Salvation Army Facility Gets New Home -- Rochester Worship and Service Center To Dedicate Building -- Public Invited

PHOTO OP:  Sunday, October 28^th at 2:45 PM - Ribbon Cutting

CARNEGIE, Pa., Oct. 22 , 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Since 1886, The Salvation Army's Rochester Worship and Service Center has played a vital role in its community.  Now, it is moving into a new home.  Previously located at 221 West Washington Street, the new facility is now nearby at 378 Jefferson Street.  The public is invited to share in dedication services, celebrating the move on Sunday, October 28^th at 2:00 PM. 

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110412/MM81995LOGO )

Returning to their home county, The Salvation Army's Eastern United States Territorial Leaders, Commissioner Israel L. and Eva D. Gaither are slated as dedication's honored special guests.  Joining the Gaithers on the dais will be The Salvation Army's Western Pennsylvania Divisional Leaders, Majors William H. and Joan I. Bode.  During ceremonies, Carin Batchelor, will be accepting the "Others" award in honor of her late husband, Frank Batchelor.  Special greetings will be delivered by The Honorable Samuel Scriva, Rochester Mayor and Cindy Davidson, Salvation Army Beaver County Advisory Board Chair.  The celebration will culminate with a ribbon cutting, followed by refreshments.

The relocation of the Rochester Worship and Service Center to its new home provides the opportunity for a wide variety of ministries and social services that meet the educational, emotional, physical and spiritual needs of a greater population.  "Our administration, in conjunction with our advisory board, undertook an exhaustive search, considering the feedback of donors, city government, fellow nonprofit service providers, staff members, and the public-at-large," said Envoy John Barnet, co-leader and pastor of the  Rochester Salvation Army Worship and Service Center.  "We were blessed to find a convenient, economical building capable of modifications to suit our needs." 

One of the facility's primary goals is to work together to enhance leadership forces, outreach effectiveness and memberships.  Programs and services to be offered include Sunday School and worship; character building programs for children, youth, adults and families; Bible studies;  Bible Bowl, senior citizen services; and other current youth and adult ministries and human services support will be provided for those needing a food pantry and other needs.

"For many years, we have wanted to upgrade the current Rochester Worship and Service Center, said Major William H. Bode, The Salvation Army's Western Pennsylvania Divisional Commander.  "Recent community developments have prompted us to make this move more quickly and we are very pleased with the outcome."

The handicap-accessible facility encompasses 6,000 square feet and sits on nearly one acre.  The building has been completely remodeled and offers a chapel, multiple classrooms, a program room, kitchen area and off street parking.  "My wife, Nancy and I are excited to extend a heartfelt invitation and share this beautiful facility with our neighbors and volunteers are always welcome," said Envoy Barnett.

Christmas Kettle income does not fund Salvation Army building projects.  Both a church and a social service organization, The Salvation Army began in London, England in 1865.  Today, it provides critical services in 125 countries worldwide.  The 28-county Western Pennsylvania Division serves thousands of needy families through a wide variety of support services.  To learn more about The Salvation Army in Western Pennsylvania, log onto www.salvationarmy-wpa.org.  The Salvation Army … Doing the most good . . . for the most people . . . in the most need.

SOURCE Salvation Army Western Pennsylvania Division