Views Of Vitality Series – Virden Church Of The Brethren

Because of expanding population and the opportunity for increasing outreach, in 1912, the Pleasant Hill church territory in Northeast Macoupin County, IL, divided into two parts, the northern part becoming the Virden Church of the Brethren and the southern part becoming the Girard congregation. About 125 charter members organized the Virden congregation on July 9, 1912.¹

A few years after organizing, the Virden congregation sent out two missionaries—Chalmer Shull to India and Dr. Paul Gibbel to Nigeria.² The congregation has not looked back since but has continued its outreach emphasis both locally and globally.

The congregation today, served by Pastor David Barnett, understands well its place in the community of Virden. It is a beacon of light sharing an array of ministries and services in the local community.

Understanding how important good nutrition is for children, the congregation provided a one-time cooking school, led by Mike Edwards, a professional chef with connections to the congregation. In a fast-food culture in which eating habits need improvement, this event offered the younger generation the opportunity to learn not only about nutritious meals but also how to prepare simple recipes of good, healthy food. The success of this event led the congregation to provide a similar event for adults. Helping others learn the value of healthy foods is a relevant ministry in a culture that is challenged by poor eating habits.

Annually, the congregation holds a block party which draws children and families to the church to take part in various activities, games, and recreation, as well as to enjoy food, conversation, and friendship. Each year a different neighborhood of Virden is invited, by distribution of flyers, to the occasion. This event offers to the community a glimpse of the congregation’s energy and enthusiasm for serving others.

The congregation continues to consider new ways in which it can reach out into the community and impact the lives of others with the love of Jesus. One idea brewing for future outreach is a Mom’s Break in which moms bring their children to the church, leave them with trusted volunteers for a few hours, and then enjoy some well-deserved downtime from motherhood responsibilities. Another idea being considered is having adults help students with homework, a kind of mentoring/tutoring program. The congregation presently offers a Monday Movers program whereby adults provide assistance to children in the K-5 age range. This program has been active for several years.

Members of the congregation are also active beyond the community serving in various capacities at Camp Emmanuel, in various district leadership roles, and on the board at Pleasant Hill Village. In addition, those involved in helping with Brethren Children Disaster Services are using their knowledge to formulate a countywide plan to provide services for children in times of disaster. If disaster strikes, the Virden COB facility is designated as a child care center for northern Macoupin County. The Village of Virden has also designated the church facilities as a warming and cooling center at times when weather conditions or power outages warrant such care to be provided. Furthermore, to help meet another community need, the congregation is now serving Meals on Wheels once a week, delivering approximately 25 meals. The congregation values being actively engaged in ministry opportunities when and where called to serve.

The Virden congregation takes to heart these words from Hebrews 13:16, “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”

¹ Church of the Brethren in Southern Illinois, Brethren Publishing House, Elgin, IL, 1950
² Ibid.