SAINT CLAIR — About 20 people braved the cold weather Sunday to attend the dedication of the Community Mission Christian Center.
The church at 254 N. Mill St. opened Jan. 1. The church provides services such as counseling and housing and food assistance.
“I want to thank everyone for coming today. This is the day the Lord has made,” Bob Alonge, pastor, said.
The dedication celebration also included prayer and music.
Alonge said the church leases the property from owner George Atiya, Easton, but wants to buy the church.
“This building was closed for too many years,” Alonge said.
He said the building sat empty since 2006.
Sue Kennedy, pastor, said she wants the church to help meet their physical and spiritual needs.
“We ask you (Lord) to bless this place, to make it a beacon that your light may shine in Schuylkill County,” she said.
Alonge said he wants people to feel free to come to the church and wants the church to be a part of the community.
“We’re here to fight and we’re here to break the strongholds. For too long this county has been held captive,” Alonge said.
He used examples such as drug use, alcohol and mental health problems.
“We do not have to live with this any longer,” Alonge said.
He said prayer can help those who suffer from these maladies.
People seeking help can call the church at 570-573-8089.
On Sundays, the church hosts a group support meeting at 4 p.m., followed by a free dinner at 5 p.m. A church service is held at 6 p.m.