Our Minister
JAY THORNELL
My call to ministry occurred during my senior year of high school. Moved by the gospel in a new way, I decided to devote my life to following Jesus and inviting others to join me. I began serving at Grand Strand in August of 2002. In the first sermon I preached here, I told the church I was the worst sinner I knew. That isn’t a line, but a confession of how poor in spirit I am. For those who fear preachers, here is one implication of my confession: Since no one leaves my presence with me thinking I am better than him or her, I am a person you can reveal your failures and struggles to without fear of condemnation. Together, we can learn how to live by faith in Jesus’ promises rather than by the sight of our own sins.
Isolation is the Enemy’s plan; connection is God’s. Grand Strand seeks to offer ways for people to connect with each other and to God. Isolation, like sin, leads to despair. Connection, like air, allows us to breathe again. This church is composed of individuals from all over who have found a common connection in Jesus. We will always have room for one more to join us!
While I know I am poor in spirit, what prevents me from living in despair is God’s grace. I pray that you and I will always know how wide and long and high and deep Jesus’ love really is and to experience it for ourselves! Connecting our lives to God’s love is His solution to our problems. If you’d like to connect with me, stop by the office, give me a call, or email me at jthornell321@gmail.com