Thomas Gounley

TGOUNLEY@NEWS-LEADER.COM

A south Springfield church has a new name after its previous one caused a bit of a misunderstanding.

The former First Evangelical Free Church of Springfield held a "name reveal ceremony" Sunday to highlight the fact that it is now known as The Springs Church.

A news release announcing the change stated that "the old name would cause some confusion because people would think that the church was free from evangelicals, which is not the case at all."

"Since the Church is a member of the Evangelical Free Church of America, the name made sense," the release read. "However, many believe the new name will make a big difference in the community and will give a better understanding about the church."

The Evangelical Free Church of America is an evangelical Christian denomination formed in 1950. The Springs Church is located at 5500 S. Southwood Rd., and is visible to drivers on nearby Highway 65.

"We have known for some time that our name was confusing to many people," Pastor Jerry Carlin said in the release. "So we chose a name that finds its meaning from many Bible passages including John 4:7-14, which ends, 'Indeed, the water I (Jesus) give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.'"

"We're the same people, with the same beliefs but a more understandable name," Carlin said. "As a congregation, we wanted our name to remind the community that times of refreshing come when we become followers of Jesus Christ. We think 'The Springs' communicates that really well."