Family Church to Open in Former Grace Wesleyan Church Building Next Month

Austin and Andrea Shaull are launching Family Church in the former Grace Wesleyan Church building at 56 E. Franklin Street next month. The first service is set for 10 a.m. on September 13. The Shaulls, who previously served in the Grace Wesleyan Church, are transitioning to a new ministry model that emphasizes family-centered worship and community engagement.

The former Grace Wesleyan Church building, which has served as a spiritual home for the Wesleyan-Holiness tradition in the area, will now host Family Church. This shift reflects a broader trend among some Wesleyan-affiliated congregations to adapt their ministry approaches while maintaining core theological commitments.

Family Church aims to create a welcoming environment for all generations, with a focus on relational discipleship and practical outreach. The Shaulls have expressed a desire to foster a sense of belonging and spiritual growth within the community, drawing on the legacy of the Wesleyan tradition while embracing contemporary expressions of faith.

The move to Franklin Street marks a new chapter for the Shaulls, who have been active in local ministry for several years. Their decision to launch Family Church comes amid ongoing discussions within Wesleyan-Holiness denominations about the role of traditional worship spaces in a rapidly changing religious landscape.

This transition also highlights the dynamic nature of church leadership, as pastors and congregations navigate the challenges of maintaining theological integrity while adapting to the needs of modern communities. The Shaulls’ initiative underscores the importance of innovation in ministry without compromising foundational beliefs.

The new church’s location in a historic building symbolizes a bridge between past and present, offering a space where generations can come together in worship and service. As Family Church prepares for its inaugural service, it joins a growing number of Wesleyan-Holiness congregations that are reimagining their roles in the community.

In a world that often prioritizes the new over the traditional, the Shaulls’ decision to revitalize a historic church space reflects a commitment to stewardship and continuity. Their ministry model aligns with the Wesleyan emphasis on practical holiness and the transformative power of Christian community.

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