History of Creekside Church and the former Elkhart City COB

FIRE!

Around 10:30 p.m., Thursday, June 29, 1995, an arsonist set multiple fires in the church, causing an estimated damage of $250,000, mainly in the main floor hallway, although smoke damage was throughout the building. Structural damage was slight except in the narthex area. Prompt response by the Elkhart firefighters stationed close by brought the fire under control by 11:00 p.m. The congregation met with the Elkhart Valley congregation the following Sunday, July 2 and at Memorial High School on July 9. Beginning July 16 worship and church school classes were held at the Seventh Day Adventist Church on Bristol Street until September when renovation of the building was complete and the congregation was able to return to the church. The restoration work was done by Steamatic and private contractors. Insurance covered the building damage, $175,000, and some of the contents. Around $3,500 worth of supplies were not covered. Some of the money given by individuals and other churches was set aside for upgrading the security system. The arsonist who set the fires in the church was never apprehended.

Stained Glass Window at west end of church. Photo: Gary Arnold

Cottage meetings, which were formed to enable members of the congregation to discern and provide a vision for the future of the Elkhart City Church of the Brethren, were held in homes during February and March of 1997 and in January 1998. The 135 surveys filled in by persons attending the meetings revealed the following: The majority of persons (between 103 and 110) felt they were having a difficult time reaching and retaining younger members and they did not have as clear a vision as they needed for the future of this church. Also there were concerns about safety. Furthermore, responses were not indicative for enthusiastic outreach in this location. Their involvement with the church had been especially meaningful in developing a deeper personal faith, providing some close friendships, and providing inspirational worship experiences. Some persons felt that regardless of the decision to stay or move, the church would continue to struggle unless they had renewed commitment and revitalization of the present membership. Some were also concerned about how the congregation could undertake the substantial financial commitment to a new building when it was difficult to meet the current budget.

Jean Mann began as interim part-time Director of Nurture and Education on January 7, 1998.

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