It was a night filled with memories and blessings as Pastor Douglas Hammond became Bishop and Reverend Timothy Hammond became Pastor. The church celebrated their 30th year anniversary with special guests speakers, Rev. R.B. Bingham and Rev. Mike Bingham. We enjoyed several nights filled with anointed preaching, singing and a multi-media presentation. Also, a beautiful reception was held in honor of our Pastor's and their families. It was memorable time of spiritual uplifting, reminiscing of past events and vision casting for the New Life Apostolic for days to come.
