The loss of the Third Congregational Church has led to significant gains

EAST ST. JOHNSBURY—The loss of the Third Congregational Church has led to significant gains for several area organizations, thanks to a decision by remaining church members. The 184-year-old church could not be sustained with an attendance that had dwindled to eight people at once-a-month services. Membership voted to end the church and put the building up for sale. Remaining in the church bank account was $158,000, and something needed to be done with the funds. “We, as a congregation, decided many months ago that when the time came, we would give any remaining money to the community to support ‘church’ mission activities,” said Debby Hampson, church treasurer. Members submitted a list of organizations that they wanted to benefit. Members settled on 14 organizations for the dispersal of the $158,000. There could have been more organizations as members identified many worthwhile community groups, but members wanted the individual amounts to be significant enough to have an impact, Hampson said.