Covenant marks 120 years

The Rev. Michael “Redhawk” Rice-Sauer describes the Covenant Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) as “the church that died and got resurrected.”

The church is celebrating its latest incarnation, and its 120th year, from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday with the dedication of its new worship center at 3.

The church moved to 5915 S. Regal St., Suite 302, in September, after more than 25 years at 57th Avenue and Palouse Highway. Developer Harlan Douglass purchased that site from the church in August for a reported $2.65 million.

The Ben Burr Building on Regal is the church’s fourth location, but the plan is to build a permanent home on the South Hill within five years, Rice-Sauer said. The current space is 4,500 square feet and accommodates about 60 people for services. Rice-Sauer said there are roughly 45 members.

Covenant Christian, formerly Central Christian, started in 1886 as a small tea group that met in a downtown building. The second location was a church at Fifth Avenue and Stevens Street, before moving to the South Hill.

The symbol for the church is the chalice, usually red with the cross of St. Andrew. It reflects the Scottish Presbyterian roots and the Lord’s Supper.

Music is emphasized in the church, and modern music, drama and video accompany services, said Rice-Sauer, pastor for nearly 11 years.

Rice-Sauer, in partnership with Spokane Neighborhood Action Programs, also runs the Voiceless Choir. The group, which has homeless and formerly homeless members, uses songs and poetry to share stories about the journey out of homelessness.

Music will be performed at the dedication and refreshments will be served.

For more information, call the church at 448-1311.