"It's not the end but a new beginning' - congregation look back on years of worship at Colley Gate church and to a new start
A new beginning is what members of a Halesowen Church are hoping for.
Members of the Providence Methodist Church said goodbye to the building, with a final goodbye last Sunday.
But a new worship group - 'Lighthouse Christian Community' is starting on Sunday, literally over the road from the former church in Colley Orchard, which dated back to 1925.
But here has been a Methodist presence in Colley Gate dating back to 1850 and that will continue, with a group meeting for the first time at Laurels Social Club, at 10.20am on Sunday.
One of the group is long standing Providence member Hannah Wilkinson-Jones who was baptised, married and saw her children christened at the now former church.
She is instrumental in the new congregation and said everyone will be welcome.
She said: "Sunday was an emotional occasion as I have lived my life through this church and many older worshippers can go back a lot further.
"But we already have a group of 20 or 30 people who are supporting the new Lighthouse Group, with a committee of 10 overseeing the organisation and running of it so we are all going into it with a positive mind frame.
"Others are going to attend other Methodist churches on the circuit but of course they will always be welcome at Lighthouse.
"The first service will be a joyous occasion and of course everyone is welcome, old and new. Drinks will be served after the service and we are looking forward to a new beginning, whilst never forgetting the past of course."
