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Hoosier United Methodist News Archives
| Hoosier United Methodist News |
April 2001 |
Country Church:
Historic, award-winning church
growing in more ways than one
By Matthew Oates
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HILLSDALE, Ind. - When the Rev. Bill Felts and Salem United Methodist Church members think about their red-brick church that overlooks U.S. 63 and an Eli Lilly plant, they are continually reminded of links to both the past and the future.
The links to the past include having members who are descendents of church founders. They still use the original walnut pulpit and furnishings their forefathers made. There is a list of members who served in World War I and World War II who figuratively gaze over the congregation much like the paintings of Jesus do from the chancel.
The oldest church in Vermillion County traces its past to 1822 when a log barn served as the meeting place. A building was erected in 1846, but was dismantled and sold to another congregation in 1878. In 1977 the then-almost 100-year-old church was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
With a recipe of modern technology and good old-fashioned caring for one another, Salem UMC is preparing a link to the future.
When you walk into Salem, the welcome mat and prayer request sheets greet you. Before you enter the sanctuary, with its cathedral ceilings, high arching windows and hand-carved padded pews, you'll see pictures of new members and activities - pictures that link members to one another and to the future.
Other people are talking about what Salem does. The church received the "Small Church of the Year" award in 1999 from the Terre Haute District for their work.
To get children involved with mission work, they had a Penny Race for the Indiana United Methodist Children's Home in Lebanon. "Kids brought in $200 in pennies," explains Felts. The church then expanded the program and brought in another $661 for a total of $861.
Members also help the county food pantry and other outreach programs. "People bring food here every week," Felts says.
"It's not what you'd expect out here in the country," remarks Felts about his congregation. "No matter what needs done, their various backgrounds help them get things done."
Recently, the church expanded its mission outlook; Salem now supports Michael and Teresa Rynkiewich, missionaries working in New Guinea.
A "normal" week includes Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. and a 10:45 service. Throw in Wednesday night Bible studies, an overflowing confirmation class and various meetings and it's one happening place.
On Membership Sunday last June, Salem grew by 19 members. "This church grew like crazy," exclaims historian Richard Mack.
And that growth is leading to a new 30' by 40' expansion off of an existing addition, which meets the Historic Register's guidelines.
"It's a joy to be here," says Felts.
Last updated January 14, 2004