Church Highlight: Grace Church – Hickory, North Carolina

Grace Church, located in Hickory, North Carolina, is a Christ-centered church committed to helping people encounter God and experience the freedom that comes from knowing Jesus. Through worship, the teaching of God’s Word, and opportunities for people of all ages to grow in their faith, Grace seeks to create an environment where people can develop a meaningful relationship with Christ. The church describes its enduring purpose simply: to give God glory and bring others into a relationship with Christ.

Grace Church has a rich history of ministry in the Hickory community dating back to 1958. The church was founded in the historic Houk’s Chapel, built in 1888 and recognized by the church as Hickory’s oldest standing house of worship. Originally named First Assembly of God, the congregation was later renamed Grace Church and eventually relocated to its Lake Hickory location at 1301 12th Street Drive NW. As the ministry grew, Grace expanded its reach into additional locations, including Downtown Hickory. Grace Church is led by Pastors Mark and Janey Dolphens. Mark and Janey moved to North Carolina in 2008 and currently live in the Hickory area. Grace describes Pastor Mark as a gifted communicator and teacher with a passion for sharing the truth and love of the Gospel. His vision centers on helping people meet Jesus, and his teaching emphasizes God’s Word and its practical application to everyday life. The church’s heart for people is also demonstrated through its investment in the next generation and its outreach efforts. Grace Kidz provides safe and engaging environments for children to learn about Jesus and the Bible, while Grace Students serves young people in grades 6–12 through worship, small groups, and opportunities to use their gifts by serving throughout the church. Grace’s students are encouraged not simply to attend but to become active participants in ministry and make a difference for Christ. Grace Church also has a strong commitment to serving people both locally and globally. Through its outreach ministry, the church has set a goal of providing 250,000 meals through efforts including Convoy of Hope and community outreach. These initiatives reflect Grace’s desire to extend its ministry beyond its church services and practically care for people in need. From its beginnings in Houk’s Chapel in 1958 to its ministry throughout Hickory today, Grace Church continues to build upon a longstanding commitment to Christ and reaching people with the Gospel. Through the leadership of Pastors Mark and Janey Dolphens and the service of the Grace Church family, the church continues helping people encounter Jesus, grow in their faith, and make a difference in their community.

Please join us this week as we celebrate and lift up our friends at Grace Church in prayer! We are excited about all God is doing and will continue to do in and through Pastors Mark and Janey Dolphens and the Grace Church family!