We at CMCL are people drawn together from a variety of backgrounds (Mennonite, Lutheran, Presbyterian, Baptist, Catholic) who are looking to the biblical story for fresh understanding and direction for our lives. Our imaginations are sparked by the stories of Jesus. Many come here to learn more about the ways of peace. We often re-tell the stories of Jesus reaching across boundaries and sitting with unexpected people in unexpected ways. We hear the words of Isaiah 54: "enlarge the site of your tent . . . do not hold back; lengthen your cords and strengthen your stakes."

Twenty-one years ago, thirty people were blessed by Akron Mennonite Church for the beginnings of this new church which became Community Mennonite Church of Lancaster on West Orange Street. Twenty-one years later, 242 adults and 130 children and youth are participating.

Our music ranges from acappella to jazz to country to folk. Our small sanctuary has been a warm place for people to gather for evening concerts from Goshen College's choir to two Syrian Muslim/Christian groups. Besides reaching across international boundaries and religious traditions with music, we provide a place for the broader Lancaster community to gather. We lean on the language of music for bringing people together and growing in faith.

In our worship time we pause to remember who we are and the hope and grace that God extends to us through Jesus. This church continues to be a place of refuge and healing for people. We delight in seeing people's gifts released. We leave these doors to walk more boldly into the week ahead, wanting to share bread and light among the people we meet.