Several area churches realigning ministries

Several area churches are realigning following voting by their congregations recently.

First United Methodist Church in Galva and Bishop Hill Community United Methodist Church have voted to align with each other. Each church will remain in their respective towns, however.

Sunday worship services will be held at 9 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, and at 10:15 a.m. at Bishop Hill Community United Methodist Church.

Ann Champion, current pastor of First United Methodist Church, will pastor both churches.

Grace United Methodist Church had also recently voted on a possible aligning with First United Methodist Church and Bishop Hill Community United Methodist Church, but voted down the measure.

The Galva-Bishop Hill alignment will begin July 1.

Meanwhile, United Church of Altona and United Church of Oneida will join ministries, also beginning July 1.

Pastor David Pyell, who currently pastors ABC Parish’s three churches – United Church of Altona, Bishop Hill Community United Methodist Church and Clover Chapel near Woodhull – will pastor United Church of Altona and United Church of Oneida.

Sunday worship services will be held at 9 a.m. at United Church of Oneida and at 11 a.m. at United Church of Altona.

Pastor Carolyn Weber of United Church of Oneida will be leaving that pastorate, having announced those intentions several months ago.

Clover Chapel is ceasing its ministry. Its last worship service is June 21.