The Warsaw Church of God on Rozella Road has been serving the community for one century. Pastor Jerry Yoder has been at the church for nearly a quarter of that time, 20 years as head pastor and 3 years as associate pastor. (Photo by Rebekah Whirledge)

The Warsaw Church of God has been serving the community for one century.

Beginning in John Schrock’s Market Street home 100 years ago, the church has been at its current location on Rozella Road since 1975. Over its 100 year history, 16 men have pastored the evolving congregation. Current Sunday attendance is around 120 people.

Current Pastor Tim Komfer has been at the helm for two years. He is aided by associate pastor, Jerry Yoder who, prior to that position, had been the lead pastor for 20 years.

“As I was approaching 70, I thought it was time to retire and have a new director lead the congregation as we continue to gain young families and children,” said Yoder. “I stayed on for the transition and have been here ever since. It works well. Eventually, I would like to retire completely”

Yoder now leads the children, youth and early family ministries. He also fills in for Pastor Komfer a few Sundays per year.

Originally from Michigan, Yoder also served in Alberta, Canada, and Los Angeles before moving to Indiana in 1975 with wife Carolyn, who is retired from Lake City Bank.

On Saturday, June 29, the community is invited to the church’s centennial celebration, says Yoder, which will be held in the church pavilion. The family friendly event will have games, music and free food and drinks from noon to 2 p.m.

Over the past 20 years, Yoder has seen the Warsaw Church of God through some welcome changes.

“There has been such an influx of young families and children, which is great,” said Yoder, a father of two and grandfather and great-grandfather of 16. “The worship style has changed and the church has become more mission-oriented.”

The church supports missionaries in Bulgaria and Haiti, says Yoder. Locally, they are also involved with Combined Community Services, Day of Caring, Our Father’s House, Fellowship Mission and collect food for local food pantries.

Sunday morning worship is at 10:30 a.m., preceded by adult Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday is Family Night with a full meal.

“When you sit down together to eat, you find that we’re all just people,” said Yoder. “This church is built on very warm relationships.

“It’s wonderful that we’ve had such a long service to the community. Warsaw Church of God aims to help people know God, follow Jesus and serve others, together.”