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Hoosier United Methodist News Archives
| Hoosier United Methodist News |
May 2001 |
Country Church:
No matter how you spell it, people love this church
By Matthew Oates
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RICHVALLEY or RICH VALLEY, Ind. - The name can be confusing. While Indiana road maps spell the town name with two words, the sign sitting out front of the local United Methodist church spells it Richvalley UMC.
No matter how you spell it, there has been a church serving this Wabash Country town since 1870. Richvalley UMC has been housed at its location on North Jefferson St., just a stone's throw away from the Lion's Club, since 1875.
Don't let the spelling confusion be a barometer of Richvalley UMC. On the average Sunday, worship attendance will be 90, while the Sunday school classes will see an average attendance of 85. "That shows commitment," says the Rev. Jason Gross.
The original building dates back to 1875. There have been several building projects over the years, additional classrooms were added and three expansions made to the sanctuary. Despite the changes, this church with white siding and tall stately trees, complete with amphitheater-style seating, has a history as well as a bright future.
Gross recalls stories of how Richvalley member Joe Thrush would prepare a poem every Sunday, sometimes reading it during the service. "It was always something inspirational," said Gross.
Scattered throughout the church, you will find wood carvings created by one of the members. Their presence helps this small church come alive.
Richvalley created its own unique measure, the Missions Thermometer. For the year, church members have logged more than 2,500 volunteer hours through various ministry opportunities. "We're real proud of that," says Gross, who also recalls that the original goal for the Missions Thermometer was 1,500.
As a way of helping various missions, the church sells tenderloins at the country fair. People will come to the fair specifically to find Richvalley's tenderloin booth. "They're the best I've ever tasted," says Gross. "We've fed about 2,000 people within a day's time."
The church is working on strengthening programming and providing opportunities for area kids. With six new babies in the congregation, there is a new generation of little United Methodists to raise. "We're real strong in taking care of our children," says Gross.
There's something for everyone at Richvalley. The church's traditional Sunday service at 9:30 a.m. is filled with singing and Scriptures. Sunday school classes follow at 10:45 a.m., with Bible study at 6:30 p.m. Each Tuesday, the God's Kids program is held for area children. A study group is conducted on Wednesday evenings, with choir practice later that night. Add the monthly UMW and men's breakfast, and it's a busy week in Richvalley, no matter how you spell it.
Last updated January 14, 2004