Indiana—The Plymouth Church members eagerly anticipate construction on their new church building with assistance from Maranatha Volunteers International (Maranatha) in early May 2007. When planning the project, church leaders believed they should seek outside assistance and contacted Maranatha. A short time later, the application process was completed. Members were very excited to learn that Maranatha agreed to assist. A May 2–16 construction time-line was set, and members are gearing up for the arrival of many volunteers. Official groundbreaking occurred earlier in anticipation of the May arrival of Maranatha volunteers.
The current church structure was moved to its location on Thayer Street in the 1940s. It became apparent in recent years that a new building was needed because the current structure is aging and is not handicap accessible. Some members are unable to attend because they cannot negotiate the entrance stairs or steps down to the restrooms. Also, the current structure does not have a baptistry or very much kitchen space. This creates difficulties when holding evangelistic meetings, cooking schools, and other community outreach projects. Currently, the church is preparing to hold its first CHIP (Coronary Health Improvement Project) meetings in cooperation with community physicians and the local hospital.
The construction project has been split into two phases to bring costs into a manageable range. In Phase 1, a wing will be erected consisting of two classrooms, restrooms, foyer, and a fellowship hall that will serve as the sanctuary for worship services. The actual sanctuary will be built in Phase 2 at a later date. Members began raising funds for the new building more than 12 years ago and purchased land in 2004. Plans were drawn up, and after a long process all necessary permits are in hand.
Church members continue to seek funds through local giving and from those who have a desire to see our Lord's work move forward in the Plymouth area. Local fundraising has included garage sales and selling donuts at the Blueberry Festival in Plymouth, as well as continued faithful giving.
Project coordinators are seeking help in the form of cooks and skilled workers while Maranatha volunteers are on site, and additional skilled help after Maranatha volunteers leave and they continue building the Lord's house.
If you are interested in helping Plymouth Church members realize their dream of a new sanctuary, call Amy or Marlin Heinlein at 574-935-5866.
Prayers for good weather and protection will be greatly appreciated.
Oren Carterman, Plymouth Church head elder
