Christ’s Church held a mortgage burning ceremony Sunday, Jan. 11, as a celebration of the fact that it has made its final financial payment for its worship center.

“It’s a fantastic feeling to be completely debt free as a congregation,” Don Lawrence, pastor of Christ’s Church, said.

“It is a testimony to the tremendous commitment and faithfulness of our members and friends here at Christ’s Church.”

The worship center was constructed in 2001. At that time the congregation had raised approximately $730,000, most of which was used to pay for the center, while a small portion was used to pay off the balance on its fellowship hall and its property.

The balance needed to construct the worship center was financed through Chase Bank. However, 13 years into that 21-year loan, the church has made its final payment.

“We just felt that we could put the money to better use than paying interest on that loan,” Lawrence shared. “We are now in a position to do so.”

Lawrence led the congregation in a capital gifts campaign to pay off the loan earlier than scheduled.

Called “Heart For The House,” the campaign asked members to make a three-year commitment beginning in January 2012.

“Our members are so awesome, they paid off the balance of the loan in just two years,” Lawrence said.

“The Lord has blessed our congregation in many ways on multiple levels,” Lawrence said.

“We are excited and grateful for this latest blessing He has bestowed upon us. Our goal is to allow God’s blessings to flow through us as we continue to touch the lives of others.

“First and foremost, this is the Lord’s House. We do all of this for His glory. We thank Him that we are in a position to allow the Lord’s love and compassion to flow through our congregation.”

The non-denominational Christian church is located on Bainbridge Avenue at Glenbrook Blvd. Information: 837-3121 or www.ccfhaz.com.