Robert Nacci

Apartment complexes are fruitful yet overlooked places for ministry. In the summer of 2023, we reached out to a local apartment complex and asked if they have any kind of community life for residents. We offered to host events for residents if that was a need. Apartment leadership was enthusiastic about this, as they did not have the means or personnel to do that themselves. We then asked if we could use their community room to host a Bible study with a meal for apartment residents. Once again, apartment leadership was enthusiastic just to have something offered for residents. We started last summer with a summer bash event (food, games, raffle). Our Bible study began in September. We now have over 20 adults + teens, as well as about a dozen youth plugged into our study. The circle is even wider of those who come by for prayer, a quick meal, and who are slowly being drawn in. We also started providing new resident welcome baskets: cleaning supplies, a candle, a plant, a gift card, a letter from me. We did an Easter event in April as well as an event at the park next door for the eclipse that was attended by over 120 people. Apartment leadership has now asked if we would replicate our work in 2 new complexes they are building just a couple miles away. They also sent me a list of all their apartment complexes in the Midwest and throughout the country, asking if I know any churches I could get plugged into those! We are excited to see how a similar community in a new complex might grow through this church. I know not every apartment complex will be so receptive, but my advice to other pastors: give it a shot!