 |
||||||||
 |
||||||||
|
||||||||
|
Safety Harbor church to close
By LEON M. TUCKER, Times Staff Writer SAFETY HARBOR -- After more than 97 years serving a community, First United Methodist Church of Safety Harbor closes its doors today. Citing competition from larger churches and a membership that has dwindled from more than 300 to fewer than 100 today, members of the congregation at 401 Second St. N said First Methodist could not compete. "You don't have enough younger people coming to (church) and the older ones are dying," said Earle Oelslager, 82. "They just can't keep going like that -- and that's sad." Oelslager said the news of the Mother's Day closing came to members on Feb. 13, which was also Ash Wednesday, but it was no surprise. "I knew it was going to be," said Oelslager, a member for 10 years. "You just feel it when the congregation dwindles." Pastor Holly Boardman declined to comment on the church's closing. According to the church bulletin, First United Methodist was founded in 1905 -- back when the city was known as Green Springs. Over the years, the building has seen more than 40 pastors and damage from at least two hurricanes. Volunteers repaired the church after each storm. Besides worship services, the church also provided a place for Boy Scout meetings, day care services, a food pantry and substance abuse groups. "They have left an impact not only as a church but have left a great impact on the history of Safety Harbor," said Mayor Pam Corbino, who plans to present the congregation with a city proclamation recognizing the church today. "We're sorry to see them close the doors, but we are also happy to recognize the benefits they have brought to our community," she said. The final service begins at 11 a.m.
 © 2006 • All Rights Reserved • Tampa Bay Times
490 First Avenue South • St. Petersburg, FL 33701 • 727-893-8111 
|
From the Times North Pinellas desks |
