page 6

On October 9, 2005, the First Congregational Church of Portland, Michigan burned the mortgage on their four year old $510,000 addition. It was the first addition to the meeting house in 90 years.

It was a bold step to take just after the 9/11 attack. Who knew what would happen next? The congregation was aware, though, that nothing would happen next if we did not step out on faith. Our membership had doubled over the past 8 years, and there was little room for children, people with physical disabilities, food preparation, or adequate restrooms. So, after much prayer and research, we broke ground on October 14, 2001 and began to build.

It wasn’t an easy task. The original building, built in 1853, had a two story wing added 1912, but the time had come to move off dead center and take a step out on this faith Jesus spoke so much about. Contrary to reports about what might go bad during a building program, we held together, had lots of fundraisers, laughed a lot and grew even more spiritually and in numbers.

We are so thankful that God inspired us to take the step, because if we hadn’t, we would not have room for our growing Sunday School. We would not have a place for our youth now numbering 30. We would not be able to host meetings for the town or weddings and receptions, more than one activity at a time, nor hold our all important potlucks.

We were blessed by many forward thinking elderly who remembered their church in their wills. We are also blessed with people who wanted the church able to house those who might be temporarily homeless or without shelter in a local disaster. We began an active food pantry that is a tremendous outreach for us. And there are no physical barriers for anyone wishing to worship. Our fellowship hall is warm and inviting as are our people. The doors of the church are open to anyone wishing to come in and worship with us or in the solitude of the sanctuary.

We didn’t do it alone. We consulted with other churches and the NA for resources. There are architects, financial people, woodworkers, electricians, and others that can help. We learned that we didn’t have to be lone rangers to do this. God is at work mightily. Allow Him the space to do His will in His way.

Marilyn Danielson, Pastor
First Congregational Church,
Portland, Michigan