Church Landscape Analysis
Young Adult Ministry in the BRCC Service Area
Prepared for: Young Adult Ministry Strategic Planning, Brookville Road Community Church Target Demographic: Ages 22-32 (Post-college through early family formation) Service Area: New Palestine, McCordsville, Cumberland, Fortville, Greenfield, and East Indianapolis Date: February 2026
Executive Summary
The church landscape surrounding Brookville Road Community Church (BRCC) in New Palestine, Indiana includes approximately 30-40 churches across the immediate service area, yet dedicated young adult ministry (ages 22-32) is remarkably scarce. Of the churches researched, only a handful offer programming specifically for young adults, and even fewer target the 22-32 age range that represents BRCC’s strategic focus.
Key Findings:
- Realife Church is the most significant local competitor, with 2,000+ weekly attendance, a New Palestine campus, and a Wednesday night young adults gathering — but it targets ages 18-24, leaving a gap for the 25-32 segment
- Brandywine Community Church in Greenfield offers a young adults small group for ages 18-30, but it appears modest in scale
- Harvest Church in McCordsville mentions young adults programming (ages 18-30s), but the church is small and still developing
- MC2 Church in McCordsville reports salvations among young adults ages 18-26 but appears to be a small church plant
- Most churches in the immediate area have no dedicated young adult ministry at all
- Large Indianapolis-area megachurches (ITOWN, Traders Point, Northview, College Park) are competitive threats that draw young adults from the area, though most lack campuses directly in the BRCC service territory
- The 25-32 age range is almost entirely unserved by dedicated programming in this geography
New Palestine, IN (BRCC’s Home Town)
Brookville Road Community Church (BRCC)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 7480 US-52, New Palestine, IN 46163 |
| Denomination | Non-Denominational |
| Estimated Size | 1,000+ weekly attendance |
| Website | brookvilleroad.cc |
| Young Adult Ministry | In development (purpose of this research project) |
| Digital Presence | Moderate — Instagram (@brookvilleroad), website is clean and functional |
Notes: BRCC is the largest church based in New Palestine proper. Founded in 1981, the church has grown steadily over 40+ years. It offers children’s ministry, youth ministry (5th-6th grade and teen programming), and adult programming, plus a robust missions presence (20+ local and global partners). The church is currently exploring dedicated young adult ministry, which is the impetus for this research project.
Source: BRCC Website, BRCC About Page
Realife Church (New Palestine Campus)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 5151 W US Hwy 40, Greenfield, IN 46140 (campus serves New Palestine area) |
| Denomination | Assemblies of God |
| Estimated Size | 2,000+ weekly attendance (across all campuses) |
| Website | realifechurch.org |
| Young Adult Ministry | Yes — Wednesday nights at 7:00 PM, ages 18-24 |
| Digital Presence | Strong — 3,400+ Instagram followers, active social media, online streaming, professional content production |
Notes: Realife Church is the most significant church in the immediate area and a direct competitor to BRCC. Founded in 2007 by Pastor Adam and Kristin Detamore, it has experienced explosive growth and now draws approximately 2,000 people weekly across three Sunday services (8 AM, 9:30 AM, 11 AM). In January 2025, Realife opened a second campus at Greenfield-Central High School.
Realife’s young adults ministry meets Wednesday nights at 7:00 PM and focuses on worship, small groups, and community — but it targets ages 18-24, which means the older portion of BRCC’s target demographic (ages 25-32) is not specifically served. The church partners with Sermon Shots for professional social media content production and has a polished online presence.
Strengths: High-energy contemporary worship, strong production values, multi-campus reach, active young adults program, professional digital presence.
Gap for BRCC: Realife’s young adults ministry caps at age 24. Young adults aged 25-32 — young professionals, newlyweds, new parents — have no dedicated Realife programming.
Sources: Realife Church, Realife New Palestine Campus, Greenfield Reporter - Realife Expansion, Outreach 100 - Realife Church
New Palestine United Methodist Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 3565 S 500 W, New Palestine, IN 46163 |
| Denomination | United Methodist (UMC) |
| Estimated Size | ~225 average attendance, 500 members |
| Website | npumc.com |
| Young Adult Ministry | No — No dedicated young adult programming found |
| Digital Presence | Weak to Moderate — basic website |
Notes: NP United Methodist is an established, energetic congregation offering three worship experiences. The church is community-focused with extensive recreational programming (Zumba, yoga, open gym, UPWARD sports) and partnerships with local youth leagues, Girl/Boy Scouts, and schools. However, no specific young adult or young married couples ministry was identified.
