​​The church was originally built in 1966 as the Christian Missionary and Alliance Church and later became Temple Baptist Church. When we first heard that the church might be available, we weren’t looking for another project. At the time, we were already knee-deep in remodeling the house in Jamestown that would become Selah House Recovery. But, as always, God’s timing is better than ours. Over the years, we’d gotten to know the Schout family as part of Temple Baptist Church, and they were doing their best to care for the church as their congregation faced some tough challenges. They loved their church deeply, but declining numbers, COVID, and their pastor’s long illness made it harder and harder for them to keep going. We admired their perseverance and their deep appreciation for what their church had meant to them. When it became clear they could no longer maintain the building, they reached out to us.We’d told them before, “If there’s ever anything we can do, let us know.” When the call came, it was simple: “Let’s not tear down another church.” That’s where it all began.

 

After some heartfelt conversations and a few negotiations, Sanctuary Place started to take shape. And God wasn’t done yet. Around the same time, our friends at Life Matters were looking for a space to grow so we offered them the lower level of the church, and they said yes. It’s been such a blessing to have them here. Their presence not only helps maintain the church but also fills it with life and purpose.

 

Then came Jeff Henderson and his ministry, 99:1. A chance meeting in the Costco parking lot led to a conversation that only God could have orchestrated. One thing led to another, and now Jeff has an office and a gathering space here at Sanctuary Place. His work inspires us every day.

 

So, what’s the vision for Sanctuary Place? It’s simple, really. We want it to be a space where we can all grow together. A place where leaders are strengthened—whether you’re leading your family, your workplace, or your community. A place where people can find healing, support, and hope through meetings and Bible studies. And a place where we inspire each other to make healthier choices and build stronger lives. Let’s face it—life can be hard. But what if we could face it together? What if we could hold each other accountable and learn new ways to cope, instead of turning to things that hurt us and our families? That’s what Sanctuary Place is all about.

 

And here’s the best part: this space isn’t just ours. It’s yours, too. Do you have something to teach? An idea you’d like us to explore? We’d love to hear from you. Let’s make this a space where good things happen—for all of us. We’re just getting started, and we believe God has big plans for this place. Sanctuary Place is here for the community, and we can’t wait to see what He’ll do through it. Come. be part of the story.