With smiles, shared stories, laughter and grateful hearts, North Chapel Community Bible Church members, friends and guests Jan. 27 celebrated the grand opening of their new building.

It’s located at the corner of Amhurst Drive and Saguaro Blvd.

“It was quite an event,” said Elder Rich Albrecht, “You wouldn’t know that there was inclement weather with the wonderful attitudes of the members and those neighbors who graciously opened their doors to the invites to come enjoy the celebration.”

Pastor Dan Scruggs said, “This has been an interesting and challenging journey we have been on as a congregation.

“But it has made this group stronger and trusting of what the Lord has intended for their lives.

“We’ve had a few set-backs along the way and also many blessings. Let’s just say the Lord has our attention and we’re grateful for His generosity.”

Norris Heckel, Men’s Ministry director, said, “Everyone has been so good to us, with all the work that the church family has contributed with their wonderful talents and efforts, we finally have our new home.

“We’ve already had a golf event for our men that went over to the Phoenix Open and now we’re planning something for Valentine’s Day that we can share in with our wives.”

Joyce Scruggs, Women’s Ministry leader and the pastor’s wife, said that she’s already planning for a February Ladies Nite Out and is in her second session of the women’s Psalms Bible Study on Tuesday mornings.

“We couldn’t have been more blessed,” said Star Williams, North Chapel’s music director.

“Here we have the much needed rain arrive on our grand opening weekend and these two restaurants, Saddle Bronc Grill and El Encanto, open their doors and establishments with so much warmth, hospitality and great food, we didn’t even mind the rain!

“We already feel like our family is growing right here in our block.”

John Schmidt, presiding chairman of the Elder Board, said, “The generosity shown by the restaurants and welcoming of the town were truly a testament to hospitality and welcoming attitudes of the community of Fountain Hills and their retail businesses.

“We look forward to growing our church and reaching out to the town with events, ministerial services and teaching the word of God.”