Source: NP UMC Website, UMC Data
Zion Lutheran Church & School
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 6513 W 300 S, New Palestine, IN 46163 |
| Denomination | Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) |
| Estimated Size | 300 average weekly attendance, 746 baptized members |
| Website | zionnewpal.org |
| Young Adult Ministry | No — No dedicated young adult programming found |
| Digital Presence | Moderate — functional website, school-focused |
Notes: Zion is a well-established LCMS congregation with a K-8 school (298 students enrolled). Its ministries include adult education, youth programs, international student ministry, and child care. The school is a significant community asset and likely draws families, but no young adult-specific programming was identified.
Source: Zion Lutheran, LCMS Locator
Other New Palestine Churches (Smaller)
New Faith Community Church
- Southern Baptist (SBC), located at 5954 W 300 S
- Small congregation; merged with New Palestine Bible Church in 2012
- No young adult ministry identified
- FaithStreet listing
Community Christian Church
- Interdenominational, located at 3123 S 500 W
- Small congregation; limited online presence
- No young adult ministry identified
- Website
McCordsville, IN (Fast-Growing, Youngest Demographics)
McCordsville is the most strategically important neighboring town for BRCC’s young adult ministry. With a median age of 35.3 (youngest in the area) and a 6.62% annual growth rate, it has the highest concentration of young adults in the service area.
Harvest Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 6107 W Airport Blvd, McCordsville, IN 46055 |
| Denomination | Non-Denominational (likely) |
| Estimated Size | Small (1-10 employees, developing congregation) |
| Website | harvestchurchlive.com |
| Young Adult Ministry | Yes — Ministry for ages 18 to early 30s |
| Digital Presence | Moderate — clean website, developing social media |
Notes: Harvest Church is a smaller, developing congregation in McCordsville focused on “life with Jesus, community, and mission.” They describe a ministry designed for young people ages 18 to early 30s to “discover real life, community, and belonging in Jesus.” Sunday services at 10:15 AM. The church appears to be still building its programs and audience. Small groups and community engagement are emphasized.
Strengths: Intentional young adult focus, community-oriented, positioned in a high-growth area.
Limitations: Small size may limit programming depth and resources.
Source: Harvest Church
MC2 Church (McCordsville Community Church)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | McCordsville, IN 46055 (strip mall location) |
| Denomination | Assemblies of God (church plant) |
| Estimated Size | Small (~175 at Easter 2021 launch; sanctuary seats 120) |
| Website | mc2church.com |
| Young Adult Ministry | Unclear — Reports 38 salvations among young adults 18-26 but no formal program page found |
| Digital Presence | Moderate — functional website, developing |
Notes: MC2 is an Assemblies of God church plant launched on Easter 2021 by Steve and Amber Jones. The church reports significant success reaching young adults ages 18-26, with 38 salvations among that demographic, and more than half of those had never attended church before. This suggests the church naturally attracts younger adults, even if formal programming is still developing. Services at 9:30 AM and 11:15 AM with children’s ministry.
Strengths: Effective at reaching unchurched young adults, energetic church plant culture.
Limitations: Very small, still establishing itself, limited resources.
Source: MC2 Church, AG Trust - MC2 Church Plant
Outlook Christian Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 6531 N 600 W, McCordsville, IN 46055 |
| Denomination | Non-Denominational (Independent Christian Church, roots to 1866) |
| Estimated Size | Mid-size (exact attendance unknown) |
| Website | outlookchurch.org |
| Young Adult Ministry | No — No dedicated young adult programming found |
| Digital Presence | Moderate — clean website, sermon podcast |
Notes: Outlook Christian Church traces its roots back to 1866 as Oaklandon Christian Church. It is well-established in the McCordsville community and operates a preschool and daycare. The church emphasizes community outreach through its “Go Local” initiative, partnering with local organizations. However, no specific young adult ministry was identified on their website or in searches.
Source: Outlook Christian Church
Geist Community Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 6697 W 900 N, McCordsville, IN 46055 |
| Denomination | Southern Baptist |
| Estimated Size | Small (1-100 congregation) |
| Website | geist.org |
| Young Adult Ministry | No — No dedicated young adult programming found |
| Digital Presence | Moderate — functional website, Instagram presence |
Notes: GCC began as a 1991 church plant from Bethesda Baptist Church. The church emphasizes discipleship through small groups (community groups that meet in homes) centered on sermon discussion, prayer, and meals. While the church has a warm, community-oriented approach, no specific young adult programming was identified. Note: This is a different church from “Geist Christian Church” (Disciples of Christ), which is located in Fishers/Indianapolis.
