Welcome, Todd Chancey!
On Sunday, July 6th, Encounter Church had the distinct honor of welcoming Todd Chancey, the MidSouth Conference Superintendent of the Global Methodist Church (GMC), to speak during our Sunday gathering. Accompanied by his wife, Liz Chancey, the couple brought warmth, wisdom, and a powerful word of encouragement to our growing church family.
Superintendent Chancey delivered a message centered on the contrast of light and darkness—a reminder that even in a world full of uncertainty, confusion, and spiritual fog, the light of Christ continues to shine through His people. He called us to live as active participants in God’s unfolding story, not passive bystanders. He reminded us that light isn’t just something we reflect on Sundays—it’s something we carry into our workplaces, our homes, and our communities.
As someone who has walked alongside many churches and leaders, Todd spoke directly to the reality and challenge of planting churches—especially in this cultural moment. He acknowledged the sacrifices, faith, and perseverance it takes to start a new church from the ground up. And yet, in the same breath, he reminded us of the beauty and necessity of it. His words served as a timely encouragement to Encounter Church — two years in, but still a church in its early stages in many ways — yet already marked by God’s faithfulness and the passion of its people. He reminded us that we are not building alone. We are part of a larger movement—a body of believers across the MidSouth and beyond—who are being mobilized to carry the gospel into new and familiar places alike.
Todd and Liz expressed genuine excitement for the work God is doing here in Madison County. They celebrated the commitment, courage, and calling that is shaping Encounter Church. They prayed over our leadership, our members, and our mission, leaving us with fresh strength and deep gratitude.
We are thankful for their visit and their investment in our community. As we press forward in obedience and hope, we're reminded that even small churches carry big light—and the darkness will not overcome it.
