Pine Twp. church has new home
PINE TWP — A1997 study conducted by the Church of the Beloved Disciple Roman Catholic Church led to a new, multi-million dollar worship facility — even though it was not specifically called for in the study's results.
The parish dedicated its new facility Saturday with a special Mass celebrated by Bishop Donald Trautman of the Catholic Diocese of Erie.
At a cost of about $2.3 million, the new church on Route 208 next to the Knights of Columbus hall evolved from discussions about making the parish's original building, located on North Broad Street in Grove City, handicap accessible.
That was one of three goals set forth as a result of the vitality study. The other two —-equipping the original building with air conditioning and expanding the youth ministry program —- were easily accomplished.
The congregation hired a contractor to put together a plan for making their building handicap accessible, but he eventually told them that doing so would cost more than a new building, and a shortage of parking would still be an issue.
At about the same time, the Knights of Columbus gave the parish 10 acres along Route 208. Church members decided to purchase an additional three acres and build a new worship center there rather than upgrade the original building.
Many fundraising events and financial pledges later, construction on the new facility began last May.
"Generally speaking, there has been a lot of enthusiasm,"said the Rev. Edward Zeitler. "It's really a very handicap accessible building."
There are no steps anywhere, and parking is right at the front door.
Zeitler said some older members may experience a sense of loss upon leaving the other building, but he believes the new facility will win them over.
"I think in time they will accept the convenience of this church,"he said.
To lessen that feeling of loss, the congregation moved a number of items, including 10 stained-glass windows, from the original building. The Stations of the Cross and statues of Jesus Christ and his mother, Mary, were also relocated.
Architect Victor King of Erie designed the new building based on the congregation's needs, but its design, with a tent-like high point at the center, is also symbolic of the Tabernacle built by the Israelites that's mentioned in the Old Testament.Many interior wooden structures, including the altar and lectern, were carved and constructed by artisans at Neshannock Woods in Springfield Township. Ceramic dedication crosses were fashioned at the nearby Pottery Dome."We tried to use as many local artists as we could,"Zeitler said.The main worship space includes seating for 450, a combined adult and infant baptismal fount and a special devotional area. A large gathering space at the entrance, chapel for daily Mass, offices, lounge for bridal preparation and kitchenette are also included in the building.The new facility is the first phase of a three-part plan. Phase two will be the addition of an education wing. In the meantime, the congregation will continue to use its education building in Grove City.Plans call for a social hall to eventually be built as phase three. Until then, social gatherings will be held at the Knights of Columbus hall next door.The parish will sell its original building if a suitable use and buyer can be found.
