OGDEN -- A year-old non-denominational church here seems to have found its niche in helping people in the community but hopes to do even more for those who struggle.
C.L.U.B.B. Jesus, which stands for Christians Living United by the Blood of Jesus, last Sunday celebrated a year in existence at 3333 Grant Ave.
But some of the members have been together for longer.
Some in the congregation previously met in a location farther north under the name of Life Changing Ministries.
It's a congregation with an attitude that knows no bounds.
"No matter what the problem, Jesus is the way," said Pastor Chris Gutierrez. "God can turn things around, and we see that happen."
Gutierrez said the congregation moved last year because the target population it wants to help surrounds the new location.
Members changed the church's name as they moved, thinking it better described their efforts.
"We found a building that was available, affordable and in our target area," Gutierrez said. "It seemed like a perfect fit for us."
Gutierrez said he grew up right around the corner and he wanted to make a difference there.
Already, Gutierrez said, his congregation has grown from about 35 to more than 100.
But it's grown in enthusiasm, too.
"Every month, we've been adding people, adding people," he said.
Nearly five months ago, the new congregation began to be a drop site for the Utah Food Bank.
"Since we've started, we've seen an outpouring of people who need food," Gutierrez said. "It's really been a blessing to see these people and how thankful they are."
Some of the church's plans for the future include creating an overflow area for homeless people, especially for times that they can't get into the Lantern House homeless shelter in Ogden. That facility recently changed its name from the St. Anne's Homeless Shelter.
Gutierrez also would like to add programs for those with drug addictions.
"We deal with a lot of people who have drug problems and who are gang members," Gutierrez said. "That's what we are focused on because a lot of us come from this type of environment."
An after-school program and something that could serve battered women also are among the plans for the future.
For information about the church, call 801-940-1064.
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