Worship will feature guest preacher Dr. Fred Craddock, Professor Emeritus of Preaching and New Testament in the Candler School of Theology at Emory University. Dr. Craddock was recently named as one of the “25 most influential pastors of the past 25 years” by Preaching. In addition to extensive teaching and writing on preaching, “he is an engaging and effective preacher and one of the best storytellers anyone ever will hear.”

The theme of the anniversary celebration is “Peachtree Corners Christian Church: A Shining Light for 25 Years.”

Although the church was chartered in 1986 under the name Kirk of the Corners Christian Church, the name was changed in 2005 to reflect its community focus and range of outreach and service efforts. One of its most popular events is the annual Pumpkin Patch held at the church each October, which raises money for community outreach ministries including Norcross Cooperative Ministry. The church also works in partnership throughout the year with other ministries and community organizations, including Family Promise of Gwinnett, Church World Service, Gwinnett Children’s Shelter, Forever Family, and Refugee Resettlement and Immigration Services of Atlanta. It offers community meeting space to several organizations including First Atlanta Chinese Christian Church, Imagine That and Future Tech Camps, and Gwinnett County Board of Elections, among others.

As the church moves forward into the next 25 years, its vision is to “be a beacon of God’s love, offering grace, hope, and acceptance to all.” According to Will Perdue, the congregation’s board chair, “When you walk into our church, you immediately feel welcomed. We’re small enough that we get to know you,” he said, adding, “That welcome, along with strong outreach, are core values of our church.” All are welcome to the Anniversary Celebration on June 12 beginning with worship at 11 a.m. and followed by lunch. For lunch reservations, call 770 447-5475 and leave a message. For more information on the church, visit PeachtreeCorners.