In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around the establishment and operations of a new church located in a repurposed building that was once Cindy's restaurant. The church, which began holding services in March 2023, has undergone significant renovations to accommodate its needs, including converting part of the former restaurant into a small one-bedroom apartment for the pastor, Christina Morlock, who currently lives there.
The church's leadership, which consists of a three-member board, has been operating on a tight budget, primarily funded out of pocket by its members. The church reported a total of $1,553 in offerings and donations for the year 2023, highlighting the financial challenges faced by the congregation, which averages between 10 to 12 attendees per service. Attendance can fluctuate, with some members traveling from as far as Chicago and South Bend, often affected by health concerns and weather conditions.
The church temporarily closed its doors in December 2023 due to illness among key members, including the musician who travels from Ohio to assist with services. This decision was made to ensure the health and safety of the predominantly elderly congregation. The church plans to resume services and is preparing for upcoming tent meetings, indicating a commitment to community engagement despite the challenges.
Additionally, the church's bylaws, which were drafted by an attorney, took several months to finalize, causing some confusion regarding the timeline of the church's establishment. The board members expressed their dedication to the church's mission, emphasizing their strong calling to serve the community despite limited resources.