Faithful return to church near Ashslide

Last week the Swan Pond Methodist Church couldn't meet because of a blocked road, but Sunday members were able to worship in their sanctuary.

"They're driving where water used to be," observed one member of the Swan Pond Methodist Church.

The view from the church and nearby cemetery has changed.

"Down behind us was a cove, a swimming place, fishing place, real good swimming," said Charles McSween.

Now that cove has been replaced by ash and fishing boats are replaced by heavy equipment.

"About like the first picture they ever took of something landing on the moon, was what came to my mind," said Reverend Louis Hill of the first time he saw the debris.

Members say the cove was a part of the history of this and other churches in the area.

"Many years ago they used to have baptisms there," said Martha McSween.

Despite one access road blocked by cones, the congregation is grateful that the main access road to their church was opened up for a short time to allow for their service.

"I was extremely glad that we were able to come into our own church we were going to have to find someplace to worship and this is where I would have chosen," said Hill.

In Sunday's service a prayer was said for those affected by the ash slide.

"There was a prayer for all of us and the men that are working down here," Charles McSween said.

Some church members have faith that the valley their church overlooks, will return to a more normal state one day.

"It won't be like it was before, but I believe it will be much prettier than it was before," McSween said.