Get to Know: Grace Episcopal Church, Jefferson City
Community is at the heart of Grace Episcopal Church in Jefferson City. The historic church sits just blocks from the Missouri River and the Missouri capitol building in downtown Jeff City. The church building and the congregation itself both have a strong history of serving their community.
Grace Church was founded in 1839, constructed its first church in 1842, and began building their current structure in 1898 (completed in 1901). In its early days, the church served as a hospital during a cholera epidemic and again during the Civil War. In the mid-twentieth century, the church leadership took a strong stand toward racial integration, both in the city and the church itself. And in 2012, Grace Church became a founding member of "Common Ground," a small non-profit that helps families living in poverty and experiencing homelessness.
"We are small welcoming church with faithful people concerned about others and serving those who are marginalized," said Deacon Paula Hartsfield. Deacon Paula says Grace members serve as volunteers, board members, and financial contributors to Common Ground. The organization recently celebrated 10 years of service to Jefferson City. The group's mission is to provide an innovative and relationship-focused approach to addressing the needs of their neighbors.
Building relationships is also a driving force inside Grace Church. Sunday mornings are busy with vibrant worship services, adult forums, Sunday school, and lots of fellowship. Grace member Julie Harker describes the congregation as small, cozy and friendly. Carolyn Kerr adds, "We have personality!"
Vital Stats:
Church name: Grace Episcopal Church
Address: 217 Adams Street
City: Jefferson City
Phone: 573-635-4405
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.gracechurchjc.org/
Worship Services:
- Sundays at 8 a.m. - Holy Eucharist, Rite I (in-person)
- Sundays at 10:30 a.m. - Holy Eucharist, Rite II with hymns (in-person and Facebook)
- Thursdays at 8:30 a.m. - Morning Prayer (Zoom, Facebook)
- Wednesdays at 12:10 p.m. - Midweek Eucharist (in the Chapel)
Clergy:
- The Rev. Bill Nesbit, Priest-in-Charge
- The Rev. Paula Hartsfield, Deacon
- The Rev. Howard Ellis, Assisting Pastor
Members: 359
ASA: 97
(numbers from 2020 Parochial Report)
Grace Episcopal Church, Jefferson City
