In 1983, a core group of 15 adults began to meet and pray about the possibility of beginning a church in a community beyond our own. The group prayerfully chose the name "Dayspring Christian Fellowship." This name points to Jesus Christ, who is referred to in Luke 1:78 & 79 as the "Dayspring from on high" who has come to give light to those in darkness "and guide our feet in the way of peace."

God directed this group to the Jackson Township area and on November 4, 1984, they held their first Sunday worship service at the Stark Branch of Kent State University. Approximately one year later, Dayspring began meeting at the Stark State College auditorium.

Jim Bartholomew has been the pastor since June 1986. Working alongside Pastor Jim in spiritual and operational leadership are Pastor Kent Miller, three Elders and a Church Council. Several committees function within the church giving direction in worship, finance, fellowship and gifts discernment.

Dayspring is made up of a diverse group of people who are united in Jesus Christ. Within the congregation are individuals with special gifts in a variety of areas. A strong emphasis is placed on music. The worship team meets weekly in preparation for music worship on Sunday morning. Along with music, drama is often used to portray worship themes.

As the number of children and youth has increased, we've responded with weekly activities for teens as well as children's church twice a month. On the other Sundays, a children's lesson is part of the morning worship service. A nursery is provided for small children also.

In September of 1996, God provided Dayspring with nearly four acres of land in the heart of Jackson Township. In early 2004, ground was broken for phase one of our church building. In November 2004 we dedicated our new building.

From the beginning, Dayspring has had a conviction that Christ called us to be a light of hope and a voice of invitation to those who do not know the peace of Jesus. Our desire is to serve the community around us.