A Delaware County church is in danger of closing because of money. This could impact the nonprofit that operates out of the church basement.
Sterling Eaton, pastor of Prospect United Methodist Church, said it costs about $10,000 a year to keep the church warm during the winter.
“When it comes to a church of this size, we can accommodate about 300 members in the church,” Pastor Eaton said, “so it takes a lot to heat a building of this size.”
While operating costs increase, membership decreases. Pastor Eaton said the congregation consists of 25 members.
“It looks a little dire when you have people whose numbers are decreasing, but your bills aren’t decreasing,” Eaton said.
The church’s financial problems may have an influence Delco Helping Handswho operates a pantry in the basement. Kristin Miller is the co-founder of the nonprofit.
“If the church closes,” Miller said, “it would be very harmful to most people.”
Delco Helping Hands serves approximately 200 families per month, providing them with access to essentials such as diapers and baby wipes. If the church closes, the nonprofit will have to go elsewhere.
“It’s a scary thought,” Miller said. “It took us time to find the location. We originally started this process and had pantries in our homes.”
In the meantime, Eaton said the church is exploring solutions such as applying for grants and growing membership through outreach.
He holds fast to the belief that his church can continue to be a beacon of light for the community.
“We ask people, ‘Hey, come to our worship service’ and have that experience through the Holy Spirit,” Eaton said.
Madeleine Wright
