National Avenue Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is an open and inclusive progressive faith community, dedicated to social justice within a traditional and liturgical framework. Our commitment to God is reflected in our shared values of fostering artistic self-expression, advancing global justice, and following the teachings of Jesus. We embrace the richness of our diverse backgrounds and common narrative.
Working withing our commitment to following the way of Jesus, NACC serves as an emergency overfow cold-weather crisis shelter, offering low-barrier, overflow shelter for individuals and families of all genders, including LGBTQ+ people, couples, and adult family groups, as well as their pets and service animals, on dangerously cold nights.
We are also home to Discovery Garden Montessori School (DGMS). DGMS operates as a non-profit childcare and Montessori school, providing high-quality education five days a week throughout the year. The mission of DGMS is to nurture collaboration, cooperation, and peace, offering children experiences that support their academic, social, and emotional growth. Through the partnership of child, caregiver, and teacher, DGMS provides a consistent Montessori framework that prepares students for a lifelong journey of learning.
Beyond our core programs, NACC hosts a variety of community organizations that enhance the cultural and social fabric of our neighborhood. These include several drug and alcohol recovery groups: Recovery Dharma (a Buddhist based recovery group) and Light at the End of the Tunnel (drug and alcohol recovery), music lessons (Kisrten Weiss, viola), Simply Giulina - a small minority-owned traditional Mexican food catering business, and two statewide non-profit racial & economic justice organizations - Jobs with Justice and Missourians for Constitutional Freedom.
Additionally, our space is used by yoga and tai chi instructors (find a class at NACC), the Boy Scouts, the Boys Choir of Springfield, Ozarks Dharma Community - a Buddhist-inspired meditation and community-building group, and Studio 55 - an arts guild that offers visual arts education.
We are proud to share our space with these amazing organizations providing invaluable services to our greater community. Please feel free to click on their bolded names to visit their link or contact the NACC office for more info at 417-869-9176.