IEC Pavilion Dedication
Yesterday, Sunday, February 16, marked a special occasion in the life of the International Evangelical Church (IEC) as we gathered to dedicate our new pavilion. This newly constructed space will serve as a hub for fellowship, community-building, and various activities, strengthening the bond between our church family and beyond. The pavilion will provide a welcoming space where members can gather for coffee and tea on Sundays, creating an opportunity for casual conversation, connection, and a deeper sense of community.
Wick Jackson with members of his home church, the Church at Sandhurst, in Florence, S.C.
The IEC Pavilion represents more than just a physical structure—it embodies our vision for connection, support, and hospitality. In a world that often feels disconnected, we believe that the church should be a place where relationships are built, and where everyone feels like they belong. This pavilion will serve as a space for both informal gatherings and organized events, helping to cultivate a welcoming atmosphere for all who come to IEC.
On Sunday mornings, after services, it will become a space for fellowship over a cup of coffee or tea, giving people the chance to connect with one another in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Whether you're meeting someone for the first time or catching up with old friends, the pavilion will be a place to build deeper relationships and strengthen the bonds within our church family.
The dedication of this pavilion also serves as a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness over the years. The journey to build this space has not been easy, but with God’s provision, it has come to fruition in just 6 weeks—an incredible turnaround that showcases the dedication and effort of all involved. It’s a symbol of His continued blessing and care for our church community.
This project also holds a significant connection to our church’s history. Wick Jackson, led the construction team of IEC to build the church 30 years ago. Two years ago, Wick’s relationship with IEC was renewed as he returned to help with some desperately needed projects.
Wick’s return to IEC after so many years speaks volumes about his deep commitment to the church and its mission. His dedication and expertise have been vital in ensuring that our property remains safe and welcoming for all who come. Recently, Wick led the project to build over 300 meters of retaining wall, protecting our church grounds and preserving this important space for generations to come.
Wick’s legacy is a powerful reminder of the importance of building on a strong foundation—both physically and spiritually. His continued leadership demonstrates his heart for the work God is doing at IEC, and we are incredibly grateful for his involvement in this phase of our church's life.
The IEC Pavilion will serve many purposes beyond Sunday gatherings. It will host wedding receptions, worship events, and a variety of other church activities. Its flexibility makes it a perfect venue for both formal and informal events. Whether it’s a joyous celebration or a community event, the pavilion will be a versatile space for connecting, learning, and growing together.
We are excited about the opportunities this new space will provide for ministry, outreach, and community engagement. It will help us further our mission of “making disciples of all nations for the Glory of God".” As we gathered together for the dedication of the pavilion, we joined in prayer and thanksgiving. We also prayed that the pavilion would be used for God’s glory, drawing people closer to one another and to Christ. We looked forward to all the ways this new space would serve our church community and beyond in the years to come.