BYBEE--Efforts are underway to restore a church in the Bybee community.
Joseph's Chapel Free Will Baptist Church's building originally housed Syracuse School. The church has been built around the school building.
Located off Keasling Road in Bybee, membership has decreased, and the building is in need of repairs.
Terry Dawson, whose wife Judy is a member of the church, explained he is helping with fundraising efforts.
He said the building needs some electrical work, repairs to the roof and walls, and some floor repairs. Some plumbing work may also be needed.
The rafters in the roof have rotted, so the steeple is beginning to tilt. Currently, the church bell cannot be used because of the deterioration of the roof and steeple.
"The building does need extensive work," said Dawson. "They are trying to get quotes to find out how much the total repairs will cost."
He also said the congregation would welcome any donations of materials for the renovations, and is in need of volunteers to donate time and services to complete the repairs.
Dawson noted the church building is an important part of the community's history.
Plans are underway for a fundraiser, which will include an auction. Event organizers are requesting that items be donated for the auction.
More information about the church's history and upcoming fundraisers will be published in future editions of The Newport Plain Talk.
For more information, or to donate items, contact Terry Dawson at (423) 623-2432 or the church's pastor, the Rev. Eugene Hollifield, at (865) 674-9974.