After 25 years of discussion, two of the county's churches have merged.

Oneida Valley Free Methodist Church in Center Township and Butler Free Methodist Church on Center Avenue have joined to form New Beginnings Free Methodist Church.

The merger became official July 8 with the group's first service on Center Avenue, where New Beginnings will meet.

"We had 87 in attendance," said Matthew Perkins, pastor of both churches for the past 2Z\x years.

Perkins said average attendance at the Butler location had increased from the mid-30s to more than 50 during his pastorship, but attendance at the Center Township site had remained in the mid-20s.

"Both churches were struggling, however (Butler Free Methodist) was starting to rebound," he said.

Because of their close proximity and modest membership, Perkins said the churches had discussed a merger for 25 years, but the idea was put to an official vote last year. The July 8 date was set in January.

Although the first official service was offered last week, the groups already had informally hosted joint holiday services, Sunday school picnics and outreach projects.

"We have a clothing giveaway and things like that," said Joy Syretz of Center Township, a 10-year member of Butler Free Methodist. "Some of the people from (Oneida) have been so willing to come and work with us. They're just pitching right in.

"It's like synergy," she added. "The whole will be better than the parts."

Dave Reges of Herman agreed.

"There are a lot (of people) in the congregation who are willing to give it a try," said 46-year-old Reges, a lifelong member of the Oneida church.

"The blending is going real well."

In addition to forming new social bonds, Reges said the merger means redefined roles for members, since the merger resulted in two pianists, duplicate Sunday school teachers and duplicate volunteers in other roles.

"Some of us that had more duties have less duties now," he said, noting a chance for volunteers to focus their attention instead of serving in multiple roles.

"Overall, merging is difficult on any church," said his wife, Sandy. "I would say our congregation had mixed emotions, but the majority was very positive and excited.

"We really had become a stagnant, not growing congregation. So at least for me, I'm looking forward to the New Beginnings."

According to Perkins, the beginnings will include expanding outreach projects, replacing sidewalks and adding handicap parking once a new parking lot is complete.

"The church was built in 1911," Perkins said. "We're looking to update that. We're actually hoping to increase our fellowship hall downstairs."

After the Oneida Valley property is sold, the group plans to invest in property for an eventual move, Perkins said.

Although both churches previously offered traditional services, he said the merged group eventually will add some contemporary elements.

The church offers Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. each week, with worship beginning at 10:30 a.m. For more information, call 724-285-6560.