Source: Geist Community Church
McCordsville United Methodist Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 6247 W Broadway, McCordsville, IN 46055 |
| Denomination | United Methodist (UMC) |
| Estimated Size | ~125-150 average attendance (including online) |
| Website | mccordsvilleumc.org |
| Young Adult Ministry | No — No dedicated young adult programming found |
| Digital Presence | Moderate — functional website |
Notes: McCordsville UMC is a mid-sized traditional congregation with a food pantry ministry, community breakfast outreach, and children’s programs. No young adult-specific ministry was identified. The church is focused on traditional Methodist programming and community service.
Source: McCordsville UMC
Living Streams Christian Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 7061 N 700 W, McCordsville, IN 46055 |
| Denomination | Independent Christian |
| Estimated Size | Small-Mid (20+ employees) |
| Website | livingstreamscc.org |
| Young Adult Ministry | No — No dedicated young adult programming found |
| Digital Presence | Weak — basic website |
Notes: Founded in 2008 by Pastor Shane Arthur, Living Streams offers worship services and small groups. Community outreach includes a “Blessing Box” food assistance program. No young adult programming was identified.
Source: Living Streams CC
Woodbury Community Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 8555 N 500 W, McCordsville, IN 46055 |
| Denomination | Evangelical (non-denominational) |
| Estimated Size | Small |
| Website | woodburycommunitychurch.com |
| Young Adult Ministry | No — No dedicated young adult programming found |
| Digital Presence | Weak — basic website |
Notes: Woodbury is a small, established evangelical church (founded 1977) serving Hancock County. Sunday worship at 10 AM, with a Tuesday prayer meeting. Minimal online presence and no identified young adult programming.
Source: Woodbury Community Church
Cumberland, IN (Closer to Indianapolis)
Cumberland sits on the Marion County/Hancock County border and could serve as a funnel for young adults commuting to Indianapolis for work.
Cumberland First Baptist Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Cumberland, IN (far east side of Indianapolis) |
| Denomination | American Baptist |
| Estimated Size | Mid-size |
| Website | cumberlandfbc.org |
| Young Adult Ministry | No — Youth group exists (middle/high school), but no young adult ministry identified |
| Digital Presence | Weak to Moderate — basic website |
Notes: Cumberland FBC serves the far eastside of Marion County and far westside of Hancock County. It is home to Community Outreach Ministry Eastside (COME), a food pantry ministry established in 1988, and Cumberland Arts. The church’s youth group (ABY) focuses on middle and high school, with no identified programming for post-college young adults.
Source: Cumberland FBC
Cumberland United Methodist Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 219 N Muessing St, Indianapolis, IN 46229 |
| Denomination | United Methodist (UMC) |
| Estimated Size | ~140 average attendance |
| Website | cumberlandumc.com |
| Young Adult Ministry | No — No dedicated young adult programming found |
| Digital Presence | Weak to Moderate |
Notes: A traditional Methodist congregation with standard programming (children’s ministry, missions, nursery). No young adult ministry identified.
Source: Cumberland UMC
Cumberland Christian Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 39 N Starter St (12032 E Washington St), Indianapolis, IN 46229 |
| Denomination | Independent Christian Church (Christian Churches & Churches of Christ) |
| Estimated Size | Unknown (likely small to mid-size) |
| Website | cumberlandchristianchurch.org |
| Young Adult Ministry | No — No dedicated young adult programming found |
| Digital Presence | Weak |
Notes: An established Independent Christian Church with roots in the Restoration Movement. Offers standard programming (children’s, youth, missions, community service). No young adult-specific programming identified.
Source: Cumberland Christian Church
New Life Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 501 N Buck Creek Rd, Cumberland, IN 46229 |
| Denomination | Non-Denominational (Spirit-filled/Charismatic) |
| Estimated Size | Small (founded 2013 with 7 people, growing) |
| Website | connect2newlife.org |
| Young Adult Ministry | No — Youth group (Connect Youth) exists, but no young adult ministry identified |
| Digital Presence | Moderate — functional website |
Notes: New Life Church was founded in 2013 and completed construction of its current facility in 2016. It describes itself as “Christ-centered, spirit-filled” and has a youth group called Connect Youth. However, no specific young adult programming was found.
