‘It’s a new beginning.’ Take a look inside this Centre County church’s new home
Worshipers who step inside the new Greater Buffalo Run Valley United Methodist Church will be greeted by more spacious, accessible areas that the congregation hopes will symbolize its message of acceptance and growth.
The cross-shaped church, 112 Trinity Court, has what is believed to be one of the few timber-framed sanctuaries in Pennsylvania. Leaders opted for blue chairs rather than traditional pews, which are more rigid and challenging for people with disabilities.
Six windows allow for ample sunlight to filter into the sanctuary, while four TVs and speakers should help even those in the back row see and hear Pastor Jim Jacobs.
Included elsewhere in the more than 5,000-square-foot church is a nursery, Sunday school room and bathrooms designed with people with disabilities in mind.
The nursery — for kids who have made it no further than kindergarten — is stocked with a play kitchen, blocks, a dollhouse, a table and more. A baby gate spans the doorway.
The church’s fellowship hall includes additional seating if the 110 spots in the sanctuary aren’t enough. It also includes a kitchen with enough equipment that makes just about any meal seem possible.
The single-story church sits on a nearly 13-acre plot in rural Benner Township, about 35 times larger than its previous home at 1667 Buffalo Run Road. There are about 44 parking spots.
“The whole congregation built this church. We had folks that were the visionaries that realized that we needed a new church to minister to not only our families but some of the elder congregation. This church is completely accessible,” Jacobs said. “We had folks that did hands-on work — blood, sweat and tears. And we had folks that weren’t able to work on the church. They gave their financial support.
“Above all, they prayed for the whole project continuously. As you can see, the proof is in the pudding. They did a great job.”
Easter Sunday marked the congregation’s final service at its former church. Gloria Lohr said last week she nearly “came to tears” after a rush of memories came flooding back. Her four children were baptized there and one of her daughters was married there, for example.
Now the church is on the open market for an asking price of $219,500. The deed requires it to remain a church, but Lohr intimated an attorney is working to modify the deed.
Money from the sale of the church, Lohr said, will be used to help pay for the new church. Leaders declined to share how much it cost to construct the new church.
It took the Amish about a year to construct the building. Lohr described it as a “roller coaster” and a journey that benefited from divine intervention.
Two soft opening services were planned, one for Sunday and another for April 21. A grand opening ceremony is scheduled for April 21.
One worshiper in her 90s, Lohr said, is looking forward to Jacobs walking her down the red carpet. After all, she expressed worry that she wouldn’t be alive to see the church finished.
“Older folks are excited. Younger folks are excited. Everyone is just full of joy,” Lohr said. “It’s a new beginning. We’re here to make everyone feel comfortable and welcome.”
