PETERSTOWN W.Va. (WVDN) – After 151 years, the former Peterstown United Methodist Church, is closing its doors.
The congregation decided to leave the United Methodist Conference, pulled their memberships, and broke off to become a nondenominational church called the Peterstown Worship Center.
But the choice to do so has ended church services in that particular church building.
Pastor Matt Sauvage spoke about the transition and future plans.
“Sunday, February 23, we had a special Celebration Service at Peterstown Worship Center. It was a service full of worship, songs, baptisms, a message, followed by a lunch. We had a total of 6 baptisms,” Sauvage exclaimed.
The church service also reflected on the history that was coming to a close.
“Sunday was especially significant, as it marked our last service in the Church Building (formerly Peterstown United Methodist Church), a place that has held our community for many years. Together, we reflected on the 151 years of history we’ve shared there, and more importantly, we looked ahead with excitement to what God has in store for our church,” Sauvage said.
Even though the building is closing its doors, the future is already starting to look brighter as long as faith stays front and center.
“This is just the beginning of something new and incredible. Starting March 2, we will temporarily hold our services at the Broyles-Shrewsbury Funeral Home Chapel, every Sunday at 10:00am. While this transition may be a challenge, we know that God has big plans for us,” Sauvage stated.
More permanent plans will come soon and Sauvage said staying in the building is even a slight possibility. But if that does not work out, they will explore their options fully.
“In the coming weeks, we will begin discussions with the UMC to explore the possibility of purchasing the church building. If the price is right, we may be able to continue our ministry from that same space. However, if that’s not possible, we are prepared to build a new facility where we can grow together as a community.
“Through it all, we are standing firm in our biblical beliefs and we are confident that God is leading us to greater things. We’re excited about the journey ahead and the new opportunities to serve Him and our community,” Sauvage concluded.