Source: New Life Church
Buck Creek Baptist Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 135 Muessing Rd, Cumberland, IN 46163 |
| Denomination | Southern Baptist |
| Estimated Size | Small |
| Website | buckcreekbaptist.net |
| Young Adult Ministry | No — Kids ministry only; no young adult programming found |
| Digital Presence | Weak — basic website |
Notes: Established in 1986, Buck Creek Baptist is a small Southern Baptist church with a kids ministry (birth to 5th grade). Sunday School at 9:30 AM and worship at 10:30 AM. No young adult programming identified.
Source: Buck Creek Baptist
Fortville, IN (Hancock County)
Mercy Road Church — Northeast
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 611 Vitality Dr, Fortville, IN 46040 |
| Denomination | Non-Denominational (part of Mercy Road family of churches) |
| Estimated Size | Small to Mid-size (newer church, launched 2020; parent Carmel campus has ~1,000 weekly) |
| Website | mercyroadne.com |
| Young Adult Ministry | Unclear — Has a “Mercy Students” program (@mercy.students.ne on Instagram), but unclear if this extends to post-college young adults |
| Digital Presence | Strong — 1,000+ Instagram followers, podcast, live streaming, polished website |
Notes: Mercy Road Northeast launched in 2020 as part of the Mercy Road family of churches (originally from Carmel, IN). The church emphasizes a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with passionate worship and high-impact teaching. Each Mercy Road location operates with live teaching and music (not satellite video), which gives it an authentic local church feel. The church absorbed Bridge Church (formerly in Fortville) in 2019. While a “Mercy Students” ministry exists, it is unclear whether this includes post-high-school young adults or is limited to teens.
Strengths: Professional production, part of a larger church network, strong digital presence, positioned in growing Fortville area.
Source: Mercy Road NE, Greenfield Reporter - Mercy Road Launch
Fortville Christian Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 9450 N 200 W, Fortville, IN 46040 |
| Denomination | Restoration Movement (Christian Churches & Churches of Christ) |
| Estimated Size | 200-500 members |
| Website | fortvillechristian.com |
| Young Adult Ministry | Unclear — Reviews mention the church attracts many young adults, but no formal young adult ministry page was found |
| Digital Presence | Moderate — Instagram (@fortvillechristian), functional website with Planning Center integration |
Notes: Fortville Christian Church is the largest established church in Fortville, with 200-500 members and a contemporary worship style. Ministries include Adults, Men, Women, Small Groups, Children, Elementary, Students, Middle School, High School, Creative Arts, Global Missions, and Transportation. Visitor reviews note that the church attracts young adults, but no formal dedicated young adult programming was identified — the appeal may be organic rather than programmatic.
Source: Fortville Christian Church
Fortville Church of the Nazarene
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 701 S Maple St, Fortville, IN 46040 |
| Denomination | Church of the Nazarene |
| Estimated Size | Small to Mid-size (10-19 employees) |
| Website | fortvillenazarene.org |
| Young Adult Ministry | Unclear — Mentions “age and life stage gatherings” for adults but no specific young adult program identified |
| Digital Presence | Moderate — functional website with Planning Center |
Notes: Fortville Nazarene focuses on leading people to follow Jesus through community. Ministries include kids (faith-forming environment), students (middle and high school), and adults (small groups, “age and life stage gatherings,” and interest-based groups). The mention of “age and life stage gatherings” could potentially include young adults, but no specific young adult group was confirmed.
Source: Fortville Church of the Nazarene
Fortville Baptist Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Fortville, IN 46040 |
| Denomination | Baptist |
| Estimated Size | Small |
| Website | Limited online presence |
| Young Adult Ministry | No — No programming found |
| Digital Presence | Weak |
Notes: A small Baptist church in Fortville with minimal online presence and no identified young adult programming.
Greenfield, IN (Hancock County Seat)
Brandywine Community Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 1551 E New Rd, Greenfield, IN 46140 |
| Denomination | Interdenominational |
| Estimated Size | ~1,000 weekly attendance (plus online) |
| Website | brandywinechurch.org |
| Young Adult Ministry | Yes — Young Adults group for ages 18-30, Thursday small group 6:30-8:30 PM |
| Digital Presence | Strong — Professional website, active social media |
Notes: Brandywine is one of the largest churches in Greenfield, founded in 1991 by Senior Pastor Mark Wright. The church emphasizes practical Bible teaching and contemporary worship. Notable for the WellSpring Center (mental health wellness) and Celebrate Recovery.
