Commonway Church

This quarter First Choice for Women recognizes another one of our great supporting churches, Commonway Church. Pastor Matt Carder has led the ministry since its inception 12 years ago to its launch as an independent church in July 2011. The 500-member congregation meets on Sundays at 10:30 am at the Horizon Convention Center in the heart of downtown Muncie.“Commonway is a community of individuals inviting people to find hope in Jesus,” notes Pastor Carder, “and that includes all of us, Christians as well as seekers.” Commonway offers a relaxed welcoming environment where people who are perhaps hesitant to get involved in church feel welcome. “We’re an eclectic group of students and professors, liberals and conservatives, both buttoned up and dressed down,” continues Pastor Carder. “Our commonality exists primarily in depending on God’s transforming grace and then learning to share it with others. That is our common-way.”Their core values include Authentic Relationships, Generous Service, Shared Grace, Biblical Accountability and Intentional Discipleship. These values extend through supporting organizations like First Choice for Women. “We try to partner with organizations doing great ministry,” notes Pastor Carder. “So many good non-profits service our community. We recognize our limitations as a church body in providing expertise in all areas of ministry. Instead of trying to ‘reinvent the wheel’, we can come along side of them and support what they are doing.” Commonway also partners with local organizations such as Christian Ministries, Safe Families and Inside Out Community Development Center.“We like how First Choice, in addition to providing needed services, is trying to build relationships”, concludes Pastor Carder. “It is powerful to communicate to women that they are not alone. They need to feel heard and have the opportunity to discuss options and assistance they might not be aware of.”In addition to their financial support, Commonway small groups volunteer with First Choice on a regular basis. Many of our clients benefit from “Help Portrait,” an annual worldwide initiative providing free professional photographs to people in need, locally hosted by Commonway Church. Commonway is also the home church of our Center Director, Leslie Hatcher. “I am thankful that my church is so supportive of this ministry,” Leslie stated. “I know the members of Commonway believe in loving and helping people at the point of their need, which is something we do every day at First Choice for Women.”On behalf of the First Choice for Women staff, clients and volunteers, thank you Commonway Church for your generous support for this ministry.To learn more about Commonway please visit www.commonwaychurch.com.