How it all started...
How It All Started
What God has done over the past 16 years at New Life Baptist Church is nothing short of remarkable. From humble beginnings — meeting in schools and rented spaces across Grove City — to a thriving congregation now gathered on 18 acres with a 20,000 square-foot building, this is a story of God's faithfulness. Souls have come to Christ, hundreds have followed Him in baptism, and a genuine family of faith, love, and community has been built — all to His glory.
But every move of God begins with a willing heart.
For Pastor Mike Purdon, that story started at age 16, when he surrendered his life to Jesus Christ. Not long after, at a Baptist Youth Camp (FUEL Camp), God made His calling unmistakably clear — Mike was to give his life to ministry. He took that calling seriously, pouring himself into discipleship and training under Dr. Charles Smith at Bible Baptist Church in Mt. Orab, laying a foundation rooted in God's Word.
In 2000, God added a beautiful chapter — Mike married his high school sweetheart, Kathy. That same year, he stepped into the role of Youth Director at Bible Baptist Church in West Union, where he would faithfully serve for a decade under the mentorship of Pastor Tim Carter. Those years were rich with growth, experience, and a deepening pastoral heart shaped by the Lord.
Then, in the summer of 2009, God began stirring something new. His direction was clear: Grove City — and a new church. In June 2010, Mike and Kathy, along with their four children, stepped out in faith and planted New Life Baptist Church. Not because of what they could do, but because of what they believed God would do.
And He has been faithful ever since.
What God has done over the past 16 years at New Life Baptist Church is nothing short of remarkable. From humble beginnings — meeting in schools and rented spaces across Grove City — to a thriving congregation now gathered on 18 acres with a 20,000 square-foot building, this is a story of God's faithfulness. Souls have come to Christ, hundreds have followed Him in baptism, and a genuine family of faith, love, and community has been built — all to His glory.
But every move of God begins with a willing heart.
For Pastor Mike Purdon, that story started at age 16, when he surrendered his life to Jesus Christ. Not long after, at a Baptist Youth Camp (FUEL Camp), God made His calling unmistakably clear — Mike was to give his life to ministry. He took that calling seriously, pouring himself into discipleship and training under Dr. Charles Smith at Bible Baptist Church in Mt. Orab, laying a foundation rooted in God's Word.
In 2000, God added a beautiful chapter — Mike married his high school sweetheart, Kathy. That same year, he stepped into the role of Youth Director at Bible Baptist Church in West Union, where he would faithfully serve for a decade under the mentorship of Pastor Tim Carter. Those years were rich with growth, experience, and a deepening pastoral heart shaped by the Lord.
Then, in the summer of 2009, God began stirring something new. His direction was clear: Grove City — and a new church. In June 2010, Mike and Kathy, along with their four children, stepped out in faith and planted New Life Baptist Church. Not because of what they could do, but because of what they believed God would do.
And He has been faithful ever since.
Expanding the vision...
Today, as we reflect on the incredible journey of our church, we are grateful for his unyielding dedication, vision, and the countless lives that have been transformed through his ministry. With God's grace and guidance, we eagerly anticipate the continued growth and blessings that lie ahead for New Life Baptist Church under Pastor Mike's inspired leadership.
Where we are headed...
Where we are headed...
The best is still yet to come. We believe God is not finished with what He started in Grove City, and we are trusting Him for even greater things ahead.
Our heart is to see more people encounter the life-changing grace of Jesus Christ — in our neighborhoods, on college campuses, in our schools, and beyond. We want to reach the next generation, strengthen families, and send people out equipped and on fire for God.
As we look ahead, we remain committed to the same things that have carried us from the very beginning — the Word of God, the power of prayer, and a love for people. Wherever God leads, we will follow. And we believe the greatest chapters of New Life Baptist Church are still being written.
The best is still yet to come. We believe God is not finished with what He started in Grove City, and we are trusting Him for even greater things ahead.
Our heart is to see more people encounter the life-changing grace of Jesus Christ — in our neighborhoods, on college campuses, in our schools, and beyond. We want to reach the next generation, strengthen families, and send people out equipped and on fire for God.
As we look ahead, we remain committed to the same things that have carried us from the very beginning — the Word of God, the power of prayer, and a love for people. Wherever God leads, we will follow. And we believe the greatest chapters of New Life Baptist Church are still being written.
