Decline of religion

[Fake Messiah]

At least something to cheer me up

After 186 years, 'small but mighty' Dover church doomed by declining enrollment

With the New Year came the quiet end for a landmark church that has stood for nearly 150 years in downtown Dover.

Opened on Blackwell Street in 1876 and expanded in 1907, the First United Methodist Church of Dover held its last services on Dec. 29. Even older than the grand stone edifice was the congregation itself, which was founded in 1838.

The building will be sold after its daycare center closes at the end of the school year, Lee confirmed. A sign in front of the church this week still listed Sunday services, but the building was closed and locked.

Church data shows the congregation had declined to 46 members and an average attendance of 12 or fewer for weekly services.

"The church has been in a difficult position for many years," said the Rev. Tanya Linn Bennett, who served as the church's coordinating pastor for the past two years.

Titus said the congregation had included a Latino membership that attended bilingual services in the Hispanic-majority town. But "that fizzled out" about three years ago after new pastors were assigned who could not speak Spanish, he said. [but doesn't the holy spirit give them abilities to speak in any language? I guess it was just another Jesus' false promise that was turned into a metaphor]

"But it's important to remember that church is not about a building," Bennett added. [then why did you build it?] "Church is about a belief system, and being in mission through your faith and beliefs and values to your community and the world."

https://www.dailyrecord.com/story/news/l...506124007/

Ha! Ha! Ha! Cry harder!

Community mourns closure of Norfolk's historic Epworth Church

Built in the 1890s, Epworth United Methodist Church has hosted weekly services and numerous cherished milestones for over a century.

The last service at Epworth took place on Sunday, marking a somber moment for those who had considered the church their home.

"We have celebrated birthdays, baptisms, and weddings. I hoped that my kids would get married here, and it’s so sad it’s going away. I feel like I’m losing a family member," one congregant expressed.

Epworth has seen a decline in membership over the years, primarily due to an aging congregation. This trend is not unique to Epworth; churches across the country are grappling with similar challenges, many considering or even selling their properties.

"Even though it’s a sad day and we’re having to abandon it, it will always be in our hearts. Our church will keep that in your heart," a member concluded.

https://www.wtkr.com/news/in-the-communi...rth-church