Almost four years later, an exciting groundbreaking service in celebration of a future new church building was held last Wednesday, Sept. 11. Looking back, Chapel Church had its beginning in 1867, meeting in a home where Stine Seed Company is today. Later, they moved to the Burt Schoolhouse, and in 1873-74, they built and moved into their first church building.

In 1946, the church’s name became Gladbrook Chapel Evangelical United Brethren (EUB) Church. Because of the merger in 1968 with the Methodists, it became Gladbrook Chapel United Methodist Church. Celebration Sunday for the 150th anniversary service was held on Sept. 17, 2017.

In 2023, they joined the Global Methodist Church denomination, and their name is now simply Chapel Church. Ever since the church was burned to the ground by a quick-burning fire back in October of 2020, the congregation has been meeting in the Green Mountain Community building. Ultimately, a decision was made to rebuild the church at the original site.

Sixteen members and friends gathered last Wednesday for the groundbreaking ceremony. Rev. Cindy Morrison began the service in prayer, after which a time of sharing took place. Shortly thereafter, True Builders LLC started digging for the new church with attendees clapping and cheering.

Chapel Church in rural Gladbrook pictured prior to the Oct. 12, 2020 fire that destroyed the building.

The people of Chapel Church are thankful for all who have helped them and also donated gifts these last four years. They are thankful that their heritage will carry on, and they pray for God’s continued blessing and guidance. From the first church in 1867 to the present building site 157 years later, their spiritual growth and service to others continues to be present.

This is reflected in their Vision Statement, “Growing in Faith, Sharing God’s Love.”