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First United Methodist Church to unveil new Christian Life Center
Staff writer
chriscam@observer-reporter.com
The public gets two opportunities to view the new Christian Life Center at First United Methodist Church of Washington.
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The church completed the $1.8 million addition in July after a year of construction that included demolition of the former Christian education wing and parsonage.
Now, the 350-member congregation has education and administrative space to meet the future demands of a growing church.
"It's certainly more functional and useable," said David Ream, who served as chairman of the building project.
In addition to several new classrooms, office space, music rooms and meeting areas, the two-story wing provides an office for the district superintendent, the Rev. Eric Park. A children's area is specially designed to allow parents to drop their children off in a secure setting. From there they can access other rooms, such as the nursery or areas for toddlers and those of preschool age.
"The new addition makes the church completely accessible for all levels," said Pastor Terry Shaughnessy.
The church sanctuary is on the second floor, and a new elevator provides easy access for worship. The new entrance opens onto the parking lot.
The congregation felt it was important to remain in the city, noted Shaughnessy, even as other churches have recently built outside city limits. He noted the congregation has a rich history of Methodism in Washington, including constructing the city's first church building. That history is reflected in the new wing, where the rooms are named for men and women associated with Methodism or the local church's development.
There were Methodist circuit riders who preached to people in this area prior to an official circuit was designated in 1784.
In 1801, the first log church was built on the corner of Chestnut and Franklin streets. In 1816, a brick church was built next door. But as the congregation continued to grow, a larger church was needed, and this third church was built 32 years later on West Wheeling Street.
The existing structure, on the corner of Beau and College streets, was built in 1875.
A ribbon cutting for the new center was held July 12 to coincide with the 225th anniversary of the congregation.
Architect for the project was Malcolm Moore, with Waller Corp. as general contractor.
September's dedication will include a visit by Thomas Bickerton, bishop for Western Pennsylvania, and remarks by Park, with a reception to follow.
