Paint Creek United Methodist Church

Here is an article Dottie Spitsbergen wrote for the OPC Newsletter….

“There’s a Church in the valley by the wildwood – no lovelier place in the dale.”

The Church in the Dale
These are the words from an old church hymn, but they also describe a church in this
area. If you travel north three miles on Orion Rd. from Rochester, you will come to the
village of Goodison. If you then turn right on Collins Rd., on the left you will see a small
quaint historic church nestled among the trees and it is sitting on the banks of a small
creek. Paint Creek United Methodist Church, as it is named, is 150 years old. It was
moved to this spot by the great great grandfather of several of the current members. This
gentleman was a lay preacher who preached when there was no pastor. The original bell
is still in place and is used regularly. On Sunday morning you will hear it ringing as it
calls the members to the worship service. It is often rung for special occasions, too, like
weddings, baptisms or funerals. Children love to ring the bell as it is-so strong that is
sometimes lifts them into the air.
Friendliness is what you will find as you visit this church. Visitors are always
welcome. Many of the members are seniors, but everyone, young and old, is involved in
the activities of the church. Members take turns greeting, ushering, reading scriptures,
serving luncheons or preparing coffee-hour treats. There is a choir for those who enjoy
singing. Supporting mission projects is important in the life of this church. Mission
projects might include support for things like Crop Walk, Children’s Village, Rochester
Community House, The Heifer Project or the Pontiac Mission.. Other activities could
include an old fashioned hymn sing, a musical concert or a planting project. Every fall
the bakers of the church bring out their favorite recipes to present a ‘Bake and Book’ sale
at the Goodison Goodtymes Festival and then at Christmas there is a fabulous cookie
sale. Be sure to put your order in early. Money from these activities goes towards
renovating the church as it is a historic site church and the members hope to help it
continue for another 150 years so they can continue the Lord’s work of spreading God’s
love in this community and around the world.
Take a ride out to Goodison to visit

“The Little Church m the Dale”.

A good time
to visit would be on a Sunday morning at 1 Lam. The music will be beautiful and you’ll
be welcomed.

by Dottie Spitsbergen