A Message from Ivy

Dear Beloved in Christ,

Greetings from our beautiful town of South Bend! As we reflect on our community and the grace of God in our lives, I am reminded of the many blessings that surround us. South Bend is not only a hub of culture and economics for the north of our state, but it is also a place where God’s love is felt in our families, neighborhoods, and places of worship. Let me share with you a bit of what makes South Bend so special and how we can continue to glorify God in this vibrant city.

A Hub of History and Culture

South Bend sits gracefully at the southernmost bend of the St. Joseph River. From its humble beginnings to the thriving, bustling city it is today, it has always been a place where growth and opportunity abound. Many big businesses have chosen to call South Bend home, but there is one institution that stands out above all others: the University of Notre Dame.

As many of you know, Notre Dame is more than just a university; it is a cherished landmark that defines our city. Known across the nation, the university is home to the Fighting Irish football team, whose games in front of 77,000 fans at the iconic stadium are nothing short of spectacular. It’s a reminder of the strong spirit of community and pride that runs deep in South Bend, a spirit that we, as a church, are a part of as well.

One of the most beautiful aspects of Notre Dame is its campus. With fine art galleries and museums lining its expansive, lovingly landscaped quads, the campus is a visual representation of beauty and purpose. It’s easy to get lost in admiration as you walk by the historic colleges that stand tall, full of stories and academic excellence. Whether you’re a student, a visitor, or a lifelong resident, taking a walk through the university is a calming experience, one that brings a sense of peace and inspiration.

Touchdown Jesus and Downtown Revival

For those who have attended a Fighting Irish game, you know that the experience is like no other. The atmosphere is electrifying, and it’s impossible not to feel the unity of 77,000 voices cheering on their team. But beyond the excitement of the game itself, there is something more—something that transcends sports. It’s the mural of Touchdown Jesus, a powerful image of Christ that overlooks the stadium. This mural, along with the glittering Golden Dome, is a reminder of God’s presence in our community and how He continues to guide us as we face both victories and challenges.

While Notre Dame and its football team draw much attention, I urge you not to miss the wonders of our downtown area. In recent years, our downtown has experienced a remarkable revival, and it is truly heartening to see. Once neglected, downtown South Bend now boasts cozy cafes, cultural centers, and beautiful spaces that invite you to sit, relax, and connect with others. It is a place where people from all walks of life can gather to share their stories, enjoy a cup of coffee, and build lasting relationships. It is a testament to the beauty that emerges when a community comes together in love and purpose, and I am excited to see how God will continue to bless this part of town.

A Wonderful City to Live and Thrive

As much as I love South Bend for its rich history, culture, and the energy brought by the University of Notre Dame, what truly makes this city remarkable is its people. We are blessed to live in a place that offers excellent public schools, affordable housing, and a low cost of living. It’s a place where families can thrive, businesses can grow, and individuals can pursue their dreams while keeping close to their roots. For those who may be considering moving to our area or starting a new chapter in their life, South Bend is a wonderful city to call home. We are a community bound by faith, resilience, and a deep love for one another.

Whether you are walking through the university campus, cheering on the Fighting Irish, or enjoying a quiet moment in one of our revived downtown cafes, there is no doubt that South Bend is a special place. But let us not forget the greatest blessing we have—our faith in Jesus Christ. Just as our city has seen growth and renewal, we too are called to experience a renewal in our hearts, minds, and spirits.

Looking Forward with Hope

As we move forward together, let us take inspiration from the vitality of South Bend. Just as the city has seen a dramatic revival, so too can our spirits be renewed by the love of Christ. We are a part of something much bigger than ourselves—a community that is called to serve, love, and support one another in Christ. Whether through acts of kindness, offering a listening ear, or praying for our city and its leaders, we each have a role to play in fostering a thriving and Christ-centered community.

In closing, I want to encourage each of you to look around and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us, both in our town and in our lives. Let us continue to be a shining light of hope in South Bend, sharing the love of Christ in every corner of this city. As we celebrate the many blessings of our home, may we always remember that our ultimate joy comes from the One who gave His life for us.

With love and blessings in Christ,
Ivy

Upcoming Events:

• Community Prayer Breakfast – March 1st at 8 AM
• Downtown Outreach Event – March 14th from 10 AM – 2 PM
• Family Fun Night at the Church – March 28th at 6 PM

We look forward to seeing you at these wonderful events as we continue to serve God together!