Tyler Diocese buys former Lifeline Christian Faith Center in Bullard

BULLARD — Area parishioners, including members of Saint Mary Magdelene Catholic Church in Flint, will have a new place to meet for special gatherings beginning this summer.

On March 16, the Diocese of Tyler purchased property from the former Lifeline Christian Faith Center in Bullard for use as an education and formation center complex. The 19,800-square-foot, two-story building and 8,000-square-foot gymnasium, located behind Brookshires in Bullard cost the Catholic church $300,000.

Jim Smith, Chief Financial Officer of the Diocese, said the structure will provide an extension of service to all local Catholic parishioners.

“This is to be used for special events, bible study, and be available for youth activities,” Smith said. “We will not be using it as a principle place of worship.”

Smith said there are substantial renovations to be made before moving into the complex, including a new roof, air conditioning unit and improvements in the gymnasium.

The complex sits on 5.7 acres of land, giving the Diocese the needed space without inconveniencing anyone. In the past, the church depended on parishes and schools to facilitate special events.

“We hope to be in by the first of August,” he said, “but that date is tentative.”

There is no indication that the complex will evolve into a parish, Smith said.

“I don’t see that in the immediate future, but no one knows what will happen long term.”

n

snap is a weekly Bullard newspaper published by the Jacksonville Daily Progress