How it all started...
Every story has a beginning, and ours starts with a simple, heartfelt question: What if church could be a place of true healing?
Back in 2018, our founding members recognized a deep need in our community and within themselves. They saw friends, neighbors, and family members who loved God but felt disconnected or wounded by past church experiences. They saw people carrying heavy burdens, feeling bound by life's challenges, and it sparked a deep desire to live out the command to “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). They longed to create a safe space to simply breathe and be authentic.
Out of this shared observation and life events, a vision was born. It wasn't about creating perfect programs or a polished presentation; it was about creating a spiritual home. It was a vision rooted in the belief that “love covers over a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8), a place where grace was more than just a name—it was the very air we would breathe and the life we lead.
GraceWay Ministries was founded as that safe harbor. From our very first gathering, our purpose has been to be a place where anyone, regardless of their story, can find restoration, grow in their faith, and build genuine community. We believe the past doesn't have to define your future, because in God's presence, there is freedom and a new beginning for everyone. As the Bible promises, “if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Back in 2018, our founding members recognized a deep need in our community and within themselves. They saw friends, neighbors, and family members who loved God but felt disconnected or wounded by past church experiences. They saw people carrying heavy burdens, feeling bound by life's challenges, and it sparked a deep desire to live out the command to “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). They longed to create a safe space to simply breathe and be authentic.
Out of this shared observation and life events, a vision was born. It wasn't about creating perfect programs or a polished presentation; it was about creating a spiritual home. It was a vision rooted in the belief that “love covers over a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8), a place where grace was more than just a name—it was the very air we would breathe and the life we lead.
GraceWay Ministries was founded as that safe harbor. From our very first gathering, our purpose has been to be a place where anyone, regardless of their story, can find restoration, grow in their faith, and build genuine community. We believe the past doesn't have to define your future, because in God's presence, there is freedom and a new beginning for everyone. As the Bible promises, “if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Expanding the vision...
A vision is a living thing. It grows, it breathes, and as we’ve journeyed together since 2018, God has continuously expanded the vision for what GraceWay can be. He has clarified our purpose into one clear, central mission: Love God, Love people, Make Disciples.
This mission is the heartbeat of our church. It began as a vision for a safe harbor, and it has blossomed into a vibrant "healing station" for the heart and soul.
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To Love God and Love People is our deepest desire, as we seek to live out the two greatest commands: to "Love the Lord your God with all your heart" (Matthew 22:37) and to "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:39). This is why we intentionally cultivate a culture where the love of Jesus is not just taught, but tangibly felt.
This culture is how we actively reach out to others, to the ones who feel spiritually homeless, and to anyone who believes their questions and doubts disqualify them. We want to be the first place they think of when they need refuge.
As we look to the future, we are fueled by our mission to Make Disciples, rooted in Christ's Great Commission to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). Our vision for growth isn't about numbers, but about names and stories. Our dream is to reach as many people as possible with the beautiful, unchanging truth and unconditional love of the Gospel of Jesus—a message that heals the brokenhearted, sets the captive free, and welcomes everyone home.
This mission is the heartbeat of our church. It began as a vision for a safe harbor, and it has blossomed into a vibrant "healing station" for the heart and soul.
Hide trimmed content
To Love God and Love People is our deepest desire, as we seek to live out the two greatest commands: to "Love the Lord your God with all your heart" (Matthew 22:37) and to "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:39). This is why we intentionally cultivate a culture where the love of Jesus is not just taught, but tangibly felt.
This culture is how we actively reach out to others, to the ones who feel spiritually homeless, and to anyone who believes their questions and doubts disqualify them. We want to be the first place they think of when they need refuge.
As we look to the future, we are fueled by our mission to Make Disciples, rooted in Christ's Great Commission to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). Our vision for growth isn't about numbers, but about names and stories. Our dream is to reach as many people as possible with the beautiful, unchanging truth and unconditional love of the Gospel of Jesus—a message that heals the brokenhearted, sets the captive free, and welcomes everyone home.
Meet Our Team.
Shawn Braswell
Pastor
Pastor Shawn Braswell communicates God's Word with authenticity and warmth. His leadership is focused on one simple mission: Love God, Love people, Make Disciples. He desires for GraceWay to be a place where anyone can experience the life-changing grace of Jesus.
Jason Barriner
Administrative Pastor
As Administrative Pastor, Jason Barriner stewards GraceWay's resources to support our mission: Love God, Love people, Make Disciples. He manages the details behind the scenes so our ministry of warmth and grace can flourish, reaching more people with the love of Jesus.
Michelle Braswell
Jam Kidz Pastor
Michelle Braswell joyfully leads our youngest disciples in Jam Kidz. Her mission is to create a space where every child feels known and loved by Jesus. Through engaging lessons and activities, she helps kids discover what it means to Love God and Love people.
Kyle Portell
Radiate Youth Pastor
Kyle Portell leads Radiate Youth with the goal of helping students radiate the love of Jesus. In a fun and welcoming environment, he disciples them to build a real relationship with God, love others well, and make a difference in their world.