The Young Adults group targets single adults ages 18-30 and focuses on building Godly friendships and a deeper relationship with Jesus through a weekly small group. The Thursday group meets 6:30-8:30 PM. The programming appears to be relatively modest — described as informal gatherings for friends to study the Word, hang out, and relax.
Strengths: Large congregation, mental health ministry (WellSpring), Celebrate Recovery, established community presence.
Gap for BRCC: Brandywine’s young adult group is informal and targets up to age 30. Married young adults and those over 30 may not find a clear home. The group appears small relative to the church’s overall size.
Source: Brandywine Community Church, Brandywine Young Adults
Park Chapel Christian Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 1176 E McKenzie Rd, Greenfield, IN 46140 (+ Shiloh Campus at 4980 S 500 E) |
| Denomination | Non-Denominational / Independent |
| Estimated Size | 800+ regular attendance |
| Website | parkchapel.org |
| Young Adult Ministry | No — Youth programming (The Crossing, Solid Ground) for 7th grade through high school graduates; small groups for adults, but no dedicated young adult group found |
| Digital Presence | Strong — Professional website, Instagram (@park.chapel), multi-campus |
Notes: Park Chapel is a large, growing church in Greenfield that recently approved plans to renovate and expand its campus (February 2026). It operates two locations and offers dynamic programming. Small groups focus on Bible study, real life discussion, prayer, and community service. However, despite the church’s size, no dedicated young adult ministry was identified — groups appear to be generically “adult” rather than age-segmented for 20s/30s.
Source: Park Chapel, Greenfield Reporter - Park Chapel Expansion
City Church Greenfield
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 400 S Noble St, Greenfield, IN 46140 |
| Denomination | Wesleyan |
| Estimated Size | Small to Mid-size |
| Website | citychurchgreenfield.com |
| Young Adult Ministry | No — No dedicated young adult programming found |
| Digital Presence | Moderate |
Notes: City Church Greenfield is a Wesleyan congregation led by Pastor Jason Leadingham. The church’s mission is to Connect, Grow, and Share, with programming for kids, teens, and adults. No specific young adult ministry was identified.
Source: City Church Greenfield
Trinity Park Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 207 W Park Ave, Greenfield, IN 46140 |
| Denomination | United Methodist (UMC) |
| Estimated Size | Small to Mid-size |
| Website | trinitypark.net |
| Young Adult Ministry | No — No dedicated young adult programming found |
| Digital Presence | Moderate |
Notes: Trinity Park offers two services (9:00 AM traditional, 10:30 AM casual) and Faith Groups for community. Programming includes children’s ministry, missions, food pantry, community service, and youth group. No young adult-specific ministry found.
Source: Trinity Park Church
Calvary Baptist Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 1450 W Main St, Greenfield, IN 46140 |
| Denomination | Southern Baptist |
| Estimated Size | 101-250 members |
| Website | cbcgreenfield.org |
| Young Adult Ministry | No — No dedicated young adult programming found |
| Digital Presence | Weak |
Notes: A smaller Southern Baptist church with children’s ministry, missions, nursery, community service, and food pantry. Has operated Noah’s Ark Daycare for 25+ years. No young adult programming found.
Source: Calvary Baptist - Greenfield
East Side Indianapolis & Regional Megachurches (Competitive Threats)
These larger churches, while not located directly in BRCC’s service area, have the production quality, programming depth, and brand recognition to draw young adults away from smaller community churches in New Palestine, McCordsville, and surrounding areas.
ITOWN Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 12491 E 136th St, Fishers, IN 46038 (main campus); also Indianapolis (9665 Hague Rd) and Bluffton |
| Denomination | Non-Denominational |
| Estimated Size | ~3,000+ weekly across all campuses |
| Website | itownchurch.com |
| Young Adult Ministry | Unclear — Offers “Circles” (small groups) but no dedicated young adult ministry page found |
| Digital Presence | Strong — Professional website, active social media, polished production |
Notes: ITOWN Church, founded in 2010 by Pastors Dave and Kate Sumrall, has grown rapidly in Fishers. The Fishers campus is the closest megachurch to the BRCC service area (~20 minutes from New Palestine). The church runs multiple Sunday services (8:30, 10:00, 11:30 AM at Fishers) and emphasizes “Circles” — small groups focused on community and relationships. While Circles may include groups for younger adults, no formally branded “Young Adults Ministry” was identified. The church has ITOWN Kids and ITOWN Youth (7-12 grade) programs.
