Nearly 130 years ago a young schoolteacher, having never before been west of the Hudson river, opened the doors of a tiny classroom. Her mission school was sponsored by the New West Education Commission from Boston, Massachusetts and located in a home in downtown Provo. This very humble beginning grew into a growing Christian education system, Sunday school, and was what is now the Provo Community Congregational United Church of Christ at 200 North University Ave. in historic downtown Provo.

The buildings that now occupy in this space began in 1922 with a gift of $30,000 from the Meno Trope estate. These funds were to be used to further the public education system in Provo that was lacking at the time and provide a larger assembly space for the growing church. The location of the church was somewhat of a controversial move at that time, placing a church in the midst of the city’s busy business district, but ultimately the location was approved by city leaders. The new structure housed the city’s kindergarten as well as a central location in the area for children’s vaccinations on the lower level and larger worship space that doubled as community center with a stage on the upper floor.

The church continued to grow as the influx of persons from outside the area came to work for the bustling steel industry and growing economy of Utah Valley. By the 1950’s, perhaps even before, the church had outgrown its now 30-year-old building and with the help of its members and the community it raised $100,000 to add a new chapel and gathering spaces. The mid-century modern architecture, popular at the time, is a stark difference from the Mediterranean styling of the 1920’s building.

The phrase, “it’s that A-frame church on the corner” is used to describe it by anyone needing directions. The location of the church even inspired the renaming of the church’s weekly and monthly publication to “From the Corner” a few years ago, honoring the church’s place in the community. The church has been host to countless community groups and events, and despite the now smaller numbers of church members, it continues to honor its roots with serving the community. These walls host support groups for those struggling with addictions, scout packs and troops, wellness clinics, meals and items prepared for local outreach organizations, seminars, plays, recitals (there is a 12-step group and a recital happening tonight even as I share this with you), two community choirs, concerts, as well as worship services and activities that welcome all through these doors. For decades Easter and Holy Week community interfaith services and concerts, patriotic events, messiah sing-alongs, and the beloved Carols by Candlelight, which recently celebrated 40 years, a tradition begun by civically-active Provo residents, the Paxman's, have all taken place within these walls.

Time has taken its toll on these old structures that are an iconic landmark in the area. Roofs and overhangs are failing, stucco splitting and crumbling, facia and gutters falling off, windows letting as much air through as they do water. Operating systems, electrical, plumbing, asbestos, and finishes are all in need of replacement, removal, or refreshing. The buildings haven't kept up with today’s modern higher-tech needs either. In many ways, these spaces are still trapped in the eras they were built. While they were beautiful, they are in a sad state of their former selves.

Roofs need replacing, water damage repaired, and exterior refaced. Interior operating systems need replacing. Spaces and finishes need updating and refreshing, and a big goal is to provide again a space for the community to gather for uplifting events, much as the Provo Tabernacle once did, where inspiring music and word can be heard for decades to come. This includes updating of sound and lighting systems, video recording and broadcasting capabilities, and the installation of a beautiful pipe organ, of which does not currently exist in the area.

The church and its members for over 100 years have given to the community they love and continue to serve. We are asking for your assistance in helping us continue and expand our mission to better serve, and more fully do so well into the future.

We are so grateful for each of you taking time out of your schedule to be here tonight. Thank you, and may God bless you in Jesus’ holy name.