A lot can change in 150 years. Businesses come and go. People are born, they move away, they pass on. But through all the changes, it’s comforting to know some things stay the same.
Like Union Chapel Community Church in West Liberty, which is commemorating its sesquicentennial this weekend.
The celebration starts at 7 p.m. today Saturday, May 17, with improv preaching and an ice cream social.
Sunday morning, May 18, the main event kicks off with a sharing hour at 9:30 a.m., followed by an outside service at 10:45 a.m., rain or shine. Lunch, featuring barbecue from Smokey E’s, will then lead into an afternoon of games, activities and fellowship.
Situated on the southwestern part of Monroe Township, the church was organized on Sept. 1, 1874, then dedicated that November with Rev. J.M. Robinson serving as pastor. They started with eight members from the Stuart, Sharp and Haines families.
Now, Jeremy Sarver leads as pastor of evangelism and outreach. He’s been with the church for 11 years. Sarver has been assisted by Joey Adams, pastor of discipleship, for three years.
Union Chapel’s mission, Sarver said, is “to make disciples by encouraging people to believe the Gospel, to belong to Christ and His church, to proclaim the Good News and to present everyone mature in Christ.”
Sarver and his wife, Mindi, have four children ages 4 to 16, while Joey and Leah Adams are the parents of two toddlers.
“We look forward to seeing how God will build His church,” Sarver said. “We have plans to add on in the near future. God is faithful, and His truth is still worth our lives.”
You’re welcome to visit Union Chapel this weekend at 9490 County Road 41. For more information, call (937) 747-3694 during office hours.