Threat Level: High. ITOWN’s Fishers location is close enough to draw McCordsville and northern New Palestine residents. Its production quality, contemporary worship, and energetic culture appeal to young adults even without dedicated programming.
Source: ITOWN Church, ITOWN Circles
Traders Point Christian Church (TPCC)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 6 campuses: Whitestown (HQ), Carmel, Fishers, Broad Ripple, Downtown Indy, Plainfield |
| Denomination | Non-Denominational (Christian Church heritage) |
| Estimated Size | ~10,000+ weekly across all campuses (Whitestown alone: ~5,200) |
| Website | tpcc.org |
| Young Adult Ministry | Unclear — Offers small groups network but no dedicated young adult ministry page found |
| Digital Presence | Strong — Highly professional website, strong social media, named among Outreach 100 Fastest Growing |
Notes: TPCC is one of Indianapolis’s largest churches, led by Aaron Brockett since 2007. With 190 years of history and modern megachurch growth, TPCC draws from across the metro area. The Fishers campus is relevant to BRCC’s service area. TPCC emphasizes groups for “friendship, fun, and spiritual growth” but no specific young adult branding was identified. The church’s scale, production quality, and multi-campus reach make it a significant draw.
Threat Level: Moderate-High. The Fishers campus could draw young adults from McCordsville. However, distance from New Palestine and Cumberland reduces the threat somewhat.
Source: TPCC, TPCC Wikipedia, Christian Standard
Northview Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Multiple campuses including North Indianapolis (Binford: 6620 Northview Way), Fishers, Carmel, and others |
| Denomination | Non-Denominational |
| Estimated Size | Large multi-campus (Outreach 100 listed) |
| Website | northviewchurch.us |
| Young Adult Ministry | Yes — Young(ish) Adults group for ages 25+ |
| Digital Presence | Strong — Professional website, active Instagram, online streaming |
Notes: Northview Church has campuses across Indiana with a specific “Young(ish) Adults” group for people 25 and older. This group is “designed to create a space to connect, grow, and engage with faith, culture, and community.” They gather weekly for communion, meals, occasional teaching, and worship. The Binford (north Indianapolis) and Fishers campuses are the most relevant to the BRCC service area.
Threat Level: Moderate. Northview’s Young(ish) Adults group directly targets BRCC’s demographic (25+). However, no campus is within the immediate BRCC service area — the Binford and Fishers locations are 25-35 minutes from New Palestine.
Source: Northview Church, Northview Young Adults
College Park Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 2606 W 96th St, Indianapolis, IN 46268 |
| Denomination | Non-Denominational |
| Estimated Size | Large (multi-service) |
| Website | yourchurch.com |
| Young Adult Ministry | Yes — “Fireside” ministry for ages 18-29, Wednesday nights |
| Digital Presence | Strong — Professional website, active Instagram (@collegeparkindy) |
Notes: College Park Church’s “Fireside” young adults ministry connects people ages 18-29 on Wednesday nights for community, worship, and biblical teaching. The church is known for strong Bible teaching and has been recognized for community revitalization work in Indianapolis neighborhoods. However, College Park is located on the northwest side of Indianapolis (45+ minutes from New Palestine), making it geographically distant from BRCC’s service area.
Threat Level: Low. Geographic distance makes this unlikely to draw from BRCC’s service area. However, it represents a benchmark for what dedicated young adult ministry looks like.
Source: College Park Church, Fireside Young Adults
East 91st Street Christian Church
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 6049 E 91st St, Indianapolis, IN 46250 |
| Denomination | Independent Christian Church |
| Estimated Size | Large |
| Website | e91church.com |
| Young Adult Ministry | Yes — Life Groups including specific “Adults & Young Adults” programming |
| Digital Presence | Strong — Professional website, Right Now Media partnership |
Notes: East 91st Street Christian Church (E91) was founded in 1924 and is a large, established church. It offers Life Groups in varying sizes (3-5 person groups and 8-16 person groups) and specifically lists “Adults & Young Adults” as a ministry category. The church is approximately 30 minutes from New Palestine.
Threat Level: Moderate. E91’s northeast Indianapolis location is accessible to Cumberland and McCordsville residents commuting to work. The church’s established reputation and young adult programming could draw from BRCC’s service area.
