Denomination: First Baptist
Friday, September, 23, 2011 - 8:08:19 AM
Acton Baptist Church to hold its final service on Sunday
By John D. Wilson
Acton Baptist Church Elder
Acton Baptist Church (ABC) will close its doors this Sunday (Sept. 25), having worshipped God and served the community in Acton for 169 years.
The decision to close the doors of this landmark church— a listed heritage building— was not taken lightly. It makes sense; but emotionally it has been a tough call. The reality is that the membership has been in significant decline for several years, despite newcomers joining. Inevitably members grow older and pass away; others move and join churches elsewhere; pastors come and go, and the church has been without a pastor for about a year.
In addition, the much-loved historic building is an increasing burden to heat and maintain. It is difficult to carry out the structural changes needed to make the building more accessible, and to accommodate the kinds of activities and programs which are typical of vibrant churches today.
“To everything there is a season,” and the members of Acton Baptist have sadly concluded that it is time to close the doors of the church.
How the members feel was expressed well when another church had to close: “The doors of our little country church by the side of the road may be closing, but what will remain is the strong faith, the memories within our hearts, and the knowledge that the church community shall go on.”
Though the life of ABC has come to an end, the community and faith of Christ’s followers in Acton are very much alive.
Source: http://www.theifp.ca/news/acton-baptist-church-to-hold-its-final-service-on-sunday/
Acton Baptist Church to hold its final service on Sunday
By John D. Wilson
Acton Baptist Church Elder
Acton Baptist Church (ABC) will close its doors this Sunday (Sept. 25), having worshipped God and served the community in Acton for 169 years.
The decision to close the doors of this landmark church— a listed heritage building— was not taken lightly. It makes sense; but emotionally it has been a tough call. The reality is that the membership has been in significant decline for several years, despite newcomers joining. Inevitably members grow older and pass away; others move and join churches elsewhere; pastors come and go, and the church has been without a pastor for about a year.
In addition, the much-loved historic building is an increasing burden to heat and maintain. It is difficult to carry out the structural changes needed to make the building more accessible, and to accommodate the kinds of activities and programs which are typical of vibrant churches today.
“To everything there is a season,” and the members of Acton Baptist have sadly concluded that it is time to close the doors of the church.
How the members feel was expressed well when another church had to close: “The doors of our little country church by the side of the road may be closing, but what will remain is the strong faith, the memories within our hearts, and the knowledge that the church community shall go on.”
Though the life of ABC has come to an end, the community and faith of Christ’s followers in Acton are very much alive.
Source: http://www.theifp.ca/news/acton-baptist-church-to-hold-its-final-service-on-sunday/
