Journey Church’s motto is “No perfect people allowed.” This down-to-earth church has a calling. All people can apply, perfection is definitely not necessary. They love imperfect people that are seeking a relationship with a perfect God.
A community-focused, mission-minded church located in Riverview, Journey has extended its mission to an additional location in the Thriftway Plaza at 310 First St. N.E., inside the heart of Ruskin. The facility is approximately 5,000 sq. ft. and shares this space with LifeCare of Brandon. The plaza has plenty of parking, a sanctuary with kid’s space and offices.
The campus allows for inner-city ministry, as well as opportunities to minister to surrounding neighborhoods.
The original Journey Church in Riverview was launched six years ago by Pastor Michael Kyker with a small but determined group of Christians. As word spread of this exciting and upward-bound church, the congregation grew, making it necessary to extend to two services on Sunday mornings, both overflowing with people seeking God.
Church leaders felt a calling to plant church “parishes” throughout the Tampa Bay area and were presented the opportunity to obtain property in Ruskin.
Several church members and leaders volunteered to prepare for the move, while becoming familiar with the needs of the Ruskin area. For the past year, church volunteers have been passing out groceries almost weekly to needy residents.
Mark Ferrare is the pastor leading the new Ruskin congregation. “When Journey Church first decided to start another campus, we were in prayer about it,” said Ferrare. “I felt a call to Ruskin and realized I had a heart for the area.”
The group met for more than a year before their official launch. “So far, we have felt it’s been very successful,” added Ferrare. The Ruskin parish is averaging 50 people each Sunday since its official first service in February.
Upcoming special events include a Good Friday service with other Journey parishes and a fun-filled vacation Bible School this summer.
Journey Church Ruskin meets for church services Sundays at 11 a.m. Visit www.journeychurchnow.com for more information about church times and events.
