Shutesbury Church Gets Another Chance

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By Scott McDonnell

Story Published: Jun 20, 2009 at 9:19 PM EDT

Story Updated: Jun 22, 2009 at 8:34 AM EDT

Built all the way back in 1827, The Federated Church of Shutesbury has long been in need of a major overhaul.

After 182-years of wear and tear, conditions became so bad the landmark had to close its doors.
All the worshipers could do is have faith a solution would come.

"We prayed, we had hoped that somewhere somehow, something would happen to turn things around for this church, " said Shutesbury resident Linda Hanscom.

Thanks to David Tetreault and members of the Second Baptist Church of South Hadley, something has happened, a major effort to fix up the centuries old community landmark.

" We have about forty volunteers here today, and more waiting to come, people are on a sign up list, we will have a whole other crew here next week", said Tetreault.

For a town of just over 18-hundred people, the church has been near and dear to the hearts of residents.

"My dad used to come here in the winter and start an old coal furnace, so that the building would be warm, and my mother served on every conceivable board in the church, and its just always been a part of our lives", said Linda Hanscoom.

Since its been closed down, it seems as though something in the small town has been missing.

Soon the centuries old church will once again function not only a congregation, but serve as an important part of the community.

"And that's what a local church is for, being the Shutesbury community church, it brings that right here into the heart of Shutesbury," said resident Greg Steve.

The volunteers still have a long way to go are asking for others to step up and join the cause.

They are looking for a painting contractor to lend his or her services, and welcome anyone willing to show up on Saturday's and join the team.

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Pastor Fidel Silva & family said on Saturday, Nov 28 at 11:50 AM

Here at the DreamCenterSLRC in Sonora, Mexico we have been praying for this "praying church" many years and thank God for the people who are doing His work in Shutesbury. God Bless you.

Andy Price said on Tuesday, Jun 23 at 9:27 AM

The website for this excellent ministry is: www.withhishands.org Check it out for more news & info and how to get involved.

A Christian viewer said on Tuesday, Jun 23 at 6:05 AM

What a great story. it warms my heart to see people helping others in need. The world would be a better place if we had more news like this instead of sex and violence. Good job...

Grateful Christian said on Monday, Jun 22 at 9:06 PM

This is fantastic...people coming together..sharing their time and talents to bring God back to Shutesbury. This is the kind of goodwill we all need to focus on in these times of trouble...random acts of kindness that bring people together...working on a common goal. This does my heart good....Thank you CBS 3 for the news of hope.

Jake said on Sunday, Jun 21 at 10:09 PM

It's greg steve. = ] Overall very nice coverage.

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