“We see God moving—through prayer, relationships, and even desserts. This is more than a meal. It’s a family.”
In the heart of Geneva, Ohio—a small town nestled in Ashtabula County—The Filling Station is redefining what it means to be the Church in a rural context. Every Monday evening, neighbors gather at the Geneva Community Center not just for a hearty meal, but for connection, prayer, and a sense of belonging that transcends traditional church walls.
Launched in February 2024, this Dinner Church averages 30 guests weekly, with new faces appearing regularly. It’s a testament to how rural communities, often overlooked in broader church strategies, are fertile ground for innovative expressions of faith.
Embracing Rural Realities with Fresh Vision
Geneva’s modest population and rural setting present unique challenges: limited resources, dwindling church attendance, and a sense of isolation. Yet, these very challenges have become opportunities for The Filling Station to flourish.
Chris Backert, in the Rural Renewal Podcast “Small Churches on Mission”, observes:
“Coming out of the pandemic, I just see smaller churches willing to be more creative.”
“No one is paying attention to our small and rural communities and the life of the gospel among them.”
By focusing on genuine relationships and community engagement, The Filling Station embodies this creative spirit, proving that rural churches can be hubs of innovation and spiritual renewal.
The Power of the Table
The concept of Dinner Church, championed by leaders like Verlon Fosner, emphasizes the transformative power of shared meals. Fosner notes:
“It’s the best metaphor for the gospel we’ve found. We put out quality, abundant food because we’d rather show the gospel than have to just explain it.”
At The Filling Station, this philosophy comes to life. Guests don’t just receive food; they find a place where they’re known, valued, and invited into deeper conversations about faith and life.
From Attendance to Participation
What sets The Filling Station apart is the active involvement of its attendees. Guests transition from recipients to contributors—bringing desserts, leading prayers, and sharing personal testimonies. One young participant recently shared a “Jesus story,” marking a significant step in their faith journey.
Jon Davis highlights this dynamic:
“One of the faith formation trends that has emerged in the last decade or so is people will belong before they believe. Both belonging and believing can happen at a table.”
This approach fosters a sense of ownership and community, essential elements for sustained spiritual growth.
A Model for Replication
The success of The Filling Station offers a replicable model for other rural communities. Its simplicity—centered around meals, stories, and relationships—demonstrates that profound impact doesn’t require elaborate programs or significant budgets.
Verlon Fosner encourages churches:
“With a little bit of learning and courageous leadership, you will soon be telling wonderful stories about how God is using your church to reach people you presently don’t even know.”
Your Turn: Embrace the Rural Renewal
The Filling Station stands as a beacon of hope, illustrating that rural churches can thrive by embracing innovative approaches tailored to their unique contexts. If you’re a pastor or church leader in a similar setting, consider how your congregation might begin by listening closely to the needs of your neighbors, loving through consistent and tangible acts of service, and gathering people around shared meals and meaningful stories. Discipleship doesn’t need a pulpit—it can begin with presence and a plate. As Chris Backert reminds us, “We are going to risk for something bigger; we’re going to take a leap.” That leap doesn’t require perfection—only faithfulness and the willingness to reimagine church with Jesus at the center and your community at the table.
Snapshot of a Fresh Expression of Church
What is the Fresh Expression called?
The Filling Station
Where is it?
Geneva, Ohio
Who is it for?
The Filling Station is for individuals and families in Geneva, Ohio—especially those who feel disconnected from traditional church settings but are seeking community, belonging, and spiritual connection. It welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds to gather around a shared meal and experience the love of Christ through conversation, prayer, and friendship.
What do they do?
The Filling Station hosts a weekly community dinner at the Geneva Community Center, where guests are welcomed with a free meal, shared stories about Jesus, and opportunities for prayer and fellowship. This gathering fosters a sense of belonging and spiritual connection among attendees, many of whom may not participate in traditional church settings.
Who is the Pioneer?
Justin Morris and Melody McCreight
Where can I learn more?
This snapshot was developed through thoughtful research using publicly available sources, including websites, news articles, and community updates. While we did not conduct a direct interview, the story shared here reflects the heart and impact of this Fresh Expression as seen through its digital presence.
