By SANDRA THAMES / Community Columnist

On Oct. 5, 2014, 18 people met in a local business showroom for a small group Bible study.

They quickly grew in only three months to over 100 in attendance.

Quickly the “business showroom” and even a sister church (Southside Baptist who had offered space) began to fill as well.

The congregation began to pray for a meeting place (church) that would allow for the fast-paced growth they anticipated.

The door opened in a building on Mission Hills Road off Highway 119 South.

On Feb. 8, 2015, the first service was held in the new facilities with over 150 people in attendance and four baptisms performed.

Brook Lovett says, “We are now averaging over 200 in worship and children/youth services combined.”

What was once a warehouse now resides as a meeting place for the church aptly named The Branch at Mission Hills.

There are small group meetings for adults, youth and children at 9 a.m., adult worship and children’s church at 10:30 a.m. and a Wednesday night worship service at 6:30 p.m.

“We consider ourselves a Baptist congregation and agree and function as such,” Lovett said.

Born in Alabaster, Lovett attended Thompson High School and then Samford University.

He and wife Sandi (who he met at the old Food Max grocery) are the parents of five children, Chase, Colton, Casi, Casen and Caden.

For over 20 years, he owned and operated B & B Auto Collision Repair Inc.  Previously Lovett served for eight years as an associate pastor for a local sister church.

Lovett also volunteers as a fireman chaplain and coordinates other chaplains in a rotation of service to the community.

The Branch at Mission Hills is a new church plant in the Alabaster area.

Lovett says, “We offer a blended worship style and casual dress or ‘come as you are.'”

The church is based on John 15:5. Jesus said, “I am the vine you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit.”

All are welcome to join us.