BEACHES CHAPEL HISTORY
 

In the early 70's, Beaches Chapel Church was a small congregation meeting in the little chapel. The building sat alone on the current property. As small groups of spirit-filled believers began to spring up around the beaches area and in Jacksonville, several of them were approached by the pastor of the church to begin a joint Friday night meeting in the chapel. The meetings mushroomed, and the Friday night group began to join the congregation on Sunday mornings.

In 1973, again at the pastor's invitation, the Friday night group joined the congregation and became Beaches Chapel Church. Before long, the new congregation was joined by other groups and the little chapel's 200 seat capacity was outgrown. Construction was started on new buildings, and Beaches Chapel School was started that same year with grades 1-10.

In 1975, the congregation of several hundred moved into the new gymnasium. The gym became the new sanctuary where Jesus was honored through praise, worship, and the preaching of the Word. Being in the presence of God became the constant goal of the congregation. By the late 1970's, the congregation increased greatly in size. Regular church meetings, daily meetings, and special conventions were the norm for many years. Thousands of people throughout Jacksonville and the southeastern United States were affected by the ministry of Beaches Chapel.

Today, Beaches Chapel continues to fulfill its purposes in the Jacksonville Beaches area. Individual and corporate growth are emphasized through praise and worship, the preaching of the Word, teaching of the First Principles found in Hebrews 6:1, Evangelism, Ladies and Men's Bible Studies, youth ministry, and children's church.  Other active ministries include Young Adults (18-32), Singles (33+), and Seniors.  Beaches Chapel School, for students in K5 through 8th grade, continues to enjoy a reputation of excellence.

In 1993, the inside of the gymnasium was redone into a sanctuary with carpet, lighting, seating, and a beautiful stage area.  Then in January 2002, ground was broken for a new facade for the sanctuary.  The small chapel is used for Children's Church on Sundays and Wednesdays, and for Vacation Bible School each summer.  Beaches Chapel School students also meet there for chapel.  

Beaches Chapel Church will continue affecting lives here and around the world until Jesus returns.