News Summary
Grace Presbyterian Church held its final service at its downtown location this Easter Sunday, marking the end of a 70-year era for the church community. As members celebrated both the holiday and their shared memories, they faced the bittersweet reality of relocating to a new campus. The move comes as increased access challenges due to highway expansion necessitate a fresh start. Though sadness looms, the congregation looks forward to a new chapter, scheduled to begin later this year.
Las Vegas Bids Farewell to Grace Presbyterian Church’s Historic Downtown Home
In the heart of Las Vegas, a significant chapter came to a close this past Easter Sunday as Grace Presbyterian Church celebrated its final service at its long-standing location. After a remarkable 70 years in downtown, the community gathered to commemorate both the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the memories tied to this beloved spiritual home.
Mixed Emotions on a Special Day
Dozens of worshippers filled the church, embracing both the joyous spirit of Easter and the bittersweet reality of leaving a place that holds so much significance in their lives. Emotions ran high as members reflected on countless Sundays spent in worship, milestones celebrated, and friendships forged within those walls. Associate Pastor Craig Sanders expressed enthusiasm for the new beginning while acknowledging the deep-rooted connections that make saying goodbye so challenging.
A New Chapter in a New Location
Grace Presbyterian Church is preparing to make its move to a new campus at the corner of Durango Drive and Oquendo Road due to challenges presented by the expansion of the I-15 highway. Access to the current location had become increasingly difficult, prompting the congregation to seek a fresh start. For many members, this church is not just a building; it’s a significant spiritual home that represents a community.
For longtime congregants like Mary Wolfsberger, the church has always been synonymous with being with God. Others shared similar feelings, expressing how pivotal the church has been in shaping their daily lives. Carl Seals, who has memories stretching back to his childhood in the church, spoke about how this place connects him to treasured family moments.
Looking Ahead with Hope
While the decision to leave is tinged with sadness, members remain optimistic about their future in the new location. The church’s final downtown service is slated for May 4, after which worship will temporarily move to their sister church in Summerlin. The new campus is projected to open by the end of November, offering fresh opportunities for growth and community engagement.
A Journey Through Challenges
Tracing its roots back to the 1950s, Grace Presbyterian Church has built a vibrant community of approximately 450 members. The decision to relocate follows a series of challenges posed by highway construction. Project Neon, a major infrastructure initiative completed in 2019 with a budget of $1 billion, led to significant changes in the area and difficulties with access to the church. The financial strain of these developments prompted the church to file a lawsuit against the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) and eventually settle for $18.5 million.
As part of the settlement, NDOT acquired the church property but initially leased it back to support the church’s transition. With a new 4-acre site purchased for $3.3 million in 2017, construction on the new building has already commenced, with plans for a spacious facility encompassing over 38,000 square feet.
Remembering a Legacy
As the congregation prepares for their final service at the downtown location, it is clear that Grace Presbyterian Church has left an indelible mark on the community. While members bid farewell to their historic home, they carry forward the teachings and friendships developed over the decades, ready to embrace the new experiences that await in their future sanctuary.
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Additional Resources
- KTNV: Historic Las Vegas Church Holds Final Easter Service Before Relocation
- 8 News Now: Downtown Las Vegas Church Closing Doors After 70 Years
- Review Journal: Las Vegas Church Moving to Suburbs After Court Battles Over Project Neon
- Fox5 Vegas: It’s Home: Historic Las Vegas Church Relocating After I-15 Widening
- Legacy: Thomas Stark Obituary
Author: STAFF HERE LAS VEGAS WRITER
LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER The LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELasVegas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Las Vegas, Clark County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Electric Daisy Carnival, World Series of Poker, and Consumer Electronics Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and Three Square Food Bank, plus leading businesses in hospitality and entertainment that power the local economy such as MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, and Las Vegas Sands. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Nevada's dynamic landscape.
