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Going all the way back to 1980, Pastor Steve Upshur had a ministry in Detroit called "The Breadline". Pastor Bob Pannecouk and Pastor Tony Mancina had a church in St. Clair Shores called "Basilian Fellowship." These men were already connecting and fellowshipping with each others ministries. During a prayer meeting the idea came up that "perhaps we are meant to merge ministries." A decision was soon made to formally establish "New Life Fellowship of Believers"!
Alot of good fruit came forth because of that one decision! Here are some of the details:
A healthy children's ministry was established, primarily under the leadership of Terry and Pat Carlson. A large number of children were discipled after Christ thru puppet skits, live skits, worship music, and creative teachings by a number of dedicated staff.
Other youth ministries blossomed over the years, ministering so well to the needs of pre-teens, and teens alike. We are thankful for the faithful saints such as Brian and Beth Malloy, Ron and Rose Smith, Joel and Amy Johnston and more, who invested into the lives of the youth. A safe haven was created for many young people to grow in a Christian community and be taught the ways of Christ.
New Life was always known for the anointed worship teams who led the congregation during services. People like Bob and Michelle Ladendorf, Gary and Sandy Kirouac, Pat and Joanie Pointer, Carrie Mancina and many more - these all served faithfully in these roles for years.
Zoe Christian Academy was launched in 1983 under the leadership of Pastor Tony! Rich Mallino became the Principal shortly after. Many children and teens received a good Christian education up until it merged with Bethesda Christian School, and became Parkway Christian School in 2006.
Pastor Bob Pannecouk had the "Latter Rain" radio broadcast from 1985 to 1995. This was a powerful ministry of sharing the word to local audiences tuning in from all over the State of Michigan!
Pastor Steve and Elaine Upshur hosted the "New Life TV Program" from 1983 to 1995. People from all over South East Michigan would tune in Sunday nights at 8 p.m. to for a time of ministry not only with the Upshurs, but with many other guests who were interviewed as well.
One of the unique things that many people appreciated about New Life, was the fact that there were 3 different men of God consistently ministering to the congregation. Each Pastor had his own gifting and ministry passion, and many people today speak fondly of the benefit they had of receiving from 3 different shepherds. It ultimately made for a rich serving of spirtual food that helped many to their next level in Christ.
in 1997, the decision was made for each Pastor to assume the lead of his own ministry. Pastor Steve went to Detroit where the beginnings of "Peacemakers International" were already under way. Pastor Tony went north to establish "Salt River Christian Church", and Pastor Bob stayed at New Life to continue the pastorate there.
Although we all moved on to serve the Lord in new cities and fields, there is no doubt that much good fruit came forth at New Life from 1980 to 1997. This is the ministry that Jeremiah Upshur spent his childhood and teen years at, as his parents were part of the Pastoral team. We want to honor our history at New Life, and thank God for the wonderful things He did for us during that time.
New Life is still going strong today and is led by Pastor Mike Malloy, Pastor Tommy Sheerer, and Family Ministries Pastor Lori Bunk. You can find out more info about their ministry by clicking "here".