Advance reader Madeline DeJournett, a reporter for The North Stoddard Countian, had a note on her Facebook page that the old Catholic Church in Advance had been sold. Here’s a photo I took of it in the fall of 2010. (You can click on it to make it larger.)
Madeline’s post said the church was built in 1909, but had been vacant since the congregation built a new church in 1991. The Rev. Chad Farris and his family have moved up from Malden to establish a Pentecostal congregation in the building.
From the photos she had, it looks like the interior is in good shape, too. I’ll have to check it out in a few weeks.
(Sorry for the heavy dose of churches lately. It’s just the luck of the draw.)
Ken, I am so excited about this turn of events! The church was in danger of becoming the permanent home of squirrels and stray dogs, who had pushed their way into the broken door on the fellowship hall. Ladina Farris said that their first tour was like a “history hike,” with squirrel skeletons and various lairs built back in the corners. They’ve had to completely replace the floor in that part of the church.
Most of the stained glass windows are still intact, and the building is “structurally sound,” according to the Farrises. They hope to have it ready for a “kick off” ceremony in July–but, I’ll tell you, it’s going to take a LOT of hard work. Only a young couple would have the strength and drive to accomplish this feat!
Another Advance church has been sold to a veterinarian, who is opening a practice here. The Jehovah’s Witness Church is on Highway 25 East. That building is much newer than the one the Farisses are renovating.
This is the church my mother and her family grew up in. I have been there many times. I am so glad they did not tear it down. It was and is a beautiful church!
What a beautiful old church! I am a much bigger fan of the old buildings than the new “better” ones.