Church offers use of recreation area
JEFFERSON TWP — In an effort to get more use out of its 2-acre recreational facility called “The Grove,” Thorn Creek United Methodist Church, 140 Rockdale Road, wants to share the recreational area behind the church with the public.
The Rev. Mary Jo Gould, who took over as church pastor in January, said the property contains a volleyball court, a softball field, barbecue pit, fire ring, a stage, swings, and a shelter with an electric stove, refrigerator and freezer, running water and a restroom.
Bernie Elder, the president of the church council at Thorn Creek, said improvements and additions were made years ago by church members.
“We put the shelter and the stage up about 25 years ago,” said Elder. “Then we put the volleyball court in about three years ago and started the ballfield.”
The church sees Sunday attendance of 43 to 45 members.
“At one point, it was for outsiders and the church. It’s turned into being just for the church,” said Gould. “But we want to start letting outsiders visit. We do have liability insurance. We will be charging people.”
“If there is a group of kids that want to play volleyball, God bless them,” said Elder.
“I’m the one that suggested it be used,” said Gould. “We have so much potential. You could have a reunion, outdoor movies. Orchestras could come in, summer weddings.”
Gould said she was going to contact school districts about using the softball field for team practices or some of the acreage could even be used for soccer practice as soon as goals are installed.
“I need to work on the field a little more,” said Elder. “I want to get soccer teams there. Soccer is a big deal, and they are always looking for somewhere to play.”
“We hope it will be an advertisement for the church, as far as getting our name out there and what we have to offer. If they get into the church, that’s up to them,” said Gould.
Elder said the church’s motivation isn’t name recognition or money, though.
“It’s a blessed shame it’s not used more often,” he said.
People wanting to inquire about using the grove and the cost should call Gould at 724-332-8780. Church members get preference in renting the site.
“We would like it to be open from the first of May to the end of October,” Gould said. She noted the grove is available both on weekdays and weekends. However, she said, “They need to remember that we will have church on Sundays.”
The church is satisfied with its liability insurance. “The council and I checked on that,” Gould said.
She said outside users would also be asked to sign a waiver.
“We would like to make a profit,” she said. “The whole council is involved but we (she and Elder) are the ones pushing this.”
“It’s not too far out in the country and it has all the amenities of your home,” she said.
