St. Paul United Methodist Church is stepping out on faith in these tough economic times.

The congregation broke ground on March 7 on a new addition to the fellowship hall for the church.

The 1,200 square feet addition will include handicapped-accessible entrances and bathrooms.

“Our church has doubled in size over the past several years, and this is something we really need,” said member Herbert Dean. The original fellowship hall, built in 1976, will also get a complete renovation, Dean said, including a dropped ceiling and recessed lighting.

“We hear and see a lot of negative news about the economy, but we feel like the Lord doesn’t know we are in a recession,” Dean said.

“This is going to be truly nice, and something needed for the church and community.”

Along with their own members, volunteers from other churches, among them Oak Grove UMC of Chapman, Rhodes Chapel, First United Methodist Church of Greenville and Southside Baptist Church are planning to assist in the new construction and renovation at St. Paul. Jerry Reaves will head the building project.

“This has become a community-wide project and we really appreciate all those volunteers. If anyone would like to donate to this effort, we also welcome their gifts,” Dean said.

St. Paul’s was founded in 1874. Steve Kopp serves as the church’s pastor.

Monetary donations can sent to: St. Paul United Methodist Building Fund, c/o Herb Dean, 102 Burger St., Greenville, AL 36037.