CLARKS SUMMIT — On Jan. 3, most of the Crossroads Church congregation sat on cushioned folding chairs that are situated in a semi-circle around the podium.

Some folks sipped hot beverages that were available at the coffee bar within the church, while listening to Pastor Jamie Overholser’s opening remarks.

They had gathered for the first Sunday service at the church’s new location in the former Duffy’s Coffeehouse at 312 S. State St. in Clarks Summit. The service also included music and singing.

Following a few months of renovation by church members, Crossroads Church, formerly called “The Gathering,” offers services on Sundays at 10 a.m.

Lisa Ross, Fleetville, is one of approximately 50 attendees who attended the inaugural service. She began attending services years ago in Fleetville and although she now has a 13-mile trek from her home to Clarks Summit, Ross said the family bond she sees is “amazing.”

“Last week I looked around the congregation and I could name every person in the room. You don’t find that in many churches anymore,” Ross explained. Her daughter and granddaughter also join her on Sunday for worship.

Ross said part of the mission of the church is reaching out and helping others.

“When I’ve needed support or I’ve needed some help there are numerous people I can call directly to ask for help,” she said. Ross works in social services in Wilkes-Barre and she said fellow parishioners have assisted her with food drives and helped her obtain housing materials for one of her clients.

“All I have to do is post there’s a need. ‘What exactly do you need?’ They open their wallets and say, ‘Here, Lisa, take it (money).’ People give from the heart,” she said.

Ross said their generosity and concern didn’t end with giving.

“They’re still praying and they’re still investing. That to me is what a church is. It’s not the building. It’s the people. When you’ve got people who truly care about you, you want to stay in that relationship.” she added.

After the service, Overholser said he is more of a shepherd than a CEO to his congregation.

“I am more contemplative than ‘Type A.’ I try to lead by example,” he said. “Moving here was not all my idea, but it took us a good year before we were all on the same page.”

The space also includes a children’s room and meeting area and a beverage and refreshment area. Members come from the Abingtons and surrounding towns and all are welcome to join.

Pastor Jamie Overholser delivers his opening remarks at a service on Jan. 3 at Crossroads Church, 312 S. State St., Clarks Summit.
http://www.theabingtonjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/web1_ABJ-Crossroads-1.jpg.optimal.jpgPastor Jamie Overholser delivers his opening remarks at a service on Jan. 3 at Crossroads Church, 312 S. State St., Clarks Summit. Joan Mead-Matsui | For Abington Journal

Cheryl Betts, Clarks Summit, helps to lead worship at Crossroads Church. She was one of approximately 50 attendees at the churches’ augural service held on Jan. 3.
http://www.theabingtonjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/web1_ABJ-Crossroads-3.jpg.optimal.jpgCheryl Betts, Clarks Summit, helps to lead worship at Crossroads Church. She was one of approximately 50 attendees at the churches’ augural service held on Jan. 3. Joan Mead-Matsui | For Abington Journal
First service held for relocated, renamed Crossroads Church in Clarks Summit

By Joan Mead-Matsui

For Abington Journal

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