Source: E91 Church
Awaken Young Adults Ministry
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Indianapolis, IN (parachurch organization) |
| Type | Parachurch ministry (partners with local churches) |
| Website | awakenyoungadults.com |
| Focus | College-age and young adult ministry |
| Digital Presence | Moderate |
Notes: Awaken is not a church but a young adult and college-age ministry that partners with local churches “to see people transformed by God, connected to the church, and sent into the world.” This is worth monitoring as a potential partnership opportunity for BRCC, or as a model for how to connect young adults to the local church.
Source: Awaken Young Adults
Summary Analysis
Churches WITH Active Young Adult Ministry
These churches represent direct competition for young adults in BRCC’s service area:
| Church | Location | YA Age Range | Format | Size | Threat Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Realife Church | New Palestine/Greenfield | 18-24 | Wednesday night gathering | 2,000+ (church) | High |
| Brandywine Community Church | Greenfield | 18-30 | Thursday small group | 1,000 (church) | Moderate |
| Harvest Church | McCordsville | 18-early 30s | Ministry program | Small | Low |
| MC2 Church | McCordsville | 18-26 (de facto) | Organic outreach | Small | Low |
| Northview Church | Indianapolis/Fishers | 25+ | Weekly gathering | Large | Moderate |
| College Park Church | Indianapolis (NW) | 18-29 | Wednesday nights | Large | Low |
| East 91st Street Christian | Indianapolis (NE) | Young Adults | Life Groups | Large | Moderate |
Churches WITHOUT Young Adult Ministry (Potential Gap Fillers)
The following churches of notable size have no dedicated young adult programming, meaning BRCC could potentially serve young adults from these congregations:
| Church | Location | Size | Why This Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Park Chapel Christian Church | Greenfield | 800+ | Large church, no YA programming — their young adults need somewhere to go |
| Fortville Christian Church | Fortville | 200-500 | Attracts young adults organically but offers no dedicated program |
| NP United Methodist Church | New Palestine | ~225 | Established church in BRCC’s home town with no YA program |
| Zion Lutheran Church | New Palestine | ~300 | Significant church with school, no YA program |
| Outlook Christian Church | McCordsville | Mid-size | Established church in fastest-growing town, no YA program |
| McCordsville UMC | McCordsville | ~125-150 | No YA program in high-growth young community |
| Cumberland FBC | Cumberland | Mid-size | Gateway to Indianapolis, no YA program |
| Mercy Road NE | Fortville | Small-Mid | Professional church plant, unclear if YA program exists beyond teen ministry |
Large Indianapolis Churches: Competitive Threat Assessment
| Church | Distance from BRCC | YA Ministry | Threat Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ITOWN Church (Fishers) | ~20 min | Small groups only | High | Closest megachurch, high production quality |
| Traders Point (Fishers) | ~25 min | Small groups only | Moderate-High | Massive reach, strong brand |
| Northview (Binford/Fishers) | ~25-35 min | Yes (25+) | Moderate | Directly targets BRCC’s demographic |
| East 91st Street Christian | ~30 min | Yes (Life Groups) | Moderate | NE Indy, accessible to commuters |
| College Park Church | ~45 min | Yes (18-29) | Low | Too far for most BRCC area residents |
Overall Assessment: How Saturated is the Young Adult Ministry Landscape?
The Short Answer: The Market is Severely Underserved
The young adult ministry landscape in BRCC’s service area is remarkably thin. Despite having dozens of churches across New Palestine, McCordsville, Cumberland, Fortville, and Greenfield, there is virtually no dedicated programming for young adults ages 25-32.
Key observations:
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The 18-24 space has some coverage — Realife Church (18-24), MC2 Church (18-26), and Brandywine (18-30) each offer some programming for the younger end of the young adult spectrum. But even this coverage is limited to a few churches.
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The 25-32 space is essentially unserved locally. No church in the immediate BRCC service area (New Palestine, McCordsville, Cumberland, Fortville) offers dedicated programming for young professionals, young married couples, or young parents in this age range.
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Most “young adult” programming is really “college and early 20s” programming. Realife Church explicitly caps at age 24. Brandywine targets up to age 30 but describes the group as informal. College Park’s Fireside caps at age 29.
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The only church directly targeting 25+ is Northview Church with its “Young(ish) Adults” group — but Northview has no campus in the BRCC service area and is a 25-35 minute drive.
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McCordsville is the most strategic gap. As the fastest-growing town in the area (6.62% annual growth, median age 35.3), McCordsville has the highest density of young adults — yet no church in McCordsville offers robust young adult programming. Harvest Church and MC2 are both small and developing.
