3301 Fort Avenue, Lynchburg VA

Today, I found myself at the doors of Lighthouse Foursquare Church, marking it as the 29th church I’ve visited in Lynchburg. The experience at Lighthouse Foursquare Church was not just another visit; it was a deeply moving encounter that left an unforgettable mark on my heart, filling me with an overwhelming sense of peace, encouragement, and a profound feeling of being loved and cherished.

As I left my home, walking to church, I praised God for holding back the rain, allowing me to arrive at the church dry and in good spirits. The church’s exterior, a beacon of faith and light in the community, welcomed me with open arms.

In the parking lot, my journey into warmth and fellowship began with a greeting from a gentleman whose smile radiated kindness and sincerity. His simple “good morning” was more than a greeting; it was an embodiment of the church’s welcoming spirit.

Inside, I was fortunate to meet Pastor Cosette Conaway, whose warmth and grace were immediately evident.

She graciously offered to give me a tour of the church, allowing me to capture its beauty and essence through photographs before the congregation gathered. As she shared a brief history of the church with me, we headed back to the Sanctuary to begin service. Pastor Cosette gave me a hug, so full of warmth and sincerity, and instantly made me feel like a part of their family. It was a hug that seemed to erase all boundaries, welcoming me into a community bound by faith and love.

Pastor Cosette extended a heartfelt invitation for me to join their communion meal after the service, a tradition held dear by the church. This gesture of inclusion was a reflection of the church’s mission of open-hearted fellowship and communal spirituality.

As we entered the sanctuary, I was greeted with the biggest smiles and most heartfelt hugs from all of the members. Each embrace and smile was a testament to the genuine love and acceptance that permeated the church. Their hospitality didn’t just make me feel special; it made me feel seen and valued, a rare and beautiful experience in today’s culture.

The worship service was a true celebration of faith and community. Led by Pastor Cosette, whose voice was as beautiful as her spirit, we sang some of my favorite Christmas hymns.

The melodies of “What Child Is This,” “Oh Come All Ye Faithful,” and “Hark The Herald Angels Sing” filled the air, lifting our spirits and uniting us in praise. The congregation’s energy was infectious – we were on our feet, clapping, dancing, and wholeheartedly praising God. The vibrant worship, accentuated by a tambourine and the unrestrained joy of members dancing with their shoes kicked off, created a worship experience that was as authentic as it was spirited!

Noticing the church’s call for musicians in their ‘Help Wanted’ sign, I was struck by the inclusivity and openness of Lighthouse Foursquare Church. It was an invitation for those with musical talents to contribute to this vibrant community, a community that clearly values and celebrates each member’s gifts. If you have a musical gift and you’re looking for a church home, stop by this church!

Before the sermon, the congregation was invited to share personal testimonies.

One story, in particular, stood out – a member recounting God’s protection in what could have been a devastating car accident. The vulnerability and faith expressed in these testimonies were deeply moving, bringing tears to Pastor Cosette’s eyes as well as the entire congregation. It was a powerful reminder of God’s ever-present hand in our lives.

The integration of online and in-person worship was seamlessly done, allowing members who attended via Zoom to share in the worship experience. This inclusivity was a beautiful reflection of the church’s commitment to being a community without walls, embracing all who sought to join in their worship, regardless of where they were.

Pastor Cosette’s sermon, centered on the theme “Are we looking for Jesus?” was both enlightening and engaging. Her use of Magic Eye books and Where’s Waldo as analogies to illustrate the importance of focusing on Jesus in a distracting world was not only creative but deeply impactful. Drawing from Luke Chapter 2 and Hebrews, she wove a message that was both biblically rich and relevant to our daily lives.

Throughout the service, the emphasis on prayer was evident. The congregation came together in a powerful moment to pray over an expectant couple, filling the room with a sense of love and anticipation. Then, in a moment that I will forever hold dear, Pastor Cosette held my hand and several members gathered around me to pray for my journey and the challenges I face. Their prayers, sincere and heartfelt, moved me to tears and filled me with a sense of belonging and support that was both humbling and uplifting.

After the service, the fellowship continued in an area beautifully decorated for Christmas. Sharing in a delightful meal, prayers, and communion with the congregation was a perfect culmination to a day filled with spiritual nourishment.

The laughter, conversations, and shared stories over the meal were not just acts of fellowship; they were expressions of a community deeply rooted in love and faith.

To everyone at Lighthouse Foursquare Church, I extend my deepest thanks for your grace, compassion, love, and kindness.

This experience is not just a cherished memory but a testament to the beauty and strength of your church community.

The peace and spiritual fulfillment I felt confirmed the active presence of the Holy Spirit in this place.

You can find out more information about the church by visiting their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/3301fortavenue

I eagerly look forward to returning to Lighthouse Foursquare Church, cherishing the connections made and the lessons learned.

This visit has been a beacon of light on my spiritual journey, a reminder of the profound impact a loving church community can have on all of us.