The Calvary Chapel in Russell will be able to celebrate, worship and enjoy fellowship together again in the comfort of their newly remodeled building during a special service on Sunday at 9:30 a.m.

According to Lance Pangborn, the building had been closed after “catastrophic” damage was caused on December 24, 2022 when a water line in the ceiling froze and then burst, spilling over 24,000 gallons of water throughout the building. Luckily, no one was injured as the building was empty while members were celebrating Christmas Eve services at their sister church.

“Nearly the entire building needed to be gutted, remediated and rebuilt,” stated Pangborn. “We had no idea that (repairs) would take well over a year. As the project wore on, homes of being back in by Christmas 2023 were dashed.”

The remodel project was managed by volunteer Jacob Pangborn, of Russell, while Kelly Hunt volunteered her time to offer interior design skills, “to set the facility on track to be even better than before,” stated Lance Pangborn. “Many helpful hands have pitched in to get ready for the reopening. The congregation is grateful to all who helped, and to the Russell Fire Department for the use of the hall.”

The members of Calvary Chapel held services in the Russell Fire Department fire hall for a year and three months.

Members of Calvary Chapel, according to Pangborn, are excited to be able to celebrate Easter in their newly remodeled building during celebrations planned for March 17. The aforementioned special service at 9:30 a.m. will feature a special concert with nationally recognized contemporary Christian musician, Nancy Honeytree.

In addition, Calvary Chapel will hold an Open House from 1 to 4 p.m. to “accommodate those who might like to see the new facility,” said Pangborn. The public is welcome.