Church may soon start work
ZELIENOPLE — It’s been more than a year since Park United Presbyterian Church was hit by a runaway dump truck, damaging the side of the sanctuary facing Grandview Avenue.
Since then, Park United has been in the recovery process. Services are now being held in Park Hall on the church’s property, a smaller venue.
Construction committee chairman Larry Meeder said the church has a potential contractor for repairs, Adolph Johnson & Son Co. of Youngstown, Ohio.
“The only piece of the puzzle we’re missing is a contract with the contractor,” Meeder said. “I expect that to be done this week.”
The church has a building permit from the borough. The expected cost of the repairs was not reported.
Construction could begin before the month ends. Meeder said repairs should be completed by early October.
A fence now surrounds the damaged area, with signs informing passers-by about where and when services are held.
Inside, the sanctuary part of the church is mostly bare. Most of the pews, stands and sacred objects were placed in Park Hall. To keep the sanctuary from collapsing, a support wall and beams were constructed.
However, the church “hasn’t missed a step” in providing services. It has reportedly seen an increase in attendance and experienced a more relaxed atmosphere since moving to Park Hall.
“It’s been surprisingly good,” said pastor Paul Merrill. “I haven’t looked at the numbers, but we have seen some increases (in attendance).”
“Worship continues on just like normal, just in a different part of the (property),” Meeder said. “I think the Lord just jumped right in and said, ‘Hey look, nobody’s going to stop me. Here we go.’”
This isn’t the first time the church has faced adversity in its 118-year history.
In 1910, a fire burned the interior of the sanctuary. It took six months for repairs to be made. Services were conducted in the basement during repairs.
The church also faced economic hardships during the Great Depression. However after World War II, attendance increased and the financial troubles went away.
“It’s been a steady church even in tough times,” Merrill said. “No matter what comes at us, if we focus on God, He can make us better and stronger. It (church) is still here and still vital despite the adversities it’s faced over the years.”
Merrill said returning to the sanctuary will be a big change. He said while some will relish the return, others may be more inclined to the more relaxed, contemporary service. The church will offer both styles of services.
