Joanne Williams
Editor

(Joanne Williams/TCJ: Darla Sanders (left) and Dee Anna McCarrick arrange the free items in the women’s clothing room at the House of Ezekiel.)

 

The House of Ezekiel has given rebirth to the faith that once stood as the South Cochran Church of God.

A new banner covers the sign that stood for the South Cochran Church, which organized in 1960 in Charlotte.

So much changed for so many after COVID-19, including church membership.

And then Eric and Dee Anna McCarrick came along. 

Their lives took a turn at about the same time, and when they saw the multi-purpose building (it is one of those places that is so much bigger on the inside than it looks from the outside), they saw an opportunity to grow their faith and help their community, and the House of Ezekiel – a gathering place – was formed.

The McCarrick’s leased the 2470 S. Cochran Road church building in 2025. For this Eaton Rapids couple, life changed. “Before we had a lifestyle, now, we live for Jesus,” Anna said.

The outreach began with support and inspiration from Gap’s Outreach, a Lansing area organization that supports families through resources from free food and clothing to classes and other events.

Inside these Ezekiel’s is a bounty of services and opportunities. The most outward has been a sign announcing free clothing, offered each Tuesday and Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m. This “Clothed in Love” ministry began about a month ago. Anna said they have items for men, women, and children, including prom dresses, shoes, handbags and other accessories, all arranged in a number of rooms.

Other outreach is planned to help sustain House of Ezekiel work. The biggest is the venue itself, available for groups and parties, and equipped with multi-purpose spaces, a kitchen, and most everything anyone would need for a gathering. 

Spaces include a worship area with pews, a hall to hold about 150 people, and smaller gathering rooms.

The couple are excited to offer programming for the community at the venue as well. On Saturday, April 25 at 6:30 p.m., the Chosen Band will perform. On Saturday, June 6, there will be an Italian Night, with dinner and a silent auction, and July 16-18 a program focusing on healing trauma will be offered.

Information is on the website at houseofezekiel.org, or by calling 517-231-0443.