By Carol Anders Staff Writer
PLYMOUTH — After more than a year of construction, it was only fitting that the dedication ceremony for the 35,000-square foot addition to the Plymouth Wesleyan Church should begin with the congregation and guests uniting to sing, “Great Is Thy Faithfulness.”
The official dedication was held at the church yesterday with Pastor Ollie Dongell, Plymouth Mayor Mark Senter, Michiana Contracting President Don Wendel and Wesleyan District Chair Dr. Aron Willis all sharing their thoughts with the congregation.
Dongell said, “We did this (addition) as a church, a team and as a family.”
In a response reading, the purpose of the addition was clarified. Parts of the reading stated, “In gratitude of a heritage that laid a strong foundation, for those who have dreamed, given, served, and prayed, and for the hands that built this place, we dedicate this building.”

Senter read a proclamation from the city of Plymouth declaring April 27 Plymouth Wesleyan Church Day.
Speaking on behalf of Michiana Contracting, Wendel said, “While we were a big part of building this building, we are but a small part of how it will be used.”
Wendel expressed his appreciation for Project Manager  Mike Chapman and the architect firm that designed the building, Joseph Dzierla & Associates, Inc. He also recognized the sub-contractors and their employees who performed the labor.
Dr. Willis said, “Facilities exist for one reason only — to minister to the people of the community.”
Phil Gretter, one member of the building committee, said, “It’s just amazing — to have this before we have the people who need it.”
The project that includes rooms for youth and children — including a full-sized gymnasium — was designed to accommodate expected growth in the church.
Gretter said, “Our children are our strength in the church. Our pastor and the committee were so far-sighted.”
Mike Delp, who attends the church and is also part of Michiana Contracting said, “We wanted so much for our company to do the very best job possible.”
The church blended the three different types of services they normally offer into one for the occasion including traditional hymns, contemporary music, a singing praise team, a sextet and the children’s choir.
A video depicting the various parts of the construction process was also shown.
Pastor Dongell used the service to acknowledge a few of those who worked behind the scenes to make the project a success.
He congratulated Keith Woods for being the very first volunteer. Doug Satoruius and Cindy Smith were given a certificate for attending every single volunteer project held.
The pastor kiddlingly thanked Martha Conley for her work in painting saying, “She may be working on the Sistine Chapel next.”
According to Dongell, Dora Hulse and Sheryl Beckham were also an integral part of the painting team. Susie Chamberlin was given the “most colorful” award for her help in color selections.
Josh Woods received thanks for being a “big booster” and Mike Delp was referred to as the “shadow.” Dongell said Delp was often seen on site helping out in a number of ways.
Jim Masterson was given the “Norman Vincent Peale” award for his positive attitude during the year of construction. Larry Chizum was honored with the “crash” award. Dongell said Chizum stayed behind for two hours one night to clean up and then was involved in an accident.
Byron “Doc” Holm was acknowledged for his vision for the project. Dongell said Holm saw the “big picture.”
Del and Phyllis Mears contributed what Dongell referred to as the biggest surprise. They donated a maplewood floor for the gymnasium.
Pastor Dongell thanked his wife, Reata, for being his “best supporter.”
In addition to those it serves currently, the church is hoping to attract more people in the community to become involved of the church activities.