MINISTRY FOCUS

Lejeune-New River hospitality ministry was born out of a desire to bring the light of Christ to men and women who serve as Marines and Sailors in Jacksonville, North Carolina. Chris and Melissa met, married, and began their new life together just down the road, so they are well-acquainted with this area. Cadence has been praying about planting a ministry here for many years. After serving in the Army for over 20 years and planting a Cadence ministry in Wiesbaden, Germany, the Stephensons felt called back home to North Carolina—an answer to that prayer. The Maple Hill Hospitality House seeks to be a “home away from home” for many who need Christian community.

The ministry offers weekly Singles’ Fellowship Nights, featuring Bible Study and a meal, as well as dedicated one-on-one discipleship meetings. Additionally, the Stephensons host monthly dinners out through the Brotherhood and Sisterhood ministries, quarterly day trips, annual retreats, and provide place to call home for many major holidays. Through the outreach ministries, service members become connected with other men and women from all walks of life, who are also able to pour into them. Through the overlapping of these ministries, genuine, deep, and authentic community is felt.