YEAGERTOWN — Current circumstances have led to the closing of an area church. Yeagertown United Methodist Church has merged with Rhodes Memorial UMC as both congregations transition into a new era.

According to Pastor Steven Small, the Yeagertown church could no longer keep its doors open due to higher utility costs and an aging, shrinking congregation. The members voted in January to merge congregations with Rhodes Memorial UMC at 500 Highland Ave. in Pleasant Acres and sell the Yeagertown building.

The funds from selling the property will help with needed repairs at the Rhodes Memorial building and parsonage along with future ministry opportunities.

“Many congregations are struggling with attendance and are trying to find ways to live out the mission of making disciples of Jesus,” Pastor Small said. “Buildings are a huge expense and combining congregations into one seems to be the next logical step. Yeagertown and Rhodes Memorial UMC churches are seeing fruit from coming together as a single congregation in one building.”