The Chapel is a non-denominational, evangelical church. Being non-denominational means that we are not affiliated with any outside governing body, though we enjoy fellowship with other like-minded churches. Being evangelical means we communicate and live the “good news” of life and forgiveness in Jesus Christ. Our beliefs are founded in the Bible, the revealed word of God.
We will accomplish our purpose and vision by participating in three communities:
- Worshiping community - Congregational worship
- Growth community - Small groups
- Serving community - Ministry teams
What to Expect
- Faithfulness to the teaching of God’s Word.
- Music that is focused on the worship of God.
- Friendliness and warmth.
- That you may fellowship and join us, just as you are!
“The Bible is the greatest of all books; to study it is the noblest of all pursuits; to understand it, the highest of all goals.”
— Charles C. Ryrie
Our History
The first meeting of the Cresco Community Chapel took place in January 1964. Five families formed the nucleus of the church at its start. They were determined to obey God, to rely on His provision, and to adhere to the truths of Scripture as He led them to establish this new church.
The founding families were convinced that being part of a denomination was a hindrance to efforts to reach out to the community, spreading the Gospel and reaching the lost. They agreed that they wanted an independent church. They adopted the New Testament church example of leadership by elders. The church is legally incorporated but has no constitution, as the Chapel elders saw no need for one since the Bible serves that purpose. No constitution has ever been adopted. The elders maintained their commitment to remain independent and to model the New Testament churches. The Chapel founders saw no need for a membership roll, which is also the current model. They believed that the ministry of the church was to be carried on by all believers, not just the pastor or a small group of people. Because everyone needed to be actively involved there was a focus on each believer determining what his or her spiritual gifts were and how they could use them for the Lord. Still today, we have ministry teams involving nearly everyone utilizing their spiritual gifts.
There have been seven pastors. The last pastor retired in May 2020 after serving the Chapel 27 years. His son, who was 6 months old when he arrived, is now the youth pastor.
In March 2021, the Chapel invited Interim Pastor Ministries to provide an intentional interim pastor. He has worked with church leadership to identify and address conflicts and obstacles; assess church history and health; led strategic planning including updating the Purpose, Vision, and Mission of the church including a congregationally based ministry structure.