Carteret-Craven Electric Co-op Employee Powers Up a New Church

Michael Barts
Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative

Michael is carrying on a Christian legacy passed on through his family, particularly his father, who was youth pastor at a local church when he died 10 years ago.

Michael and several friends started their own church, One Harbor, in February and has seen the numbers of worshipers grow to over 100 in just a few short months. From meeting in a home, to renting and renovating a vacant gas station in the tourist town of Atlantic Beach, the founders of One Harbor, are already looking for a larger place to hold services and other activities.

Michael said most of those who have joined the church don’t come from other congregations. They are first-time church-goers or those who haven’t been a part of a Michael leads worship, while his friend and co-founder Donnie Griggs leads the services - most often in shorts and flip-flops. It’s the down-to-earth messages and a come-as-you-are acceptance that has brought many of the followers to One Harbor.

Michael and Donnie say the name embodies what the church is about - speaks of the unity we desire in community and for our greater participation in the Church worldwide. “Harbor” speaks of the many roles that a local church plays. It gives a picture of order, depth, safety, mission, humility, impact, activity and, the often overlooked, fun.