‘We feel like we’re picking up their torch.’ Benner Township church plans new building
Nestled among the farms and vibrant leaves in this valley is a church with roots that date back to 1871, one that can mark its history by the introduction of electric heat and indoor plumbing.
The basement of Greater Buffalo Run Valley United Methodist Church was dug by hand. Outhouses were used before they became obsolete.
There are myriad memories for the dozens who regularly attend the church at 1667 Buffalo Run Road, but they aren’t blind to the challenges.
More seating is needed. Accessibility, especially for older adults and those with disabilities, is a top concern. More parking and square feet of floor space wouldn’t hurt either.
“When you pass by an older church I think people get that impression, ‘They’re set in their ways. When you go in there, everybody has their own pew.’ And I think that keeps people from coming in,” Lisa Deibler said. “... I’m hoping and praying that when we get into this new church people just feel welcome and get that feeling that we’re not set in our ways.”
Added Pastor Jim Jacobs: “Young families are asking the question, ‘What can the church do for me?’ Beyond the religious aspect of it, they’re looking for acceptance and they’re looking to be a part of the church. “
The church plans to build a new 5,010-square-foot house of worship at 1881 Buffalo Run Road, about half a mile away from the existing church.
The new one-level building is designed as a cross. Seating would be provided for more than 100 worshipers, while the social hall could fit 125 people. The parking lot would accommodate nearly 45 vehicles.
The existing church will likely be sold.
“When other churches get sold, they’re sold because they shut the doors. This church is being sold because we’re growing. In churches in the United States today, that’s a big distinction. There’s churches closing left and right,” Jacobs said. ”They’re closing because they can’t afford to stay open and they’re closing because their attitude was, ‘We’ve done it the same way since Noah built the ark and we’re going to continue to do it the same way until somebody turns off the light switch.’ There’s a big distinction on what we’re doing here.“
Construction is slated to begin the spring. An opening has not been finalized, though it’s expected sometime next year. Donations are being accepted to help cover outstanding costs.
The project has been in the works for the better part of a decade, shortly after three churches in the township merged. All three, Jacobs said, were experiencing the same issues the church is trying to remedy with a new building.
Three churches merging, Jacobs said, is rare and can be “very difficult.” Building a new church isn’t much easier.
“Sometimes we don’t want to change. Change is hard for all of us,” Gloria Lohr said. “But I think if we want to invite and make our building, our programs interesting and enjoyable for people we have to meet the needs of the younger generation — and not forget about the older generation, too.”
Added Vicky Free: “People have really dedicated themselves to this church for years and years and years. We feel like we’re picking up their torch.”
This story was originally published October 24, 2022 at 10:30 AM.