Royal Oak Churches Combine Congregations

Two Royal Oak congregations are moving forward as one, worshipping together for the first time this weekend.

With a history tracing back almost a century, St. John’s United Methodist Church of Royal Oak celebrated its last service on June 23. The Rochester Road church merges with Royal Oak First United Methodist Church (ROFUM) in downtown Royal Oak effective July 1.

ROFUM Pastor John H. Hice said the move was approved by both congregations earlier this year and was given the blessing of regional leaders and pastors.

The decision was based on  attendance, membership and finances, Hice said. As part of the merger agreement, St. John’s United Methodist Church will transfer its  assets and liabilities, consisting of a mortgage with a balance of $20,000 and a copier lease, to ROFUM.  

Consolidating for strength

"It's hard for some congregations to continue to survive," Hice said. "It is the hope that mergers result in vibrant churches that exercise assertive ministries."

Hice said plans are in the works to reorganize the church's youth ministry, add new fellowship groups and to reach out to those who currently don’t have a church home.

"We do not want to be victims of a changing world," he said. "Creative things are being done. This is the time to really explore."

Serving the community

"We do like being in the heart of the city," Hice said. "It works out very well."

One of the creative ways the church has taken advantage of its location is to embrace Arts, Beats & Eats, Hice said.  ROFUM offers a service on one of the Labor Day festival's stages. Worshippers attending the service receive wristbands to the festival for the day.

"When (Arts, Beats & Eats producer) John Witz first approached us, it was an easy decision. We did not see it as an inconvenience but it's an opportunity to be creative," Hice said.

Hice promises to continue exploring new ways to serve the spiritual needs of his congregation and the community.

What will become of St. John?

St. John’s assets are estimated at $2.4 million and consist of the church, a parsonage, four parking lots, lands and an endowment fund. 

St. Theodora Orthodox congregation will continue to worship at the Rochester Road  church as a leasee, Hice said.

The Rev. Carter Cortelyou, former pastor of St. John’s, will transfer to New Hope United Methodist Church in Shelby Township.