On the day of set up, a last minute change placed a martial arts business, Legacy Martial Arts, in the booth next to them. God was at work and an awesome plan was about to unfold.  Kevin and the members of The Shore Church began building a relationship with their new friends and, after a few days, Kevin had the privilege of leading the owner and the main instructor to salvation in Christ. These two young men now have a future home in Heaven, but God wasn’t finished just yet.

Kevin revealed that months before, while writing his "dream things to do as a church planter," offering martial arts classes at The Shore Church was one of his dreams. Sharing his dream with his new brothers in Christ, the owner and the instructor thought it was a great idea as well. Shortly after the youth fair ended, they began holding classes on Thursday nights and Saturday mornings in the church’s small gymnasium. The second week of class there was also a father of some martial arts students who came to faith in Jesus Christ.

Martial Arts has been a great tool, to evangelize, see new visitors at The Shore Church, and build a positive platform to connect to the community. But God may not be done with this story as the martial arts business owner wants to partner in community evangelistic outreach and desires to expand to other churches. Recently he came forward and made a public profession of his faith. Legacy Martial Arts is not only making an impact in Southwest Michigan, but it is sure to leave a legacy in eternity!  Kevin and the members of The Shore Church, encouraged by the experience, continue moving forward in new ways to connect and be the church in their community.