This past Sunday, Interbay Covenant Church celebrated their last Sunday together as Interbay. It was such an incredible service. They did a great job not only celebrating their 65 years of amazing history but more importantly, celebrating the creator of their ministry and community – Jesus. Minhee and I and a few other Questers chose to worship with Interbay; I was invited to share a few words to invite them to our first Sunday together as One Church but my emotions completely overwhelmed me and I broke down in tears. It wasn’t what I intended but as I looked out to the congregation and especially those that have been at Interbay for 20, 30, 40, or even 50+ years… They weren’t tears of sadness. Rather, tears of gratitude and amazement because of their courage, faith, and Kingdom mindedness.
As these two churches merge, Interbay will, by name, no longer exist as of May 31 and will join Quest. However, their legacy will continue. And Quest will do its part – to love, honor, and value each of the 50 or so folks from Interbay that will join us. The two videos below is a small glimpse how different the two churches are. The first is a glimpse of Interbay’s 65 years of history. Some of the “interview footage” is from a recent fellowship event with the two churches on May 12. It’s a long video [9 minutes] but very much worth your time. The 2nd is Quest’s 5 year anniversary video. Yet, God has brought us together.
Interbay: Thank you for your amazing faith and courage! Thank you for your decision in joining Quest and moving forward together. Because of your rich legacy of serving Seattle and sending missionaries globally, the larger church can now continue to grow as we seek the Kingdom of God together in Seattle and beyond. As ONE church, may we always remember the steadfast service of those who have gone before and made a way for us…
Filed under: christianity, church, emerging church, quest church
Eugene,
You and Quest are blessed. Not only through this merger but the faith that is been demonstrated and shared.
Thank you for sharing your testimony of God’s grace!
Abundant blessings to each one of you, precious to God and needing each other. Only together we are strong. Only when united we are in harmony. Love speaks louder than words. I feel so privileged to pray for you…
God bless you and the Quest family. He is truly doing a great work through you
[...] couple posts on the merger from Pastor Eugene: an incredible legacy we are [...]
[...] had the privilege of witnessing this first hand in the Interbay – Quest church(es) merger – where an older congregation basically gave itself – to the younger, growing and thriving one. [...]
that’s awesome! expect another member when i graduate in june