Christ Church, blessed with a very generous community, remains open

NORTH CANAAN — Support from its membership and the community is keeping Christ Church afloat for at least another few months, and there is now hope for the future.The Episcopalian church, one of the oldest in the area and an architectural landmark, put out an appeal in January to help keep the doors open. It was cited as a historically significant building in the town center, and an important part of the area’s spiritual life. It is the “family” church for many, and those roots apparently run deep. Many inactive members have started coming back and pledges have increased. Among the membership is the Hamzy family, who own the Collins Diner. They immediately began donating 10 cents from every meal when they heard of the church’s financial struggles.The reality of the situation is that an old church, while beautiful and inspiring for worship, is costly to operate and maintain. Keeping the congregation together is the first goal, and it is possible they could meet elsewhere. But proceeds from a sale of the church, if it came to that, would go to the diocese.Church members, however, remain highly motivated. Last Sunday was the first of a series of worship services planned to be lively and filled with music. It is hoped they will draw more people to the church. Award-winning Native American flutist Joseph FireCrow was featured this past Sunday, sponsored in part by the diner.“However, the costs of maintaining and operating the church plant run into the thousands every year and must be sustainable year to year for the diocese to continue work with us. We are looking into grants and hoping that generous benefactors may step forward,” members of the church vestry wrote in a letter of thanks.“We are blessed that we have been given this extra time to continue the search to find a sustainable source of income that will allow us to stay at our historic church buildings.”Worship services are Sunday at 10 a.m. All are welcome.Those interested in contacting the church may call 860-824-7410, send a letter to PO Box 965, North Canaan, CT 06018, or email Christchurch@yahoo.com.