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I grew up going to church, but my family never invited friends to come with us. There was a big separation between church life and home life. So, inviting "weekday people" to church was a big stretch for me. I was so thankful for the Christmas cookie box invite opportunity to reach out to our babysitter.



The kids helped us make chocolate peanut butter balls and decorate them in sprinkles. They were so excited to present the cookies to our babysitter and I invited her to The Orchard. She was super touched by the gesture. We got a text later that night saying that the cookies were really tasty; she and her mom really enjoyed them. I'm not sure if she came to church or not, but it was great to show the kids that it can be fun and enjoyable inviting others to church.

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Sherry Lajiness' Story | Refuge for Women

By Annie Aiello • 15 Jul, 2024
This month's SHINE story features Sherry Lajiness, a member of The Orchard Barrington, who volunteers for the non-profit ministry organization, Refuge for Women. Despite her initial reluctance, Sherry followed the Lord's prompting to serve a few hours a week and is making an impact in the lives of these women. Watch this short video to see how Sherry’s “yes” to serving is helping her to shine in her community for Christ. Do you, or someone you know, have a SHINE story? Let us know!

Jana Balis' Story

03 Jun, 2024
Jana Balis, founder of Ignite Hoops and member of The Orchard , explains the mission of this local competitive youth basketball program, as well as her heart to unconventionally reach our local youth with the gospel through Christian coaching. Jana and Ignite Hoops are a great example of putting faith into action to shine brightly for Christ in our community! May this story encourage you to consider how you too might shine for Christ in areas where God has placed you. Watch the above video for more!

Zachary's Story | Barrington

20 May, 2024
At my baptism, I shared the story of how I first came to know Jesus and how He used my burdens to grow my faith in Him. I grew up going to church, but with my autism, it was hard for me to sit still and focus in Sunday School or church. I wasn't interested in gaining the knowledge of God or wisdom from Him until middle school, when I recognized my need for Jesus, and that I was a sinner who needed to be saved. Nothing I could do would ever be enough to get me into heaven. I then decided to believe that God really did send his son to pay the price for me - even though I did not deserve it - because He loved and cared for me so much. It is the best gift any of us could ever receive. After high school, as I transitioned from school to work, I became more aware of the causes of my heavy emotions and anxious thoughts. I really feel that God used this awareness to show me my need for dependence on Him to get through each day and to trust that my future is secure. Proverbs 3:5-6 has really been an encouragement to me over the years.
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