PLANO, Texas — Every month in Plano, Texas, the parking lot of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meetinghouse fills with something unexpected: the sound of engines, conversations and discussions about faith.
The event, known as “Cars and Christ,” is a car show that started two years ago with dozens of cars. Now, it has grown into a unique gathering that combines a passion for cars with a spiritual connection.
“It feels like the church has been pushed to the forefront in Texas in the most normal and natural way,” said Carrollton Texas Stake member Charlie Liska, who is leading the effort.
Organizers say 200 to 300 cars gather on the first Saturday of each month. The event continues to draw a large audience, many of whom are not members of the church. The photo was posted on a popular app called ParkUpFront and is gaining attention on social media.
There is no participation fee required to display a vehicle. Participants are encouraged to bring two canned foods to support local nonprofit Metrocrest Services. The charity has been a huge success, with previous events raising up to 500 pounds of food.
Bryce Aldis, another volunteer, said the purpose of the event was to create a welcoming space. “I really love bringing people together, so if we can bring people of faith and people of faith together and people who don’t, that would be a great environment.”
That environment is intentional. “In fact, a lot of people have told me that they like this tournament better than other tournaments because it’s so welcoming,” Aldis said. “We talk to everyone who comes in and out.”
Missionaries play a central role, interacting with visitors and often starting conversations that go beyond the confines of the car. Their involvement in this event is thanks to President Jonathan Ord, president of the Texas Dallas West Mission.
President Ord’s love for cars began when he worked in the automotive industry. Over time, he collected several vehicles and eventually combined his love and faith in cars into one event. It has become a hallmark of his time as a missionary leader in the region.
“Our missionaries walk around and have great conversations not only about cars, but also about how Jesus Christ wants to be a part of their lives,” President Ord said.
For many missionaries, they say, these conversations happen naturally.
“We come here to look at cars, but then the conversation turns to Christ and the hope found in Him,” Sister Sarah Hill said. “It’s great to be able to understand people and listen to their stories.”
This event also serves as a first introduction to the church for some. Organizers say the goal is presence, not pressure.
“This whole industry is people who have the same fascination with cars, and it’s just a way to get them into the church building,” said Sister Stacey Ord, who serves as a missionary leader with her husband. “It’s a great opportunity for missionaries to walk around, tour churches, talk to people and invite them to church.”
For Liska, the impact goes beyond the numbers. “It was truly miraculous to see my faith and passion come together in a way that normalized the church,” he said.
He added that the event will create valuable opportunities.
“Every month, hundreds of nonmembers gather on our church grounds to walk into our buildings, walk our hallways, and see pictures of our Savior. And our missionaries are the heart and soul of it all.”
At the end of the day, organizers say the goal is simple. “It’s just about bringing the community together,” Aldis said.
And in a parking lot full of polished cars and candid conversations, the goal is to shape one conversation at a time.
“I love the community and connections here,” Sister Hill said. “It’s really all about Christ. Christ is the foundation. When we trust Him and rely on Him, we have a lot in common. And I think it’s great that we can all learn and grow from each other.”
— Candice McCracken is communications director for the Carrollton Texas Stake.
