BERNARDSTON — In the face of a rotting steeple, the United Church of Bernardston is working to raise $30,000 by year’s end.
According to Rev. David Neil, the steeple was scheduled to simply receive a new coat of paint until GB Restorations of Belchertown discovered a deeper problem.
“All the wood along the base was starting to rot out,” Neil said. “The shape it was in, it may not have made it through another winter.”
For now, the church has borrowed enough money to start the project. Workers have temporarily supported the structure and applied a new coat of paint, but more long-lasting repairs remain.
Seeking help to cover the costs, the church started a Steeple Fund a few weeks ago and is reaching out to the community for donations. Neil said people from across Franklin County and beyond have already donated $7,700.
“We’ve had even a couple of people who live a thousand miles away help us out,” Neil said, explaining that he has been sharing a flier around Facebook.
Neil said the church is primarily supported by pledges, but struggles to stay within budget while making necessary repairs and holding community events.
“Given the economy being what it is, the gap between what people pledge and what the church needs is pretty big,” Neil said. “It’s always a constant struggle between maintenance and outreach.”
The church organizes various events such as the annual Bernardston Gas Engine Show, and acts as a “social center,” Neil said, holding Sunday services, funeral receptions, 4-H events, Kiwanis Club suppers and community workshops.
Should the church fall short of $30,000 by year’s end, Neil said he is also considering organizing a fundraising concert.
Neil invites people interested in donating to: call the church at 413-648-9306, visit in person at 58 Church St. or mail donations to United Church of Bernardston, c/o Steeple Fund, P.O. Box 503, Bernardston.