Vassalboro Methodist Church receives community building grant

Vassalboro United Methodist Church at 614 Main Street/Route 32. (contributed photo)

The Vassalboro United Methodist Church (VUMC) has received a $10,000 grant from the Community Building 2024 fund of the Maine Community Foundation (MaineCF). VUMC welcomes and offers services and support to all people. This grant will help improve accessibility to VUMC programs and services throughout the building and community.

In 1988 VUMC was constructed on Route 32, in Vassalboro, when the old and outdated Methodist churches in North and East Vassalboro villages were discontinued. The new church created a community center for people of Vassalboro and surrounding towns who come to attend Sunday services, special programs, concerts, public suppers and more. In addition VUMC members provide outreach through participation in the Vassalboro fuel fund, food pantry, senior programs, Scouting, kids’ scholarships to Camp Mechuwana, in Winthrop, and by delivering welcome baskets to new residents. VUMC also organizes and publishes a community calendar each year, and delivers them door to door throughout town.

VUMC is working towards broadening accessibility to all their programs and services by adding a lift/elevator between the sanctuary and fellowship hall; installing audio-visual equipment and internet capability for remote access to services; and updating other safety features throughout the building. Donations to assist VUMC in those efforts are greatly appreciated and can be mailed to 614 Main Street with a notation “for accessibility project.”

“The Methodist Church seeks, welcomes and nurtures all people,” said Harvey Boatman, project coordinator. “With so many churches having closed their doors, or in danger of it, including here in our own town, we recognize more than ever the importance of VUMC remaining a vital presence for those who wish to worship on Sundays or be a part of a faith community in some way or another. This project will help VUMC maintain that presence while building a stronger foundation for accessibility and future growth.”

All are welcome to VUMC, 10:00 a.m., Sunday services, at 614 Main Street/route 32. Public suppers take place in the church fellowship hall every third Saturday 4:30 – 6 p.m. Senior public luncheons for 55+ year olds are held in collaboration with the Vassalboro Recreation Department every second Wednesday 11:30 a.m.- 1 p.m.

FMI visit Vassalboro United Methodist Church on Facebook or contact Pastor Karen Merrill at (207) 873-5564.