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Large Indy churches are drawing young adults away. ITOWN (Fishers), Traders Point (Fishers), and other megachurches offer high-production worship experiences that attract young adults from the suburbs, even without dedicated young adult programming. The “production quality gap” between these megachurches and most local churches is significant.
Opportunities for BRCC
Based on this landscape analysis, BRCC has several significant strategic opportunities:
1. Own the 25-32 Age Range
No church in the service area offers dedicated programming for young adults aged 25-32. This is a wide-open space. While Realife serves 18-24 and Brandywine has an informal group up to 30, the young professional / young married / new parent demographic has no home. BRCC can position itself as the church for this life stage in southern Hancock County.
2. Target McCordsville as a Growth Market
McCordsville has the youngest population and fastest growth in the area, yet its churches are either small, traditional, or lacking young adult programming. BRCC could extend its reach into McCordsville through small groups, events, or even a future satellite gathering.
3. Serve Young Adults from Other Large Churches
Churches like Park Chapel (800+), Fortville Christian (200-500), NP United Methodist (225), and Zion Lutheran (300) have no young adult programming. Young adults attending these churches may be looking for community with peers. BRCC could offer a non-competitive, community-oriented young adult experience that serves young adults across the area, not just BRCC attendees.
4. Compete on Community, Not Production
BRCC cannot outproduce ITOWN or Traders Point. But what megachurches often lack is intimate, authentic community. A young adult ministry built on deep relationships, real conversations, genuine vulnerability, and consistent follow-up could offer something the megachurches cannot.
5. Fill the Young Married Couples Gap
Almost no church in the area offers programming specifically for young married couples (a subset of the 25-32 demographic that has unique needs). This is a natural extension of young adult ministry and could become a distinctive offering.
6. Build a Strong Digital Presence
Realife Church’s polished social media (3,400+ Instagram followers, professional content production) sets a benchmark. BRCC’s digital presence should be strong enough to be discoverable by young adults searching for churches in the area. Young adults in this demographic discover churches primarily through social media and web searches, not word-of-mouth alone.
7. Consider Partnering with Parachurch Ministries
Organizations like Awaken (Indianapolis-based young adult ministry that partners with local churches) could provide resources, programming models, or direct partnership opportunities as BRCC develops its young adult ministry.
8. Leverage BRCC’s Existing Strengths
At 1,000+ weekly attendance with a 40+ year history, BRCC has the size, stability, and resources to sustain a meaningful young adult ministry that smaller churches (Harvest, MC2, New Life) cannot. The missions emphasis (20+ local and global partners) could be particularly compelling to young adults who want to make a difference.
Research Limitations
This analysis is based on publicly available information from web searches, church websites, social media profiles, and directory listings as of February 2026. The following limitations should be noted:
- Website limitations: Some churches may have young adult programming that is not advertised on their websites or discoverable through web search. Small groups, in particular, are often organized informally.
- Attendance estimates: Church size figures come from self-reported data, directory listings, and news reports, which may not be current.
- Social media data: Instagram follower counts and engagement metrics are approximate and change over time.
- WebFetch unavailability: Due to tool restrictions, church websites could not be directly scraped during this research. All church data was gathered through web search results and publicly available directory information.
- Rapidly changing landscape: Church plants (MC2, New Life, Mercy Road NE) are growing and evolving quickly. Programming described here may change.
Recommendation: Supplement this landscape analysis with direct outreach — visiting churches, attending young adult events, and speaking with pastors and young adult leaders in the area to validate and deepen these findings.
Sources Index
New Palestine
- Brookville Road Community Church
- Realife Church
- NP United Methodist Church
- Zion Lutheran Church
- New Faith Community Church - FaithStreet
- Community Christian Church
McCordsville
- Harvest Church
- MC2 Church
- AG Trust - MC2 Church Plant
- Outlook Christian Church
- Geist Community Church
- McCordsville UMC
- Living Streams Christian Church
- Woodbury Community Church
Cumberland
Fortville
Greenfield
- Brandywine Community Church
- Park Chapel Christian Church
- City Church Greenfield
- Trinity Park Church
- Calvary Baptist Church - Greenfield
Indianapolis / Regional
- ITOWN Church
- Traders Point Christian Church
- Northview Church
- College Park Church
- East 91st Street Christian Church
- Awaken Young Adults
- Mercy Road Church - Carmel