Joyful Surprise

Adam Holzinger & John Myers | Restoration Church

It's hard to believe Restoration Church was planted 14 years ago! We thank God for including us on His mission. It has been so incredible to see our congregation desire to reach every man, woman and child with the restoration of the Gospel. We have the joy of seeing this play out right here in Buffalo as well as having the privilege to send people out from our church across the country and the world. It is encouraging to see friends from Restoration going out and planting churches, serving those in need, and reflecting the Kingdom that is to come.

Our friend Paul is an example of a joyful surprise. In the summer of 2021, after more than 8,000 miles of travel, Paul set foot in America for the very first time. Paul came to America specifically for school. As he was raised in a Christian home, joining a church was important to him. Over the next year, Paul would become a dear brother to many in and outside Restoration Church. As we meditate on Colossians 3:12, Paul’s name comes to mind. During his time here, two things stick out more than anything: his willingness and desire to serve, and his commitment to be a part of our local church body. When asked if he could fill some needs on the tech team, Paul responded saying that he desired to, but didn’t want to ask in fear of assuming something that he viewed as a privilege!

Along with this, as Paul came to the end of his schooling, the number one place he wanted to work was in Buffalo! When asked why, he said, “I want to stay for the Church.” What to a humbling thing to hear. Here is someone far from home, in a difficult place, willing to reorient his life around the local body of believers so he could humbly and quietly continue to serve. What a beautiful picture of Christ and His love for us! As the years pass on, we grow deeper in love and gratitude for our friends and church family at The Chapel.