In a noteworthy announcement made during what many termed the last service under canvas, Pastor Greg Locke revealed that the Global Vision Bible Church is stepping into a new chapter with the launch of its first worship service in a newly acquired facility. This follows a vibrant final gathering held in a large white tent in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee. Next Sunday, the congregation will move to a spacious 32,600-square-foot warehouse located at 1010 Maddox Simpson Parkway in nearby Lebanon.
Locke expressed his gratitude to the attendees during the final tent service, remarking that while the tent might symbolize an ending, it is truly just the dawn of fresh beginnings. He stated, “I’m so honored that you are here today for what is the final service of the tent. But I believe it is just the beginning, not even close to the finality of the revival and the glory of God and what He is going to continue to do.”
Before the inaugural service, a volunteer event is scheduled, allowing the community to come together and prepare for the upcoming transition. Locke assured his congregation that they were working diligently to get the new facility ready, mentioning that various improvements, including construction and bathroom upgrades, were underway. “We are going to be coming in next Sunday on two wheels. It’s been a busy week,” he noted.
The new location not only offers a much larger space but is also strategically placed with favorable access to Interstate 40, which should help ease parking and traffic concerns previously raised by nearby residents. The church will continue to own its current property, which is on the market, following challenges related to noise and zoning violations stemming from the tent services.
In recent times, Global Vision has witnessed considerable growth, largely attributed to Locke’s rising profile amidst evolving political and social discussions. Founded in 2006, the church transitioned to hosting services in a tent as attendance surged. However, this growth was not without its difficulties; Wilson County had previously filed a lawsuit against the church, citing excessive noise and potential zoning ordinance breaches.
While the church initially sought to purchase the Love’s Way Church property, planning for that fell through due to financial challenges. Locke mentioned that they were short $5 million needed to complete the deal, a situation he described as needing a “miracle from God.” Ultimately, the decision shifted to leasing the new campus instead.
This facility promises to facilitate the church’s expanding ministries and improve overall operations. Locke reassured the congregation about financial integrity following scrutiny regarding the church’s monetary dealings. He firmly defended the organization’s financial practices, even addressing issues surrounding donations and pledges, insisting the church maintained compliant and clean financial records.
As the congregation gears up for this exciting new phase, Locke’s vibrant leadership continues to draw attention far beyond the local community, embedding Global Vision Bible Church into the region’s cultural fabric, particularly as they prepare for their significant transition.
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