About Us

Our Mission

"We are the heart, hands, and feet of Jesus wherever we live, work, play, and are led."

Our Vision

"We lovingly help people find their way to Christ."

CHRIST

Jesus is at the center of everything we do. We seek to know Him, follow Him, and let His love and truth transform our lives.

COMMUNITY

We are called to walk in faith together. Through love, fellowship, and genuine relationships, we build a Christ-centered community where everyone belongs.

CHURCH

The church is more than a building; it’s a family united in purpose. We gather to worship, grow in faith, and serve others, creating a place where all can experience God’s love and grace.

Our Facility

We are blessed with a beautiful, welcoming space designed to foster connection, reflection, and community. Our facility is more than just a place to gather—it’s a sanctuary where you can experience peace, support, and spiritual growth. Whether you’re here for a service, an event, or a quiet moment of reflection, we’re proud to offer spaces that enhance your time with us.

Garden of Remembrance

Our Garden of Remembrance offers a serene, peaceful environment where individuals and families can honor loved ones who have passed. Surrounded by lush greenery and calming beauty, it’s a place to reflect, remember, and find comfort in God's presence. This special garden invites visitors to pause, pray, and celebrate the lives of those who are dearly missed.

Learn More ABOUT THE GARDEN OF REMEMBRANCE

Community Spaces

Our community spaces—including the Northside Room, Garden Room, Garden Patio, Chapel, and Sanctuary—are thoughtfully designed to foster connection, reflection, and shared experiences. From casual gatherings and shared meals to worship services and special events, each space offers a unique and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're meeting with a small group, celebrating with the community, or finding a quiet moment of reflection, these spaces invite people to come together and grow in relationship with one another.

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Our Leadership

Lead Pastor

Chad Oyer

Pastor Chad joined our church family as Lead Pastor in August 2015. This year marks his 25^th anniversary of full-time pastoral ministry. Pastor Chad’s ministry has been distinguished by team-oriented, mission-focused, community-oriented, and loving churches. He received a B.A in Philosophy & Religion from Olivet Nazarene University and continued his education M.A. Church History at Nazarene Theological Seminary. Pastor Chad and his wife Angie have four children, and two dogs.

Pastoral Care Pastor

Dr. Gary Hogue

Dr. Gary Hogue arrived at FCC in 1984 with his wife, Karen and two sons. Over the years he and his family have experienced God‘s faithfulness through the joys and burdens of church and family life. Dr. Hogue feels blessed to participate in God’s work at Mission Hill Church, where currently, he will preach occasionally, consult with church leadership and staff, and provide pastoral care to the congregation. Dr. Hogue received a Master of Divinity from McCormick Seminary. While serving at his first pastorate, Dr. Hogue pursued graduate courses at Ohio State University, and later at United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio where he earned his Doctor of Ministry. Dr. Hogue believes the church exists to provide environments where the Holy Spirit creates, renews, and deepens faith in Jesus Christ, and he prays blessings upon you as you explore what God is doing through our church.

Youth Pastor

Sam Javed

Raised in Traverse City, Pastor Sam graduated from Traverse City West Senior High School in 2013. He moved on to play basketball at the college level and discovered that he enjoyed the trades. In 2018, Pastor Sam completed an Associate’s Degree in Construction Management. Shortly after that, he felt the call to ministry. In 2022, Pastor Sam received his Bachelor's in Science of Religion from Liberty University. He loves being with young people as they discover who Jesus is and His purpose for their life. Pastor Sam and his wife, Sara have been married since 2017 and they have two children, Norah and Josiah. The Javeds are all about Jesus, people, food and fun!

Our Beliefs

Our Statement of Faith

As we live out these core values and follow Jesus wholeheartedly, investing in the Kingdom of God, we believe He will build His Church—empowering us to make a lasting impact in our community and beyond.

Values

Our Core Values

C

Changing Lives

Christ changes us, no matter who, what, or when.

H

Helping You

We walk alongside each other.

R

Relevant Living

We live and serve with God-given purpose.

I

Intentional Hospitality

Welcome to our family!

S

Significant Relationships

We love and support each other.

T

Thank you, Jesus!

Every day we live with gratitude.

Our History

Discover More About Our Journey

Mission Hill Church began in 1863 as First Congregational Church, when ten families gathered in a log cabin where the Park Place Hotel now stands. Over the years, the church grew from a small A-frame building to a beautiful stone church, and eventually to our current home, dedicated in 1960. While our story began with the early Congregational Church movement—founded by settlers who sought the freedom to interpret Scripture—we’ve since grown into an independent, non-denominational church. Today, we are a diverse community from many backgrounds, united by a shared commitment to Jesus, the truth of Scripture, and the work of the Holy Spirit. We embrace modern worship, spirit-led ministries, and authentic community as we pursue a faith that’s real, relevant, and rooted in love.

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