History

Christ Community began conceptually with Trinity Presbyterian Church's vision to see the city of Lakeland changed by the power of the gospel. As a part of their vision, they wanted to plant many new churches whose presence and work would affect the entire landscape of Lakeland. We are one of those churches. It is our hope to be a part of that movement to reach our city. There are currently 160,000 people in the surrounding Lakeland area who do not regularly attend church. This number could easily double over the next 20 years, so the need has never been greater for more churches to be planted.

In the fall of 2004, Lyle Caswell, pastor of Christ Community, began meeting with 11 families to pray, plan and train for starting a new church. Highland City Elementary graciously allowed us to use their facilities, so we started regular Sunday evening meetings on January 16, 2005. Since that time we have seen God do some amazing things. From the forming of ministry teams and the provision of a worship leader, to the inception of our community groups, God has been working. We continue to pray and work towards change both socially and spiritually in Lakeland.

Lyle Caswell, Senior Pastor

Lyle and his family have lived in Lakeland since 2003. He is a transplant from Georgia and has had a heart for church planting since graduating from seminary in 1996. Lyle's first introduction to Lakeland was through his wife, Luchrysta, who grew up in Lakeland. So, when they were looking for a place to plant a church, the community of Lakeland was a perfect place for the Caswell's to relocate. They have four children: Jack, Mary Fran, Ethan and Gretchen.

Cheryl Malczyk, Office Administrator

Cheryl is Bob's bride circa 1981; mom to Kate (23) a grad student in PA, Lori (22) a hair designer at a Lakeland salon and spa, and Elvis (2) our yellow lab; and a daughter of Christ since 1987. Starting out in Michigan, the Malczyks also lived in Northern New Jersey and the western 'burbs of Chicago. In 2005, a career opportunity beckoned the family to Lakeland; upon moving to Bartow, they were invited to a service at CCPC by their neighbors, Ron and Kathy Singler. Greeted warmly and lovingly, Cheryl and her family began attending CCPC regularly because it's a great place to experience God's grace and love in community, grow in understanding of the Word, and invite friends and family. Check it out!