New Day Community Church
Tuesday, September 07, 2010
A Church without Walls
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HistoryThe United Methodist Church in Merrillville
1850-2010
 A
In 1862, the church was assimilated into the Methodist Episcopal Conference, and 14 years later, at a Union Bank Camp meeting held in Merrillville, the desire for a permanent house of worship was voiced. In 1879, the building illustrated here was erected and outfitted with pulpit, chairs, chandeliers, carpet, and a Communion set, through the efforts of the newly formed Ladies Aid Society. The structure, located on West 73rd Avenue, one block west of Broadway, was embellished with railings and pews handmade of black walnut hauled from the town of Furnessville, Indiana. A 625 pound bronze bell summoned the faithful to services.
For a time the hymnals used contained words only, no notes. There seemed to be some question as to the propriety of having instruments as part of the services and the hymns were sung without accompaniment; the key was set by the use of a tuning fork. In later, years it was decided that organ and piano music was sufficiently solemn and reverent to be included in the ritual.
In 1958 a new church of limestone opened its doors on East 68th Place. The old bronze bell that was atop the original church was moved to the new edifice to continue its faithful duties. An education wing was added in 1964. The old church building became the town's fire station and is presently the Ross Township Trustee's Office.
For many years, the Merrillville United Methodist Church was known as a force for good will and justice in the community. The church historically was a site for many outreach ministries including the Boy Scouts, the Girl Scouts, Contact Cares, a telephone hotline, Meals-on-Wheels, the Hospital Auxiliary, Alanon, Alcoholic Anonymous, a rummage and school supply giveaway, and the Coats for Kids (and families) program.
 In order to address financial woes that plague many congregations, in March of 2009 the church family voted unanimously to sell the church building at 305 East 68th Place. Furthermore, a decision was made to continue as a viable church family in the community continuing to follow the example set by Jesus by reaching out to to others. Coming to this critical decision was difficult for some parishioners leaving a building with memories of so many life events such as baptisms, weddings, and funerals. However, on June 27, 2010, the church family held the last worship service under the guidance of District Superintendent, Cindy Reynolds, in this facility. That same day the church family affirmed the new name, New Day Community Church.
On July 1, 2010, the church family under the guidance of Rev. Jared Jennette continues the spiritual journey of growing in faith as the New Day Community Church...a church without walls.
Taken from: A Pictorial History of Merrillville
Stories, Illustrations, and Photographs of Pioneer Buildings
Merrillville Ross Township Historical Society
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