"MAYBE THE CHURCH...GOT IT WRONG!"
“Faith isn’t dead—it’s just de-churched. The next generation is spiritual, but skeptical of institutions.”
— Pew & Barna Combined Analysis
We get it! You left for a reason. But maybe…this is your season to...
Reclaim your faith.
Reimagine community.
Restart your walk.
If you have ever felt like...
You were judged instead of welcomed?
Your questions made people uncomfortable?
Church became more about performance than presence?
You loved God, but felt lost in the crowd?
You just needed space to heal?
You’re not alone—and we saved you a seat!
“64% of young adults with a Christian background have dropped out of church at some point after turning 18.”
— Barna Group, “Faith for Exiles”
“85% of formerly unchurched people say they returned because someone invited them
—and kept inviting.”
— Lifeway Research
We're inviting you ...
TO TRY THE CHURCH AGAIN!
Join us as we take an honest look at where the church has missed the mark, the wounds that have been left behind, and the hope that’s still possible. Each week, we’ll confront real questions, explore God’s Word with fresh eyes, and create a safe space for dialogue in our
post-service Q&A, Real Talk.
Whether you’ve never been to church, walked away years ago, or are searching for something deeper, this is your invitation to listen, to question, and maybe…
to come back.
“More than 60% of Gen Z say they are open to faith conversations—if they feel safe and not pressured.”
— Alpha/Barna, “The Connected Generation”
We invite your questions!
Dr. Terrence L. Vandiver, Sr.
Lead Pastor
Hi, I'm Pastor V! And I apologize. At least three generations of young people have been overlooked, unheard, and, in some cases, pushed away by the church. Some of you were judged instead of welcomed. Silenced instead of heard. Pushed out instead of invited in. You didn’t walk away because you stopped believing in God—you walked away because you couldn’t find Him in the noise.
This September, we’re starting a series called ‘Maybe the Church Got It Wrong’, followed by Real Talk—a safe space to ask, wrestle, and be heard. And I am inviting you to the conversation.
I know I have no right to ask; but I am asking...
Will You Join the Conversation?
FAQs
Answers to Your Top Questions About Trying the Church Again
I’ve been hurt by church before. What makes this different?
We’re so sorry that happened. At Thankful, we’re not interested in pretending pain doesn’t exist. We honor it. We don’t offer perfect people—but we are building a safe, grace-filled space where healing can happen. No shame. No spotlight. Just room to breathe and begin again.
Is this a “regular” church or something new?
We’re a historic, Christ-centered church with a fresh heart for this generation. We still preach Jesus. We still love people. But we’re not stuck in traditions that exclude or harm. We’re trying to follow Christ more faithfully—and we’re learning every day.
Do I have to believe everything to come?
Nope. Bring your questions. Bring your doubts. You don’t have to have it all figured out. Faith is a journey—and we’re just honored to walk with you for a little while.
What should I expect if I visit?
Expect to be greeted warmly, not judged. Expect honest worship, biblical preaching, and space to be yourself. Whether you dress up or come in jeans, sit quietly or lift your hands—your presence matters more than your performance.
Do you have anything for kids or youth?
Yes! Our kids and youth ministries are safe, fun, and rooted in faith. Whether your child is a toddler or a teen, they’ll find mentors, friends, and real conversation that connects with their world.
Will someone call or pressure me if I give my info?
No pressure. Just encouragement. If you give us your contact, we’ll send helpful resources and a warm invite. You’re always free to engage at your pace. We don’t chase people—we walk with them.