MIDDLESEX TWP — CrossWay Church of the Assemblies of God was dedicated in 2001. As of this year, it has doubled in size.

The church recently completed an addition measuring approximately 10,000 square feet. The new space includes two youth ministry centers, classrooms, a library and an office complex.

The addition will be showcased this weekend during the church's fall festival, to include hayrides, a bonfire, games, a petting zoo, food and other activities.

According to the Rev. Pat Summers, the expansion resulted from growing ministries at the church.

"Since moving into our church building in the summer of 2001 we have developed several dynamic ministries including ministries to children and youth," he said of the building on Davis Road.

"As these ministries have grown we needed more space to continue to meet the needs of our community."

Ministries include CrossFire for students in grades six through 12 and Rangers and Missionettes for children 3 years old through grade six. Both groups meet weekly.

"Our vision is to touch every student possible with the message of Christ throughout the Mars, Knoch, Seneca Valley, Pine-Richland and Butler area school districts," said Pastor John "Hutch" Hutchinson, who oversees the CrossFire ministry.

To complete the expansion, Summers said the church relied on help from business owners and skilled professionals from their congregation, saving thousands of dollars.

The results include a youth center featuring a cafe, gaming area, video screen and space for a worship band.

The Children's center is decorated with bright colors and murals to create a Nickelodeon feel.

"Kids can learn life changing messages about God in an environment that is fun and exciting for them," said Summers.

The church also has added children's pastor Ray Class to help fulfill that goal.

"In just the past few weeks of using the new addition we have already seen the benefits of having more room to facilitate ministry," Class said.

"Our Wednesday night children's and youth ministries have especially benefited from the additional space. Our Sunday morning ministries are enjoying the new space as well," he added.

"As a newer congregation – it was a huge step of faith for us to move forward with this project," said Summers.

"We believe that God wanted us to expand our facilities so that we can continue expanding our ministry opportunities to the community."

John Hutchinson, youth paster of CrossWay Church of the Assemblies of God, is seen in the cafe portion of the church's new youth center. The center is a part of the ecently completed 10,000-square-foot addition that will be showcased this weekend at the church's fall festival.