About Forward in Grace Ministries From the Pastor:  We want to welcome you to Forward in Grace Ministries. We're excited that you've taken time to check out our site. You will find that Grace is a very diverse church with people from various different backgrounds, races and cultures. Our heart is to see the lost come to know the savior and to help in restoring those who have been wounded and hurt. Our purpose statement says that we are " A Church of a Second Chance" existing to help you get from where you are to where God wants you to be! This pretty much sums up the heart and vision of our church. Many in today's world have been hurt and know the pain of rejection. We are here to provide a "safe" haven where folks from all walks of life regardless of their past can come and feel welcome and loved. You will also find at Grace that we have a strong vision to reach out beyond the four walls of the church building. Scripture clearly teaches us that we are to "go into all the world" with the gospel of Jesus Christ. That's sums up what we're all about. I trust that you will take the time to come visit with us on Sunday or join us for a mid-week home "Life" group. We trust that you get all the information you need about us from this site, if we can be of any further assistance please don't hesitate to call us at 309-454-6776. If I am unavailable at this number please call my home at 309-821-0561 or cell number at 309-531-7499. Purpose:  Forward in Grace is "A Church of a Second Chance" existing to help get you from where you are to where God wants you to be!. An interracial congregation: We believe strongly that God has called the nations unto Himself. Therefore we have established a multi-cultural church were people from all races, cultures and walks of life are welcome to worship with us. About our pastor: Pastor Russ Barton is a very out going, upbeat, and optimistic individual who loves people and loves to share God's Word. His humorous, down to earth style of preaching is greatly admired and respected in the area and has touched the hearts and lives of many individuals.  Church affiliation:  Grace is affiliated with Church on the Rock International (COTR) in Dallas, Texas. COTR has been in existence since 1985 and through its many worldwide churches and ministries is reaching thousands of souls. Structure:  The structure of Grace consists of a Board of Directors which oversees financial decisions of the church. There are also ordained elders within the church who serve in various capacities and also act as an advisory counsel to the pastor. Praise and Worship: Our music services consist of contemporary chorus along with an occasional hymn. Also, there are special musical numbers as well as dance specials. Grace is a very expressive church in that members are encouraged to participate in worship rather than be a spectator. People lifting their hands, dancing, praising characterizes our services and an occasional Jericho march as the spirit leads can be observed.   Youth and children's ministry: Children's and Youth ministry are at the core of Grace and of Pastor Russ. We believe strongly that our children are at the very heart of God and it is our responsibility to teach and train them in the ways of the Lord.  We offer an exciting children is ministry on Sunday mornings and this is also available at many of our home Life Groups during the week. Youth ministry is also an integral part of our church. Our young people meet regularly to discuss the scriptures and talk about issues relevant to their lives. They attend on a yearly basis the Acquire the Fire meetings in various locations. Home Life Groups  Part of the vision of Grace is to grow by growing smaller. Life groups meet at various times and locations throughout the city. The vision of our groups is as follows: To grow in the Lord through mutual encouragement, edification, study and prayer To reach the lost and backslidden To multiply the group to 14-15 and begin a new group